| Lowry continues throwing program | Saturday 8/23, 11:56 PM CT |
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Noah Lowry continued his throwing program with a long toss session Saturday, according to the AP. Lowry has been out since March following lower forearm surgery.
Our View: Lowry is hoping to pitch for the Giants this season, but we would bet against it. |
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| Myrow optioned to Triple-A | Saturday 8/23, 11:54 PM CT |
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The Padres optioned Brian Myrow to Triple-A Portland Saturday to clear a roster spot for Dirk Hayhurst.
Our View: Myrow hit only .143 in 21 at-bats with the Pads. |
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| Decision on Wise looming | Saturday 8/23, 11:49 PM CT |
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Manager Ozzie Guillen said the White Sox will decide Monday whether to make a roster move with Dewayne Wise, who left Wednesday's game after straining a muscle near his groin, according to the AP.
Our View: Wise hasn't played since the injury. He's given the Sox a bit of a lift as a bench player. |
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| Richard slated for Monday start | Saturday 8/23, 11:45 PM CT |
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Clayton Richard will likely start Monday's game against Baltimore, according to the AP.
Our View: The Sox and O's will resume a suspended game from April 28 earlier in the evening before Richard's start. |
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| Pelfrey likely to be pushed back | Saturday 8/23, 11:38 PM CT |
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Mike Pelfrey is likely to be pushed back in the rotation to avoid starting against Florida, according to the AP. He holds a 10.66 ERA in three starts this year.
Our View: With the way Pelfrey has pitched lately, we're surprised the Mets would push him back even with his struggles against the Fish. |
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| Blackburn off his game | Saturday 8/23, 11:30 PM CT |
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Nick Blackburn didn't have it Saturday, as he allowed six runs (three earned) on 10 hits and two walks over just 4 2/3 innings.
Our View: Blackburn relies on pinpoint location for success, and his location was obviously off tonight. |
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| Tex leads Halos to win | Saturday 8/23, 11:18 PM CT |
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Mark Teixeira led the Angels to a 7-5 win over Minnesota Saturday, going 3-for-3 with a homer and two RBI.
Our View: Tex has worked out quite well for the Halos, hitting .367 with six homers and 19 RBI in 22 games. |
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| Petit shines in D'Backs win | Saturday 8/23, 11:05 PM CT |
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Yusmeiro Petit allowed just one run on two hits while striking out six over six innings in Saturday's win over Florida.
Our View: Petit isn't one of the Cy Young candidates on Arizona's roster, but he's been awfully good. Snatch him up off the free agent wire if he's still out there. |
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| Young hits 18th homer | Saturday 8/23, 11:01 PM CT |
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Chris Young had two hits, including his 18th homer of the year, in the D'Backs' 7-1 win Saturday.
Our View: Young has regressed this year when many felt he would take a step forward, but at least 18 homers and 10 steals isn't too shabby. |
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| Bruce homers, drives in three | Saturday 8/23, 10:54 PM CT |
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Jay Bruce had a solo homer and two-RBI single in Saturday's loss to the Rockies. It was Bruce's 14th bomb of the year.
Our View: August has been Bruce's most productive month, as he has hit seven homers and drive in 15, though he is just hitting .241 over the span. |
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| Miner shuts down Royals | Saturday 8/23, 9:51 PM CT |
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Zach Miner befuddled the Royals Saturday, tossing seven shutout innings while allowing just three hits and a walk.
Our View: Miner has been surprisingly good since moving into the rotation, holding a 2.87 ERA in seven starts. |
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| Maine gets knocked around | Saturday 8/23, 9:46 PM CT |
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John Maine was knocked around Saturday, allowing eight runs on 10 hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings in a loss to Houston.
Our View: Maine's velocity has been down since returning from the DL. He got away with it in his first two starts, but obviously he didn't tonight. |
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| Backe bounces back | Saturday 8/23, 9:43 PM CT |
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Brandon Backe picked up his eighth win Saturday, allowing three runs on five hits and a walk while striking out four over seven innings.
Our View: Backe needed this outing, as he's been pounded during August. |
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| Berkman homers, drives in four | Saturday 8/23, 9:41 PM CT |
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Lance Berkman had three hits and four RBI in the Astros' win over the Mets Saturday. He hit his 26th homer of the year, a three-run shot.
Our View: Berkman should be in the thick of the MVP talk despite that Houston isn't in playoff contention. He's been the best player in fantasy baseball this year. |
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| Gorzelanny roughed up by Brew Crew | Saturday 8/23, 9:38 PM CT |
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Tom Gorzelanny's return to the Pittsburgh rotation did not go well. The lefty allowed six runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out three over 4 2/3 innings in a loss to Milwaukee.
Our View: This is the same Gorzelanny we saw earlier this year. His fall this year has been surprising, to say the least. |
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| Braun homers, doubles in win | Saturday 8/23, 9:34 PM CT |
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Ryan Braun had a solo homer and a two-run double in Saturday's win over Pittsburgh.
Our View: It appears that Ryan is over his back ailment. |
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| Matsui homers again | Saturday 8/23, 9:30 PM CT |
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Hideki Matsui had a solo homer Saturday, his second in five games since returning from the DL.
Our View: It's good to see Hideki show some pop right off the bat. |
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| Giambi homers, drives in three | Saturday 8/23, 9:26 PM CT |
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Jason Giambi had an RBI single and two-run homer in the Yankees' win over Baltimore Saturday.
Our View: Giambi is hitting just .233 this month but has five homers and 14 RBI. |
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| Pavano wins first start back | Saturday 8/23, 9:21 PM CT |
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It wasn't pretty, but Carl Pavano escaped with a win Saturday in his first start with the Yankees since last April. The righty allowed three runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out five over five innings.
