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| Sampson loses third game | Monday 4/28, 11:45 PM CT |
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Chris Sampson allowed five runs on seven hits, walked two and failed to record a strikeout in 4.1 inning of work on Monday night. Sampson lost his third game of the season as the Astros dropped game-one of their three-game series against Arizona.
Our View: Sampson lost his third game in five starts. His absence of strikeouts against the free swinging Diamondbacks speaks volumes about what kind of stuff he had tonight, and the entire month of April, for that matter. |
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| Reyolds drives in three; adds SB | Monday 4/28, 11:40 PM CT |
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Mark Reynolds was 1-for-3 with two RBI, one run scored and added a stolen base in the D'backs 5-3 win over Houston on Monday night.
Our View: Reynolds has struck out 36 times in 94 at-bats, but his seven home runs, 24 RBI, 23 runs scored and three stolen bases make up for his sub par .253 batting average. |
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| Haren wins fourth | Monday 4/28, 11:37 PM CT |
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Dan Haren pitched into the eighth inning and hit an RBI double to help his cause in leading the Arizona Diamondbacks to a 5-3 victory of the Houston Astros on Monday night. Haren allowed three runs on five hits, struck out five while walking one.
Our View: Haren won his fourth game in April. The effort against the Astros on Monday night landed his ERA at 3.13, WHIP at 1.05 and he now has 29 strikeouts in 37.1 innings of work. |
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| Mills shows power for Kinston | Monday 4/28, 11:11 PM CT |
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Beau Mills, the Indians’ top pick in the 2007 draft, hit a pair of home runs for High-A Kinston on Monday.
Our View: Mills’ bat was compared to Travis Hafner coming out of Lewis-Clark College, and like Hafner, Mills is off to a slow start this season. His batting average currently stands at .234. |
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| Einertson hits two long balls | Monday 4/28, 11:09 PM CT |
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Mitch Einertson launched a pair of home runs for Double-A Corpus Christi on Monday, giving him four this season.
Our View: The former fifth-round pick has shown some nice offensive numbers in the minors, including last season at High-A when he hit .305-11-87. The 22-year-old is hitting only .235 this season, but his bat has come alive recently with all four of his home runs in the last week. |
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| Simmons picks up win for Midland | Monday 4/28, 11:08 PM CT |
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2007 first-round pick James Simmons improved his record to 2-1 for Double-A Midland after allowing one run on six hits in seven innings on Monday. He didn’t allow any walks and struck out seven.
Our View: The A’s have better pitching prospects, but Simmons still has a strong chance of having a major league career as a middle of the rotation starter due to his plus command. The strong showing actually increased his ERA, from 1.06 to 1.13. |
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| Rasmus hits two homers for Memphis | Monday 4/28, 11:07 PM CT |
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Colby Rasmus hit a pair of home runs for Triple-A Memphis on Monday, giving him five for the season.
Our View: He still has a long way to go in order to be considered for a call-up hitting just .216 this season. Still, this is a nice showing for the Cardinals’ top hitting prospect. |
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| Ankiel hits 5th HR | Monday 4/28, 10:55 PM CT |
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Rick Ankiel hit his fifth home run of the season on Monday but it wasn't enough as the Cardinals fell to the Reds, 4-3.
Our View: Ankiel is hitting .250 with 15 runs and 12 RBI on the season. |
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| Wellemeyer loses first | Monday 4/28, 10:48 PM CT |
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Todd Wellemeyer allowed only two hits in his last three innings, but struggled through the first three giving up four runs on five hits. The right-hander struck out five and walked two in the 4-3 loss to the Reds.
Our View: Wellemeyer had been 2-0 with a 1.50 ERA in his first two starts at home this season. |
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| Cordero saves 4th in four tries | Monday 4/28, 10:44 PM CT |
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Francisco Cordero, whose save opportunities have been limited this April, allowed a hit in the ninth inning but recorded his fourth save in four chances.
Our View: Cordero, who left Milwaukee to join the Reds during the offseason, has 12 strikeouts in 11 innings, he's walked six and sports an attractive 1.64 ERA. |
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| Arroyo records first win | Monday 4/28, 10:41 PM CT |
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Bronson Arroyo pitched six solid innings on Monday night in the Reds 4-3 win over the St. Louis Cardinals. Arroyo allowed three runs on six hits and struck out six for his first victory since Sept. 12, which happened to be against the Cardinals.
Our View: He had been 0-4 in eight outings since, including an 0-3 start to the season for the second time in his career. He entered with a 7.56 ERA after failing to make it out of the fourth inning while allowing eight runs in his previous start, against Houston. |
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| Encarnacion hits two RBI doubles | Monday 4/28, 10:28 PM CT |
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Edwin Encarnacion continues to swing a sweet stick recording a pair of RBI doubles that helped the Cincinnati Reds to a 4-3 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday night.
