| Upton keeps Tampa Bay in runs | Sunday 8/17, 10:43 PM CT |
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The pitching was solid but outfielder B.J. Upton made sure the offense was in check as the Rays put the 7-4 win on the board versus Texas. Upton went 3-for-5 at the plate with his 28th double and eighth homer of the season, totaling three RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Upton had no homers last month and was touting just one in August before this evening. His offense has failed to impress as hoped, though he continues to enhance the effort with stolen bases (13 since July 1). |
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| Kazmir gets the win | Sunday 8/17, 10:39 PM CT |
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Scott Kazmir was once again in charge on the mound this evening as the Rays put the Rangers to sleep, 7-4. Kazmir pitched six innings, allowing two runs on four hits with four walks and seven strikeouts.
Our View: Kazmir gets the win to move to 9-6 on the season, touting an impressive 3.21 ERA. He had not won since July 21st, suffering three no-decisions and one loss in four starts since. He's not nearly as dominating as he was early in the season, but Kazmir continues to give his team a chance to win. |
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| Nippert continues to struggle | Sunday 8/17, 10:35 PM CT |
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Young Rangers starter Dustin Nippert found struggles on the mound once again this evening, pitching just four innings to allow seven runs (all earned) on eight hits with no walks and one strikeout.
Our View: Nippert has bounced up and down all season long, but each of his last five outings lave lasted just four innings. He has been highly inconsistent and seems to be struggling to halt the home run. |
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| Hamilton drives in two | Sunday 8/17, 10:31 PM CT |
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The Rangers tried to overcome two tough innings but fell just a bit short, taking the 7-4 loss against the Tampa Bay Rays. As usual, outfielder Josh Hamilton was the leader of the charge, going 2-for-4 at the plate with one walk and one double, totaling two RBIs on the night.
Our View: Hamilton has slowed a bit, hitting just .265 through August with three homers and eight RBIs coming into tonight. |
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| Rangers swapping corner infielders | Sunday 8/17, 10:25 PM CT |
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The Rangers have announced the team's corner infielders will be switching places as Chris Davis will move to third base and Hank Blalock is going to first upon his return to the active lineup, which could be as early as Friday against Cleveland, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: Blalock's shoulder is the reason for the flip-flop. Blalock talked to manager Ron Washington and general manager Jon Daniels on Sunday and said his shoulder isn't progressing enough for him to realistically expect to play third base this season. So to get Blalock in the lineup, the Rangers asked Davis to move to the left side of the infield, where he played in 2007. |
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| Olson could be on thin ice | Sunday 8/17, 10:22 PM CT |
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Orioles manager Dave Trembley didn't sound terribly supportive of the future for pitcher Garrett Olson following the debacle that was their 16-8 win over Detroit, according to the Baltimore Sun. Olson managed to get just five outs, allowing five earned runs and four hits, and walking three in the shortest outing of his career. Following the game, Trembley was asked about his pitcher, and he replied, "It was disturbing for me to watch," Trembley said. "I'm a very patient person with players, and I'm very patient with young players, but we need to do something to get him on track and to help him. I'm sure he's just despondent. I'm sure there's no one that feels any worse than he does. That's unfortunate. I'm just glad the team did what they did to pick him up because something like this could be really difficult to bounce back from."
Our View: Olson has made 21 starts, going 8-6 with a 6.38 ERA. He has allowed four earned runs or more in 10 of his past 13 starts and has not made it through the sixth inning in nine of those outings. In two of his past three outings, Olson has failed to log three innings. We believe that says it all, and a move to option him to the minors would surprise no one. |
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| Good outing for Baek ends in loss | Sunday 8/17, 10:10 PM CT |
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San Diego RHP Cha Seung Baek put a strong outing on the mound tonight, but the Phillies were just a tad bit better, getting the 2-1 win over the Padres. Baek pitched six innings, allowing two runs (one earned) on four hits with two walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: Baek gets the loss and falls to 4-8 on the season, touting a troublesome 4.99 ERA. He has yet to consecutive wins on the resume this year and now carries a record of 1-2 through August. |
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| Burrell looking to get moving | Sunday 8/17, 10:07 PM CT |
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The bulk of the work was done on the mound, but Philadelphia outfielder Pat Burrell insured the proper offense was in place to secure the 2-1 win over San Diego. Burrell went 2-for-3 at the dish with one walk and his 29th homer of the season to total one RBI and one run scored on the night.
Our View: Burrell has been struggling through August, hitting just .133 with two homers and five RBIs. This was his first multi-hit game since July 29th. |
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| Hamels gets much-needed win | Sunday 8/17, 10:01 PM CT |
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It was a pitcher's duel in San Diego this evening as the Phillies put the Padres to bed, handing them the 2-1 loss. For Philly the bulk of the load was carried by LHP Cole Hamels, pitching eight innings to allow one run on seven hits with no walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Hamels improves to 10-8 on the season with a 3.22 ERA. This is his first win since July 3rd, suffering four no-decision finishes and three losses between then and now. He's struggled to avoid the long ball, but for the most part, he's been fairly reliable. |
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| Pennington gets first major league hit | Sunday 8/17, 9:32 PM CT |
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There was a bright spot in the A's loss to the White Sox on Sunday afternoon: Cliff Pennington got his first Major League hit, according to MLB.com. The reserve infielder replaced Bobby Crosby at shortstop in the eighth inning, and responded in the bottom half of the inning with a sinking liner off White Sox starter Javier Vazquez that dropped under the glove of right fielder DeWayne Wise, who dove but could not make the catch.
