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| Ichiro still struggling for hits | Wednesday 4/23, 11:53 PM CT |
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Ichiro Suzuki continues to limp along as he went 1-for-4 to lower his average to .258 on the year.
Our View: April is the only month of the season in which Ichiro hasn't hit .300 in his career (.296), so look for him to start heating up soon as 835 career AB in May have produced a .370 average, the best of any month in his storied career. |
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| Silva continues to hurl quality starts | Wednesday 4/23, 11:51 PM CT |
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Carlos Silva allowed two runs over six innings but wasn't involved in the decision against the Orioles. Silva walked two and allowed six hits on the night.
Our View: Silva has made five starts this year with four being of the quality variety. He still doesn't strike out anyone, he has 15 in 37 innings, but his ERA is below three and his WHIP is below 1.20, so if you need a hurler who won't kill your ratios and is still on waivers, you might want to look up Silva. |
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| Sherrill earns seventh save | Wednesday 4/23, 11:48 PM CT |
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George Sherrill rebounded from his first poor outing of the year to pick up his seventh save on Wednesday night.
Our View: Sherrill has now appeared in nine games and he has a win and seven saves. Seems like he can handle the closers role now doesn't it? |
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| Lindsay rebounding from torn labrum | Wednesday 4/23, 11:46 PM CT |
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Shane Lindsay allowed only one hit in six scoreless innings, walking three and fanning nine for his first win of the season for High-A Modesto on Wednesday.
Our View: Lindsay is a former top prospect who is attempted to rebound from labrum surgery, which put him on the sideline for all of 2007. The 23-year-old’s strikeout rate has been reflective of a good pitcher, but he has walked 15 batters in 18 innings, which is a major concern. |
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| Cabrera dominates Mariners | Wednesday 4/23, 11:46 PM CT |
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Daniel Cabrera was wonderful on Wednesday night as he allowed only five hits and no walks over eight innings in his second victory of the year.
Our View: The best news on the night was the fact that Cabrera didn't allow a single walk. If he can limit the walks and trust his stuff, he could be in for a huge campaign. Of course, he could also walk every third batter, so you have to be careful with him. |
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| Hughes showing big bat for New Britain | Wednesday 4/23, 11:43 PM CT |
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Luke Hughes went 4-for-5 with two home runs for Double-A New Britain on Wednesday. He is now hitting .380-6-12 this season.
Our View: Hughes was semi-productive before this season, but he has started this year on an absolute tear. The 23-year-old Aussie has never shown anything close to this kind of average or power ability, but of course we have seen crazier things happen in the past. |
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| Happ throws a gem at Triple-A | Wednesday 4/23, 11:42 PM CT |
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J.A. Happ allowed one run on four hits in seven innings and struck out eight to lower his ERA to 4.44 for Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Wednesday.
Our View: Happ has seen better days as a prospect, but he could still be a fill-in for the Phils at some point this season. The southpaw’s solid strikeout rate (32 strikeouts in 26.1 innings) speaks well for his ability to miss bats. If he could only lower his walk rate…. |
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| Silva leaves in 7th with bum thigh | Wednesday 4/23, 11:35 PM CT |
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Seattle RHP Carlos Silva was taken from Wednesday night's game in the seventh inning with tightness in his right thigh, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Silva was looking for his fourth consecutive victory of the season (and it happens to be his 29th birthday), but was forced to leave the game in the midst of a 2-2 tie against Baltimore. |
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| Sweeney has big night | Wednesday 4/23, 11:34 PM CT |
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Perhaps making a statement that there is no need to bring in Frank Thomas, DH Mike Sweeney went 2-for-3 with two runs, two RBI and his first home run of the season for the A's.
Our View: Sweeney may not have the desired pop in a DH, but he is a great clubhouse guy who is hitting .309. If you own Sweeney you have to hope the A's don't bring in Thomas, cause if they do, Sweeney's value will take a big hit. |
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| Bonser solid in fourth loss | Wednesday 4/23, 11:31 PM CT |
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Boof Bonser permitted only two runs in six innings but still was saddled with his fourth loss of the season on Wednesday night.
Our View: Bonser hasn't pitched badly at all this season with a 4.34 ERA and 1.28 WHIP, so if you can pry him from a frustrated owner it would appear to be a move that you might want to make. |
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| Gaudin pitches seven shutout innings | Wednesday 4/23, 11:29 PM CT |
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Chad Gaudin pitched seven shutout innings to earn his second victory of the season on Wednesday night. Gaudin didn't walk a batter and struck out four.
Our View: Guadin has looked sharp over his 24 innings allowing only 20 hits while striking out 19. He makes a solid option in AL Only leagues especially in 5x5's that count the strikeout. |
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| Maddux denied 350th wing | Wednesday 4/23, 11:24 PM CT |
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Greg Maddux pitched beautifully allowing four hits and no runs to the Giants, but he was denied his 350th career victory when Trevor Hoffman blew the game in the ninth.