Our View: The Reds third baseman is doing everything right. Not only did Encarnacion drive in the game winning run, he made a game saving play in seventh inning to preserve the Monday night win. In his third full season Encarnacion is finally getting it. He has six home runs, 14 RBI, 15 runs scored and is hitting .298 on the season. Throw in a stolen base for good measure and what you get is a starting option in all formats. |
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| Laffey oustanding in debut | Monday 4/28, 9:57 PM CT |
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Aaron Laffey held the Yankee bats without a hit for five innings on Monday night, and then was the victim of three infield hits and a hit batsman before allowing four sixth-inning runs. The left-hander gave up the four runs on three hits, also walked and struck out one.
Our View: Laffey, who was called up to make his season debut for Cleveland, was the victim of bad luck and a poorly timed hit batsman. |
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| Garko lethargic at the plate | Monday 4/28, 9:38 PM CT |
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Cleveland's Ryan Garko went 0-for-4, bounced into a double play and extended his hitless streak to 23 at-bats in Monday's 5-2 loss to the Indians.
Our View: Garko looks completely lost, and his posture at the plate could even be described as lethargic. The Indians first baseman needs a long look at a couple of games from the pine. |
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| Borowski throws from 60 feet | Monday 4/28, 9:36 PM CT |
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Indians closer Joe Borowski played catch for the first time since going on the disabled list two weeks ago with a strained triceps, this according to the AP. "It felt as normal as normal can be," said Borowski, who threw from 60 feet and will increase his distance every day with a goal of pitching off a mound in nine days.
Our View: When Borowski returns, there is no guarantee he will reclaim his ninth inning role now held by Rafael Betancourt. |
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| Mussina wins his third | Monday 4/28, 9:32 PM CT |
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Mike Mussina allowed two runs on seven hits in five innings of work in Monday night's 5-2 win over the Indians. It was Mussina's 253rd win, tying Hall of Famer Carl Hubbell on the career list.
Our View: The 39-year-old isn't the same pitcher he once was. The right-hander threw mostly breaking balls that registered speeds in low 60s to high 70s, with an occasional 88 mph fastball. Mussina is now officially nothing more than junk-baller that will occasionally turn in a performance like he did on Monday night. After tonight's win, his third of the season, his value has peaked. Consider finding a buyer for the leagues new Jamie Moyer. |
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| A-Rod starts, then replaced | Monday 4/28, 9:25 PM CT |
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Alex Rodriguez, still not fully recovered from a quad strain, was replaced by pinch-hitter Johnny Damon in the eighth inning of Monday night's 5-2 win over the Indians.
Our View: His removal from the game didn't appear to be because he was hit by a pitch. With left-hander Aaron Laffey in the clubhouse, and the Yanks holding a two-run lead, the team had more flexibility with their bench players. |
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| Thompson placed on 15-day DL | Monday 4/28, 9:20 PM CT |
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St. Louis placed pitcher Brad Thompson on the 15-day disabled list on Monday. Thompson is suffering from a right elbow injury. The move is retroactive to April 23.
Our View: Thompson had been sent down to Triple-A Memphis last Wednesday to free up a roster spot for Brendan Ryan, who was activated from the disabled list. |
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| Wood recalled from Salt Lake | Monday 4/28, 9:17 PM CT |
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Infielder Brandon Wood was recalled on Monday from Triple-A Salt Lake. However, Rob Quinlan is starting at third base, leaving the Angels top prospect to come off the bench.
Our View: Chone Figgins is playing second base for the second straight game with both Howie Kendrick and Maicer Izturis out. The stop is temporary for Wood. He is expected to return to Salt Lake City when Kendrick rejoins the active roster. |
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| Quentin having strong Apirl | Monday 4/28, 8:37 PM CT |
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Carlos Quentin was 3-for-4 with a double and a home run on Monday afternoon against the Orioles. The White Sox left fielder continued his strong April. The home run was his sixth of the season.
Our View: Quentin has reached base safely in 13 straight games and has an eight-game hitting streak. |
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| Jenks blows save | Monday 4/28, 8:27 PM CT |
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Both closers in Monday afternoon's game between Baltimore and Chicago were unable to hold a lead. The Orioles tied the game in the ninth off Chicago's Bobby Jenks on Melvin Mora's RBI single that scored second baseman Brian Roberts. Jenks allowed one run on two hits and struck out one in his single inning of work.
Our View: Jenks was shooting for his sixth save in what has been a solid April for the hard-throwing right-hander. He came into Monday's game with a 1.69 ERA and has yet to give up a home run on the season. |
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| Sherrill blows first save | Monday 4/28, 8:17 PM CT |
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Baltimore closer George Sherrill suffered his first blown save in 10 chances this year after giving up an 11th inning home run to Juan Uribe.
Our View: Sherrill's save total has assisted fantasy owners. His 4.66 ERA is high for a closer, but his 1.14 WHIP suggests he's pitched into some bad luck. The O's closer remains a starting option in all formats. |
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| Huff hits 4th HR | Monday 4/28, 8:13 PM CT |
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Aubrey Huff hit his fourth home run of the year in the second inning of Monday's game against the White Sox.
Our View: Huff has been riding a hot streak as of late. The veteran is still hitting a sub par .244, but his four home runs, 17 RBI and 13 runs scored in April are solid numbers for the Orioles designated hitter. |
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| Hernandez hits 3rd HR | Monday 4/28, 8:05 PM CT |
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Ramon Hernandez homered off Scott Linebrink in the top of the 11th inning in Monday afternoon's game against the White Sox. The Baltimore catcher now has three home runs and 13 RBI on the season.