Our View: Pennington was called up from Triple-A Sacramento on Tuesday. A first-round Draft pick in 2005, Pennington had not played above Double-A before this season, but led the A's farm system with 91 runs scored over stints at Midland and Stockton. Up next for the 24-year-old will be Pennington's first big league road trip, a 10-game, three-city journey that begins Monday in Minnesota. The A's will also play in Seattle and Anaheim before returning home to play a four-game series against the Orioles. |
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| Red Sox get Buchholz tune-up work vs Toronto | Sunday 8/17, 9:29 PM CT |
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The game was as ugly as could be in today's loss to Toronto, but the Red Sox identified an opportunity to get Clay Buchholz a bit of work, according to the Providence Journal.
Our View: Buchholz, who has struggled for most of the season, had been pushed back in the rotation by the arrival of Paul Byrd and the rainout on Friday night. The rookie right-hander had been scheduled to start yesterday. The Orioles start will be Buchholz’s first in 10 days. |
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| Weeks exits with thumb injury | Sunday 8/17, 8:41 PM CT |
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Brewers second baseman and leadoff hitter Rickie Weeks left Sunday's game at Dodger Stadium with a sprained left thumb, the same digit that required surgery nearly three years ago, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Weeks suffered the injury during a fifth-inning strikeout in an eventual 7-5 loss to the Dodgers when he fouled off a pitch from Los Angeles lefty Clayton Kershaw. Weeks was replaced by Ray Durham in the bottom of the sixth, and Durham becomes the chief option should Weeks be sidelined. The veteran switch-hitter delivered a two-run single in Milwaukee's four-run ninth inning. The soreness is in a different area than the ligament he damaged late in the 2005 season, Weeks said. He required surgery for that ailment. |
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| Bradley scratched (again) | Sunday 8/17, 8:35 PM CT |
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For the second night in a row, designated hitter Milton Bradley has been scratched due to a stiff back, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: Bradley has missed time with several ailments over recent weeks, giving fantasy owners fits as he struggles to get in the batter's box. Jarrod Saltalamacchia has taken his place as this evening's designated hitter. |
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| Meyer optioned to minors | Sunday 8/17, 8:29 PM CT |
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The A's optioned left-handed pitcher Dan Meyer to Triple-A Sacramento following Sunday's 13-1 loss to the White Sox, according to MLB.com.
Our View: It was a short stint for Meyer, who was recalled from Sacramento on August 3rd. The reliever allowed nine runs over 14 2/3 innings in six appearances for the A's. |
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| Manny being Manny in LA | Sunday 8/17, 7:21 PM CT |
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The Dodgers enjoyed a surge of offense from outfielder Manny Ramirez once again this evening, going 2-for-4 with his 26th homer of the season to total three RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Go figure, Manny's on fire and keeps driving in runs. Counting today, the guy has 21 RBIs on the month of August, touting six homers and an average well over .400 for the month. |
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| Ethier keeps it hot in the batter's box | Sunday 8/17, 6:59 PM CT |
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Outfielder Andre Ethier continues to do work for the Dodgers, hitting the ball around in the yard in support of his Dodgers' 7-5 win over the Brewers. Ethier went 3-for-5 with one double (his 26th of the season) and two homers (14th and 15th on the year), totaling three RBIs and three runs scored on the night.
Our View: Ethier has nine hits over his last five games, including four home runs. He's as hot as it gets folks, so jump on while the ride is smoking. |
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| Kershaw leads the way for win over Brew Crew | Sunday 8/17, 6:53 PM CT |
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The Dodgers enjoyed strong work from LHP Clayton Kershaw , supporting the 7-5 win over the Brewers. Kershaw pitched six innings, allowing one run on eight hits with one walk and six strikeouts.
Our View: Kershaw left with no decision as the relief pitching let it slip away, his third no-decision in four starts this month. He has allowed just four earned runs over the span. |
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| Braun homers vs Dodgers | Sunday 8/17, 6:42 PM CT |
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The Brewers didn't get the offense going until it was too late, falling 7-5 to the Dodgers. Oufielder Ryan Braun was the man on the trigger, going 2-for-5 with his 31st homer of the season, totaling two RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: In his second game back after a minor injury stint, Braun has proven valuable, going 3-for-7. We'll see how he does moving forward, but it's looking good. |
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| Quentin keeps smacking the ball | Sunday 8/17, 6:30 PM CT |
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The pitching was getting the work done, but MVP-candidate Carlos Quentin made sure the deal was done in pushing the offense for the 13-1 win over the Oakland Athletics. Quentin went 2-for-3 with his 34th homer of the season, totaling four RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Quentin's name is starting to look more and more attractive to MVP voters. He's hitting .375 through August with six homers and 12 RBIs after totaling nine homers and 22 RBIs in July. |
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| Vazquez putting best foot forward | Sunday 8/17, 6:25 PM CT |
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Oakland failed to put up a fight in any way, shape, or form today as the White Sox posted the 13-1 win today. Chicago RHP Javier Vazquez is the reason why, pitching eight innings to surrender just one run on four hits with no walks and eight strikeouts.
Our View: Vazquez went just 0-3 through July but has improved, going 3-1 thus far through August. He has allowed just seven earned runs during that span, none of which have come in either of his last two starts. That's 16 consecutive innings without giving up a run for Vazquez, totaling one walk and 18 strikeouts along the way. |
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| Morneau trying to get right with homer | Sunday 8/17, 6:19 PM CT |
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Minnesota first baseman Justin Morneau added his gifts to the cause this evening, an 11-8 win over the Seattle Mariners. Morneau went 2-for-3 at the plate with two walks and his 19th homer of the season, totaling two RBIs with two runs scored.