Our View: Maddux lowered his ERA to 3.66 and his WHIP to 1.06 on the night and should continue to be a pitcher to count on for decent ratio's moving forward. |
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| Posada earning paychecks at the plate | Wednesday 4/23, 11:22 PM CT |
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Give veteran catcher Jorge Posada his due, for the Yanks paid him big bucks to stay on this season and thus far he is making good. Posada went 4-for-5 at the plate in the Yankees' 6-4 win over the Chicago White Sox this evening, hitting three doubles to gather two RBIs.
Our View: Posada now carries a .304 average, touting at least one hit in each of his last nine starts. |
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| Crede slaps homer in loss to Yanks | Wednesday 4/23, 11:21 PM CT |
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Chicago 3B Joe Crede continues to work as the sign of hope for the bottom of the White Sox batting order, but his efforts were not enough to lift the Sox over the Yankees this evening, falling 6-4. Crede went 1-for-4 at the plate with his sixth homer of the season to add his 20th RBI of the campaign.
Our View: Crede has slowed a bit fro his hot start, but he is one of the top run producers thus far in the AL. |
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| Mussina pulls Yanks through over Chicago | Wednesday 4/23, 11:20 PM CT |
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Yankee starter Mike Mussina looked like the Mussina of old this evening, earning his second victory of the season in the Yanks' 6-4 win over the Chicago White Sox. Mussina completed seven innings, throwing 101 pitches (66 for strikes), allowing two runs (both earned) on four hits. Moose did allow two home runs, both with no one on base, but he surrendered just one walk with three strike outs earned.
Our View: Homers have been Moose's problem this season, now touting seven allowed over five starts. |
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| Cain picks up another no-decision | Wednesday 4/23, 11:19 PM CT |
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Another strong outing, another predictable outcome as Matt Cain held the Padres to one run over seven innings to pick up a no-decision as the Giants failed to produce a run when he was on the hill. Cain allowed five hits, with three walks and seven K on the night.
Our View: Cain has now thrown 12.2 innings over two starts and allowed just one run only to pick up two no-decisions. It looks like this is shaping up to be a repeat of last season with Cain posting solid numbers but not earning many wins because of an anemic offense. |
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| Konerko struggling to find comfort at the plate | Wednesday 4/23, 11:19 PM CT |
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The Chicago White Sox fell to the New York Yankees, 6-4 this evening, and 1B Paul Konerko once again struggled to contribute to the effort (at least at the plate). Konerko went 0-for-3, and while he did gather one RBI on a sacrifice fly, he stranded to crucial runners on base and watched his batting average drop to .185.
Our View: The inability to keep a trend of hitting going, sporting just six hits over his last 10 games, is a troubling concern for the man that has been an offensive gem for the White Sox in recent seasons. He's not walking, he's not hitting, and he's struggling to find his groove. |
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| Soto has HR, four hits | Wednesday 4/23, 11:10 PM CT |
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Geovany Soto hit his third home run of the season on Wednesday night as he had four hits to bump his average to .353.
Our View: Soto hit .353 last year on his way to minor league MVP honors, and while it is foolish to expect that level of production this year, it certainly proves that Soto is not overmatched in any way and is ready to post big offensive numbers for a catcher. |
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| Lee has four hits | Wednesday 4/23, 11:07 PM CT |
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Derrek Lee pushed his average to .378 with four hits on Wednesday night.
Our View: Lee continues to be a huge source of production in the middle of the Cubs lineup as he aims to put last season's somewhat disappointing outing behind him. |
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| Tulo finally goes deep | Wednesday 4/23, 11:06 PM CT |
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Troy Tulowitzki hit his first home run of the season on Wednesday night as he knocked in three runs against the Cubs.
Our View: Tulo still is hitting just .167 after this 1-for-4, so it's not exactly time to start doing cartwheels. Still, it was an encouraging outing and it could possibly signal that he is about ready to turn his season around. |
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| Marmol picks up second save | Wednesday 4/23, 11:04 PM CT |
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Carlos Marmol came into to the 10th inning to pick up his second save of the season after Kerry Wood blew his second save in the ninth. Wood ended up being credited with the win however.
Our View: Marmol continues to impress with 20 K in 15.1 IP, and he lowered his WHIP to 0.66 on this night. Wood maintains his grip on the closer's role right now, but Marmol is charging hard. |
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| Corpas blows another save | Wednesday 4/23, 11:01 PM CT |
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Just hours after a vote of confidence from his manager, Manuel Corpas went out and blew his fourth save of the season by allowing a two run home run to Aramis Ramirez.
Our View: Memo to Corpas owners - run to the waiver-wire and grab Brian Fuentes right now as it looks like there might be a new sheriff in town despite today's vote of confidence. |
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| Morales gets no-decision | Wednesday 4/23, 10:56 PM CT |
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Franklin Morales allowed eight hits and a walk which resulted in three runs in six innings against the Cubs in a no-decision.
