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| Correia placed on 15-day DL | Sunday 4/27, 11:09 PM CT |
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San Francisco placed pitcher Kevin Correia on the 15-day disabled list Sunday with a left intercostal strain.
To fill the vacant roster spot, the club recalled pitcher Pat Misch from Fresno of the Pacific Coast League.
Our View: Correia sustained the injury in the first inning of Saturday's 10-9 loss to the Cincinnati Reds.
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| Izturis suffers back injury | Sunday 4/27, 11:05 PM CT |
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Maicer Izturis was forced to leave Sunday night's game against the Tigers because of a lower back injury.
Our View: Chone Figgins moved over to second base and Robb Quinlan came into the game to play third. |
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| Sheff in 0-for-16 drought | Sunday 4/27, 10:44 PM CT |
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Detroit designated hitter Gary Sheffield continues to struggle, striking out in his final two at-bats Sunday to extend his hitless streak to 16.
Our View: Sheffield has admitted that he is playing through shoulder soreness. The question is whether he can continue to play with the injury and contribute in the process, or will future at-bats resemble his 0-16 drought. |
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| Weaver earns first April win | Sunday 4/27, 10:37 PM CT |
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Jered Weaver allowed two runs on four hits, walked four and struck out five over 6.1 innings to win for the first time in four starts.
He was replaced by Justin Speier with two outs in the seventh inning.
Our View: The win represented Weaver's most efficient start this year, but the right-hander still needs more fine tuning before he can pitch deeper into games. Weaver threw 108 pitches in his 6.1 innings of work. |
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| Guillen returns to active duty | Sunday 4/27, 10:33 PM CT |
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Carlos Guillen (knee), who has been out of the starting lineup since Wednesday, was 1-for-4 with a run scored.
Our View: The return of Guillen completes a batting order that has missed either Curtis Granderson, Placido Polanco or Gary Sheffield to one injury or another in April. |
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| Verlander roughed up again | Sunday 4/27, 10:29 PM CT |
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Justin Verlander gave up six runs, seven hits and four walks in 5.2 innings of work on Sunday night. Verlander won his first game on Tuesday, but struggled with his command in the process. Nothing changed tonight as the right-hander has now allowed four runs or more in five of his six starts.
Our View: Even skipper Jim Leyland knows that the Angels player personnel that are primarily fastball hitters, are a tough matchup for his right-hander. "This is a tough lineup for him," Leyland said. "It's a tough lineup for any pitcher." Verlander will eventually garner his command, but for now he's better left in reserve until he shows evidence of such. |
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| Figueroa and Mets hold on | Sunday 4/27, 8:16 PM CT |
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Mets starter Nelson Figueroa cruised through the first five innings of Sunday's win over Atlanta, allowing just three hits. But he gave up hits to four of the first five batters in the sixth inning before leaving the game.
Our View: Figueroa, filling in for the injured Pedro Martinez, is now 2-1 in his four starts, with a 4.26 ERA. |
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| Peavy suffers first loss | Sunday 4/27, 8:08 PM CT |
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Jake Peavy gave up four hits over seven innings, losing at home for the first time in 10 starts since last July. Peavy had gone 6-0 with a 0.68 ERA in that span.
Our View: Peavy, whose ERA rose to 2.09, allowed more earned runs Sunday than he had in his first three home starts this season combined (one earned run in 24 innings). |
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| Webb's win total at six | Sunday 4/27, 8:04 PM CT |
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Brandon Webb, the 2006 Cy Young winner, allowed just one unearned run and twice escaped bases-loaded jams against the Padres to earn Sunday's win.
Our View: Webb became the first six-game winner in the majors and lowered his ERA to 1.98. |
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| Zito roughed up again | Sunday 4/27, 7:55 PM CT |
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Barry Zito , who is winless in his first six starts for the first time in his career, gave up eight runs and walked three on Sunday lasting three innings in the 10-1 loss to the Reds.
Our View: Rumor has it that after Sunday's performance the Giants have considered filing criminal charges against Zito. The San Fran starter was awarded a $126 million, seven-year deal over a year ago. The Giants decided his performances since that time classify as crimes, and ultimately Grand Theft. |
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| Phillips finishing April strong | Sunday 4/27, 7:48 PM CT |
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Brandon Phillips homered twice and the Cincinnati Reds routed the Giants by a score of 10-1 on Sunday.
Our View: Phillips has been scuffling of late, but the Reds second baseman is finishing April strong. With his Sunday effort Phillips has five home runs, 14 runs, 13 RBI, raised his average to .280 and has four stolen bases on the season. |
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| Volquez wins fourth straight | Sunday 4/27, 7:39 PM CT |
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Edinson Volquez struck out a career-high 10 over seven innings in Sunday's 10-1 win over the Giants. It is Volquez's fourth April win.
Our View: Volquez allowed one run and five hits to win his third consecutive start. |
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| Beimel records 10th inning win | Sunday 4/27, 7:36 PM CT |
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Joe Beimel earned the win on Sunday against Colorado by working a scoreless 10th inning.