Our View: Morneau is hitting just .196 through August, today hitting his first homer of the month. |
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| Kubel smacks two doubles vs Seattle | Sunday 8/17, 6:15 PM CT |
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Minnesota outfielder Jason Kubel continues to swing a hot bat, going 4-for-5 today to help his Twins get the 11-8 win over Seattle. Kuben hit two doubles to register two RBIs and four runs scored on the night.
Our View: Kubel is warming up in August, hitting .317 after posting an average of just .271 in July. He also carries just five strikeouts along that span with three homers and eight RBIs. |
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| Nathan gets save #33 | Sunday 8/17, 6:12 PM CT |
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Twins closer Joe Nathan secured his 33rd save of the season today as Minnesota picked up the 11-8 win over Seattle. Nathan pitched 1 1/3 innings, giving up two hits and one walk with just one strikeout. However, while he failed to dominate, he coaxed two fly outs and one ground out to close the door and get Minnesota a much-needed victory.
Our View: Nathan has been a rock this month, today gathering his fourth save of August with just seven hits allowed over 8 1/3 innings, posting just two walks and nine strikeouts during that span. |
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| Ibanez stays hot at the plate | Sunday 8/17, 6:08 PM CT |
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The Mariners and Twins did battle with the sticks today, sharing 33 hits over nine innings as the Twins pulled the exciting 11-8 victory. For Seattle, outfielder Raul Ibanez was the weapon of choice, going 5-for-5 with two doubles on the day, totaling one RBI and one run scored.
Our View: Ibanez is hitting an impressive .413 through August, touting four homers with 20 RBIs along the way. |
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| Wigginton homers vs 'Zona | Sunday 8/17, 6:01 PM CT |
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While the pitching ruled the day, outfielder/corner infielder Ty Wigginton provided the offense needed for Houston to get the 3-0 win over Arizona. Wigginton went 3-for-4 at the dish, hitting his 15th home run of the season to post three RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Wigginton uses the day to push his average to .308, hitting a whopping .473 through August with six homers and 16 RBIs. |
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| The Big Unit falls versus Oswalt's Astros | Sunday 8/17, 5:54 PM CT |
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While his counterpart was dominating on the mound, Arizona lefty Randy Johnson was trying to match his effort, but he and the D'Backs fell short, losing 3-0 to Houston. Johnson pitched seven innings, allowing three runs (all earned) on eight hits with one walk and five strikeouts.
Our View: Johnson's struggles continue, falling to 10-9 with a 4.16 ERA. This is his third loss in August balanced with two wins, a disappointing month after going 4-1 in July. |
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| Oswalt takes the hurt to Arizona | Sunday 8/17, 5:49 PM CT |
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The story for the Houston Astros today was pitching as ace Roy Oswalt dominated the Arizona Diamondbacks, pitching eight innings of shutout baseball, allowing just one hit with two walks and 10 strikeouts.
Our View: Oswalt improves to 11-8 on the season with a 4.28 ERA, and while the beginning of the season was full of struggle, he has been as dominating as hoped since, going 5-0 over his last seven starts. He has given up just 13 combined earned runs during that stretch with three homers surrendered over the same span. |
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| Marcum tops Red Sox | Sunday 8/17, 5:42 PM CT |
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Toronto RHP Shaun Marcum was on his best behavior on the mound against Boston today, picking up his eighth win of the season by pitching five innings, allowing just one run on five hits with four walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: The overall record for Marcum now stands at 8-5 with an ERA of 3.36. This is his third consecutive win with just four earned runs allowed during that span. |
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| Rios hits four doubles vs Boston | Sunday 8/17, 5:38 PM CT |
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The Blue Jays posted a total of 22 hits on the day, finishing with an impressive 15-4 win over the Red Sox. The offense was led by outfielder Alex Rios, going 5-for-6 at the plate with four doubles, totaling two RBIs and three runs scored.
Our View: Rios is hitting an impressive .348 thus far through August, and though he has earned just seven RBIs, he carries 15 runs scored. |
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| Beckett falls vs Blue Jays, possibly injured? | Sunday 8/17, 5:34 PM CT |
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There was plenty of offense going on the American League today, and the Blue Jays joined the party with an impressive 15-4 win over Boston. The Red Sox may have bigger issues, as indicated by the performance of starter Josh Beckett today. Beckett lasted just 2 1/3 innings, allowing eight runs on eight hits with one walk and three strikeouts.
Our View: Beckett falls to 11-9 on the season with a 4.34 ERA. The boys calling the game openly questioned if Beckett may be nursing an unreported injury, noting his motion and technique were well out of form. We will track the situation as we anticipate the Sox are likey to send him for testing. Now is not the time to take chances with such a valuable commodity. |
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| Schneider homers vs Pirates | Sunday 8/17, 5:26 PM CT |
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Staff ace Johan Santana provided all the baseball the Mets needed for the win, but catcher Brian Schneider was the bat of reckoning in the 4-0 win over Pittsburgh. Schneider went 2-for-3 at the dish with one walk and his fourth home run of the season, totaling three RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Schneider is hitting .333 through the month of August, though he has just two homers for five RBIs along the way. |
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| Santana three-hits the Pirates | Sunday 8/17, 5:23 PM CT |
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Mets ace Johan Santana earned every penny of his paycheck today, pitching the complete-game win over Pittsburgh, 4-0. Santana allowed just three hits, walking none and striking out seven.