Our View: Pavano was understandably rusty, but this was a positive outing. Hopefully he can improve the next time out. |
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| Cust seeing fine again | Saturday 8/23, 8:56 PM CT |
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Jack Cust was fine Saturday after experiencing blurred vision in his right eye Friday, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. However, Cust was not in Saturday's lineup, anyway, because manager Bob Geren wanted to play Rajai Davis against lefty Jarrod Washburn.
Our View: Cust is available to pinch hit tonight and should be back in the lineup tomorrow. |
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| Ellis out with shoulder injury | Saturday 8/23, 8:54 PM CT |
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Mark Ellis is out of Saturday's lineup and there is no timetable for his return, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. He left Friday's game with a right shoulder injury.
Our View: Manager Bob Geren said Ellis would sit out at least one more day, but the Chronicle speculated that it could be several more days. |
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| McLouth's return date unclear | Saturday 8/23, 7:57 PM CT |
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Nate McLouth sat out again Saturday. He hasn't played since Monday due to a stomach virus, according to MLB.com. He had a mononucleosis test that came back negative and is awaiting results on blood work. "He's feeling better; last night, he kind of turned the corner," said manager John Russell. "The consensus, without getting the test results back, is he's on the back side of this."
Our View: It sounds like owners should get Nate back for the upcoming week, but he's unlikely to play Sunday. |
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| Albers won't return this year | Saturday 8/23, 7:52 PM CT |
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Matt Albers isn't going to pitch for the Orioles again this year, according to MLB.com. He is coming back from a labrum tear in his shoulder. "Albers is not going to be a guy that will be called up here in September. We don't need to put his name in the mix," manager Dave Trembley said. "The choice that he made was to rehab it instead of having surgery. Time will tell if he made the right decision or not. My understanding was if he had surgery, it would take eight months to get back. By him rehabbing to this particular point in time, he saved that amount of time. But we'll tell on him next year in Spring Training and when the season starts."
Our View: This is the smart move by the O's. They're going nowhere this year, and Albers is an important part of their future. |
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| Pujols has big day | Saturday 8/23, 7:31 PM CT |
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Albert Pujols had two doubles and a homer in the Cardinals' loss to Atlanta Saturday. He drove in three runs on the day.
Our View: Pujols is now batting .356, just four points off Chipper Jones' league-leading pace. He also has 27 homers and 85 RBI. |
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| Prado wraps three hits | Saturday 8/23, 7:29 PM CT |
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Martin Prado had a nice day for the Braves Saturday, picking up three hits while driving in two runs and scoring two.
Our View: Prado has been hitting well of late. He started at first today and is likely eligible at multiple positions in your league. |
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| Is Ayala the Mets' new closer? | Saturday 8/23, 7:25 PM CT |
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According to the New York Journal News, when asked if Luis Ayala was now his closer, manager Jerry Manuel replied, "If that opportunity comes up again tonight I wouldn't hesitate to go with him again."
Our View: Manuel has refused to name a closer while Billy Wagner is out, but this is pretty close. Ayala picked up the save Friday and has pitched three scoreless innings since arriving in New York. |
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| Friday is earliest Beckett could start | Saturday 8/23, 7:13 PM CT |
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Josh Beckett is also dealing with inflammation in his right elbow in addition to the numbness in his right arm. The earliest he could return to the rotation is Friday, according to MLB.com. "It's gotten better," Beckett said of the numbness. "We had the one day [Friday] where it kind of came back. That's why we decided to do what we did. It has gotten better. The treatment and stuff is definitely working."
Our View: The Sox say they are being extra cautious, so this doesn't seem like something to be overly concerned about, but obviously you should keep close tabs on it. |
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| Wakefield to start Tuesday | Saturday 8/23, 7:09 PM CT |
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Tim Wakefield will come off the DL to start Tuesday in place of Josh Beckett, according to MLB.com. He is coming back from tightness in his shoulder.
Our View: Wakefield has had a terrific year, so hopefully he will regain his form right away. |
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| Pinella to meet with Fukudome | Saturday 8/23, 6:38 PM CT |
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Manager Lou Pinella will meet with the slumping Kosuke Fukudome before Sunday's game, according to MLB.com. "I'm going to have a talk with him [Sunday] and see how we can help the young man," Piniella said. "He's struggling." Pinella added: "We'll talk about hitting, hitting mechanics, not about anything else. He's in-between. He's slightly behind the fastball and ahead of the breaking ball. Whether it's him or anybody else, you have to hit one of the two with consistency."
Our View: Pinella has threatened to bench Fukudome but has yet to follow through. Perhaps that will change soon. |
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| Dye goes deep twice | Saturday 8/23, 6:30 PM CT |
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Jermaine Dye was a one-man wrecking crew for the White Sox Saturday, as he pounded out two homers, his 30th and 31st of the season, in a loss to the Rays.
Our View: Most of the talk about the White Sox offense begins with Carlos Quentin, but Dye has had a fantastic year, as well. |
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| Hamels gets 11th win | Saturday 8/23, 6:11 PM CT |
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Cole Hamels allowed just two runs on five hits while striking out five over seven innings Saturday to pick up his 11th win of the year.
Our View: Aside from a mediocre May, Hamels has been nails for the Phils this year. |
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| Burrell homers, drives in five | Saturday 8/23, 6:09 PM CT |
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Pat Burrell had a monster day Saturday, picking up three hits, including his 30th homer of the season, while driving in five runs in a win over the Dodgers.
