| Howard swinging with eyes closed? | Wednesday 5/7, 11:58 PM CT |
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Ryan Howard struck out three more time in going 0-for-4 to drop his average down to .163 on the year.
Our View: This is way past alarming folks. Howard has 50, yes 50, K in 123 AB putting Howard on a pace to annihilate the all-time strike record that he currently owns of 199. There is no way the Phillies would bench him, though honestly, the team should consider it at this point. No matter what they do, the simply must drop him down in the order, he is killing the team in the cleanup spot. |
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| Young does deep for 7th time | Wednesday 5/7, 11:54 PM CT |
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Chris Young had two hits, including his seventh home run of the season for the D'backs.
Our View: Young continues to do his thing with seven home runs and 27 runs in 33 games, but he has attempted only three steals on the year and needs to start running a bit more often if he wants to join the 30/30 club this season. |
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| Owings offers hope | Wednesday 5/7, 11:52 PM CT |
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Micah Owings rebounded from two poor outings to allow three runs over seven innings against the Phillies to pick up a no-decision.
Our View: Whew. After an excellent start to the year, Owings had given up 11 runs in his last 10.2 innings so this outing should assuage the feelings of doubt that Owings will continue to be a successful pitcher this season. |
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| Lidge continues to dominate | Wednesday 5/7, 11:50 PM CT |
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Brad Lidge picked up his eighth save of the season on Wednesday night as he ran his scoreless streak to 16 innings with the Phillies.
Our View: Lidge's fastball is once again blazing, and his slider diving, as hitters have been rendered practically useless. Lidge picked up two K on the night and how has 15 in his 16 innings proving that he can still be an ultra successful closer. |
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| Crede in midst of slump | Wednesday 5/7, 11:38 PM CT |
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Joe Crede went 0-for-3 on Wednesday night to drop his season average down to .250.
Our View: After a red hot start, Crede has fallen on hard times over the last 14 games with only five RBI while has average has fallen .054 points. The Sox should have traded him when they had the chance. |
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| Lefty falls to 1-4 | Wednesday 5/7, 11:35 PM CT |
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Mark Buehrle had a rough outing on Wednesday night as he allowed seven runs on nine hits and three walks against the Twins. With the loss he fell to 1-4 with a 5.31 ERA.
Our View: The soft-tossing lefty needs to have pinpoint control or he often struggles. This was the third time in seven starts that Mark has allowed at least five earned runs in a game. |
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| Livan hurls complete game | Wednesday 5/7, 11:33 PM CT |
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Livan Hernandez pitched a complete game on Wednesday night though he lost his shutout in the ninth inning against the White Sox. He allowed one walk and nine hits on the night to improve to 5-1.
Our View: Livan lowered his ERA to 3.66 with the outing. With only 20 K in 51.2 IP, Livan continues to defy the odds by having success despite some mediocre, at best, peripherals. |
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| Sexson out of lineup | Wednesday 5/7, 11:30 PM CT |
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Richie Sexson was not in the lineup on Wednesday night due to "personal reasons", according to the Associated Press. No further details are available.
Our View: Sexon, who is slowly starting to find his stroke, is still batting .209 on the year giving him a .206 average over his last 549 AB. |
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| Craig blasts two homers for Springfield | Wednesday 5/7, 11:29 PM CT |
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Allen Craig hit a pair of home runs for Double-A Springfield on Wednesday, giving him six for the season.
Our View: Craig is not often mentioned among the Cardinals’ best prospects, but he has shown a solid bat as a pro. He is hitting .284-6-28 this season, which follows up on his .311-24-80 season mostly at High-A in 2007. We could see him in the majors as early as September. |
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| Bowden has another excellent start | Wednesday 5/7, 11:27 PM CT |
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Michael Bowden allowed only one hit in 6.2 scoreless innings for Double-A Portland on Wednesday. He walked one batter and struck out three to improve his record to 2-3.
Our View: Bowden’s ERA is now down to 2.68 through seven starts. He has No. 2 starter upside and is picking up where he left off last season as one of the best prospects in the minors. |
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| Stewart showing pop in Triple-A | Wednesday 5/7, 11:26 PM CT |
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Ian Stewart hit a pair of home runs and drove in six baserunners for Triple-A Colorado Springs on Wednesday.