Our View: Santana moves to 11-7 with a 2.75 ERA. He is pitching at the level to Mets expected when they gave him a vault full of cash, but rare is the offensive support that is needed to let the arm shine. Since a poor 1-4 effort in June, he has gone 4-0 over nine starts, surrendering a combined total of just 16 earned runs during that span. |
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| Karstens suffers second loss | Sunday 8/17, 5:18 PM CT |
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The Pirates may have been better served saving their carbon footprint and staying at home, managing just three hits in the 4-0 shutout loss to the Mets. RHP Jeff Karstens suffered the loss, going six innings to allow four runs (all earned) on nine hits with one walk and three strikeouts.
Our View: Karstens falls to 2-2 on the season with a 2.25 ERA. After opening his season with 15 innings of shutout pitching, Karstens has since surrendered seven earned runs over his last 13. |
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| Cook gets much-needed win | Sunday 8/17, 5:12 PM CT |
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Colorado ace Aaron Cook got a little bit of his groove back today as recent struggles have put him in a bad way, pitching five innings to allow two runs (both earned) on seven hits with three walks and four strikeouts as the Rockies pulled the 7-2 win over Washington.
Our View: Cook was riding consecutive losses coming in, giving up 11 earned runs over those starts. He has not gotten past the sixth inning in each of his last three starts and it appears fatigue may be settling in. |
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| Perez takes another loss | Sunday 8/17, 5:07 PM CT |
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Nationals LHP Odalis Perez watched a respectable outing off the mound go to waste this evening as his team failed to bring the offense and lost 7-2. Perez pitched six innings, allowing three runs (two earned) on four hits with four walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Perez falls to 5-9 on the season with a 4.06 ERA. He is 3-2 over his last six starts. |
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| Stewart leads the way for Rockies win | Sunday 8/17, 5:03 PM CT |
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The Nationals posted more hits but weren't nearly as efficient as the Rockies, falling 7-2, thanks to guys like third baseman Ian Stewart. Stewart went 1-for-2 with two walks and his eighth homer of the season, totaling three RBIs and two runs scored on the day.
Our View: Stewart is hitting just .229 for the month but has hits in eight of his last nine games with four homers and 12 RBIs coming along the way. |
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| Mussina improves to 16-7 vs Kansas City | Sunday 8/17, 4:55 PM CT |
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The Yankees and their fans have to be happy to see ace Mike Mussina emerging once again in 2008, today picking up his 16th win of the season by putting the Royals in the loss column. Moose pitched six innings, allowing three runs (all earned) on six hits with no walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: The overall record moves to 16-7 with a 3.35 ERA for Mussina. Since the end of June, he has been a stud, going 6-1 with six walks and 48 strikeouts. |
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| Grand salami for Giambi | Sunday 8/17, 4:52 PM CT |
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Yankees first baseman Jason Giambi smacked a grand slam home run against the Kansas City Royals today, supporting the ugly 15-6 win over KC. Giambino posted just the one hit on the day, going 1-for-4 with the four RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Giambi now touts 24 homers on the season, including four through August with 10 RBIs to boot. |
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| An A-Bomb... from A-Rod | Sunday 8/17, 4:49 PM CT |
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The Yankees win 15-6 over the Royals today, earning their first series victory over their last 10 tries. As you might expect, Alex Rodriguez was a big part of the equation, going 3-for-3 with two walks and his 28th home run of the season, complete with five RBIs and three runs scored on the day.
Our View: A-Rod is hitting just .200 through August but has hits in eight of his last nine outings. Today's homer was his fourth of the month though he carries just seven RBIs with it. |
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| Mora posts phenominal day | Sunday 8/17, 4:43 PM CT |
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The Orioles and Tigers let it all hang out in the batter's box today, posting a combined 37 hits as the O's pulled the 16-8 win. Third baseman Melvin Mora went an astounding 5-for-6 in the effort, hitting two doubles and two homers on the day to lead the way with an amazing six RBIs and four runs scored.
Our View: This may be one of the more impressive single-day fantasy performances of the season, but it's part of a string of dominance Mora has been posting. Dude was 28-for-60, a whopping .467, through August coming into today, touting three homers and 20 RBIs. He couldn't be stroking it better right now, going 18-for-28 over his past six games. |
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| Scott drives in four, strands five in 16-run win | Sunday 8/17, 4:38 PM CT |
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The Orioles and Tigers insured the fans in Detroit were given a show, though they weren't terribly happy with the results as the O's won 16-8. One of several players of note, outfielder Luke Scott went 3-for-6 with his 22nd double and 20th and 21st home runs of the season, totaling a whopping four RBIs and two runs scored on the day.
Our View: Scott also managed to strikeout three times, stranding five runs in the process. |
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| Renteria goes 4-for-5 in loss to Baltimore | Sunday 8/17, 4:34 PM CT |
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The Orioles and Tigers shared a grand total of 37 hits on the day, but the score fails to indicate a competitive battle as the O's picked up the 16-8 win. For the Tigers, shortstop Edgar Renteria was the top fantasy man of the day, going 4-for-5 void of an extra-base hit but enhanced with his fourth stolen base of the season, adding three runs scored along the way.
Our View: Renteria is hitting just .271 on the season but has been on fire of late, going 18-for-51 through August with hits in nine of his last ten games. |
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| Ishikawa belts first homer vs Atlanta | Sunday 8/17, 4:30 PM CT |
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The Giants didn't need a ton of offense with Tim Lincecum on the mound today, but first baseman Travis Ishikawa gave 'em what they needed for the 3-1 win over Atlanta. Ishikawa went 2-for-4 with his first home run of the season, good for two RBIs and one run scored on the day.