Our View: Beimel made it interesting by allowing two hits in the tenth before eventually getting Jeff Baker to pop out to first base. |
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| Corpas' struggles continue | Sunday 4/27, 7:32 PM CT |
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Manuel Corpas' struggles continued when the former closer suffered a loss to the Dodgers on Sunday. Corpas walked Andre Ethier and Mark Sweeney to begin the tenth inning and James Loney eventually singled home the winning run for LA.
Our View: Corpas' ERA is creaping up on seven and he did nothing to help his chances of returning to the Roks ninth inning role. |
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| Betancourt hits first HR | Sunday 4/27, 7:23 PM CT |
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Yuniesky Betancourt hit his first homer of the season in Sunday's 4-2 loss to Oakland.
Our View: The offensive liability, has hit a surprising .296 in April with seven RBI, and 17 runs scored. |
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| Roberts hits third HR | Sunday 4/27, 7:18 PM CT |
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Brian Roberts accounted for the only Orioles run on Sunday with a solo home run in third inning of Sunday's 6-1 loss to the White Sox.
Our View: The Baltimore second baseman is hitting .268 with three home runs, 14 runs, 12 RBI and eight stolen bases on the season. |
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| Guthrie still winless | Sunday 4/27, 7:14 PM CT |
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Jeremy Guthrie gave up three runs in five-plus innings in Sunday's loss to the White Sox. The right-hander allowed five hits and two walks, striking out five.
Our View: Guthrie continues to keep his team in games, but has yet to record a win on the season. |
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| Contreras records second win | Sunday 4/27, 7:11 PM CT |
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Jose Contreras earned his second April victory against Baltimore on Sunday. The veteran right-hander allowed five hits, walked three, and struck out three in 6.2 innings.
Our View: Contreras lowered his ERA to a respectable 3.98 and continues to be a strong part of a solid starting five for the Sox. |
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| Konerko hits pair of homers | Sunday 4/27, 7:06 PM CT |
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Paul Konerko hit a pair of home runs to lead the Chicago White Sox over the Baltimore Orioles 6-1 Sunday.
Our View: Konerko was hitting just .197 with three homers coming into Sunday's game. The two home run effort might kick start the power hitting first baseman. |
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| Blanton records second win | Sunday 4/27, 6:59 PM CT |
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Joe Blanton was the pitcher of record on Sunday in a 4-2 win over the Mariners and Felix Hernandez. Blanton went seven innings, giving up two runs on eight hits and striking out three.
Our View: Blanton has pitched at least seven innings in his last four starts, but won for the first time since April 11 at Cleveland. |
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| Street records 8th save | Sunday 4/27, 6:57 PM CT |
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Huston Street pitched the ninth inning of Sunday's win over Seattle for his eighth save in nine opportunities.
Our View: He also got the save Friday night as Oakland took two of three from Seattle this weekend. After a slow start to the season Street is closing out April strong. |
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| King Felix strikes out 10 | Sunday 4/27, 6:54 PM CT |
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Felix Hernandez did everything an ace does through seven innings against Oakland on Sunday, giving up just four hits and striking out 10. However, he could not escape trouble in the eighth. The Seattle right-hander walked Jack Hannahan to open the inning then Mark Ellis doubled and Daric Barton walked to load the bases. The A's Emil Brown followed with a single into left that ended Hernandez's day.
Our View: Hernandez has been terrific this season, but his eighth inning troubles raised his ERA to a more mortal 2.22. The Seattle ace is a starting option regardless of the opponent. |
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| Blalock misses 2nd straight game | Sunday 4/27, 6:21 PM CT |
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Texas was without Hank Blalock for the second straight game due to a strained left hamstring. Blalock reported that some of the soreness has subsided, but he isn't quite ready to return to the starting lineup.
Our View: The third baseman is expected to have an MRI exam on Monday to determine the extent of the injury. At that time the team will make a decision on a timetable for his return. |
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| Ponson earns another start | Sunday 4/27, 6:14 PM CT |
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Sidney Ponson , who gave up one earned run in 5.1 innings in his first start for Texas on Saturday night, has apparently earned another start. Texas skipper Ron Washington has Ponson penciled in to start Thursday against Kansas City.
Our View: Ponson isn't a pitcher owners want to depend on, but if there is a team that offers a favorable matchup, it is the light-hitting Royals. |
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| Kinsler extends streak | Sunday 4/27, 6:11 PM CT |
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Ian Kinsler has reached base in all 25 games he's played in this season, the longest current streak in the American League.
Our View: Kinsler has quietly had a terrific April. The Rangers second baseman is hitting .298 with 18 runs, 12 RBI and six stolen bases. |
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| Bradley goes deep vs. Twins | Sunday 4/27, 6:07 PM CT |
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Milton Bradley hit a three-run homer and the Texas Rangers beat the Minnesota Twins 10-0 on Sunday. The home run was Bradley's only hit in five at-bats.
Our View: The Rangers outfielder is hitting .333 on the season with nine runs scored, 10 RBI and after Sunday has two home runs in April. |
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| Posada headed to DL | Sunday 4/27, 6:03 PM CT |
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Jorge Posada (shoulder) is headed to the disabled list according to ESPN SportCenter.