Our View: Burrell's RBI double came on a lazy fly ball to center that Matt Kemp lost in the sun, but that certainly doesn't diminish his terrific game. |
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| Traber optioned to Triple-A | Saturday 8/23, 6:06 PM CT |
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The Yankees optioned Billy Traber to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Saturday.
Our View: Traber has struggled in his multiple stints with the Yanks this year, holding a 7.02 ERA. |
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| Pavano activated, will start | Saturday 8/23, 6:05 PM CT |
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The Yankees activated Carl Pavano from the DL Saturday. He will start tonight against the Orioles.
Our View: Pavano will be making his third start since 2005. He should be monitored but is too risky of a fantasy proposition to pick up immediately. |
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| Joba throws from a mound | Saturday 8/23, 5:58 PM CT |
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Joba Chamberlain threw 35 pitches today from a mound. They were all fastballs and changeups, according to Newsday. "It was good, I warmed up quick, I got loose real quick," said Chamberlain, who is recovering from rotator cuff tendinitis.
Our View: Manager Joe Girardi didn't comment on when Joba would pitch in a game, but the right-hander estimated that it would be at least a week. It's still not clear whether Chamberlain will come back as a starter or reliever. |
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| Wilson picks up 34th save | Saturday 8/23, 5:42 PM CT |
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Brian Wilson picked up his 34th save of the season Saturday, pitching a spotless ninth while striking out two.
Our View: Wilson's high ERA and WHIP haven't stopped him from being quite effective in the saves department. He has blown just three chances this year. |
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| Zito impresses again | Saturday 8/23, 5:39 PM CT |
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Barry Zito put together a strong effort Saturday, allowing three runs on four hits and three walks while striking out five over eight innings. He picked up his eighth win.
Our View: This is Zito's second straight terrific start. August has easily been his best month. |
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| Hayhurst struggles in debut | Saturday 8/23, 5:37 PM CT |
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Dirk Hayhurst didn't fare well in his major league debut Saturday, allowing three runs on five hits and two walks in just four innings of work.
Our View: Hayhurst is a career minor leaguer that finally got his chance. Whether or not he gets another opportunity remains to be seen. |
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| Lambert to start Tuesday | Saturday 8/23, 5:24 PM CT |
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Chris Lambert will be called up to start for the Tigers on Tuesday, according to BlessYouBoys.com. He posted a 12-8 record and 3.50 ERA, with 124 strikeouts and 48 walks in 149 1/3 innings for Triple-A Toledo.
Our View: Lambert will take Nate Robertson's spot in the rotation. It will be his major league debut. |
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| Loe sent to Triple-A | Saturday 8/23, 5:16 PM CT |
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The Rangers optioned Kameron Loe to Triple-A Oklahoma City Saturday to make room on the roster for Brandon McCarthy.
Our View: Loe pitched well (2.29 ERA in seven games) but was still deemed expendable. |
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| McCarthy recalled, will start Saturday | Saturday 8/23, 5:14 PM CT |
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As expected, the Rangers recalled Brandon McCarthy from Triple-A Oklahoma Saturday. He will start tonight against the Indians.
Our View: McCarthy held a 3.41 ERA and 28/9 K/BB ratio in seven starts while rehabbing from a forearm injury. He could eventually be worth a fantasy roster spot, but take a wait and see approach for now. |
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| Crede struggling at plate during rehab | Saturday 8/23, 5:08 PM CT |
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Joe Crede is physically ready to return from the DL, but he is struggling during his rehab assignment so far, going 0-for-12 in four games, according to MLB.com. "Crede is fine," manager Ozzie Guillen said. "I just got a message from [athletic trainer Herm Schneider] and he says [Crede is swinging] the bat well. His back feels great. But it's going to be up to [general manager] Kenny [Williams] how many at-bats he needs to get down in the Minor Leagues." Guillen added: "If you can't hit in the Minor Leagues, I don't know about here. I want to see him perform. If you go 0-for-20 in the Minor Leagues, you're not going to come to the big leagues and be ready to go. Nobody's that good. When he's ready, he's gonna be here."
Our View: Crede will return to his third base post when he's ready. |
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| Castillo asks out of lineup | Saturday 8/23, 5:02 PM CT |
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It was thought that Luis Castillo was coming off the DL today, but he apparently asked out of the starting lineup because he didn't want to affect the Mets' team chemistry, according to Newsday.
Our View: Castillo will travel with the team to Philadelphia, but it's not clear when he will be activated, though it will happen before the rosters expand. Argenis Reyes started at second today. |
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| Doumit available to pinch hit | Saturday 8/23, 4:54 PM CT |
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Ryan Doumit is out of the lineup again today because of flu-like symptoms, but he is feeling much better and is available to pinch hit, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Our View: Raul Chavez got the start behind the plate. |
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| Beam optioned to Triple-A | Saturday 8/23, 4:48 PM CT |
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The Pirates optioned T.J. Beam to Triple-A Indianapolis Saturday. The move was made to clear a roster spot for Tom Gorzelanny, who is returning to the rotation.
Our View: Bean pitched well, holding a 4.01 ERA and 1.28 WHIP, but apparently he didn't do well enough to convince the Bucs he was worth a roster spot. |
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| Duckworth will start Sunday | Saturday 8/23, 4:40 PM CT |
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The Royals will recall Brandon Duckworth from Triple-A Omaha to start on Sunday, according to the Kansas City Star.