Our View: Ishikawa is just starting to cut his teeth in the majors but has done well early, going 5-for-13 with two walks, two doubles, and a homer. |
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| Lincecum puts the Braves in check | Sunday 8/17, 4:27 PM CT |
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Giants ace Tim Lincecum was on his mark today as his mates put the Braves in the loss column, 3-1. Lincecum pitched 7 2/3 innings, allowing just one run on three hits with four walks and an impressive 10 strikeouts.
Our View: Lincecum had earned just one decision in his last four starts coming in but was as impressive as ever in each. In four August starts he has allowed a combined total of 12 hits, five earned runs, and no homers. |
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| Morton pitches well but falls to Giants | Sunday 8/17, 4:19 PM CT |
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The Giants couldn't make use of the hits they were posting and the Braves couldn't get the bats going in the first place, leaving the Giants with hard-fought 3-1 over Atlanta. Atlanta starter Charlie Morton should have found better returns, going six innings to surrender three runs (all earned) on seven hits with two walks and six strikeouts.
Our View: Morton now carries a record of 3-6 with losses in four of his last five outings. He's given up at least one homer in all but one with a total of 21 earned runs allowed. |
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| Marlins let Volstad's strength fall | Sunday 8/17, 4:11 PM CT |
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- The Marlins were trying to keep the Cubs in striking distance but failed to do so, giving up eight runs in the top of the 7th to fall 9-2, wasting a respectable effort from rookie RHP Chris Volstad. Volstad went six innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on six hits with three walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Volstad walked with no decision as the relief support lost what would have been his third consecutive victory. Over that span, Volstad has allowed just five earned runs on 14 hits. He hasn't surrendered a homer since July 26th, the only home run he has given up this season. |
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| Ramirez chips in two RBI in win | Sunday 8/17, 3:59 PM CT |
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Aramis Ramirez went 2-for-4 and chipped in two RBI in Sunday's 9-2 win over Florida.
Our View: Ramirez was out of Saturday's linuep due to a bruised right hip, but he was not bothered by the ailment in Sunday's return. That was his fifth multi-hit effort over his last six games. |
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| Dempster nails down 14th win | Sunday 8/17, 3:56 PM CT |
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Ryan Dempster enjoyed another solid outing from the hill as he allowed two earned runs on five hits over six innings in Sunday's 9-2 win over the Marlins, with two walks and 10 strikeouts.
Our View: Dempster claimed his 14th win of the season, and reached double digits in strikeouts for the third time. Dempster had his start pushed back one day due to an undisclosed personal matter, but his performance was certainly not compromised as a result. |
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| Ludwick goes 2-for-4 in loss | Sunday 8/17, 3:43 PM CT |
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Ryan Ludwick went 2-for-4 with an RBI in Sunday's 7-3 loss to Cincinnati. He hit a single and a double.
Our View: Ludwick has registered multiple hits in three of his last four games, with two homers, three doubles, and six RBI over the span. |
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| Lohse shot down by Reds | Sunday 8/17, 3:39 PM CT |
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Kyle Lohse was tagged for three earned runs on seven hits over six innings in Sunday's 7-3 loss to the Reds at the Great American Ballpark, with three walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: Lohse falls to 13-6, and has now lost three straight starts. He only has one win over his last six starts as well, allowing three or more earned runs in each outing over the span. |
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| Phillips blasts 20th homer | Sunday 8/17, 3:34 PM CT |
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Brandon Phillips went 2-for-5 with a three-run homer in Sunday's 7-3 win over the Cardinals at the Great American Ballpark.
Our View: Phillips has impressively homered in three straight games, giving him 20 for the season. |
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| Volquez hurls seven scoreless | Sunday 8/17, 3:31 PM CT |
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Edinson Volquez hurled seven scoreless innings, with only three hits allowed, in Sunday's 7-3 win over the Cardinals, with four walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Other than the four free passes, he was dominant. He improves to 15-5, and has only issued one earned run over his last 13.2 innings (two starts). |
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| Teixeira extends streak | Sunday 8/17, 3:26 PM CT |
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Mark Teixeira went 2-for-4 with an RBI in Sunday's 4-3 loss to the Indians.
Our View: Teixeira has extended his hitting streak to nine games, and has six multi-hit efforts over the span. He raised his season average a few more points to .297. |
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| Saunders dealt no-decision | Sunday 8/17, 3:23 PM CT |
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Joe Saunders issued three earned runs on eight hits over five innings in Sunday's 4-3 loss to Cleveland, with two walks and two strikeouts. The game was tied 3-3 when Saunders exited, so he was dealt a no-decision.
Our View: Saunders has now bern handed a no-decision in each of his last three starts, but has not suffered a loss in his last six outings. |
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| Gutierrez leads Indians to win | Sunday 8/17, 3:18 PM CT |
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Franklin Gutierrez led the Indians to a 4-3 win over the Angels on Sunday, as he went 3-for-3 with two RBI.
Our View: That marks his fourth multi-hit game of August, and the third time this season he registered more than one RBI in a game. |
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| Sowers earns second win | Sunday 8/17, 3:14 PM CT |
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Jeremy Sowers allowed two earned runs on eight hits over 6.2 innings of work in Sunday's 4-3 win over the Angels, with two walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: He improves to 2-6, and ended a four-game drought without a win. He should only be considered in larger AL-only leagues down the stretch. |
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| Moss injures ankle | Sunday 8/17, 3:04 PM CT |
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Brandon Moss was forced out of Sunday's game against the Mets after twisting his left ankle, according to the AP. Moss fell in the batter’s box after hitting a ground ball to first baseman Carlos Delgado, and could not apply pressure to his left foot. He was helped off the field by Pirates' trainers.