Our View: Posada had an MRI on his shoulder Sunday and the tests revealed minor damage, but the Yankee catcher is unable to throw the ball to the teams satisfaction. More on Posada when the information is available. |
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| Smoltz complains of shoulder injury | Sunday 4/27, 5:58 PM CT |
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John Smoltz is still experiencing soreness in his throwing shoulder, this after giving up four runs in a Sunday loss to the New York Mets.
Our View: If Smoltz lands on the disabled list the Braves will be hard pressed to replace him with any of their available arms, which is limited with Mike Hamilton (pectoral) still rehabbing a chest injury. |
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| Padilla throws complete game | Sunday 4/27, 5:51 PM CT |
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Vicente Padilla, who was hit hard in his Tuesday outing against the Tigers, pitched a seven-hitter for his third career shutout in a 10-0 win over the Twins.
Our View: Padilla struck out two, walked two and didn't allow a runner past second in his first shutout for Texas and his third win of the season. |
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| Parra works acceptable 5.1 innings | Sunday 4/27, 5:45 PM CT |
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Manny Parra worked 5.1 innings in Sunday's loss to the Fish, giving up two runs on six hits. He walked three and struck out three.
Our View: Parra was not the pitcher of record but his effort was an improvement on his 5.40 ERA and 1.80 WHIP coming into the game. |
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| Nolasco earns no-decision | Sunday 4/27, 5:43 PM CT |
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Ricky Nolasco pitched five innings in Sunday's win over the Brewers, allowing one run on two hits. He walked four, struck out two and hit a batter.
Our View: Nolasco's effort was an improvement over his early April struggles. The effort lowered his ERA to 5.13 on the young season. |
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| Hall hits his 7th HR | Sunday 4/27, 5:40 PM CT |
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Bill Hall hit his seventh home run of the year off Florida Taylor Tankersley in the seventh, but it wasn't enough as the Brewers lost their 11 game against 14 win on Sunday against Florida.
Our View: Hall, who is hitting a soft .223 on the season, has been an all or nothing bat this season, either going long or striking out. Seven of Hall's 21 hits are home runs and he's struck out 26 times in 94 at-bats this season. |
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| Gregg earns 4th save | Sunday 4/27, 5:37 PM CT |
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Kevin Gregg , the Marlins' closer and eighth pitcher of the game on Saturday, came on for the 10th inning and earned his fourth save in five chances.
Our View: Gregg earned his third save on Friday and is finally receiving some opportunities to close out Florida wins. The Marlins are currently the surprise team in the National League with a 15-10 record. |
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| Lilly strong in third loss | Sunday 4/27, 5:32 PM CT |
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Ted Lilly, who was making his 200th career start, gave up two runs on four hits in six innings but lacked the run support to gain his second straight victory.
Our View: After second inning hits by the Nationals Wily Mo Pena and Wil Nieves Lilly and the Cubs relievers held Washington to only one hit the rest of the game. Nick Johnson started the second-inning rally with a leadoff single. Lastings Milledge moved Johnson to second with a sacrifice, and Pena brought him in two batters later with a two-out single to left. |
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| Lannan earns second win | Sunday 4/27, 5:28 PM CT |
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John Lannan matched a career high with his seven innings of work in a 2-0 win over the Cubs on Saturday. The left-hander struck out three, walked four and didn't allow a hit until Ronny Cedeno singled to start the fifth inning.
Our View: The left-hander earned his second straight win against two losses. |
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| Zimmerman extends game streak | Sunday 4/27, 5:20 PM CT |
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Ryan Zimmerman made his 200th consecutive start on Saturday but still can't shake his funk at the plate. The Nationals' third baseman was 0-4 seeing his early season average drop to .222.
Our View: Zimmerman has only two home runs, nine runs scored and 10 RBI in 108 at-bats. |
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| Rauch earns 4th save | Sunday 4/27, 5:18 PM CT |
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Jon Rauch picked up his fourth save of the season in a 2-0 win over the Cubs on Saturday.
Our View: The right-hander pitched a perfect ninth inning securing John Lannan's second win of the season. |
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| Maholm earns complete game win | Sunday 4/27, 5:04 PM CT |
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Paul Maholm walked four and struck out two in his third career complete game in a 5-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.
Our View: The left-hander improved to 2-0 in three starts at PNC Park this season, and has allowed just two runs in 20.1 innings when pitching at home. |
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| Carlson picks up first save | Sunday 4/27, 4:53 PM CT |
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Blue Jays left-hander Jesse Carlson worked the ninth inning in Saturday's 5-2 win over the Royals to pick up his first save.
Our View: B.J. Ryan entered the game in the eight inning but didn't come out for the final frame to close out the game. The reasons are a mystery at the time of this report. |
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| Mech throws 129 pitches; loses | Sunday 4/27, 4:50 PM CT |
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Gil Meche was the pitcher of record in Saturday's 5-2 loss to Toronto. It is the his fourth loss of the season.