Our View: The game was suspended because of rain with the score tied at 3-3. The contest will resume later this season, but no date was immediately announced. All statistics from Monday will count. |
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| Zito moved to pen | Monday 4/28, 7:55 PM CT |
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According to ESPN.com, Barry Zito has been moved into the bullpen. The left-hander signed a seven-year deal with the team before last season, and is 0-6 a 7.53 ERA in his first six starts.
Our View: The Giants acknowledged they were considering sending Zito to the bullpen on Sunday, but made the move official today. |
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| Morris to coach for Bucs? | Monday 4/28, 7:26 PM CT |
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According to the Pirates team website, the organization hopes that Matt Morris' 1.2-inning performance last Saturday will not be his last moment with the Pirates.
No, there is no thought of ever sending him back to the pitcher's mound. However, the Pirates would like to welcome Morris back in some other capacity, preferably in some sort of instructional role.
Our View:
Morris has a lot of other decisions to make before deciding on a career outside of pitching, but that part [pitching] of his future appears to be over. |
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| Cabrera walks seven in ND | Monday 4/28, 7:14 PM CT |
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The Baltimore Sun suggests that despite Daniel Cabrera's seven walks in Monday's start against the White Sox, he is showing growth. The big right-hander allowed two runs on four hits and struck out two.
Our View: One of his runs allowed came on a Carlos Quentin sixth inning home run. The Monday afternoon game between Baltimore and Chicago ended, for now, in a 3-3 tie. Play was suspended after 11 innings Monday because of rain. The game will resume later this season, but no date was immediately announced. |
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| Dice-K pushed back; Lester to start | Monday 4/28, 6:50 PM CT |
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The Red Sox have made another change in their pitching rotation, this according to the Boston Globe. Boston has moved Jon Lester into Tuesday's slot and push Daisuke Matsuzaka back a day to Wednesday.
Our View: This now makes Lester a two-start pitcher in Week 5 while Dice-K loses his scheduled second start on Sunday. |
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| Jones slump continues | Monday 4/28, 6:40 PM CT |
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According to Fox Sports Andruw Jones is a consideration for the Baseball Hall of Fame. But Jones' career has hit a wall. In 2007 he hit .222 with a .311 on-base percentage. In the early going this season he is hitting .167 with a .274 on-base percentage.
Our View: Jones won't make the Hall of Fame on the merits of his hitting alone, he was known more for his glove than his bat early in his career. The problem is both phases of his game have apparently diminished, and this after signing the biggest contract of his career with the Dodgers during the offseason. The Braves are looking smarter with each Jones at-bat. |
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| Dellucci tops Indians order | Monday 4/28, 6:27 PM CT |
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With Grady Sizemore out of the lineup for the second straight game with a sprained ankle, Indians skipper Eric Wedge again turned to David Dellucci to handle the leadoff duties on Monday night in the final game of a four-game series against the Yankees.
Our View: Dellucci hit from the leadoff spot with the Rangers in 2005. That was the same season he hit a career-high 29 homers and had a career-best 65 RBI. |
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| Damon out of starting lineup | Monday 4/28, 6:21 PM CT |
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The Yankees have used several lineups in their four-game series against the Cleveland Indians this weekend, and on Monday night manager Joe Girardi has inserted Hideki Matsui in left field and held Johnny Damon out versus Aaron Laffey and the Indians.
Our View: Damon has been crushing the ball as of late, but Matsui missed both the Saturday and Sunday games and was due some at-bats. |
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| Godzilla in starting lineup | Monday 4/28, 6:13 PM CT |
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Hideki Matsui is back in the Yankees lineup tonight after missing Saturday and Sunday's contests. Godzilla is hitting sixth and playing left field.
Our View: The Indians are throwing their third consecutive left-hander, Aaron Laffey tonight, at the Yankees which has resulted in several creative lineups from manager Joe Girardi. |
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| Sizemore not in starting lineup | Monday 4/28, 6:07 PM CT |
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Manager Eric Wedge has held Grady Sizemore (ankle) out of the starting lineup for the second straight game. Wedge was hoping to get his center fielder back for the Monday night finale of the four-game series against the Yankees, but Franklin Gutierrez is starting and hitting eighth against starter Mike Mussina.
Our View: The weather is chilly, 50 degrees at first pitch, and rain will threaten throughout the game. Sizemore will be available to pinch hit. |
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| Blalock to miss 3-4 weeks | Monday 4/28, 5:45 PM CT |
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Following up on an earlier report, Hank Blalock will miss the next 3-4 weeks with a hamstring strain, this according to the Dallas Morning News. He received an anti-inflammatory injection, but he's headed to the 15-day disabled list officially on Tuesday.