Our View: The former first-round pick is hitting .254-9-29 this season, and he just turned 23 in early April. Stewart may not have a future in Colorado due to Garrett Atkins, but he is still a quality hitting prospect that should get a major league opportunity at some point within the next year. |
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| Gomez hits for cylce | Wednesday 5/7, 11:22 PM CT |
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Carlos Gomez hit for the cycle on Wednesday night to become the first Twin to accomplish the feat in almost 22 years since Kirby Puckett in 1986, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Gomez went 4-for-6 with two runs scored and three RBI on the night, so we won't mention the fact that he didn't steal a base. Oops, we just did. |
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| Ellsbury full of two's | Wednesday 5/7, 11:15 PM CT |
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Jacoby Ellsbury had two hits, two runs and two SB for the Red Sox.
Our View: Ellsbury is now 22-for-22 on SB attempts in his career, the best mark to start a career for a Red Sox player since 1920. A little power would be nice, but we'd take 50 SB with nary a complaint. |
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| Papelbon picks up blown save | Wednesday 5/7, 11:13 PM CT |
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Jonathan Papelbon allowed a broken bat single to Placido Polanco to allow two runs to score as he picked up his first loss and blown save of the season to the Tigers.
Our View: Both runs were unearned thanks to Julio Lugo, but no one is perfect including Papelbon now. Of course, this does nothing to diminish the value of Papelbon, it's just one of those things that happens. |
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| Polanco has five hits | Wednesday 5/7, 11:10 PM CT |
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Placido Polanco slapped five hits all over the yard for the Tigers on his way to two runs and three RBI.
Our View: Polanco, who was batting .174 has raised his average to .270 in the past nine games, eight of which he has recorded a hit in. Career .304 hitters don't struggle forever you know. |
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| Lowell goes deep | Wednesday 5/7, 11:08 PM CT |
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Mike Lowell had his second big game in three nights with a home run, three hits and three RBI against the Tigers.
Our View: Lowell has finally found his stroke after dealing with injury for most of the early season. Lowell still figures to be a top-15 third basemen this year if he can stay on the field, so keep that in mind if his name comes up in trade talks. |
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| Youkilis has another big night | Wednesday 5/7, 11:06 PM CT |
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Kevin Youkilis hit two home runs on his way to two runs scored and three RBI for the Sox.
Our View: Youkilis continues to have another solid season for the Red Sox, and in fact, it can be argued that he is the team's MVP so far. Youkilis is hitting .317 with 25 RBI and 23 runs through 33 games, so role him out there with confidence. |
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| Mendoza progressing nicely | Wednesday 5/7, 11:01 PM CT |
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Luis Mendoza (shoulder) is closer to returning to the Rangers rotation after he threw 45 pitches and reported no pain on Wednesday, according to MLB.com. "It felt really good," Mendoza said. "No problems. No more soreness. No more pain. Nothing."
Our View: Even with this new news, Mendoza is still a couple of weeks away from returning as the team has him scheduled to throw a simulated game this Saturday to be followed by a couple of minor league starts to build up his endurance. |
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| Iannetta continues to frustrate the Cards | Wednesday 5/7, 11:00 PM CT |
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The Colorado Rockies pulled out a hard-fought 4-3 win over the St. Louis Cardinals this evening, but the hitting wasn't necessarily in full Colorado form. Only one hitter managed to post more than one hit on the evening, but catcher Chris Iannetta made the best of an otherwise worrisome performance. Iannetta went 1-for-4 at the plate with two strike outs, but that one hit was a triple, good for two RBIs.
Our View: Iannetta is now hitting .353 on the season and has torched the Cardinals, going 6-for-12 with four RBIs. |
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| Patterson suffers setback | Wednesday 5/7, 10:58 PM CT |
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As often happens with injured pitchers, John Patterson suffered a setback on Wednesday as he had to be shut down during his second start after experiencing soreness in his right forearm, according to MLB.com. "He was not happy with the way the ball was coming out of his hand, and he had some pain in his forearm again," Rangers pitching coach Mark Connor said. "Everything was going well until that second start."
Our View: Patterson is a long shot to add much of anything to the Rangers in the first half of the season, and at this point his ability to add anything at any point has to be in question. |
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| Young injures hip, leaves game | Wednesday 5/7, 10:55 PM CT |
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Michael Young flew out to shallow right field off of Erik Bedard and then was removed from the game with a injured left hip flexor according to the Star Telegram.
Our View: Young, who is hitting .375 over his last 14 games, needs to avoid a trip to the DL if he wishes to extend his streak of 200-hit seasons to six seasons. Check back for more details on this injury. |
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| Wainwright shines, but no decision | Wednesday 5/7, 10:55 PM CT |
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St. Louis RHP Adam Wainwright failed to earn the victory (leaving with no decision), but the starter put his best on the mound to help the Cardinals fight in a 4-3 loss to the Colorado Rockies. Wainwright pitched seven full innings, holding the Rockies without a single run on just four hits, walking two and striking out three.