Our View: This was a better outing than what we have seen in his last two appearances (11 ER in nine IP), but Morales still has a way to go before he can be thrust into most fantasy lineups without giving it a second thought. |
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| Crawford heating up for Rays | Wednesday 4/23, 10:55 PM CT |
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Tampa Bay OF Carl Crawford was up to his old tricks once again, going 2-for-4 at the plate in the Rays' 3-5 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. Crawford picked up his first triple of the season as well as his 10th RBI of the campaign.
Our View: Since a slow start to the season, Crawford has found new hope of better returns. He's registered a hit in each game since April 12th and has boosted his average to .286. |
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| Stairs getting it done at the plate with 2 HRs | Wednesday 4/23, 10:55 PM CT |
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With Frank Thomas cast to the wallows of free agency, Toronto's Matt Stairs is now enjoying the opportunity to play. Stairs went 2-for-4 at the plate in the Blue Jays 2-5 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, hitting two home runs to collect three RBIs and raise his batting average to .333.
Our View: Stairs now has at least one hit in 11 consecutive starts. |
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| Hammel picks up 2nd win vs Jays | Wednesday 4/23, 10:54 PM CT |
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Young RHP Jason Hammel put forth another strong effort in leading his Tampa Bay Rays to a 3-5 win over the Toronto Blue Jays this evening. Hammel completed six innings of work, throwing 93 pitches (53 strikes) to allowing three runs (all earned) on four hits.
Our View: Hammel did allow four walks and two home runs, but the damage was minimal and allowed the young hurler to pick up his second win of the season. |
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| Hill solid for five innings | Wednesday 4/23, 10:53 PM CT |
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Rich Hill had another solid outing on Wednesday night as he held the Rockies to three hits and two runs in five innings to pick up a no-decision. Hill also walked four with three K.
Our View: It certainly wasn't vintage Hill tonight, but it was another positive outing as he limited the Rockies to just three hits and two runs in Colorado. As a result, Hill's spot in the starting rotation appears secure. |
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| Halladay pitches well, but Jays fall | Wednesday 4/23, 10:53 PM CT |
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Toronto RHP Roy Halladay enjoyed a strong evening on the mound, though the lack of offensive support left the Blue Jays with a 3-5 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays. Halladay worked eight full innings, throwing just 107 pitches (67 for strikes), allowing five runs (all earned) on nine hits. Halladay failed to surrender a home run, allowed just one walk and struck out four.
Our View: In five starts for Halladay, the team ace has totaled just five walks versus 25 strike outs, and he has not allowed a single home run over his last three outings. |
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| Burrell blasting home runs | Wednesday 4/23, 10:28 PM CT |
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Not to be outdone by the home run hitting exploits of Chase Utley, Pat Burrell blasted his eight home run of the year on Wednesday for the Phillies.
Our View: Burrell has a whopping 23 RBI in 22 games and his hitting a robust .357 for the Phillies in what is shaping up to be one heck of a month of April for the slugging left fielder. |
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| Utley continues amazing start | Wednesday 4/23, 10:26 PM CT |
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Another night, another home run for Chase Utley who hit his 10th home run of the year and his seventh in the last seven games for the Phillies.
Our View: Utley is blistering hot right now and carrying a Phillies lineup that is without Jimmy Rollins and has a dead weight in the middle of the order in the .181 hitting Ryan Howard. |
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| Dobbs hitting .379 | Wednesday 4/23, 10:23 PM CT |
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Greg Dobbs hit his second home run of the season for the Phillies as he started over Pedro Feliz and hit in the number two hole in the lineup.
Our View: Feliz continues to struggle along with a .225 average, while Dobbs is hitting a robust .379 in 29 AB on the year threatening to take some playing time away from Feliz in the short-term. |
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| Braun continues to K | Wednesday 4/23, 10:21 PM CT |
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Ryan Braun went 1-for-4 with a run scored, though he also picked up two more strikeouts on Wednesday night.
Our View: We keep mentioning it but that doesn't make it any less true. Braun simply must control the strike zone better or he will be particularly vulnerable to slumps. As it stands he has 19 K and just three walks on the year. |
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| Turnbow picks up save | Wednesday 4/23, 10:19 PM CT |
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Derrick Turnbow picked up his first save of the season on Wednesday as he allowed one walk and punched out two Phillies batters on Wednesday night.
Our View: David Riske keeps allowing runs, and as much as Ned Yost wants to pitch Eric Gagne every game he can't, so tonight Turnbow was called on and he did the job. Stay tuned to see if he, and not Riske, emerges as the second option behind Gagne. |
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| Hamels loses despite 11 K | Wednesday 4/23, 10:17 PM CT |
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Cole Hamels had a season best 11 K but he also allowed a season worst five runs to pick up his third loss of the season.