Our View: The report noted that an interesting roster move was forthcoming. Why? Because there are no able-bodied third basemen on the 40-man roster and the 40 also has very little elasticity. There is speculation that prospect Nelson Cruz, who is crushing Triple-A pitching as an outfielder, could get one more chance with the parent club. Chris Shelton, who is also hitting well at Oklahoma City, is another possibility. |
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| Figueroa could be skipped | Monday 4/28, 5:37 PM CT |
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The Monday night game between the Pirates and Mets was postponed due to rain. Ian Snell and Johan Santana will now take the ball to the mound on Tuesday, and the result of the cancellation means Nelson Figueroa will give his scheduled Sunday start against the D'backs and Daren Haren to Santana.
Our View: Figueroa will either be pushed back for a Monday night start against the Dodgers in LA, or be skipped all together. More on the Mets rotation shuffle when the information is available. |
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| Mets vs. Pirates postponed | Monday 4/28, 5:32 PM CT |
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The Mets rotation will be shuffled. The Monday night game between the Pirates and Mets was postponed due to rain.
Ian Snell and Johan Santana will now take the ball to the mound on Tuesday.
Our View: Nelson Figueroa was scheduled to start on Sunday against Arizona. Santana is expected to take the Sunday game and remain a two-start pitcher in Week 5. |
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| Thompson tearing up Double-A | Monday 4/28, 5:09 PM CT |
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A promising farm hand that is deserving of a Reds roster spot is Double-A righty Daryl Thompson. Thompson has a 2-0 record this year to go along with a 0.76 ERA and 25 strikeouts with only one walk in just under 24 innings pitched.
Our View: With a fastball that touches 94 and a promising curve, Thompson should be added to the 25-man roster by June, if not before. He and Homer Bailey, along with Eddison Volquez, Johnny Cueto, Aaron Harang and Bronson Arroyo (who is barely holding on) are six strong arms to throw at opposing lineups for most of the summer. |
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| Bailey to the Reds rotation? | Monday 4/28, 5:05 PM CT |
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Despite recent reports by MLB.com, Homer Bailey is on his way back to the parent club. The right-handed prospect is compiling a stellar minor league season at 3-1 with a 1.03 ERA to go along with a 4-1 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Our View: Matt Belisle doesn't have the makeup as a flyball pitcher to succeed in Great American and Baker has been patient with Arroyo expressing confidence in his No. 2 starter. Strangely, he's done the same with Josh Fogg. Both Arroyo and Fogg have done little more than toss batting practice to opposing hitters, combining for a 1-5 record and a near 9.00 ERA. Arroyo's going to have to completely melt down before he's replaced in the rotation, but Fogg and Belisle are fills until Bailey arrives. |
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| Arroyo looks to bounce-back | Monday 4/28, 5:00 PM CT |
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The Reds will send Bronson Arroyo (0-3, 7.56 ERA) to the mound tonight, hoping he can bounce back from his worst start of the season. Arroyo lasted just 3.2 innings against the Astros on Wednesday, allowing eight runs and 10 hits. ''I feel great,'' said Arroyo, notes MLB.com. Arroyo hasn't made it through six innings in any of his April starts. ''I've watched the video, but there's nothing to see," said Arroyo.
Our View: Arroyo is pitching like he did before he even found his way to Boston and then Cincinnati, when he resided in Pittsburgh. He's also bucking a trend that's made him and early season favorite during most of his big league campaigns. April has typically been his best month. |
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| Volquez continues to impress | Monday 4/28, 4:53 PM CT |
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While Johnny Cueto was the hot topic during March drafts, Edinson Volquez has been the most impressive of the two rookies. Volquez improved to 4-0 on Saturday and has a 1.23 ERA in April after seven strong innings against the Triple-A Giants.
Our View: While Cueto has complete command of his arsenal, he's subject to giving up the long ball. Volquez has turned from avoiding contact to essentially being a groundball pitcher. With a GB Rate approaching 60%, he will have much more success at Great American than his rookie teammate. |
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| Street's numbers improving | Monday 4/28, 4:51 PM CT |
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Huston Street has converted eight saves in nine opportunities so far this year, and while he hasn't always thrown a clean ninth inning, and his statline (4.38 ERA, 1.22 WHIP with a home run rate of over two per nine innings) is ugly, his save total should continue to grow while his numbers shrink.
Our View: Street is a dominant closer and his numbers will reflect such, as long as he can stay healthy. |
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| Rauch excelling in ninth inning role | Monday 4/28, 4:50 PM CT |
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Jon Rauch has a good chance of holding onto the closer role in Washington for the rest of the season. After struggling in early April, the veteran right-hander notched his fourth save of the season on Sunday.
Our View: Ignore his 4.63 ERA for now, that number will shrink soon enough. It's obvious that Chad Cordero isn't right, evidenced by his 85 mph fastball and the way the training staff is currently pampering him. If Rauch can continue to throw like he has in the last four appearances, he's in line for 25 plus saves. Arguably the weakest offensive lineup in the league, the Nats don't win by much when they can manage a victory, giving Rauch plenty of save opportunities before the end of September. |
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| Wagner's opportunities increasing | Monday 4/28, 4:48 PM CT |
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Billy Wagner hasn't had many save opportunities this April, but when he's been asked to pitch, he's been good. The Mets ninth inning option has appeared in 10 games this year recording 10 strikeouts while walking two.