Our View: We will keep you posted when more details circulate regarding his status. |
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| Penny may return as reliever? | Sunday 8/17, 2:43 PM CT |
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Dodgers' GM Ned Colletti has not ruled out Brad Penny (right shoulder inflammation) returning to the team this season as a reliever, according to the LA Daily News. Colletti said, "We could get him back in the bullpen. Who knows? Even if it does take that long to rehab, if we can get him healthy. I don't know if we have enough information right now to be saying anything definitive."
Our View: A move to the bullpen would require less rehab time than if he tried to return to the rotation, but he is a longshot to return either way at this point. |
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| Drew injured | Sunday 8/17, 2:37 PM CT |
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J.D. Drew was forced out of Sunday's game against Toronto due to lower back tightness, according to the AP.
Our View: Jeff Bailey replaced him in right field. We will keep you posted when more details regarding Drew's status are disclosed. |
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| Church moved to New Orleans | Sunday 8/17, 1:24 PM CT |
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The Mets have moved Ryan Church's next rehab start to Triple-A New Orleans due to the Tropical Storm (named Fay) that is heading to the Florida coast, according to the NY Post.
Our View: Church had been playing with the Mets' Gulf Coast League affiliate in Port St. Lucie.
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| Fogg won't start until Friday | Sunday 8/17, 12:52 PM CT |
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Josh Fogg was originally scheduled to pitch on Tuesday against the Cubs at Wrigley Field, but he's now slated to start on Friday in Colorado, which would have been Edinson Volquez's normal turn, according to MLB.com. Manager Dusty Baker said, "We wanted to give Edinson an extra day. He's approaching innings that he's never done before. I'm encouraging these young guys to stay on the program, to continue to run and stay strong."
Our View: Johnny Cueto will now pitch on Tuesday, Bronson Arroyo goes on Wednesday, Aaron Harang follows on Thursday, with Fogg on Friday and Volquez on Saturday.
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| Casilla to begin rehab Monday | Sunday 8/17, 12:48 PM CT |
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The Star Tribune indicates that Alexi Casilla will begin his rehab assignment Monday with Single-A Beloit. He is trying to rebound from a torn tendon in his right thumb.
Our View: Casilla will play Monday and Tuesday, and if all goes favorably without a setback, he’ll rejoin the Twins on Wednesday, before they leave on their 14-day road trip.
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| Podsednik could be activated soon | Sunday 8/17, 12:43 PM CT |
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Scott Podsednik, who is recovering from a fractured hand, will begin a four-game rehab assignment with Triple-A Colorado Springs on Monday, according to the Rocky Mountain News. Manager Clint Hurdle said Podsednik "potentially could be ready" to be activated from the DL Friday for the start of a series with the Reds.
Our View: Podsednik will be a backup outfielder when he returns, but is worth a look in deeper NL-only leagues if you gravely need help in the speed department, as he registered 10 steals this season. |
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| De La Rosa back in rotation | Sunday 8/17, 12:37 PM CT |
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The Rocky Mountain News indicates that Jorge De La Rosa is back in the Rockies' rotation, and Glendon Rusch moves to the bullpen. Manager Clint Hurdle said, "Jorge is growing up and I think a vote of confidence right about now might be something that can help him."
Our View: Hurdle has confidence in him, but fantasy owners should not give him another chance. He holds a 6.16 ERA and 1.60 WHIP over 21 games (16 starts) this season. |
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| Pavano could get nod in rotation | Sunday 8/17, 12:29 PM CT |
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Carl Pavano, who is pitching with Double-A Trenton, will be monitored closely as a possible candidate to serve as the Yankees' fifth starter next week against Baltimore, according to the AP. Phil Hughes (at Triple-A Scranton) is the other top candidate for the start.
Our View: Pavano will be a fantasy risk, but still has potential to bounce back as a solid starter, and could be worth a look in deeper AL-only leagues. |
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| Matsui to return Tuesday? | Sunday 8/17, 12:22 PM CT |
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Manager Joe Girardi commented that Hideki Matsui should be activated from the DL Tuesday, according to the AP. Matsui had 15 at-bats during a simulated game at the Yankees’ spring training complex in Tampa, Florida on Sunday, facing left and right-handed pitching. Girardi said the swollen left knee that has hindered the rehab process several times seems to be holding up. Girardi added, "Every time he would get to bat, it would just blow up, but it hasn’t this time. So far the knee is good and we’ll make a decision tomorrow."
Our View: Matsui is batting .323 with seven homers and 34 RBI over 69 games this season, and could provide a boost to fantasy owners down the stretch, if his knee allows. |
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| Alou transferred to 60-day DL | Sunday 8/17, 11:36 AM CT |
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Moises Alou has been transferred to the 60-day DL, according to the AP. The Mets acquired reliever Luis Ayala from the Nationals, and moved Alou to make room on the roster.
Our View: This officially puts an end to Alou's season, who was taken down by a torn hamstring. |
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| Mets acquire Ayala | Sunday 8/17, 11:33 AM CT |
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Updating a previous report, the Mets have acquired Luis Ayala from the Nationals for a player to be named, according to the AP. To make room on the roster, the Mets transferred Moises Alou to the 60-day DL.
Our View: The Mets coveted a reliever and Ayala fills that need. His fantasy value will be low as a middle reliever, though. It remains to be seen if the "player to be named" is infielder Anderson Hernandez, who was previously believed to be part of the deal. |
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| Feierabend officially called up | Sunday 8/17, 11:08 AM CT |
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Ryan Feierabend has been officially called up from Triple-A Tacoma, according to the AP. He will start Sunday in place of the injured Carlos Silva, who has been placed on the 15-day DL due to tendinitis in his right elbow.