Our View: Hamels was really hurt but the two home runs he gave up to Prince Fielder, but at least he still piled up the K. Dont' worry about tonight. As long as he stays healthy Hamels will be one of the top starters in the league. |
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| Welcome back, Mr. Granderson | Wednesday 4/23, 10:15 PM CT |
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Detroit CF Curtis Granderson returned from injury and seemed all too happy to step into the batters box, helping his Tigers pull a dominating 6-19 win over the Texas Rangers. Granderson went 2-for-4 at the plate with two walks and no strike outs.
Our View: He also gathered three runs scored and two RBIs, a performance that welcomes Granderson back to action with a bang.
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| Fielder hits two bombs | Wednesday 4/23, 10:15 PM CT |
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Prince Fielder entered action on Wednesday with one home run and he excited it with three after hitting two, two-run home runs off of Cole Hamels. Fielder also had four RBI on the night.
Our View: After a horrific start, Fielder now has 16 RBI through 21 games and the average has also started to climb with five hits the past two games. Fielder will get his and by the end of the year we will all have forgotten about his slow start. |
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| Rogers falls short again | Wednesday 4/23, 10:14 PM CT |
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At first glance, we would think veteran starter Kenny Rogers would have enjoyed the 6-19 victory over the Texas Rangers, but the Detroit hurler failed to get his team off on the right foot and left without a decision. Rogers lasted just 3 1/3 innings, surrendering six runs (all earned) on nine hits. Rogers threw 73 pitches (44 for strikes) in that short outing, surrendering three walks and earning no strike outs.
Our View: Rogers has allowed way too many runs over his last three starts: 17 runs surrendered, ALL EARNED. That's a problem. |
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| Guillen shines in big Detroit win | Wednesday 4/23, 10:13 PM CT |
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Detroit 1B Carlos Guillen thought he would be starting at third, then got to stay at his original position, and put it all in the rearview mirror to enjoy a wonderful evening at the plate. Guillen went 3-for-4 with one walk, hitting his his eighth double of the season with a sacrifice fly and a stolen base.
Our View: Guillen totaled five RBIs and one run scored on the evening, and somehow managed to still leave four runners on base. |
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| Mendoza continues to struggle | Wednesday 4/23, 10:11 PM CT |
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As one is apt to guess in a 6-19 loss, Texas starter Luis Mendoza suffered through horrific struggles as this Rangers fell to the Detroit Tigers by 13 runs. Mendoza lasted just 1 2/3 innings, throwing 57 pitches (32 strikes), allowing five runs (only two earned) on five hits.
Our View: Mendoza lasted just three innings in his last start and five in his season debut, now carrying an ERA of 9.31. |
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| Cabrera slaps fifth homer | Wednesday 4/23, 10:10 PM CT |
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Detroit's Miguel Cabrera seems to have adapted well to a move to DH, and while the change may be temporary, tonight's results could encourage further experimentation. Cabrera hit 1-for-5 at the plate, posting his fifth home run of the season, touting one walk and three RBIs.
Our View: Cabrera has struggled a bit, at least when compared to expectation, and the move to DH may motivate him to better results.
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| Harden throws from mound | Wednesday 4/23, 10:10 PM CT |
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Rich Harden threw 16 pitches in the bullpen on Wednesday, only the second time that he has been on the hill since his last start on April 2nd, according to MLB.com. Harden threw the pitches at about 80%. Harden will throw a simulated game on Saturday, but after that no one is quite sure what will happen next.
Our View: Whatever you get out of Harden this season be thankful for. Hopefully you didn't reach on him this season as there is just no way good things can be predicted from the fragile flame-thrower. |
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| Encarnacion has hit in 13-straight | Wednesday 4/23, 10:05 PM CT |
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Edwin Encarnacion hit a solo home run, his sixth blast of the year, in the ninth inning to extend his hitting streak to 13-games on Wednesday night.
Our View: Edwin is hitting only .270 on the year, but he has flashed the power bat in the early going that will one day make him a fantasy staple on winning clubs. |
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| Pence finally shows up | Wednesday 4/23, 10:02 PM CT |
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Hunter Pence did a little bit of everything on Wednesday night as he had three hits, two runs and two RBI for the Astros.
Our View: Pence now has a 6-game hitting streak which has seen his average go from .161 to .256. If Pence's owner is still frustrated with his slow start, this may be the last time you will be able to convince them to move Pence since a breakout appears to be coming. |
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| Esrtad subs for Bourn | Wednesday 4/23, 9:59 PM CT |
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Staring for an injured Michael Bourn, Darin Erstad had three hits and scored a run for the Astros.
Our View: Bourn is dealing with a groin injury, never a good thing for a speed demon, so there is a chance that Erstad could see some more AB over the next week or so. Only worth rostering in an NL Only leagues, Erstad is long past the days when he could carry a fantasy squad, so leave him on waivers in mixes leagues. |
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| Sampsonearns first win | Wednesday 4/23, 9:54 PM CT |
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Chris Sampson won his first game of the year by limiting the Reds to two runs over seven innings. Sampson walked one, allowed eight hits and had six K on the night.