Our View: Wagner surrendered his first hit of the season on Sunday, a harmless single to Matt Diaz, eventually closing the game for his sixth save. |
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| Jays still pampering Ryan | Monday 4/28, 4:46 PM CT |
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The Blue Jays have handled closer B.J. Ryan with kid gloves this month. Ryan entered Sunday's game against the Royals at the "K" throwing a perfect eighth inning. Most believed Ryan would return in the ninth and get the save in the Jays 5-2 win, but left-hander Jesse Carlson worked the final frame, earning his first save.
Our View: Ryan will eventually be allowed to pitch on back-to-back days, but until the team feels that he's completely healthy, they will continue to take baby steps with their closer. |
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| Kazmir to make rehab start | Monday 4/28, 4:43 PM CT |
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As of Monday, Scott Kazmir will make his last rehab start today and if all goes well, will be scheduled to pitch this weekend against the Red Sox in what will be his season debut.
Our View: The Rays staff didn't rush Kazmir back, and by all reports he is returning at 100 percent with the arm strength to throw 100 pitches right out of the gate. |
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| Smoltz to miss start | Monday 4/28, 4:39 PM CT |
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The Braves team website reports that John Smoltz will likely have to miss his next scheduled start. Smoltz will return to Atlanta on Monday night and be evaluated by the Braves' team doctors the following morning. After completing just four innings against the Mets at Shea Stadium on Sunday afternoon, the veteran pitcher's words and body language spoke volumes about his current shoulder soreness.
Our View: The Braves have several issues to address in their rotation with Smoltz missing a start.
Tom Glavine is coming off the DL on Tuesday, with the hope that his right hamstring is healthy. As for Mike Hampton, he will start for Triple-A Richmond in Durham, N.C., on Wednesday. If all goes well, Hampton could immediately return to the rotation. |
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| Santana set to take hill vs. Pirates | Monday 4/28, 3:33 PM CT |
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Johan Santana will be on the hill tonight when the Mets host the Pirates, according to MLB.com. Santana is 3-2 with a 3.12 ERA and an excellent 0.92 WHIP over 34.2 innings, with 32 strikeouts and only five walks. He is 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA in his career against the Pirates.
Our View: He continues to get more comfortable with the Mets and the National League with each passing start. |
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| Francoeur now holds active streak | Monday 4/28, 3:27 PM CT |
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Jeff Francoeur now holds the active streak with 351 straight games played, as Grady Sizemore just had his leading streak snapped at 382 games due to a sprained ankle, according to MLB.com. Francoeur previously stated that he wants to play all 162 games for the third straight season.
Our View: He still isn't hitting as many home runs as his potential dictates, but he is enjoying a solid campaign nonetheless, with a .294 batting average over 25 games, with three homers and 19 RBI. |
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| V-Mart riding hitting streak | Monday 4/28, 3:22 PM CT |
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Victor Martinez is riding a nine-game hitting streak and will look to keep it going tonight against Mike Mussina and the Yankees, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Martinez is hitting .366 over 71 at-bats, but is yet to hit his first homer of 2008. He has only struck out three times. |
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| Stewart called up | Monday 4/28, 3:14 PM CT |
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Catcher Chris Stewart has been called up from Triple-A Scranton, according to the NY Post. The team made the move, as Jorge Posada has been placed on the DL due to his shoulder ailment.
Our View: Stewart will serve as Jose Molina's backup. Stewart holds no fantasy value. If Jorge Posada is forced to undergo surgery for his injury, then the team would reportedly bring in another veteran catcher. |
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| Posada sees Dr. Andrews, on DL | Monday 4/28, 3:08 PM CT |
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Jorge Posada went to see Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham today, according to the NY Post. The results of Andrews' examination, which likely included a second MRI exam, were not presently available. The Yankees are hoping that Posada's most recent shoulder problems won't require surgery. Two weeks ago there was notably speculation that the diagnosis of a strained muscle was actually a tear in the labrum area.
Our View: Posada was placed on the 15-day DL and the Yankees recalled catcher Chris Stewart from Triple-A Scranton. He will serve as Jose Molina's backup. The team would reportedly seek out another veteran catcher if Posada ultimately needs surgery. We will keep you posted on Posada's status. |
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| Loewen to undergo MRI | Monday 4/28, 2:56 PM CT |
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Adam Loewen is scheduled to undergo an MRI on his injured left elbow on Monday, according to MLB.com. The team will know more pertaining to the extent of his injury tonight, and how long he will need to spend time on the DL. Manager Dave Trembley stated, "Loewen's getting an MRI and a CAT scan and will see team physician Dr. John Wilckens this afternoon. I won't have anything until I get back to Baltimore tomorrow."
Our View: The team wants to be patient with his ailment, and are projected to promote Garrett Olsen from Triple-A Norfolk to cover Loewen's spot in the rotation (on Wednesday). We will keep you posted on Loewen's status, as well as who is officially going to fill his spot while he is out. |
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| Soriano update | Monday 4/28, 2:37 PM CT |
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Alfonso Soriano promises to be ready to play at close to full speed by Thursday when he is set to come of the DL, according to The Chicago Sun Times. Today Soriano had his best, most vigorous workout since injuring his right calf on April 15, and he has another big day of on-field work lined up for Tuesday.