Our View: Meche threw a ton of pitches (129) matching his career high. But the Royals needed to ease the pain the bullpen has felt since a Thursday double header. Meche has a 7.22 ERA in six starts while allowing 43 hits in 33.2 innings. |
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| Rios has four-hit game | Sunday 4/27, 4:38 PM CT |
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Alex Rios raised his average to .330 on Saturday with a four hit day in a 5-2 win over Kansas City.
Our View: Rios also scored three times as the Blue Jays snapped a six-game losing streak. |
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| Litsch wins third w/seven strong | Sunday 4/27, 4:36 PM CT |
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Jesse Litsch bounced back from two rough starts that included 17 hits and nine earned runs in 8.1 innings to pick up his third win of the season on Saturday.
Our View: The right-hander limited the Royals to two runs, one unearned, on five hits in seven innings, with no walks and four strikeouts. |
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| Rolen has sweet swing | Sunday 4/27, 4:33 PM CT |
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Scott Rolen homered and drove in two runs in his third game back from the disabled list.
Our View: Rolen, who was activated Friday from the disabled list after fracturing his right middle finger in spring training, homered in the first and has four RBI in three games. |
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| Pujols hits 5th HR | Sunday 4/27, 4:28 PM CT |
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Albert Pujols hit his fifth home run of the season on Saturday in a St. Louis 5-1 win over the Astros.
Our View: It was, however, the first baseman's first since April 18 against San Francisco. Prince Albert now has 17 runs, 20 RBI and two stolen bases as April comes to a close, and has yet to shown any sign that the elbow injury he is playing through could possibly cut his season short. |
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| Glaus goes finally goes deep | Sunday 4/27, 4:23 PM CT |
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Troy Glaus, who was acquired in an offseason trade that sent Scott Rolen to Toronto, entered Saturday's game leading the major leagues with the most RBI without a home run. That streak ended on Sunday as the slugger lead the Cardinals to a 5-1 win over Houston with a towering two-run home run to center field.
Our View: Glaus went 87 at-bats before hitting a 1-1 offering from Brandon Backe (1-3) to center field for his 16th and 17th RBI of the season. |
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| Shields shows Boston the door | Sunday 4/27, 4:22 PM CT |
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Tampa Bay RHP James Shields was in fine form today, holding the Boston Red Sox to just two hits in a shutout 0-3 win. Shields completed the full game, throwing just 99 pitches (66 for strikes) to walk one and strike out seven.
Our View: Shields gets his third win of the season and carries just nine walks versus 28 strike outs, one of many reasons why the Rays are smiling about their position in the world of major league pitching. |
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| Man-Ram steals base but goes hitless | Sunday 4/27, 4:20 PM CT |
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Boston DH Manny Ramirez managed to steal a base today, his first stolen base not just this season but for the past three years. It is the lone highlight of Manny's day, going 0-for-2 at the plate with a walk.
Our View: Tampa Bay starter James Shields seems to have Manny's number, holding him to one hit in 12 at-bats. |
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| McClellan gets first career save | Sunday 4/27, 4:19 PM CT |
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Kyle McClellan pitched the final three innings of the Cardinals 5-1 win over Houston on Saturday. It was McClellan's first career save.
Our View: Skipper Tony LaRussa and pitching coach Dave Duncan have overworked closer Jason Isringhausen this April, so a perfect three innings by McClellan was just what the doctored ordered for the St. Louis bullpen. |
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| Bartlett enjoys strong day of offense | Sunday 4/27, 4:19 PM CT |
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Tampa Bay SS Jason Bartlett has struggled with the bat this season, but today he was one of the offensive leaders in the Rays' 0-3 victory over the Boston Red Sox.
Our View: Barlett went 1-for-2 with two runs scored. Bartlett also added his third stolen base of the year. |
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| Upton struggling with the wood | Sunday 4/27, 4:18 PM CT |
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Tampa Bay CF B.J. Upton struggled at the plate despite the Rays' 0-3 win over the Boston Red Sox. Upton went 0-for-4 with three strike outs on the day.
Our View: Upton has been one of the leaders in walks in the AL and has carried a strong bat for the Rays thus far, but he is now just 2-for-19 over his last seven games. |
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| Career-high 13 Ks still brings loss for Beckett | Sunday 4/27, 4:17 PM CT |
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In what seems to be a strong day for pitching in the AL, Boston RHP Josh Beckett gave his team every attempt to earn a win over the Tampa Bay Rays, but the offensive support failed to take form and his efforts went to waste as the Sox fell 0-3. Beckett pitched seven innings, allowing two runs (one earned) on four hits, walking just one and racking up an impressive 13 strike outs.
Our View: The 13 strike outs is a career high for Beckett, but Boston's fifth consecutive loss has Beckett frustrated with his second loss of the season. |
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| Lohse earns third victory | Sunday 4/27, 4:15 PM CT |
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Kyle Lohse went six innings for St. Louis, giving up four hits and one run as the Cardinals earned a 5-1 victory over the Astros.
Our View: Lohse walked one and struck out three as he recorded his third win of the season without a loss. |
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| Delgado puts best foot forward | Sunday 4/27, 4:01 PM CT |
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Earlier we reported the Mets were rumored to be considering the release of 1B Carlos Delgado , entering the day in the midst of a horrendous slump that had fans in Shea Stadium booing his appearances at the plate. Today, he was the king of New York, going 2-for-2 at the plate with two home runs and two walks.