Our View: The 22-year-old hurler was 7-1 with a 2.04 ERA over 13 starts with Tacoma. He is worth taking a flier on in deeper AL-only leagues if you need pitching help. |
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| Ayala bound for New York? | Sunday 8/17, 11:03 AM CT |
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Newsday indicates that the Mets are close to finalizing a deal that would send infielder Anderson Hernandez to the Nationals in exchange for Luis Ayala
Our View: The Mets covet a reliever and Ayala would help fill their need. His fantasy value would be low as a middle reliever, however. |
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| Chamberlain update | Sunday 8/17, 10:30 AM CT |
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Joba Chamberlain, who is recovering from rotator cuff tendinitis, played catch for a second straight day Saturday, while making 28 throws, and said he felt better than he did after throwing for the first time Friday, according to the NY Daily News. He said, "I got loose a lot quicker. It went a lot better than I expected, getting loose and staying loose." He is scheduled to take Sunday off.
Our View: Manager Joe Girardi previously stated that Chamberlain will likely remain in the rotation when he returns, rather than move back to the pen, and the young hurler is making positive steps in that direction in his rehab. He could be back in pinstripes in late August. |
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| Damon has bruise on palm | Sunday 8/17, 10:25 AM CT |
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Johnny Damon has a bruise on the palm of his left hand (near his thumb), according to the NY Daily News.
Our View: It is unclear what his status is for Sunday's game. He was limited to a DH role Saturday, and went 1-for-6 against the Royals. |
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| McCarthy set for next rehab start | Sunday 8/17, 10:18 AM CT |
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Brandon McCarthy, who is recovering from severe inflammation in his right forearm, is set to make another rehab start for Triple-A Oklahoma on Sunday, according to the Dallas Morning News. He only allowed one hit over six innings in his last outing.
Our View: If he pitches well Sunday, he could be considered an option for the Rangers' rotation, hence ranking him as a player to stash in deeper AL-only leagues. |
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| Mahay dealing with foot ailment | Sunday 8/17, 10:00 AM CT |
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Ron Mahay is once again dealing his pain in his left foot, according to the KC Star. The reliever reported some day-after soreness in his left foot after pitching Friday for the first time since August 6. He was diagnosed with plantar fascia, which results in discomfort to the heel and bottom of the foot. He said, "It’s a little step back. I hope it’s only a little step. I’ve never had this before. I’m learning as I go with this."
Our View: As a result of the ailment, Mahay struggled against the Yankees Friday while walking two of three batters faced. This is unfavorable news for the Royals' bullpen, but he only holds fantasy value in leagues that use middle men. |
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| Ojeda likely to start Sunday | Sunday 8/17, 9:44 AM CT |
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Augie Ojeda is likely to start at second base Sunday against Astros' hurler Roy Oswalt, according to the East Valley Tribune. Chris Burke started for the third straight game at second base Saturday against an opposing left-hander.
Our View: Ojeda is capable of solid production, and is worth a look in NL-only leagues for Sunday. |
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| Glover recalled | Sunday 8/17, 9:39 AM CT |
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Gary Glover has been recalled from Triple-A Toledo, according to the AP. Todd Jones has been placed on the 15-day DL as the adjoining move.
Our View: The Tigers signed Glover as a minor league free agent August 9. He has pitched four scoreless innings and struck out four batters in three appearances with Toledo. He will work in middle relief, and does not merit fantasy consideration in standard leagues.
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| Jones heads back to DL | Sunday 8/17, 9:35 AM CT |
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Todd Jones has headed back to the DL due to a sore right shoulder, according to the AP. Gary Glover has been recalled from Triple-A Toledo to fill his spot on the roster.
Our View: Jones was activated Friday, but was ineffective, and is no longer worth holding out hope for as a fantasy closer. |
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| Dunn yet to homer with Arizona | Sunday 8/17, 9:29 AM CT |
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Adam Dunn has registered a hit in every game since joining the D-Backs, but is yet to generate a homer, according to the East Valley Tribune.
Our View: He had good match-ups to hit homers with road games against Colorado and Houston. Dunn hit 32 homers with the Reds this season. |
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| Jackson likely to sit Sunday | Sunday 8/17, 9:19 AM CT |
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Manager Bob Melvin indicated that struggling infielder Conor Jackson will likely get a day off Sunday, according to the Arizona Republic. He will be given a "mental day off" and Melvin added, "He's more worn down than anything else. I can't even remember his last day off."
Our View: Jackson is hitting .208 (16-for-77) since July 28, but still holds a .302 average for the season. Hopefully he will benefit from his day off, and get back and track. |
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| Penny likely out for season? | Sunday 8/17, 9:14 AM CT |
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Manager Joe Torre commented that Brad Penny is likely out for the rest of the season, according to the LA Times. Penny is dealing with right shoulder inflammation and Torre said, "I can't think Penny's going to be back. Nothing anybody has said makes me say that. It's off what happened this year."
Our View: Penny was still aiming to return this season, but fantasy owners should no longer be waiting for him.
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| Willits ready for batting practice | Sunday 8/17, 9:09 AM CT |
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Reggie Willits, who is recovering from a mild concussion, will begin taking batting practice Sunday, according to the LA Times.