Our View: It remains to be seen how much running Soriano will do when he comes back, but he can still make an impact with his bat. |
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| Coffey sent down | Monday 4/28, 2:31 PM CT |
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Todd Coffey has been optioned to Triple-A Louisville, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. The team called up lefty reliever Bill Bray, and Coffey was seen as expendable to free up a roster spot.
Our View: Coffey allowed 11 earned runs over 15.1 innings, with only five strikeouts and a poor 1.57 WHIP. He held no fantasy value prior to his demotion. |
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| Bray called up | Monday 4/28, 2:27 PM CT |
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The Reds have called up lefty hurler Bill Bray from Triple-A Louisville, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. The team sent down righty Todd Coffey.
Our View: Bray held a 1.04 ERA for Triple-A Louisville over 8.2 innings pitched, with 14 strikeouts, and one save. He will fight for playing time out of the Reds' bullpen, but his fantasy value should be limited. |
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| Cameron to make MIL debut on Tues. | Monday 4/28, 2:20 PM CT |
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Mike Cameron will make his 2008 season debut on Tuesday after serving his 25-game suspension, according to the AP. In October, Cameron was suspended 25 games for a second positive test for a banned stimulant.
Our View: Cameron possesses solid power and his home run totals should improve while he now plays his home games at hitter friendly Miller Field, as opposed to San Diego's pitcher friendly PETCO Park. He will help the Brewers defensively too, as he is a former Gold Glove winner in center field. |
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| Glavine expected to return Tuesday | Monday 4/28, 2:13 PM CT |
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Tom Glavine is expected to return from the DL and could start on Tuesday, according to the AP. The 42-year-old pitcher was placed on the 15-day DL on April 19 for the first time in his 22-year career with a strained right hamstring. The move was retroactive to April 14.
Our View: Glavine will return, but held a 1.68 WHIP over 11.1 innings, with only six strikeouts, and you should leave him on your bench until he proves to be worthy of a starting spot. |
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| Shields named AL Player of Week | Monday 4/28, 2:07 PM CT |
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James Shields has been named the American League Player of the Week, according to the AP. Shields went 2-0 with a 1.13 ERA in two starts for the Rays, and helped lead the team to their first three-game sweep of the Red Sox. Other nominees for the honor were Maggio Ordonez, Josh Hamilton, Chien-Ming Wang, and Cliff Lee.
Our View: Shields is 3-1 overall, with a 2.54 ERA and strong 1.15 WHIP over 39 innings, with 28 strikeouts. He has lived up to expectations as a preseason sleeper, and his fantasy stock will continue to rise. |
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| Berkman named NL Player of Week | Monday 4/28, 1:54 PM CT |
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Lance Berkman has been named the National League Player of the Week, according to the AP. Berkman hit .455 (10-for-22) during the week, leading the NL with 12 RBI and a 1.136 slugging percentage. The veteran also tied for the league lead in home runs with four.
Our View: Berkman is hitting .322 overall, with eight homers and 23 RBI over 25 games. He should remain a strong source of production for your fantasy team. |
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| Masset to take hil Wednesday | Monday 4/28, 1:48 PM CT |
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Manager Ozzie Guillen stated that Nick Masset will start against Minnesota on Wednesday, according to The Chicago Tribune. Guillen doesn't want to bring back lefty John Danks on short rest.
Our View: Masset holds a 3.75 ERA and poor 1.42 WHIP over 12 innings, with 11 strikeouts. He is not worth taking a shot on for his outing on Wednesday, unless you are in grave need for a starter. |
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| Anderson gets call in center field | Monday 4/28, 1:41 PM CT |
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Brian Anderson got the call in center field for the White Sox today, according to the Chicago Tribune. Nick Swisher moved over to right field in place of Jermaine Dye, who is out with a groin ailment. Anderson is batting eighth in the lineup. The game is currently in a rain delay.
Our View: Anderson holds little fantasy value, as he is only 5-for-23 this season, with seven strikeouts. He failed to impress when given a shot to be a starter in Chicago, and will have to settle for a reserve role. |
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| Dye out for Monday | Monday 4/28, 1:36 PM CT |
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Jermaine Dye is out of the lineup for today's game against Baltimore as he is nursing a strained left groin, according to The Chicago Tribune. Nick Swisher moved over to his spot in right field, and Brian Anderson is covering center field. The game is currently in a rain delay.
Our View: Dye only registered two homers and nine RBI over 20 games, but held a .316 average before getting hurt. Manager Ozzie Guillen mentioned that Dye is healthy enough to return, but wanted to give him an extra day of rest. |
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| Zito could get demoted to bullpen? | Monday 4/28, 1:30 PM CT |
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Barry Zito could get demoted to the Giants' bullpen due to poor play as a starter, according to the Mercury News. Zito is 0-6 over six starts, with a 7.53 ERA and 1.95 WHIP. He could either get skipped in the rotation or move to the bullpen, and Manager Bruce Bochy stated, "We've got to do something. We can't keep doing what we're doing and getting what we're getting."