Our View: Duckworth has a 5-11 record and 4.75 ERA in 27 games with Omaha. He's not worth a roster spot even in very deep leagues. |
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| Gordon placed on DL | Saturday 8/23, 4:37 PM CT |
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The Royals placed Alex Gordon on the DL Saturday with a torn right quad. Alberto Callaspo replaces him on the roster.
Our View: The Royals haven't said how long Gordon will be out, but it seems likely he won't return this season. |
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| Callaspo activated from DL | Saturday 8/23, 4:28 PM CT |
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The Royals activated Alberto Callaspo from the DL Saturday. He had been out with an unspecified medical reason after being cited for DUI.
Our View: Callaspo could get some significant time at second. He's worth an AL-only spot. |
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| Pauley brought back up | Saturday 8/23, 4:19 PM CT |
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The Red Sox recalled David Pauley from Triple-A Pawtucket Saturday. He replaces the injured David Aardsma on the roster.
Our View: Pauley has struggled in his time with the Sox this year, but he's been much better at Triple-A, boasting a 14-4 record and 3.55 ERA in 25 starts. He be used as a long man. |
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| Aardsma placed on DL | Saturday 8/23, 4:16 PM CT |
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The Red Sox have placed David Aardsma back on the DL with a strained right groin, according to the Providence Journal. It's the second time Aardsma has been on the DL with the ailment. "They need guys out there to get outs," said Aardsma. "It's real frustrating because I know I can help this team."
Our View: David Pauley replaces Aardsma on the roster. |
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| Mets won't activate Castillo yet | Saturday 8/23, 4:13 PM CT |
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The Mets have decided to hold off on activating Luis Castillo from the DL, according to the NY Daily News. He was originally supposed to return from his strained left hip flexor today, but they'll instead wait a few days.
Our View: The report indicates that Castillo "volunteered" to wait a few days. We're not sure why, but the team has said previously that they were in no hurry for Luis to return. |
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| Youkilis has tough day at the plate | Saturday 8/23, 3:59 PM CT |
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Kevin Youkilis had a tough day at the plate as he went 1-for-4 with three strikeouts in Saturday's 11-0 loss to Toronto.
Our View: That was the fourth time he struck out three times in a game this season, and the 18th time he struck out more than once. |
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| Lester rocked for seven runs | Saturday 8/23, 3:53 PM CT |
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Jon Lester was rocked for seven earned runs on eight hits over a mere 2.1 innings of work in Saturday's 11-0 loss to the Jays, with two walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: Lester falls to 12-5 and his ERA jumps to 3.49. His two-game winning streak was snapped, and this was only the second time over his last seven starts that he surrendered four or more earned runs. Lester should bounce back fine and should continue to be trusted in fantasy lineups. |
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| Wells blasts two homers | Saturday 8/23, 3:49 PM CT |
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Vernon Wells went 4-for-5 with three RBI in Saturday's 11-0 win over Boston. He hit two singles and two home runs, and also scored four runs.
Our View: He snapped a four-game skid without an RBI and ended a seven-game drought without a home run. |
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| Litsch hurls six scoreless | Saturday 8/23, 3:44 PM CT |
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Jesse Litsch hurled six scoreless innings, with only three hits allowed, in Saturday's 11-0 win over the Red Sox, with three walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: He improves to 9-7 and lowered his ERA to 4.01. He snapped a five-game skid without a win. He has also held his opponent scoreless in his each of his last two outings (13 innings). Litsch is worth employing in larger leagues. |
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| Zimmerman goes 3-for-4 | Saturday 8/23, 3:39 PM CT |
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Ryan Zimmerman went 3-for-4 in Saturday's 9-2 loss to the Cubs at Wrigley Field. All three of his knocks were singles.
Our View: That was his second straight multi-hit effort, and he is batting .333 (7-for-21) over his last five games, but only has one RBI over the span. |
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| Ramirez generates six RBI | Saturday 8/23, 3:35 PM CT |
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Aramis Ramirez went 3-for-5 and generated six RBI in Saturday's 9-2 win over the Nationals on the north side of Chicago. He had a single and two three-run homers.
Our View: Ramirez has hit homers in five of his last six games, with seven over the span. |
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| Dempster dazzles in 15th win | Saturday 8/23, 3:31 PM CT |
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Ryan Dempster pitched another gem as he only allowed one earned run on eight hits over 7.1 innings in Saturday's 9-2 win over the Nationals at Wrigley Field, with one walk and four strikeouts.
Our View: Dempster improves to 15-5 and trimmed his ERA to 2.85. He has won three straight decisions, and has allowed two or less earned runs in seven straight starts. |
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| Tracy promoted | Saturday 8/23, 3:26 PM CT |
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Andy Tracy has been promoted from Triple-A Lehigh Valley, according to the AP. Geoff Jenkins has been placed on the 15-day DL as the corresponding move.
Our View: The 35-year-old infielder isn't going to be fantasy worthy during his stint with the team. |
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| Jenkins placed on DL | Saturday 8/23, 3:23 PM CT |
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Geoff Jenkins has been placed on the 15-day DL due to a right hip flexor strain, according to the AP. The Phillies purchased the contract of infielder Andy Tracy from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to fill Jenkins' spot on the roster.
Our View: Jenkins held little fantasy value with nine homers and a .246 average over 284 at-bats. |
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| Howell feeling better | Saturday 8/23, 3:18 PM CT |
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J.P. Howell is feeling better after his heavy workload has been lightened, according to the Tampa Tribune. He said, "I was getting back spasms, leg cramps, one day it was one thing, the next day another. I could feel it a couple weeks ago, little things just popping up, and I kind of hit a wall and decided to just cut back. It's my first time in this territory." After some much needed rest (about a week) he said, "I'm just glad to be rested up, man. It was definitely a learning experience."