Our View: Delgado hit both homers with no one on base, but his three runs scored were key in the Mets 3-6 win over the Atlanta Braves. |
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| Teixeira keeps hot bat despite loss | Sunday 4/27, 4:00 PM CT |
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Atlanta 1B Mark Teixeira was one of few bright spots for the Braves' offense in today's 3-6 loss to the New York Mets, going 2-for-4 at the plate with two doubles to post his 17th RBI of the season.
Our View: Teixeira has steadily improved a batting average that was struggling in the early going, posting at least one hit in 13 of his last 15 games, though he has not homered since April 20th. |
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| Casanova gets it done at the plate in Mets win | Sunday 4/27, 3:59 PM CT |
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New York catcher Raul Casanova entered today's matchup with the Atlanta Braves wielding a hot bat and a desire to keep this team on pace for a win, and he did just that, going 3-for-4 at the plate with his first home run of the year and picking up his second and third RBIs on the season.
Our View: Casanova is now 7-for-15 over his last four games with three runs scored. |
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| Castillo goes 3-for-5 in Mets win | Sunday 4/27, 3:57 PM CT |
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The Mets enjoyed a strong offering from 2B Luis Castillo in their 3-6 win over the Atlanta Braves. Castillo went 3-for-5 at the plate with his second double of the season, leaving one runner on base.
Our View: This was Castillo's third multi-hit game his his last four outings, going 8-for-18 over his last four games. |
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| Smoltz ran off mound in four by Mets | Sunday 4/27, 3:56 PM CT |
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Atlanta RHP John Smoltz lasted just four innings in today's 3-6 loss to the New York Mets, allowing four runs (all earned) on seven hits, including two home runs surrendered for three of those RBIs.
Our View: Smoltz pitched 83 times, making 51 count for strikes, in what now sits as his shortest and most troublesome outing of the short season. |
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| Chipper continues to battle bad back | Sunday 4/27, 3:41 PM CT |
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Atlanta 3B Chipper Jones sat out his second consecutive game as the team reports he is struggling with back spasms.
Our View: Jones spoke with reporters after the game and reports the spasms were gone but a sharp pain in his lower back remains and has hindered his mobility. The Braves have Monday off and hope to have Jones back on Tuesday when they face the Washington Nationals. |
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| Wang puts the hurt on Cleveland | Sunday 4/27, 3:37 PM CT |
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Yankee RHP Chien-Ming Wang had his best game working today, going seven full innings to hold the Cleveland Indians scoreless on just four hits allowed. Wang collected an impressive NINE strike outs on the day and walked just two, making 73 of 113 total pitches count for strikes.
Our View: Wang now sits at 5-0 and may have reversed the misfortunes that plagues his previous two starts (19 combined hits and 11 combined runs allowed). |
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| Sabathia pitches well but loses | Sunday 4/27, 3:36 PM CT |
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Cleveland ace C.C. Sabathia tried his best to pick up his Indians and produce a win today, but the offensive support failed to show as dueling starter Chien-Ming Wang dominated the Indians' batting order, resulting in a devastating 1-0 loss for Sabathia. Sabathia pitched eight full innings, striking out eight and walking just one to allow one run on four hits.
Our View: 78 of Sabathia's 111 pitches counted as strikes, but the end result is his worrisome fourth loss with an ERA of 7.87. |
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| Duncan fails in opportunity to produce | Sunday 4/27, 3:34 PM CT |
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The Yankees were hoping young minor-league promoted Shelley Duncan could cure the team's woes at first base, but thus far it appears to be an experiment failed. Duncan went 0-for-4 today with two strike outs and three runners left on base in a tight 1-0 victory over the Cleveland Indians.
Our View: Duncan is not hitting .091, converting just one hit in 15 at-bats. |
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| Maholm dominates Phillies | Sunday 4/27, 3:21 PM CT |
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Pittsburgh pitcher LHP Paul Maholm was the shining light in the Pirates 1-5 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies today. Maholm pitched the full nine innings, allowing just one run on just two hits allowed.
Our View: Maholm allowed four walks on the day, but his ability to limit his work to just 99 pitches through complete game deserves high praise, mixing 11 ground balls with 13 fly balls. Maholm now carries a record of 2-2, though is BB/K ratio (sitting at 6/19 coming in to today) took a slight hit. |
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| McLouth belts two homers | Sunday 4/27, 3:20 PM CT |
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Pittsburgh CF Nate McLouth put in work today as the Pirates emerged with a 5-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies. McLouth went 2-for-4 at the plate with one walk and one strike out, hitting two home runs to total three RBIs on the day.
Our View: McLouth had been struggling a bit at the plate, going 0-for-14 coming into and after the first game with Phillies. Over the last two days, he has hit three home runs and gone 4-for-8 at the plate with five RBIs. |
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| Burrell keeps hit streak alive in loss | Sunday 4/27, 3:19 PM CT |
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Philadelphia LF Pat Burrell was one of just two hitters to find success against Pittsburgh starter Paul Maholm today, going 1-for-2 with a walk in the Phillies' 5-1 loss to the Pirates.