Our View: He is useless as a fantasy performer right now, and a move to the pen would not help his value, as he only has 11 strikeouts over 28.2 innings. Keep him benched until he proves he can be an effective starter again. |
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| Jacobs will sit out Tuesday | Monday 4/28, 1:22 PM CT |
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Mike Jacobs will sit out Tuesday with his finger injury, according to the Orlando Sun Sentinel. He sprained his right middle finger while swinging the bat during game action.
Our View: He would be available as a pinch-hitter and Manager Fredi Gonzalez just wants to give him an extra day to rest his ailment. Wes Welms will likely cover Jacob's spot at first base. Adjust your lineups accordingly. |
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| Lowell likely to return from DL Tues. | Monday 4/28, 12:33 PM CT |
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Mike Lowell is likely to return from the DL on Tuesday, according to the Boston Herald. He was recovering from a sprained left thumb and commented, "I don’t have any pain. Overall, I feel pretty good. I passed the tests they wanted me to pass. I’m looking forward to getting back."
Our View: It is good news that he is returning, but he was only 6-for-30 with no homers or RBI before getting hurt, and you should pencil him back into your lineups with caution for his first game or two back in action. |
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| Snyder to be sent back down | Monday 4/28, 12:27 PM CT |
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Brad Snyder is expected to be sent back down to the minors, according to IndiansConfidential.com. He will be sent down to make room for pitcher Aaron Laffey on the roster, who is expected to start against the Yankees tonight.
Our View: Snyder was only with the Indians for one day, and did not register any playing time. |
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| Laffey to start tonight | Monday 4/28, 12:23 PM CT |
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Aaron Laffey will be called up from the minors to start against the Yankees tonight, according to IndiansConfidential.com. The team originally called up Jeremy Sowers to cover the rotation spot left open by the injured Jake Westbrook, but the team was not pleased with his first outing, and sent him back down. Laffey will now get a shot to cover for Westbrook, and the team is sending down outfielder Brad Snyder to make room on the roster.
Our View: Laffey went 4-2 over nine starts in 2007, with a passable 1.34 WHIP. The team is hopeful he can be more effective than Sowers. |
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| Sizemore not going on DL | Monday 4/28, 12:16 PM CT |
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Manager Eric Wedge said on Sunday that Grady Sizemore will not be placed on the DL due to his sprained ankle, according to IndiansConfidential.com. Wedge said that he’s hoping Grady will be back tonight for the series finale against the Yankees, and that a day of rest and rehab will do the ankle good. It is 50 degrees and could rain throughout the day in Cleveland, so Sizemore may want to sit out another day to risk further injury.
Our View: Sizemore had his 382 consecutive games streak snapped due to the injury, but it sounds like he will be OK. Franklin Gutierrez covered his post in center field, and would make another start if Sizemore is to sit out tonight. |
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| Victorino set to return | Monday 4/28, 12:07 PM CT |
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Shane Victorino is eligible to return from the DL on Tuesday, in time to play against the Padres, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. Manager Charlie Manuel commented that he will proceed with caution when using Victorino. Manuel wants to make sure Victorino's calf, which bothered him last season, doesn't nag him.
Our View: He would return to center field, or would move to right. Jayson Werth has been hot with five homers and 12 RBI over 72 at-bats, and could remain in center upon Victorino's return. Victorino would play either way, and Geoff Jenkins would be the odd man out. |
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| Werth could remain in lineup | Monday 4/28, 11:58 AM CT |
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Shane Victorino could be activated from the DL tomorrow but the team may keep the hot hitting Jayson Werth in the lineup, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. Victorino would naturally replace Werth in center field when he comes back, but the team may move Werth into right field in place of Geoff Jenkins. The team also may leave Werth in center and move Victorino to right. Manager Charlie Manuel stated, "I think right now Werth has shown he can play centerfield. Of course, Victorino at the start of our season, he was our center fielder. When you are hurt, you usually don't lose your job, unless somebody knocks the stuffing out of the ball. If somebody outplays you. I always thought if I was better than somebody, and I beat them out, that I deserved the right to play. And I'm 64 years old, and I still think that way. Now, it's up to that guy to win his job back."
Our View: It would be in the best interest of the Phillies to keep Werth in the lineup, as he is hitting .292 over 72 at-bats, with five homers and 12 RBI with two stolen bases. Werth has the same number of homers and one more RBI than Ryan Howard, on 20 less at-bats. He should be held onto as a member of your fantasy roster when Victorino returns. |
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| Rollins update | Monday 4/28, 11:51 AM CT |
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Jimmy Rollins is eligible to come off the DL on May 5, and he has been taking batting and infield practice in Clearwater while the Phillies were on their recently completed road trip, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. GM Pat Gillick stated that he would like to get Rollins three or four rehab starts before he is activated, but that there is no set plan for when those assignments might begin. Scott Sheridan added, "We'll evaluate him today. Obviously, he's been doing well and we'll see where he's at, but I don't have a rehab schedule or anything set up. Seeing is believing."