Our View: A great bounce back from his last, ugly, performance. In four starts Sampson has allowed three or fewer runs three times making himself as an intriguing possibility to add to the end of a staff in a deep leagues. |
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| Arroyo bombed | Wednesday 4/23, 9:51 PM CT |
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Bronson Arroyo was bombed by the Astros for eight runs in 3.2 innings as he fell to 0-3 on the year.
Our View: Arroyo's ERA rose to 7.56 as he has now allowed 37 hits in just 25 IP. Everything he is throwing right now is being hit, and there doesn't appear to be much light at the end of the loser tunnel for Arroyo. |
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| Bennett holds on after rough start | Wednesday 4/23, 9:49 PM CT |
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Making his third start of the season, Jeff Bennett picked up his first loss despite allowing only three runs over six innings to the Marlins.
Our View: Bennett allowed all three runs in the first inning before settling down, but his time in the rotation is likely growing short with Tom Glavine and Mike Hampton nearing returns. |
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| Diaz hits home run | Wednesday 4/23, 9:46 PM CT |
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Matt Diaz had two hits, one his second home run of the season, on Wednesday night against the Marlins.
Our View: Diaz is hitting .311 despite 19 K in 19 games, as he tries to hold off Gregor Blanco for playing time in the Braves outfield. |
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| Miller wins, still struggles | Wednesday 4/23, 9:41 PM CT |
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Andrew Miller picked up his first win with his best outing of the season as he limited the Braves to two runs, one earned, over five innings.
Our View: Once again Miller had trouble controlling the strike zone throwing 95 pitches in five innings as he permitted nine hits and two walks on the night. He also failed to record a single strikeout, so when we say this was his "best" outing of the year, it's certainly relative. |
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| Jacobs goes deep for seventh time | Wednesday 4/23, 9:38 PM CT |
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Mike Jacobs blasted his seventh home run of the season on Wednesday night on his way to three RBI giving him 17 on the year.
Our View: As long as there is a right-hander on the hill this guy is money as he has hit six of his seven home runs against righties. |
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| Hanley handling pitchers | Wednesday 4/23, 9:36 PM CT |
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Hanley Ramirez did it again on Wednesday night as he hit a home run and stole a base for the Marlins.
Our View: Is there anything this guy can't do? So far this season, Ramirez has more than justified those who placed faith in him and drafted him as the number two player this season as he now has seven home runs and six SB. |
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| Uggla finally hitting | Wednesday 4/23, 9:34 PM CT |
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Dan Uggla went 3-for-5 with a run scored and two RBI to up his average to .259.
Our View: Uggla was brutal at the start of the year, but over his last five games he is 11-for-21 to raise his average up from .167. He likely won't hit for average, but the production in the counting categories should be substantial. |
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| Hunter swings it in win | Wednesday 4/23, 9:32 PM CT |
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Angels CF Torii Hunter served as the force of reckoning in the LA batting order as the Angels put the Boston Red Sox in the loss column, 6-4. Hunter went 4-for-5 with is seventh double of the season, adding one RBI along the way.
Our View: Hunter has been strong at the plate in recent games, touting 10 hits over his last eight games. |
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| Church continues hot start | Wednesday 4/23, 9:31 PM CT |
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Ryan Church, the Mets new number five hitter, went 2-for-5 with a run scored and two RBI against the Nationals.
Our View: Church has proven to be a great off-season pickup for the Mets as he is swimming along with a .342 average and 18 runs scored on the season. If he keeps this up, he just might make Mets fans forget about Shawn Green. |
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| Matthews Jr. belts to in win over Boston | Wednesday 4/23, 9:30 PM CT |
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Gary Matthews Jr. used a strong evening against the Boston Red Sox to reach a career milestone as the Angles put Boston to bed, 6-4. Matthews hit not one but two homers on the evening, both off of Jon Lester, giving him four dingers on the year and 100 home runs for his career.
Our View: Matthews went 2-for-4 at the plate overall, walking once and striking out once. This is only his fourth multi-hit game of the season and his first home runs hit since April 11th. |
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| Ortiz getting feel at plate | Wednesday 4/23, 9:29 PM CT |
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Boston DH David Ortiz is doing all he can to get out of his funk at the plate, and while his team fell 6-4 to the Angels this evening, Big Papi enjoyed a productive evening with the bat. Ortiz went 1-for-2 with two walks and his third home run of the season.
Our View: The homer came in the fifth inning on the first pitch he saw from Jon Garland with Dustin Pedroia on base. It was Ortiz's 211th home run of his career with the Red Sox, 9th all-time for the franchise. |
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| Pena has two base knocks | Wednesday 4/23, 9:29 PM CT |
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Wily Mo Pena had two hits on Wednesday night as he also scored a run against the Mets.