Our View: That brings Wainwright to a lowly 2.25 ERA with a strong BB/K ratio. |
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| Anderson on torrid streak | Wednesday 5/7, 10:52 PM CT |
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Garret Anderson hit his fifth home run of the season on Wednesday night to give him three home runs and nine RBI in his last three games.
Our View: Anderson has become a streaky hitter the past few years, and he can certainly go on an extended tear if he can stay healthy (he had 65 RBI over his last 68 games last season). There is nothing wrong with picking him up and inserting him in your lineup while he is hot, he can still hit. |
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| Ludwick stays hot | Wednesday 5/7, 10:50 PM CT |
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St. Louis OF Ryan Ludwick earned another start this evening thanks to his hot bat, and he kept the optimism flowing despite the 4-3 loss to the Colorado Rockies. Ludwick went 2-for-4 with his fifth home run of the season, totaling two RBIs.
Our View: The kid went 1-for-1 against the Rocks on Monday, then 4-for-4 last night. He seems to like life at a mile high hitters park. |
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| Napoli hits eighth HR | Wednesday 5/7, 10:47 PM CT |
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Mike Napoli connected for his eighth home run of the season on Wednesday night for the Angels. The three hits he had on the might pushed his average to .273.
Our View: With Jeff Mathis in a slump, perhaps the Angels will lean on Napoli more often as he has now knocked eight taters in just 65 AB on the year. |
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| Pujols struggling to work as leader | Wednesday 5/7, 10:46 PM CT |
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St. Louis 1B Albert Pujols may be the king of the hill, but he's not above occasional shortcomings. In the Cards' 4-3 loss to the Colorado Rockies, Pujols went 1-for-5 at the dish with no runs scored, no RBIs, and eight men left on base.
Our View: Pujols has posted more than a few one-hit performances in recent weeks, but he has just two homers since April 19th and is struggling to drive runs home. |
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| Guillen languishing below .200 | Wednesday 5/7, 10:36 PM CT |
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Jose Guillen had three hits and scored two runs for the Royals, but despite the solid night, he is still batting just .185 with only with 14 runs in 32 games.
Our View: This outing snaps a 1-for-21 slump, but Guillen has just been awful this season. You are a glutton for failure if Guillen is anywhere near your lineup at the moment, but perhaps this outing will propel him to being the hitter he always has been. |
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| Oswalt misses win but pitches well | Wednesday 5/7, 10:36 PM CT |
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Houston RHP Roy Oswalt wasn't as dominating as normal and resulted in a no-decision, but his effort was strong nonetheless as the Astros put the 4-3 win over the Washington Nationals on the board. Oswalt pitched seven innings, allowing three runs on six hits with two walks and nine strike outs on the evening.
Our View: It brings Oswalt to a surprising 5.33 ERA, though he now has three wins and two no-decisions in his last five starts. |
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| Gordon finally homers | Wednesday 5/7, 10:32 PM CT |
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Alex Gordon hit his fourth home run of the season for the season on Wednesday night for the Royals to break a 20-game homerless drought.
Our View: Gordon has been a disappointment this season with a .280 average and 15 RBI in 33 games. Gordon is immensely talented, but he has been rolling over on too many balls in the early going. Once he fixes that fact, his numbers could take off. |
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| Kaz swipes two bases in win over Nats | Wednesday 5/7, 10:29 PM CT |
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The box score from Houston's 4-3 win over the Washington Nationals shows 2B Kazuo Matsui failed to garner a single hit, but that doesn't mean he wasn't a force. Matsui went 0-for-2 at the plate, but he garnered three walks and swiped two bags
Our View: That brings Matsui to six stolen bases on the season. |
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| Second baseman has three hits | Wednesday 5/7, 10:26 PM CT |
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Mark Grudzielanek went 3-for-3 with two runs scored to push his batting average up to .302.
Our View: Mark owns a career .289 average and has posted at least a .294 average in each of the last five seasons, and though it is a hollow number, he still has a lot of value in AL Only leagues. |
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| Berkman goes off (again) in win over Nats | Wednesday 5/7, 10:24 PM CT |
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Touting what may be the hottest bat in the National League, Houston 1B Lance Berkman put forth his eighth consecutive hit this evening before finally suffering an out as the Astros put the 4-3 win on the board against Washington. Berkman went 2-for-3 at the plate with two walks and his 11th home run of the season, also adding his 33rd RBI of the season
Our View: Berkman's streak was impressive, bringing him to 14-for-21 for the month of May, adding three home runs with eight RBIs.