Our View: The Phillies are in third place in the NL East with a 14-12 record, and Rollins is needed back soon, especially since fellow stud Ryan Howard is not carrying his weight right now as a hitter. |
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| Chipper feeling better | Monday 4/28, 11:43 AM CT |
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The back spasms that have bothered Chipper Jones have subsided, and he is optimistic he could return to the Braves lineup on Tuesday against the Nationals, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: Martin Prado has performed well while filling in at third base, but he is not a worthy substitute for Jones, as he was hitting .433 over 90 at-bats with seven homers and 20 RBI before being forced out of action by his back. |
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| Escobar could return Tuesday | Monday 4/28, 11:38 AM CT |
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Yunel Escobar is close to returning to the Braves' lineup, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Escobar said that most of the swelling in his left index finger was gone on Sunday, and he said he will be ready to return on Tuesday. Manager Bobby Cox stated that Escobar's status will be decided after he is evaluated again in Washington (the team starts a two-game series against the Nationals on Tuesday).
Our View: Escobar was hitting .310 over 87 at-bats with three homers and 11 RBI before getting hurt. He will be a welcome addition back to the Braves, as well as your fantasy teams. |
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| Soriano unlikely to come off DL Tues? | Monday 4/28, 11:30 AM CT |
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Rafael Soriano has lingering soreness in his ailing right elbow and his bullpen session on Sunday did not go favorably, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. That was his first time on a mound since April 6.
Our View: He was previously believed to be ready to come off the DL and be ready to return to the pen for the Braves' series against Washington on Tuesday, but that does not seem likely following his setback. He could throw two more pen sessions before the team decides if he is ready to come off the DL. Manny Acota holds fantasy value as a closer for a while longer. |
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| Jacobs injury update | Monday 4/28, 11:21 AM CT |
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Mike Jacobs said his injured middle finger won't heal without significant rest, and it is an issue he will have to play with the rest of the season, according to the Miami Herald. After fouling off a 1-1 pitch in the sixth inning during action on Saturday, Jacobs returned to the dugout. Jacobs said, "It hurt too much, I couldn't swing." He added that he gets a numbing sensation in his right hand on certain swings, but the feeling always returns.
Our View: Jacobs was off to a strong start as he belted seven homers and generated 17 RBI over 23 games, and it took a finger injury to slow him down. At least he will be able to play with the injury. |
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| Scherzer called up | Monday 4/28, 11:06 AM CT |
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Max Scherzer has been called up from the minors, according to The Arizona Republic. The team's relievers have been racking up a lot more innings than preferred, and the team added Scherzer as a fresh arm for their bullpen.
Our View: The team still envisions Scherzer to be a future starter in their rotation, and he has been among the hottest pitchers in the minors over the past few weeks, as he holds a 1.17 ERA, while striking out 38 and walking just three in 23 innings over four starts for Triple-A Tucson.
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| Posada to land on DL for first time | Monday 4/28, 9:59 AM CT |
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Jorge Posada is going to land on the DL for the first time in his career, according to the AP. He was battling a recurring shoulder ailment that limited his throwing ability. Posada explained, "An MRI showed a strained muscle, but there is more to it than that. I am going on the DL. We have to be smart about it. It’s very disappointing. It’s the biggest disappointment in my career, probably, being on the DL and not being able to participate in games. It’s really tough. I thought it was coming along, but it’s not. It’s something that we’ve got to find out what’s really bothering me and take it from there." Yankees' manager Joe Girardi did not confirm that Posada would be headed to the DL but said that it “probably” would happen, and Posada may pay a visit to Dr. James Andrews.
Our View: Jose Molina's fantasy stock will rise for the short term until Posada is ready to step back into his catching role. He is worth targeting, namely if you have Posada on your roster. |
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| Foulke getting closer | Monday 4/28, 9:31 AM CT |
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Keith Foulke, who is recovering from neck stiffness, is continuing his long throwing program at the team's complex in Phoenix and he could be on track to pitch in a game on Friday, either at extended spring in Arizona or as a rehab appearance with a minor-league club, according to the SF Chronicle. Because reliever Foulke does not have to build up his arm strength the way a starter would, it's possible he will be back in Oakland's bullpen on their next homestand.
Our View: He will compete for playing time out of the Athletics' pen, but his fantasy value is limited. |
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| Upton will be back in a few days | Monday 4/28, 9:20 AM CT |
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Justin Upton did not start on Sunday because of the hamstring injury he sustained on Saturday, according to The Arizona Republic. Manager Bob Melvin stated, "It's either kind of a deep cramp or a real mild strain."
Our View: Upton is expected to be back in the D-Backs' lineup within a few days. Upton was hitting .333 over 90 at-bats, with five homers and 14 RBI, and it took a hamstring injury to slow him down. |
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| Owings' next start yet to be ruled out | Monday 4/28, 9:16 AM CT |
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The team is yet to rule out Micah Owings' next start for Friday, according to The Arizona Republic. He suffered a mild sprained ankle on Saturday, but was walking without much discomfort on Sunday. Manager Bob Melvin didn't officially rule out Owings being able to make his next start Friday, but with Thursday's off day, he mentioned that Owings can be skipped in the rotation.
Our View: While he may be skipped in the rotation, it sounds like Owings will be fine, which is great for fantasy owners as he is 4-0 with a 1.00 WHIP over 31 innings, with 28 strikeouts. |
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