Our View: This is encouraging news for one of the league's best middle relievers. He holds a 6-0 record (with two saves) over 69.2 innings, with 72 strikeouts and a 1.22 WHIP. |
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| Morrow close to rotation spot? | Saturday 8/23, 3:11 PM CT |
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Brandon Morrow only allowed two hits while racking up 10 strikeouts over 4.2 innings in Thursday's outing with Triple-A Tacoma, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
Our View: Morrow threw 72 pitches and will need at least one more start at Triple-A before being called up. His next start after that would fall on August 31, which is the day before rosters expand. The Mariners would have to decide whether to call him up and make an adjoining roster move, let him pitch once more for Tacoma or push him back a day so they could recall him without demoting anyone. Manager Jim Rigglemen believes there will be time to get him four or five starts with the Mariners in September. He should remain stashed away on fantasy rosters, and could provide a boost over the final month of the season.
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| Hayhurst could move to bullpen | Saturday 8/23, 2:50 PM CT |
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Dirk Hayhurst is going to start for the Padres tonight against the Giants, but could then be moved to the bullpen to make room for either Chris Young or Shawn Estes in the rotation, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Our View: Hayhurst is a natural reliever and has only made two starts, so the Padres are not expecting him to last long against the Giants. He doesn't look to hold much fantasy value in leagues that don't feature middle men, if he does in fact move to the bullpen after Saturday. |
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| LeBlanc not likely for September? | Saturday 8/23, 2:44 PM CT |
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Padres' GM Kevin Towers stated that Triple-A hurler Wade LeBlanc is not likely to get called up when rosters expand in September, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. The team doesn't have to put him on the 40-man roster in November to protect him from the Rule V draft. Back in March, Towers and farm overseer Grady Fuson said LeBlanc probably would get a promotion this season.
Our View: LeBlanc is pitching well this month with Triple-A Portland, notching a 1.80 ERA over 20 innings with 21 strikeouts and only one walk, but he has pitched a lot of innings throughout the minor league season, and that marks another key reason why he isn't likely to be promoted to San Diego. |
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| Young is eager to pitch | Saturday 8/23, 2:35 PM CT |
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Chris Young does not want to stay on the DL to protect his right arm and is eager to pitch, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. He said, "My arm's had enough rest this year. I need to pitch. It's not fun to sit around. I don't get paid to sit around. I want to be out there competing and getting better." He has recovered from a strained right forearm as well as a broken nose.
Our View: He will get his wish, as Manager Bud Black noted that Young will pitch for the Padres in September. Young believes it is important to finish the year strong to have something positive to build upon for next season. Fantasy owners should keep Young stashed on rosters. |
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| Perez injured | Saturday 8/23, 2:19 PM CT |
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Odalis Perez cut the back of his left thumb in Saturday's game against the Cubs, according to the Washington Post.
Our View: It is uncertain if he left the game early due to the injury or due to a lack of control on the mound. He left after allowing four earned runs, 10 hits, and four walks over 4.1 innings of work. We will keep you posted when more details are disclosed. |
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| Hughes rocked for eight runs | Saturday 8/23, 2:00 PM CT |
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Phil Hughes was rocked for eight runs while pitching for Triple-A Scranton against Lehigh Valley Friday, according to the NY Post. He allowed 10 hits, over a mere 3.1 innings of work.
Our View: Hughes was terrible over six games with the Yankees this season, and isn't having better success in the minors right now either. Fantasy owners should let him go if he is still on rosters. |
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| Parrish recalled | Saturday 8/23, 1:23 PM CT |
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John Parrish has been recalled from Triple-A Syracuse, according to the AP. He replaces Shaun Marcum on the roster, who has been sent down to Syracuse due to control issues with his pitches.
Our View: Parrish is slated to take Marcum's spot in the rotation, and his next start will be Thursday against the Rays. Parrish is worth consideration in larger AL-only leagues, as he holds a 1-0 record over seven games (four starts) with a 4.05 ERA and passable 1.39 WHIP. |
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| Marcum sent down | Saturday 8/23, 1:16 PM CT |
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Shaun Marcum has been sent down to Triple-A Syracuse, according to the AP. John Parrish has been recalled from Syracuse to fill his spot on the roster.
Our View: Marcum allowed five runs and six hits in 3.2 innings in his last start Friday against Boston. He has won three straight decisions prior to his loss against Boston, and holds a 3.60 ERA and 1.17 WHIP for the season, but the team felt he has struggled with location since coming off the DL (sore elbow). He could be back if he regains his control over a few outings in the minors. |
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| Mahay placed on DL | Saturday 8/23, 1:10 PM CT |
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As expected, Ron Mahay has officially been placed on the 15-day DL due to a case of plantar fascitis in his left foot, according to the KC Star. Kyle Davis took his place on the roster when recalled from Triple-A Omaha.
Our View: Mahay made just one brief appearance since August 6 due to his ailment, and his time on the DL will be backdated to start Aug. 16. |
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| Teahen back at third base | Saturday 8/23, 1:05 PM CT |
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Mark Teahen is back at third base while covering for the injured Alex Gordon, according to the KC Star. Manager Trey Hillman said, "It’s his old position, but it’s new to him this year. We will see how it goes. He worked on it a little bit in Chicago. He looked pretty natural over there. I’d like to see what T can do at his old position."