Our View: Burrell now carries a batting average of .349 and has produced at least one hit in his last eight games. |
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| Bautista shines in return from benching | Sunday 4/27, 3:15 PM CT |
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Pittsburgh 3B Jose Bautista enjoyed a strong day at the plate as the Pirates sent the Phillies packing with a 1-5 loss. Bautista went 3-for-4 at the plate with his sixth double of the season, a two-out RBI, and a stolen base.
Our View: Bautista has struggled to produce at the plate, going 2-for-11 coming into today. He was recently benched for two games with hopes of motivating better results, and today may indicate that change has come. |
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| Kazmir to return | Sunday 4/27, 2:27 PM CT |
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The Tampa Bay Rays are facing a difficult decision as LHP Scott Kazmir nears his return to the majors, according to MLB.com. Kazmir will make his final rehab start on Monday night for Tripe-A Durham, scheduled to pitch five innings or 85 pitches (whichever comes first). If Kazmir moves along as planned, he is expected to start for the Rays as early as next weekend. The problems then start for the Rays as they attempt to select the right minor-league demotion once Kazmir is ready to take one of the roster spots.
Our View: The starting staff and bullpen for the Rays have both performed rather well during these early weeks of the '08 season, leaving the Rays with no obvious choice for the dubious honors of making room for the staff ace. "We've already been meeting (to discuss the situation)," said Rays manager Joe Maddon. "We've been talking about it all along. When it comes right down to that moment, we'll make that decision. We'll play different scenarios mentally in regard to what we want to do." MLB.com reports James Shields appears to be the only starter locked into a job on the major-league roster, noting Matt Garza, Jason Hammel, Edwin Jackson, and Andy Sonnanstine could all be up for reassignment. However, both Hammel and Jackson are out of minor league options and thus would have to be moved to the bullpen to make room, or the team could put them on waivers and cross their fingers. We will update when the time comes. |
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| Young extends hit streak | Sunday 4/27, 1:29 PM CT |
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Texas SS Michael Young extended his hit streak to 11 games on Saturday, stroking a double in the Rangers 12-6 loss to the Minnesota Twins on Saturday, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: The hit streak is nice, but Young was a bit miffed after leaving three runners on base, walking twice and striking out twice in the 1-for-3 performance at the plate. During the streak, Young's OBP has raised from .313 to .363, though the Rangers have earned just three wins during that span. |
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| Schneider remains in hospital | Sunday 4/27, 1:23 PM CT |
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The New York Mets report catcher Brian Schneider remains in the hospital on Sunday as he receives treatment for an infected left thumb, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: Mets GM Omar Minaya told reporters he expects Schneider to be released on Monday, though he is expected to need at least two additional days before returning to his job behind the plate. |
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| Dice-K will miss Tuesday start | Sunday 4/27, 1:21 PM CT |
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The Boston Red Sox report RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka will miss his scheduled start on Tuesday, instead penciled into the starting job on Wednesday when the Sox face the Toronto Blue Jays, according to MLB.com. Manager Terry Francona told reporters Dice threw a 50-pitch bullpen session at Fenway Park on Saturday as he continues to battle the flu, but the decision to push him back one day was simple. "(We want to) try and give him an extra day toward recovery," Francona said.
Our View: As a result, Jon Lester will get the start on Tuesday in place of Dice, opening the three-game set against their AL East foes. |
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| Howard hoping HR gets him back on track | Sunday 4/27, 1:15 PM CT |
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The Philadelphia Phillies are hoping 1B Ryan Howard is on his way to better results at the plate after the powerful swinger took a 1-2 pitch from Pittsburgh's Matt Morris (now unemployed) into the stands in the first inning of yesterday's 8-4 win over the Pirates, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Howard has struggled to find his groove, batting just .174 with four home runs, nine RBIs, and 35 strike outs through 86 at-bats heading into yesterday's contest. Manager Charlie Manuel had given Howard two days off to recollect and envision better returns. Howard did enter those days as pinch hitter but reports the time away from action was just what the doctor ordered. "I had some good swings in batting practice (on Friday) and I put in some work (on Thursday) in Milwaukee as well. (Saturday) I just went out there nice and loose, just trying to see it and just spread it around a little bit, trying to carry it over to the game," Howard told reporters after the game. The Phillies need Howard to get back to his MVP form as quickly as possible and the hope is that the launch yesterday will lead to a reversal of fortunes. |
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| Joba good to go if call comes vs Indians | Sunday 4/27, 1:06 PM CT |
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The New York Yankees report RHP Joba Chamberlain is available for work if needed today, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Chamberlain slipped on a wet field at US Cellular Field in Chicago on Thursday and suffered a mild hamstring strain, prompting the Yanks to give the hurler two full days off from pitching. Chamberlain reports today that he feels just fine and is there if needed as the Yanks gave him a loose bullpen session on Saturday to test the hammy and insure he was all good to go. He's there and ready should the Yanks give him the call against the Cleveland Indians today. |
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| Youkilis sets benchmark for fielding | Sunday 4/27, 12:58 PM CT |
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The moment passed with no fanfare, but the Boston Red Sox watched 1B Kevin Youkilis surpass a significant milestone for the team in yesterday's 1-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, according to FenwayWest.com.