Our View: Pena is hitting an anemic .147 with nine K in 34 AB, so he has a long way to go to provide the type of production he was being counted on for this year. He still makes an intriguing NL Only play, but the values are really low. |
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| Kotchman keeps hitting in Angel win | Wednesday 4/23, 9:28 PM CT |
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Angels 1B Casey Kotchman continues to swing a hot bat, going 2-for-3 in tonight's 6-4 win over the Boston Red Sox. Kotchman banged out his sixth home run of the season, belting a Craig Hansen offering into the bleachers in the sixth inning with two outs and no one on.
Our View: Kotchman has posted at least one hit in 11 of his last 12 games. |
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| Casey keeps bat hot in Boston loss | Wednesday 4/23, 9:27 PM CT |
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Boston 1B Sean Casey has kept the bat swining for the Red Sox and got his wood on a couple more this evening as his Red Sox suffered the loss to the LA Angels, 6-4. Casey went 2-for-4 at the plate, hitting his sixth double of the season.
Our View: Casey hasn't suffered a strike out since April 17th and has just that one K in his last 13 games. |
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| Johnson on 0-for-16 stretch | Wednesday 4/23, 9:27 PM CT |
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Nick Johnson continues to struggle at the plate as he went 0-for-4 to lower his average to just .209. For those of you keeping track that's 5-straight games without a hit for Johnson during which time he is 0-for-16 with five K.
Our View: It's not surprising he is struggling given that he missed last year, but at this point he appears lost so store him on your bench and hope he turns it around soon or you might consider using the roster spot on someone who could actually help your ballclub. |
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| Redding has another solid showing | Wednesday 4/23, 9:22 PM CT |
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Tim Redding was saddled with his second loss of the season after allowing four hits, three walks and three runs in five innings to the Mets.
Our View: Redding continues to be a solid option in shallow mixed leagues, but we still would hold off on counting on him to emerge as a big-time performer given his relative lack of control in the early going (4.00 BB/9). |
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| Santana solid against Nats | Wednesday 4/23, 9:19 PM CT |
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Johan Santana improved to 3-2 by limiting the Nationals to two runs over seven innings. On the night, Santana allowed seven hits, a walk and had four punchouts.
Our View: Through five starts the best pitcher in baseball owns a 3.12 ERA and 0.93 WHIP with 32 K in 34.2 IP. Not a bad start to his NL career wouldn't you say? |
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| Schumaker excels leading off | Wednesday 4/23, 9:17 PM CT |
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Skip Schumaker continued his hot start to the year as he went 2-for-5 to up his batting average to .329.
Our View: Schumaker also scored a run in the contest and he now has crossed the player 17 times in 22 games from the top of the Cardinals order. He may be short on power, but if he continues to get on base he will score runs. |
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| Glaus knocks in two | Wednesday 4/23, 9:15 PM CT |
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Troy Glaus failed to hit a home run on Wednesday night but he still knocked in two runs for the Cardinals.
Our View: It's just amazing that Glaus has gone 75 AB without a home run. He does have 14 RBI, and provided he can stay healthy this season he figures to be a valuable RBI source from the middle of the Cards lineup. |
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| Wellmeyer fails to defeat Pirates | Wednesday 4/23, 9:13 PM CT |
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Todd Wellemeyer hurled six innings and allowed four runs on seven hits and a walk to the Pirates.
Our View: Wellmeyer's ERA rose to 3.77 in this outing, and one would have to think that he would struggle to keep his ERA below 4.00 given his career line. Still, he bears watching in NL Only leagues where he could be a difference maker. |
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| McLouth has another hitless game | Wednesday 4/23, 9:08 PM CT |
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Nate McLouth failed to record a hit for the second straight game on Wednesday night as he went 0-for-4 to drop his average to .349.
Our View: McLouth lost his hitting streak at 20-games when he failed to register to on Tuesday night, so he is now 0-for-6 the past two nights. You knew it was coming, but hopefully the fall will be gradual and not sudden. |
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| Snell struggles to hold down Cards | Wednesday 4/23, 9:06 PM CT |
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Ian Snell lasted six innings against the Cardinals and picked up the no-decision as he allowed four runs in six innings.
Our View: Snell was totally out of character tonight with four BB and only one K, but he kept his team in the game when he didn't have his best stuff, and that is the mark of a champion. |
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| Bay hits fourth homer | Wednesday 4/23, 9:04 PM CT |
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Jason Bay went 2-for-4 with two runs and two RBI on Wednesday night. One of the two hits was a home run, his fourth of the year.
Our View: Those were the first RBI for Bay in eight games as he continues to try and regain the form that marked him as a budding star just two seasons ago. |
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| Thomas receives second offer, delays signing with A's | Wednesday 4/23, 8:54 PM CT |
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Frank Thomas was all but signed with the Oakland A's, but reports indicate a second offer arrived and delayed Thomas' official decision, according to Yahoo Sports.