Our View: The last time he roamed third base was September 5, 2006. Teahen could see extended action at the hot corner as Gordon may be out for a couple of weeks. As a fantasy performer, Teahen could provide flexibility to use as a corner infielder in deeper AL-only leagues if needed. |
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| Grudzielanek to undergo MRI | Saturday 8/23, 12:59 PM CT |
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Mark Grudzielanek will undergo an MRI next week to examine his injured right ankle, according to the KC Star. He said, "I’m going to have an MRI next week. It will be my fourth in four weeks. Once we see that, we will see how much healing its done and go from there."
Our View: He is unsure if he will be able to play again this season, and hasn’t done a lot since he tore his deltoid ligament in his right ankle when he collided with Ross Gload on a pop up. He is certain he will return next season, however. |
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| Kinsler targeting September 5 | Saturday 8/23, 12:52 PM CT |
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Ian Kinsler, who is dealing with a sports hernia, is targeting September 5 for his return to the Rangers' lineup, according to the Dallas Morning News. This is favorable news, but fantasy owners should not get too excited as Kinsler said, "I’ll be smart about it. I want to play the last month, but we’ll see."
Our View: Kinsler should remain held on fantasy rosters, but there is still the possibility he won't return with just a handful of weeks left in the regular season. |
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| Sanchez optioned | Saturday 8/23, 12:33 PM CT |
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Romulo Sanchez has been optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis, according to the AP. Closer Matt Capps has been activated from the 15-day DL as the corresponding move.
Our View: Sanchez issued eight hits, four walks, and three earned runs over 7.2 innings of relief during his stint with the Pirates. He held no fantasy value prior to his demotion. |
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| Capps activated | Saturday 8/23, 12:30 PM CT |
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As expected, Matt Capps has been activated from the 15-day DL Saturday following his recovery from bursitis in his right shoulder, according to the AP. The Pirates optioned pitcher Romulo Sanchez to Triple-A Indianapolis to make room on the roster.
Our View: Capps should resume his role as the Pirates' closer, and is worth returning to lineups for the new fantasy week, assuming he doesn't struggle. |
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| DeSalvo optioned | Saturday 8/23, 12:25 PM CT |
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Matt DeSalvo has been optioned to Triple-A Richmond, according to the AP. Manny Acosta has been activated from the 15-day DL as the corresponding move.
Our View: DeSalvo was only given two innings of work with Atlanta this season, and struggled with seven earned runs and 11 hits surrendered. |
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| Acosta activated | Saturday 8/23, 12:23 PM CT |
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Manny Acosta has been activated from the 15-day DL following his bout with a strained right hamstring, according to the AP. The Braves optioned Matt DeSalvo to Triple-A Richmond to make room on the roster.
Our View: He will be a welcome addition back to Atlanta, but only holds fantasy value in deeper NL-only leagues that use middle men. |
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| Leyland comments on Willis | Saturday 8/23, 12:13 PM CT |
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Manager Jim Leyland commented as to whether or not he thinks Dontrelle Willis will return to the Tigers when rosters expand in September, according to the Detroit Free Press. Leyland said, "That's been discussed. Would it be nice if Dontrelle would be able to pitch for us in September? Yes. Is that going to happen? I can't answer that. That was discussed last night with Dave Dombrowski, the general manager, and we're not sure what might be best for Dontrelle at this point. We don't know."
Our View: Willis has not fared well in the minors, and is not worth keeping on fantasy rosters with continued uncertainty that he will return this season. |
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| Beckett pushed back | Saturday 8/23, 11:29 AM CT |
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Josh Beckett, who has been experiencing tingling and numbness in his right arm (and hand), has been pushed back for a second time and is now scheduled to pitch on Friday against the White Sox at Fenway Park, according to the Providence Journal. His side session for Saturday was cancelled and manager Terry Francona said, "We're doing everything in our power to make sure this guy is able to go out and pitch like he can pitch. This gives him another three days of more routine and we can bump his side back to Tuesday. We all feel a little bit better about being overly cautious, but when it comes to somebody's arm, and their future, we need to do it."
Our View: The team does not want to rush Beckett back and risk losing him during the crucial final month of the regular season. |
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| Martinez not back before Wed? | Saturday 8/23, 11:21 AM CT |
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Victor Martinez won't likely return to the Indians before Wednesday, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. The Indians want to see improvement in Martinez's throwing as he continues to recover from surgery on his right elbow.
Our View: He is still being brought along slowly, but it looks like he has a shot to return before the end of next week. He should be scooped up off the waiver wire if released when he got hurt. |
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| Peralta could remain in cleaup spot? | Saturday 8/23, 11:15 AM CT |
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Jhonny Peralta may remain in the cleanup spot when Victor Martinez and Travis Hafner return from their rehab assignments, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Manager Eric Wedge said, "We've talked about it briefly. We can work Vic and Hafner around Jhonny. We could hit Hafner and Vic three and four and Jhonny in the fifth spot. One thing we haven't decided is that we're just flat-out going to move him out of the No. 4 spot. I'm still thinking that through. That's a heckuva credit to Jhonny."
Our View: Peralta went into Friday's game against the Rangers hitting .328 (67-for-206) with 22 doubles, 10 homers and 40 RBI since taking over the cleanup spot on June 22. He also currently leads all AL shortstops with 21 homers. |
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| Sizemore to remain in leadoff spot | Saturday 8/23, 11:09 AM CT |
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Grady Sizemore will remain in the leadoff spot despite hitting 29 home runs, according to the Akron Beacon-Journal. Manager Eric Wedge was asked if he would move him to the middle of the lineup and he answered, "The only way I would consider doing something like that is if I had somebody very strong to put at the leadoff spot. Unless you had another leadoff hitter get on ahead of him, you probably would lose production."