Our View: Youkilis completed his 1,701 play at the position without an error yesterday, a new franchise record for the Sox and a sign of just how valuable Youk's contributions have been to this team in recent seasons. Youkilis nearly ruined the moment, turning to throw the ball into the crowd until a team member on the bench informed him of the feat. "I didn't even know when I did it, I just go out there to play the game," Youkilis said. "It's not a big deal to me. Hopefully that's it." |
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| Posada out for Yanks (again) | Sunday 4/27, 12:16 PM CT |
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The New York Yankees will take the field against the Cleveland Indians today without veteran catcher Jorge Posada , according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Our View: Posada was originally slated to fill the 5th spot in the batting order and start behind the plate, but the Plain Dealer reports he is a last-minute scratch as Jose Molina gets the spot and bats ninth. We have yet to receive reports indicating injury or other specific concern for Posada, but it seems all too apparent the veteran catcher continues to battle for recovery from a strained right shoulder. He was out of the lineup for the Yanks on Saturday as well. |
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| Alou nursing fractured ankle? | Sunday 4/27, 12:11 PM CT |
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It appears the arrival of OF Moises Alou in New York, long considered a certain event to take place for the New York Mets, may no longer be so certain, according to the New York Post. The Mets have told reporters Alou is going to undergo tests on what they believe to be a fractured left ankle.
Our View: Alou has been out of action since early March as he recovers from hernia surgery and will be in New York for an MRI on the ankle on Monday, according to Mets GM Omar Minaya. A CAT scan on the ankle on Friday revealed what may be a fracture, though Minaya notes the test is inconclusive and will not be confirmed until the MRI results are available. We will update as news becomes available. |
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| Ramirez continues to shine for Marlins | Sunday 4/27, 12:04 PM CT |
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Florida SS Hanley Ramirez is enjoying sunny days at the plate, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: Ramirez jacked a 1st-inning offering from Milwaukee RHP Carlos Villanueva into the bleachers, hitting his eighth home run of the season and his third leadoff homer of the '08 campaign. That brings Ramirez to a batting average of .337 through 98 at-bats, touting eight stolen bases, 18 RBIs, and 22 runs scored thus far. |
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| Delgado on the way out? | Sunday 4/27, 11:58 AM CT |
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Rumors persist to surface claiming the New York Mets are seriously considering a move to release 1B Carlos Delgado , according to MLBTradeRumors.com.
Our View: The site notes reporter Joel Sherman of the New York Post has filed a column titled, "DELGADO ON HIS WAY OUT AT FIRST," noting league trends to push aging veterans to the free-agent market and putting emphasis on long-term deals for young talent as reasons to believe the Mets may follow suit. Delgado is making $16 million this season and was recently the target of speculation from ESPN's Buster Olney, citing Xavier Nady and Scott Hatteberg as worthy replacements (and financial discounts) over Delgado at first base. At this point, it is all speculation as the Mets have not put forth any true indication a move will be made, but the Blue Jays' decision to release Frank Thomas has reporters focusing on similar situations in their own towns. Of course, Delgado's horrendous .186 batting average through 86 at-bats isn't helping matters. Stay tuned. |
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| Wasserman gets the call | Sunday 4/27, 11:50 AM CT |
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The Chicago White Sox have recalled RHP Ehren Wassermann from Triple-A Charlotte, according to MLB.com. Wasserman has six saves in eight relief appearances for Charlotte this season, ranked third in the International League in saves. He has yet to allow a single base hit this season, having faced 24 batters thus far. Wasserman spent '07 bouncing back and forth between the main stage of the majors and Charlotte, going 1-1 with an ERA of 2.74 in 33 appearances with the White Sox. He held right-handed batters to a lowly .174 batting average.
Our View: The move comes as a result of a decision to send Mike MacDougal down to the minors, though he has improved dramatically over his struggles in the early games of the season. |
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| Sowers options to Triple-A Buffalo | Sunday 4/27, 11:43 AM CT |
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The Indians have optioned LHP Jeremy Sowers to Triple-A Buffalo, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Sowers got the start for the Indians on Saturday, allowing three runs (all earned) on seven hits over 5 1/3 innings. Sowers struck out three batters and walked just one, but walked away with no decision.