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| Greinke now 4-1 | Wednesday 5/7, 10:21 PM CT |
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Zack Greinke improved to 4-1 with a solid performance against the Angels as he allowed five hits, two walks and three runs over seven innings. He also struck out eight batters.
Our View: Greinke continues to display some of the best stuff in all of baseball in what is becoming a stunning turnaround from his off-field struggles of the recent past. Keep throwing those strikes Zack. |
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| Zimmerman batters Oswalt, but Nats fall | Wednesday 5/7, 10:19 PM CT |
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The Nationals may have suffered a heartbreaking 4-3 loss at the hands of the Houston Astros, but 3B Ryan Zimmerman put his best effort forth to reverse the fortunes and came up just a bit short. Zimmerman went 3-for-4 at the dish, hitting two home runs (both off Roy Oswalt) to total three RBIs.
Our View: Zimmerman hasn't been the offensive power the Nats need, but tonight's performance against one of the best pitchers in the NL shows the potential for better days is on hand. |
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| Weaver looks awful in loss | Wednesday 5/7, 10:09 PM CT |
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Jered Weaver was bombed for 10 hits, a walk, and eight earned runs in his fifth loss of the season for the Angels in just 3.1 innings of work.
Our View: It doesn't get much uglier than this. Weaver's ERA sits at 5.59 and his WHIP is 1.48, so unless he is hiding some type of injury he would make a solid buy low candidate because he is a much better pitcher than this. |
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| V-Mart loses hitting streak | Wednesday 5/7, 10:02 PM CT |
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Victor Martinez returned to fill the DH role on Wednesday, and though he produced an RBI on the night, he failed to record a hit to lose his 15-game hitting streak.
Our View: It's tough to dog a guy who is hitting .337 from the catchers position, but he has fewer home runs than D'backs pitcher Micah Owings this season (zero). That can't be good can it? |
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| Francisco making most of chance | Wednesday 5/7, 9:59 PM CT |
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Ben Francisco continued his solid start to the season with two more hits giving him a .357 average in 14 AB.
Our View: If Francisco keeps hitting like this he will certainly find himself in the lineup on a daily basis. His value would also receive a huge boost if he were to remain in the number two spot in the Indians order. |
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| Matsui continues streaking | Wednesday 5/7, 9:53 PM CT |
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Hideki Matsui went 1-for-4 top extend his hitting streak to 16-games on Wednesday night.
Our View: Matsui is now hitting .339 which has helped to offset a bit of a slow start with the power stroke (one home run in 18 games). Matsui will end up with his .300-25-100 season just like always, so just be patient. |
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| Hanley being Hanley | Wednesday 5/7, 9:51 PM CT |
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Once again, Florida SS Hanley Ramirez works as the force of reckoning in the Marlins' 6-2 win over the Milwaukee Brewers. Ramirez went 2-for-2 at the dish, adding two walks, two runs scored, and his 12th stolen base of the season.
Our View: This is only his second multi-hit game this month, but his average is now up to .328 on the season. |
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| Wang falls to Yanks | Wednesday 5/7, 9:47 PM CT |
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Chien-Ming Wang lost his first game of the season as he allowed three runs in seven innings against the Indians.
Our View: After a bit of a rough start, Wang found his groove and ended up with solid numbers on the night. He will continue to win games, but you have to be a little concerned that his ERA will stay in the low 3's. |
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| Lee dominates Yankees | Wednesday 5/7, 9:42 PM CT |
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Cliff Lee continued his amazing start on Wednesday as he hurled seven shutout innings against the Yankees to improve to 6-0 on the season.
Our View: Through six starts, Lee owns a 0.81 ERA with two BB in 47.2 IP. Lee isn't Sandy Koufax, but no one is pitching better right now. Obviously this cannot continue, and it might be a great idea to try and move Lee for a struggling stud to a team that is willing to buy high. |
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| Badenhop earns first win versus Brew crew | Wednesday 5/7, 9:42 PM CT |
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Florida RHP Burke Badenhop didn't work too deep into the start, but his effort was enough to garner the win, beating the Milwaukee Brewers 6-2. Badenhop pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on five hits while walking just one and striking out seven.