Our View: The second offer, from a unknown team at this time, has left the decision to join the A's as a question. Thomas has played in Oakland before and enjoyed a resurgence of power as their designated hitter, belting 39 homers in 2006. After being released from the Toronto Blue Jays earlier this week, the offer from his former employer seemed like a event all but done, but it now appears Thomas has options to ponder. We will update as more news becomes available. |
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| Gonzalez nearing return | Wednesday 4/23, 8:40 PM CT |
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Mike Gonzalez is progressing well in his comeback from TJ surgery and he was able to throw 23 pitches over two innings in a simulated game on Tuesday, according to MLB.com. "He's getting real close," Cox said. Cox even said he could possibly return as early as mid-May. "I'm not saying it's going to happen. But it's a possibility."
Our View: Gonzalez is ahead of schedule, and with the uncertainty of Peter Moylan and Rafael Soriano, the Braves could certainly use Gonzalez's power arm and he might even figure into the saves mix later in the year if he doesn't suffer any setbacks. |
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| Rays experiment with batting order | Wednesday 4/23, 8:38 PM CT |
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Tampa Bay manager Joe Maddon met with reporters today and offered a bit of clarity in the Rays' Wednesday night lineup, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Maddon acknowledged the move placing Evan Longoria in the 6th spot in the batting order might seem odd, but noted he likes the "break-up" bat Longoria offers to that part of the order, putting the right-handed the bat in the middle of two lefties (Carlos Pena and Eric Hinske). Maddon notes he has taken the same approach with B.J. Upton, putting him between Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena, and has been pleased with the results. Maddon believes this creates problems for the opposition, unable to make simple substitutions out of the bullpen to find the advantage based on the hitter groupings. "That's where it really shows up, is later in the game," Maddon said. "Instead of having a pinch-hitter, I'd rather just attack it with the lineup we want to use and just find out if lefties can hit lefties. The guys are going to be given the opportunity."
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| Surgery seems likely for Moylan | Wednesday 4/23, 8:31 PM CT |
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Nothing has officially been announced, but the growing feeling appears to be that Peter Moylan will indeed have to face season ending surgery on his elbow, this according to MLB.com.
Our View: Moylan is still hoping to avoid surgery, but it's growing less likely that he will be able to do so. Manny Accosta and Blaine Boyer appear to have solidified their roles in the pen to cover up for the loss of Moylan and Rafael Soriano, who does hope be be back on the hill relatively soon. |
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| Wandy to throw this weekend | Wednesday 4/23, 8:28 PM CT |
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Wandy Rodriguez, out with a strained groin, will throw a BP session on either Friday or Saturday and it will cover about 10 to 15 minutes, according to MLB.com. "I'm feeling a lot better," he said.
Our View: Rodriguez was off to a tremendous start with 24 K and just five BB in 23.1 innings, so we will be interested to see if he is able to pick back up where he left off when he returns to the hill in early May. |
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| Wigginton still working way back | Wednesday 4/23, 8:24 PM CT |
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Ty Wigginton took batting practice on Wednesday as he attempts to come back from a fractured thumb, though he is still at least a couple of days away from being activated, this according to MLB.com. Wigginton will take groundballs this weekend while the team is in St. Louis.
Our View: We would have to figure that Wigginton will be sent down for at least a couple of games to get his timing back, so don't count on seeing Wigginton on the field next week. |
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| Bourn still on sidelines | Wednesday 4/23, 8:20 PM CT |
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Michael Bourn did not play on Wednesday because of his sore groin, and he likely also will not play on Thursday either, according to MLB.com. The good news is that he is feeling better and hopes to be back in there for Friday's game.
Our View: Bourn's value is almost completely in his legs as he is a perfect 13-for-13 in stolen bases this year, so keep an eye on if he tries to run this weekend before deciding whether or not you want to activate a .216 hitter for your lineup next week. |
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| Guardado return delayed until Friday | Wednesday 4/23, 8:11 PM CT |
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In a busy day for the Texas Rangers that involved a bevy of pitching decisions, the team has announced pitcher Eddie Guardado , scheduled to come off the disabled list today, will remain on the DL until Friday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The Rangers are facing troubles on all fronts in terms of pitching, placing Kason Gabbard on the DL and shuffling starting assignments, and the team wanted to simplify the process as much as possible. They will give Scott Feldman the start on Friday, then send him back to the minors and activate Guardado. |
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| Feldman to start on Thursday | Wednesday 4/23, 8:09 PM CT |
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In a flurry of decisions involving their pitching staff, the Texas Rangers have announced pitcher Scott Feldman will fill starting duties on Thursday against the Detroit Tigers, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The decision to place Kason Gabbard on the DL has the team facing several issues, including the preliminary plans for starting assignments. This has also brought the Rangers to schedule Jason Jennings to start on Saturday against the Minnesota Twins. |
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| Gabbard to DL | Wednesday 4/23, 8:08 PM CT |
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The Texas Rangers are facing more than a few necessary decisions in terms of their pitching staff, and many of those decisions were reported on today, according to MLB.com. The Rangers have reported Kason Gabbard is going to be placed on the disabled list, still experiencing stiffness and discomfort in his back that appears too great to overcome for his next scheduled start.