Our View: The move is motivated by the injury to Grady Sizemore as the Indians have recalled OF Brad Snyder from Buffalo to fill in as a reserve on the bench, thus Sowers suffered as the casualty of the events on Saturday night. Don't expect Sowers to spend too much time in the minors. The strong-armed hurler is expected to contribute to Cleveland's effort this season and showed well on Saturday. Once Sizemore is healthy, he could be back in the fold for the Indians. Stay tuned. |
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| Sizemore out for Indians today | Sunday 4/27, 11:37 AM CT |
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Cleveland CF Grady Sizemore , nursing an injured ankle in Saturday's win over the New York Yankees, will be out of the starting lineup today, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Our View: Sizemore owns the largest active consecutive games played streak in the majors, taking part in 382 consecutive games. As a result of the injury, David Dellucci will bat leadoff for the Indians and play in left field while Franklin Gutierrez bats eighth and covers the role in center. |
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| Ellsbury at LF, Manny at DH vs Rays | Sunday 4/27, 11:32 AM CT |
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The Boston Red Sox will give Jacoby Ellsbury the start in left field today, pushing Manny Ramirez to the starting job at DH, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: David Ortiz has been hampered by a bruised right knee and will miss his second game in a row. The injury is not considered serious, but it does give the Sox an opportunity to put both Ellsbury and Coco Crisp, usually battling for opportunity in center, on the field at the same time. Ellsbury has posted at least one hit in nine consecutive games with five walks and just two strike outs to show during that same span. Crisp is doing damage of his own as well, currently hitting .341 with four stolen bases over his last six games. Having them both on the field today versus Tampa Bay could be beneficial while Big Papi continues to heal. |
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| Morris released by Pirates | Sunday 4/27, 11:25 AM CT |
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The Pittsburgh Pirates have released RHP Matt Morris today, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Morris has made five starts, going 0-4 with an ERA of 9.67 and a WHIP of 2.15.
Our View: The Pirates will pay Morris a bit over $10 million (a sum that includes his entire '08 salary plus a $1 million buyout of the '09 contract option) to send him off, putting LHP Phil Dumatrait into the rotation to fill the void. Dumatrait is now scheduled to start on Thursday versus Washington. |
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| Fans tiring of Ricciardi in Toronto | Sunday 4/27, 10:30 AM CT |
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It would appear fans in Toronto are growing increasingly frustrated with the Bill Beane-style management decisions of J.P. Ricciardi, according to SLAM Sports. The Toronto news agency is citing various moves and transactions that, upon review, seem to contradict earlier decisions the GM has made in an attempt to get the Blue Jays on track. SLAM notes several instances, including the recent decision to play veteran Frank Thomas $7 million upon his release after letting Reed Johnson, a $3 million-per-year backup outfielder, go due to financial concerns about the price tag attached to the commodity.
Our View: The entire Frank Thomas debacle has the Toronto fan base in an uproar, noting the deal was a point of complaint when signed, noting concerns that have come to fruition with his release. As the team continues to struggle in what may be one of the strongest divisions in professional sports, fans are likely to note management decisions and push for change. |
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| Lowell gets first rehab start | Sunday 4/27, 10:20 AM CT |
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Red Sox 3B Mike Lowell is progressing towards return as he works with Triple-A Pawtucket, according to the Providence Journal. Lowell served as the team's DH in his first game with the minor-league affiliate, the first of a scheduled 20-day rehab assignment as Lowell works to return from a sprained left thumb, and went 1-for-5 at the plate.
Our View: It may have been just one hit, but that hit contributed two runs to a 6-1 victory over the Syracuse Chiefs. "I was actually happy about recognizing pitches," said Lowell. "I saw a lot of different pitches. Squared up a couple of balls, so that was good. Overall, I don't think there's anything negative, so I think that's good." Lowell sprained his thumb while making a diving stop on April 9th against the Detroit Tigers, and while the Sox are bringing him along cautiously, Lowell feels he is progressing and should be on track for his scheduled return in early May. |
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| Sabathia close to new deal? | Sunday 4/27, 10:10 AM CT |
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The Cleveland Indians may be close to reaching a new contract agreement with ace C.C. Sabathia , according to MLBTradeRumors.com. The site notes the team's ability to enjoy a financial windfall from the creation of a new local television network, SportsTime Ohio, as the reason to believe the team is going to make a strong push to get Sabathia signed.
Our View: The team has committed $132 million to roster payroll between now and 2014, and another $61.5 million has yet to be dedicated based on contract options to be exercised or declined. Sources close to team GM Mark Shapiro have suggested the goal of signing both Sabathia and 1B Ryan Garko remain the focus of their financial plans looking forward. Rumors like this can often turn on a moment depending on negotiations and the whims of ownership, but keep Sabathia should be a top priority. We will update as news becomes available. |
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| Bedard looks strong in second win | Sunday 4/27, 8:40 AM CT |
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Seattle LHP Erik Bedard made his first trip to the mound since returning from left hip inflammation last night and was surprisingly effective, according to CBSSports.com. In his first start in three weeks, Bedard displayed strong command of his location and worked various parts of the strike zone with relative ease, giving up just two hits over 6 2/3 innings, failing to surrender a single run.
Our View: Bedard balanced four walks with four strike outs and reported his own pleasure in picking up his second win of the season. "I felt pretty good," Bedard told reporters after the game. "I wasn't expecting (to go) that (long), but went through good, and we won the game." Fantasy owners shouldn't get too excited, though the performance is certainly one to note. The hope is to see Bedard progress forward without physical setback, for we know the arm can get the job done. |
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| Lowry to undergo nerve testing | Sunday 4/27, 8:34 AM CT |
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