Our View: Badenhop's first win of the season easily ranks as his best to date. |
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| Weeks lone note in Brewers loss | Wednesday 5/7, 9:39 PM CT |
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The Brewers failed to post a single player capable of posting multiple hits in this evening's loss to the Florida Marlins, 6-2, leaving leadoff man 2B Rickie Weeks as the lone player of note. Weeks went 1-for-4, hitting his 5th home run of the season to total two RBIs.
Our View: Weeks has struggled mightily, now hitting just .194 on the season. |
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| Longoria struggling at the dish | Wednesday 5/7, 9:28 PM CT |
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Evan Longoria had another 0-for outing on Wednesday as he went 0-for-3 to drop his average to .220.
Our View: With the two K today, Longoria now has as many K (23) as games played, and he has just one RBI in his last eight games. He hasn't looked completely overmatched at the plate, but he looks a lot like Alex Gordon in his first year compared to Albert Pujols in his first season. Keep your expectations within the realm of reason with Longoria. |
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| Pena just can't hit | Wednesday 5/7, 9:21 PM CT |
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In our nightly Carlos Pena update, it's more of the same as Pena went 0-for-4 with another three K for the Rays.
Our View: Pena now has four RBI over the last 21 games, and he has 42 K in just 115 AB, meaning that he is striking out more than a third of the time that he picks up an AB. At this point, you need to give series consideration to benching him and just leaving him there until he shows something, anything, as he is simply killing his teams. |
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| Nady pushes RBIs in Pirates win | Wednesday 5/7, 9:20 PM CT |
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In what is becoming a bit of a trend, Pittsburgh OF Xavier Nady once again produced in support of a Pirates win, taking the San Francisco Giants to task 3-1. Nady went just 1-for-4 at the plate with two strike outs, but that one hit was his fifth home run of the year, good for two RBIs.
Our View: He would probably reflect on the four runners left on base, but Nady now stands at 9-for-22 with six runs scored and eight RBIs on the month of May. |
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| Upton breaks up shutout | Wednesday 5/7, 9:18 PM CT |
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B.J. Upton broke up a shutout in the ninth inning with a two run double for the Rays.
Our View: Upton is batting .295 on the year, but he has only one long ball in his last 18 games, and only two more SB (6) than CS (4). It's too early to tell if the shoulder is bothering him, but he has looked pretty good moving around since the injury. |
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| Molina puts best foot forward versus Pitt | Wednesday 5/7, 9:15 PM CT |
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The Giants suffered the 3-1 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates this evening, but catcher Bengie Molina did what he could to produce different results. Molina went 2-for-4, posting his 20th RBI of the season.
Our View: Molina has struggled to keep the batting average up, now at 5-for-18 in the month of May. |
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| Scutaro starts, has three hits | Wednesday 5/7, 9:12 PM CT |
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Marco Scutaro, starting at shortstop with David Eckstein and John McDonald injured, went 3-for-4 with two RBI for the Jays.
Our View: Scutaro is still best left as a AL Only player, but these extra few AB he is in line to pick up will certainly give his owners the warm and fuzzies. |
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| Rolen showing power | Wednesday 5/7, 9:09 PM CT |
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Scott Rolen hit his second home run of the season on Wednesday night as he went 2-for-4 with one run scored and two RBI for the Jays.
Our View: This was the second time in 11 games that Rolen had multiple hits in a game, and it helped to break up a 1-for-9 spell. Rolen still has a lot to prove, but it seems like he finally might be rounding back into shape. |
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| Dumatrait earns first win over San Fran | Wednesday 5/7, 9:09 PM CT |
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Pittsburgh LHP Phil Dumatrait picked up his first win of the season, putting the San Francisco Giants to bed 3-1. Dumatrait pitched 5 2/3 innings, holding the Giants scoreless with three hits allowed. Dumatrait surrendered just one walk but threw five strike outs.
Our View: This was Dumatrait's longest appearance of the short season thus far, but his control has really rounded into form. Over his last four outings, the hurler has "balanced" four walks allowed against 16 total strike outs. |
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| Garza looks good again | Wednesday 5/7, 9:05 PM CT |
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Matt Garza pitched extremely well on Wednesday night though he still picked up his first loss of the season. In 6.2 IP, Garza allowed one run on three walks and six hits.
Our View: Garza has now allowed just three runs over his last two starts and is starting to round into form for the Rays. This may be your last chance to get him on the cheap before he takes off, so keep that in mind if you need some help in the starting rotation. |
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| Zito suffers loss, but improves | Wednesday 5/7, 9:04 PM CT |
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In his first start in some time, San Francisco LHP Barry Zito suffered another loss but showed signs of improvement. Zito pitched five innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on five hits with two walks versus five strike outs.