Our View: Gabbard will be officially placed on the DL on Thursday, pushing his next scheduled start to May 7th against the Seattle Mariners. |
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| Sanchez slowly finding stroke | Wednesday 4/23, 7:56 PM CT |
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Freddy Sanchez may only be batting .224 on the year, but things have improved of late as he has hit in 4-straight games and seven of his last nine, this according to MLB.com. "Freddy is going to hit. It's no secret. He's hit his whole life," manger John Russell said. "Whether he gets three hits tonight or tomorrow, it's going to happen. It's inevitable."
Our View: Sanchez is an established .300 hitter but that's when he is healthy. His shoulder still seems to be giving him trouble, and until he can get over the hump there he might continue to produce unevenly at the plate. |
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| A-Rod not likely to play until the weekend | Wednesday 4/23, 7:54 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report, the Yankees report 3B Alex Rodriguez is not likely to see any action on the field of play until this coming weekend, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Our View: A-Rod is scheduled to join the team in Chicago on Thursday but will not be playing until the Yanks meet with the Cleveland Indians over the weekend. Rodriguez has battled with a strained quadricep and the team would rather play safe than rush him back into action. |
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| Banks claimed by Padres | Wednesday 4/23, 7:52 PM CT |
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Starting pitcher Josh Banks was claimed off waivers by the Padres on Wednesday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Banks, who will continue to pitch in Triple-A, was thought to be the first name the Blue Jays would call on if any of their starters were to be struck with an injury. Now, he will fill that same role with the Padres, though he may also be asked to pitch out of the bullpen. If he is called up to the majors, San Diego is an infinitely better place to pitch than Toronto. |
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| Francoeur hopes to play through sore foot | Wednesday 4/23, 7:47 PM CT |
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Jeff Francoeur says he wants to play all 162 games this year for the third straight season, but his injured right foot may end up forcing him to the bench for a little bit of rest, according to MLB.com. "I'll just have to use my own common-sense judgment on him," manager Bobby Cox said. "[It's hard] because he's productive, and you want guys like that in there every night."
Our View: The pain has gotten pretty bad as Francoeur received a pain killing injection on Tuesday night, but he has vowed to play on as his 347-straight starts are the most of any NL player. So far it hasn't hindered his production as he is hitting .296-3-15 through 20 games. |
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| Sowers to start on Saturday | Wednesday 4/23, 7:46 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report from CBSSports.com, the Indians have announced the team will recall LHP Jeremy Sowers from Triple-A Buffalo, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Sowers will get his first start with the Indians on Saturday as Cleveland welcomes the New York Yankees to town. Sowers will be taking the spot vacated by RHP Jake Westbrook, recent placed on the disabled list with a strained intercostal muscle on his left side. Sowers was 0-2 with an ERA of 3.18 in four starts for Buffalo. |
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| Delgado dropped to sixth spot | Wednesday 4/23, 7:43 PM CT |
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Carlos Delgado was dropped to sixth in the order on Wednesday night do to a poor start to the season, according to MLB.com. Ryan Church was inserted into the fifth slot. "Carlos is struggling a little bit," manager Willie Randolph said. "Church is swinging a little bit better. I thought I'd just throw him in there and see if we can get something going."
Our View: Delgado had an RBI groundout in his first AB to up his RBI total to nine, and he has just one HR through 72 AB. The team has downplayed the hip issues Delgado has been dealing with, but it's obvious that something isn't right as he has been awful to start the year. |
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| Gwynn activated from DL | Wednesday 4/23, 7:40 PM CT |
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Tony Gwynn was activated from the DL on Wednesday and he will take the roster spot vacated by the trade of Gabe Gross to the Rays, this according to the AP. Gwynn missed 12 games due to a strained left hamstring, is only 4-for-7 on the season.
Our View: Gwynn figures to see time in center field with Gabe Kapler until Mike Cameron returns next week, at which time Gwynn will likely be nothing more than a spot starter and pinch-hitter. |
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| Indians may recall Sowers, Laffey | Wednesday 4/23, 7:31 PM CT |
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The Cleveland Indians are strongly considering both LHP Jeremy Sowers and LHP Aaron Laffey as potential minor-league call-ups to replace RHP Jake Westbrook in the Indians' rotation, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: Westbrook was placed on the disabled list on Tuesday with a strained intercostal muscle and the Indians would like to give their top lefties an opportunity to show and prove in his absence. We will update with news as it becomes available. |
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| Polanco may be back on Thur | Wednesday 4/23, 7:27 PM CT |
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The Tigers are hoping to see 2B Placido Polanco back on the field on Thursday, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: Polanco has missed the last four games with an aching back but is near recover and hopes to be playing against the Texas Rangers tomorrow night. |
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