Our View: He has responded well to workouts, and should be ready to play by the end of next week. Fantasy owners should not be waiting for him however, as he is only hitting .185 over 65 at-bats. |
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| Bay collects 6th multi-hit game | Sunday 8/17, 8:45 AM CT |
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Jason Bay recorded two singles on Saturday, and now has six multi-hit efforts in 14 games as a member of the Red Sox, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: Bay raised his season average to .290 and should continue to generate solid numbers down the stretch while chasing a pennant with the Red Sox. |
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| Varitek ends hitless streak | Sunday 8/17, 8:41 AM CT |
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Jason Varitek ended an 0-for-15 streak with a single against the Blue Jays Saturday, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: The struggling catcher is 5-for-33 (.152) in his last 11 games, and 32-for-199 (.161) in his last 62 games. |
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| Loretta slated for second base | Sunday 8/17, 8:09 AM CT |
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The Houston Chronicle states that Mark Loretta will likely get most of the starts at second base while Kazuo Matsui is on the DL. Geoff Blum and Dave Newhan will also see some action at second.
Our View: Loretta is hitting .269 with four homers and 33 RBI over 208 at-bats this season, and is worth consideration in larger NL-only leagues while Matsui is on the shelf. |
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| Lopez given another start | Sunday 8/17, 7:55 AM CT |
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Felipe Lopez started for the fifth time in six games for the Cardinals on Saturday, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He has stated at second base, left field, and shortstop.
Our View: Lopez entered Saturday hitting .360 (10-for-28) with seven runs and two stolen bases as a starter with St. Louis. He is hitting better with more motivation now while playing for a contender, and could be a sleeper in NL-only leagues down the stretch. |
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| Wainwright's rehab outing goes well | Sunday 8/17, 7:49 AM CT |
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Adam Wainwright said he is ready for whatever role the Cardinals have planned for him as he felt good after his rehab outing with Double-A Springfield Saturday, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He has been rehabbing a severely sprained right middle finger and said, "I feel like I'm ready, for sure. Eighty pitches would be no problem. Eighty-five would be no problem. I'm ready for that. I just have to wait and see what role I'm in." He hurled 4.2 scoreless innings Saturday, and threw 64 pitches with seven strikeouts. The hitches in his delivery from his previous outing were also corrected.
Our View: Saturday's outing could be his last before returning to the Cardinals. The team is yet to indicate what role he will hold. He was being prepped to work out of the pen as a reliever, but that was before they lost Chris Carpenter. |
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| Cain quietly on streak | Sunday 8/17, 7:35 AM CT |
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Matt Cain has gone 13 starts without allowing a home run, according to the SF Chronicle. That marks the longest streak in the majors since Tim Hudson's 13-game homerless streak in 2004.
Our View: Cain is also 2-0 over his last three starts, with only one earned run allowed in both wins. He is 8-9, but would have a better record if given adequate run support. |
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| Brown begins throwing program | Sunday 8/17, 7:20 AM CT |
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Andrew Brown, who is recovering from right shoulder soreness, has begun a throwing program, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: He has a shot to return to the Athletics' bullpen before the end of August. He has been a solid reliever for the club this season, and is worth holding onto in deeper AL-only leagues that feature middle men. |
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| Foulke has no structural damage | Sunday 8/17, 7:17 AM CT |
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Keith Foulke hasn't pitched at Triple-A Sacramento in more than a week due to shoulder soreness, but an MRI taken two days ago revealed no structural damage, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: Foulke would help the Athletics' pen upon his return, but is not worth waiting for in anything but deeper AL-only leagues that use middle men. |
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| Braden fine for next start | Sunday 8/17, 7:12 AM CT |
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Dallas Braden, who has been dealing with a groin ailment, said he will be fine for his next scheduled start for Wednesday against Minnesota, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: Braden is 1-0 over his last two starts, and went seven innings in both games. He is worth a look in AL-only leagues if still dangling on the waiver wire. |
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| Ellis contract talk on hold | Sunday 8/17, 7:08 AM CT |
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Mark Ellis, who will become a free agent after the season, told the A's he would prefer not to talk about a new contract for the rest of the year, according to the SF Chronicle. He said, "I just want to concentrate on baseball the rest of the year. Just put my focus on the game and not talk about a contract."
Our View: Arizona is expected to target Ellis if Orlando Hudson does not return. Ellis lives in Phoenix in the off-season. |
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| Lowe sharp in no-decision | Sunday 8/17, 12:19 AM CT |
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Derek Lowe held the Brewers to one run over seven innings on Saturday, but he took the no-decision. The right-hander allowed eight hits, walked none, and struck out three. The Dodgers bullpen blew his shot at a win.
Our View: Lowe has rebounded well from his disastrous outing in St. Louis, and fantasy owners should continue to count on him, especially since the Dodgers have been playing well. |
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| Hardy stars in win over Dodgers | Sunday 8/17, 12:16 AM CT |
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J.J. Hardy homered in the eighth inning and provided an RBI single in the 10th frame on Saturday night, and the Brewers beat the Dodgers 4-3. The shortstop ended the evening at 3-for-5 with three RBI.
Our View: Hardy has had a quiet August after his monster July, but maybe this effort is the start of another strong run. He remains an inconsistent but useful fantasy shortstop. |
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| Reineke wins in debut | Sunday 8/17, 12:09 AM CT |
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Chad Reineke picked up a win in his major league debut on Saturday night. The 26-year-old right-hander allowed five hits and three runs over five innings against the Phillies. Reineke walked three, struck out five, and went 1-for-2 with the bat.
Our View: We had very low expectations for Reineke, as he wasn't especially sparkling at Triple-A this year. At best, he is worth a flier in NL-only leagues. |
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| Giles drives in four | Sunday 8/17, 12:05 AM CT |
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Brian Giles had only one hit on Saturday night, but he finished 1-for-2 with four RBI. He hit a sacrifice fly and a three-run double.
Our View: That's the second time in the past week that Giles has managed four RBI. His days as a high-end run producer are will in the past, but these efforts were a nice bonus for his fantasy owners. |
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