Our View: Sizemore would generate more RBI from a lower spot in the lineup, but he has been productive with 79 this season, and he would potentially score less runs and get the green light to steal less often from leaving the leadoff spot. |
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| Hernandez may be done? | Saturday 8/23, 11:03 AM CT |
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Orlando Hernandez's career may be over, according to the NY Daily News. He is opting for surgery on his right big toe, which has a bunion. He previously had resisted that procedure because the recovery time could cost him more than a full season.
Our View: The 38-year-old will likely miss the entire 2009 campaign, and his prospects don't look good to return at 40. |
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| Stokes to make spot-start | Saturday 8/23, 10:57 AM CT |
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Brian Stokes is slated to be used as a spot-starter August 31 against Florida, according to the NY Daily News.
Our View: He will make the start to give Mike Pelfrey nearly a full turn of rest, who has already exceeded his career-high in innings with 154 this season. |
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| Helton playing catch | Saturday 8/23, 10:52 AM CT |
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Todd Helton, who has been out since July 3 with lower-back problems, was in uniform but was limited to playing catch Friday, according to the Rocky Mountain News. Helton is encouraged by recent developments, but trainer Keith Dugger said the Rockies will be very cautious in Helton's rehab program. Twice already, Helton had been cleared to start swinging a bat, but both times, his back problem flared up. Dugger said Helton is "not even close" to swinging a bat and that, "if he can tolerate this for four or five days, we will consider the next move."
Our View: There remains no timetable, but he has a chance to return at some point in September. He should remain stashed away on rosters in NL-only leagues. |
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| Spilborghs | Saturday 8/23, 10:48 AM CT |
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Ryan Spilborghs, who is recovering from a left oblique strain, will spend a week on his rehab assignment with Triple-A Colorado Springs (started Thursday), according to the Rocky Mountain News.
Our View: He is hopeful to return to Colorado in September. He could see extended action in the outfield as an audition for next season, and could be worth stashing in NL-only leagues. He hit .314 over 185 at-bats this season, with six homers, 33 RBI, and seven stolen bases. |
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| Jones set to take swings | Saturday 8/23, 10:14 AM CT |
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Adam Jones, who is nursing a fractured left foot on the DL, is expected to hit outside today, according to the Baltimore Sun. It is a small step in his recovery and manager Dave Trembley said, "He's not going to be, in the next three or four or five days, activated. No, no, no. He is going to be a guy that's going to tell you he's ready, but we are going to take the other, conservative route on him."
Our View: Jones likely will participate in a simulated game sometime next week but won't go on a minor league rehab assignment because the affiliates' seasons are ending. There is a chance he won't be back this season. |
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| McCarthy slated to start | Saturday 8/23, 9:49 AM CT |
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Brandon McCarthy remains slated to start tonight against the Indians, according to the Star-Telegram.
Our View: It will mark his first appearance of 2008 as he has been out all season while dealing with severe inflammation of the right forearm. He is worth holding in deeper AL-only leagues, but fantasy owners should wait to see how he performs in his first game back before penciling him into the lineup. |
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| Murphy throws for first time | Saturday 8/23, 9:44 AM CT |
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David Murphy took batting practice and threw for the first time Friday since spraining his right knee, according to the Star-Telegram. Murphy also started jogging Wednesday and said his progress has improved significantly the past week.
Our View: He is targeting September 1 for his return date to the Rangers, assuming he won't suffer any setbacks. He is a candidate for the AL Rookie of the Year award with a .275 average, 15 homers, 74 RBI, 64 runs scored, and seven stolen bases. He is surely worth waiting for as a fantasy outfielder. |
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| Kotchman remains on bereavement | Saturday 8/23, 9:23 AM CT |
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Casey Kotchman missed his third game Friday while on the bereavement list to attend to his ailing mother, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. His mother is hospitalized with an undisclosed medical condition in St. Petersburg, Florida, and manager Bobby Cox was notified she was in stable condition, but in a lot of pain. Cox added, "He’s really shaken up," and told Kotchman to stay in Florida as long as he needs to.
Our View: Players can spend a minimum of three days and maximum of seven days on bereavement leave without going on the DL.
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| Harang back on track | Saturday 8/23, 9:17 AM CT |
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Aaron Harang is back on track as he hurled six scoreless innings in Friday's win over Colorado, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. Harang said, "I felt a lot better. We worked on some stuff this week mechanically. We figured out some stuff with my hands." His fastball was consistently in the 93-94 mph range Friday, and manager Dusty Baker added, "He was letting it go. He had good life on his fastball."
Our View: Harang should be given another chance in fantasy lineups in his next outing, but is by no means a safe fantasy prospect again. |
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| Varitek close to team record | Saturday 8/23, 8:56 AM CT |
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Jason Varitek has scored 157 runs as a catcher with Boston and is only one shy of Carlton Fisk's team record, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: Varitek has scored five runs over his last three games, with three coming Friday at Toronto. |
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| Wakefield scheduled for side session | Saturday 8/23, 8:52 AM CT |
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Tim Wakefield, who is recovering from right shoulder tightness, is scheduled to throw a side session today, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: Wakefield thinks he would need just one more side session before rejoining the rotation. Barring a setback, he would be a likely choice for Wednesday's start against the Yankees, in Clay Buchholz's slot in the rotation. |
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| Beckett slated for side session | Saturday 8/23, 8:49 AM CT |
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Josh Beckett, who has been experiencing tingling and numbness in his right arm, had no complaints after throwing off flat ground to pitching coach John Farrell for approximately 10 minutes Friday afternoon, according to the Boston Globe. He is scheduled to throw a side session today.
Our View: Barring a setback, he is scheduled to start Tuesday against the rival Yankees in the Bronx. |
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| Drew injury update | Saturday 8/23, 8:44 AM CT |
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J.D. Drew's MRI confirmed he is suffering from a herniated disk in his back, according to the Boston Globe. Manager Terry Francona said, "The MRI was actually very encouraging. Talked about the disk; that's been there for a long time. It's just spasming around it. The muscles are spasming, so when we calm that down he'll be OK. I think we thought he was calmed down to the point yesterday where he was going to play, then it spasmed up again. Just got to get it to calm down."
Our View: Drew is on anti-inflammatory medication for the spasms. The team trainers will continually try to treat it, see if we can get it calmed down, try to break the spasm, fix the pain, and then get him ready to return to the diamond. It remains to be seen if he will need to spend time on the DL. |
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| Furcal won't return full-time | Saturday 8/23, 8:36 AM CT |
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Rafael Furcal's rehab from back surgery has exceeded the estimated recovery period, and the Dodgers have lost hope of getting the shortstop back on a full-time basis this season, according to the LA Times.
Our View: The Dodgers actually might not get Furcal back at all this season, but the best-case scenario (according to skipper Joe Torre) is for Furcal to regain enough strength to share playing time with Nomar Garciaparra.
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| Hunter works as DH | Saturday 8/23, 8:33 AM CT |
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Torii Hunter worked as the Angels' DH Friday as manager Mike Sciosca wanted to "let his legs recharge a little bit," according to the LA Times.
Our View: Gary Matthews Jr. started in his place in center field, which was only his fifth start of August. Hunter has slowed down in August, and hopefully he will benefit from getting a bit of a rest in the DH role. |
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| Capps will be activated today | Saturday 8/23, 8:17 AM CT |
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Matt Capps, who has recovered from bursitis in his right shoulder, will be activated today, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Manager John Russell said, "He's passed all the rehab tests, so he's ready to go."
Our View: He should resume his role as the Pirates' closer, and is worth returning to lineups for the new fantasy week. |
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| Castillo called up | Saturday 8/23, 8:07 AM CT |
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Jose Castillo has been recalled by the Astros, according to the Houston Chronicle. He was recently claimed off waivers from the Giants. Castillo is pleased to be a member of the Astros, and said, "I’ve always liked this team. I’ve always had a dream to play on this team. Thankfully, the opportunity to play with the team is here. We’re going to try to do things right and try 100 percent to stay here." Manager Cecil Cooper added, "We all like him at second, but I think he can play third. And we’ll find out if he can play shortstop. It will probably be at home. It will probably be midweek at home, but we’ll find out."
Our View: He is slated to start Sunday at second base, and may start at shortstop Thursday is place of Miguel Tejada as well. Castillo only hit .244 with the Giants this season, but 38 of his 96 hits went for extra bases (28 doubles, four triples, and six homers). His power numbers could increase at home while leaving San Francisco for Houston, and looks to be involved as a utility infielder down the stretch, meaning he is worth a look in larger NL-only leagues. |
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| Pena credits adjustment for success | Saturday 8/23, 7:47 AM CT |
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Tony Pena believes a small mechanical adjustment is to credit for his return to dominance out of the back of the Diamondbacks' bullpen, according to the Arizona Republic. He has issued no hits and just one walk in his past 4.2 innings, while striking out seven. He made a change to his left leg as he nears the end of his delivery, and said, "What I did was, on my landing leg, I'm not landing as stiff. When I land, it's not hard, it's soft." When he landed hard, it prevented him from finishing his slider, causing it to flatten. Now he's getting more movement on the slider, which accompanies his mid-90's fastball.
Our View: Pena looks to fare well down the stretch, and should hold favorable value in leagues that put a premium on setup men. |
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| Bankston clears waivers | Saturday 8/23, 7:27 AM CT |
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Wes Bankston has cleared waivers and resumed his assignment with Triple-A Sacramento, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: Bankston will only provide depth if he returns to Oakland this season, and holds no fantasy value. |
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| Foulke scheduled for pen session | Saturday 8/23, 7:24 AM CT |
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Keith Foulke, who is dealing with right shoulder inflammation, will throw a bullpen session today, according to the SF Chronicle. He is then scheduled to throw in a rookie-league game in Arizona on Monday and after a few games there would head to Sacramento.
Our View: Foulke would help the Athletics' bullpen upon his return, but is not worth holding in anything but deeper AL-only leagues that use middle men. |
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| Sweeney swinging the bat again | Saturday 8/23, 7:21 AM CT |
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Ryan Sweeney, who is recovering from a sprained right thumb, has begun to swing the bat again (hitting off a tee), according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: He is making progress, but there remains no set timetable for his return to Oakland. |
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| Sweeney goes 0-for-2 in rehab game | Saturday 8/23, 7:18 AM CT |
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Mike Sweeney, who is recovering from double arthroscopic knee surgery, went 0-for-2 with a walk at Triple-A Sacramento Friday, according to the SF Chronicle. He is 1-for-9 in his rehab assignment so far.
Our View: Sweeney is slated to return in early September, but fantasy owners should not be waiting for him. He isn't hitting well in his rehab stint, and he will be fighting for at-bats upon his return to Oakland. |
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| Span has big night | Saturday 8/23, 12:00 AM CT |
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Denard Span had a good night for the Twins in their 9-0 win over the Angels. Span went 3-for-5 with a home run and four RBI.
Our View: Span is hitting .325 on the season, including a .349 mark in August. He can steal a base and has an OBP over .400, so his fantasy prospects are immense for the remainder of the year. |
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