Our View: Zito now carries a record of 0-7 with an ERA of 6.95, and while the hope of once again working as a contributing member of the rotation is the goal, this is a noteworthy step in the right direction. |
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| Marcum lowers ERA to 2.59 | Wednesday 5/7, 9:02 PM CT |
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Shaun Marcum improved to 4-2 as he allowed just two runs in 8.2 innings against the Rays. On the night, Marcum walked one and struck out nine.
Our View: Marcum was one out from a complete game shutout, but had to settle for the numbers above. Marcum now has an 8.14 K/9 mark, one of the main reasons he has enjoyed so much success in the early going. He is looking a potential breakout season square in the face and he isn't blinking. |
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| Chipper just keeps hitting | Wednesday 5/7, 9:00 PM CT |
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Veteran Chipper Jones continues to get the job done for the Atlanta Braves, once again smacking the ball around the yard in the 5-2 win over the San Diego Padres this evening. Jones went 2-for-4, hitting his seventh double of the season.
Our View: That brings Jones' batting average to .429, touting four multi-hit games through five May battles (10-for-19, two home runs, eight RBIs). |
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| McCann sets pace in Atlanta win | Wednesday 5/7, 8:56 PM CT |
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He failed to drive in a single run, but Atlanta catcher Brian McCann was the top man with the bat in the Braves' 5-2 win over the San Diego Padres. McCann went 3-for-4 at the plate, posting four total bases with one run scored.
Our View: McCann has carried a strong bat into May for the Braves, going 8-for-19 thus far with five RBIs, four walks, and no strike outs. |
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| Kouzmanoff puts bat to use in loss to ATL | Wednesday 5/7, 8:50 PM CT |
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The Padres are struggling to maintain consistent performance on the field, but 3B Kevin Kouzmanoff has been doing what he can to set the tone for progress. Tonight Kouzmanoff went 2-for-4 at the plate in the Padres' 5-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves, hitting his fifth double of the season and adding a run scored to the stat line.
Our View: Over his last seven games, Kouz has gone 12-for-28, failing to suffer a single strike out along the way. |
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| Hudson gathers fifth win, beating Padres | Wednesday 5/7, 8:45 PM CT |
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Atlanta RHP Tim Hudson made the start for the Braves this evening and picked up his fifth win of the season, putting the San Diego Padres in the loss column 5-2. Hudson threw seven innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on six hits with three walks and three strike outs earned along the way.
Our View: Hudson now carries a record of 5-2 on the season with an impressive 30 strike outs versus just eight walks surrendered. |
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| Redman to pen for Rockies | Wednesday 5/7, 8:19 PM CT |
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The Colorado Rockies have announced their decision to send LHP Mark Redman to the bullpen, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Redman has struggled in recent starts and the team feels he would be best served as a middle reliever. Manager Clint Hurdle has not announced his plans for Redman's next scheduled start on Sunday. The team is believed to be working on a trade to add a potential starter, but a failure to do so is likely to result in minor league call-up. At this time, Triple-A Colorado Springs pitcher Greg Reynolds seems likely to get the call. We will update as news becomes available. |
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| Jacobs leaves with leg injury | Wednesday 5/7, 8:15 PM CT |
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Florida 1B Mike Jacobs has left tonight's game against the Brewers with what the team reports is a tight left quad, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Jacobs was removed in the 3rd inning after he pulled up on a two-run double. He began limping as he approached first base and slowly jogged to second. First base coach Andy Fox, manager Fredi Gonzalez, and assistant trainer Mike Kozak came to his assistance and helped him off the field. He was replaced by Wes Helms as a pinch runner. Jacobs leads the Marlins with nine home runs and 24 RBIs. |
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| Willis taking slow road | Wednesday 5/7, 8:07 PM CT |
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Dontrelle Willis is slowly working back from the most recent setback with his injured knee, according to MLB.com. "I think Dontrelle's doing [his rehab] the right way," manager Jim Leyland said.
Our View: Willis hopes to throw off the mound this weekend and to make a minor league start next week. Form there, it really depends on what shape he is physically in as to when he we be called back up to Detroit. |
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| Eckstein to avoid DL | Wednesday 5/7, 8:01 PM CT |
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David Eckstein will avoid the DL despite an injured hip, according to MLB.com. "Eckstein, in a pinch, could probably do something," GM J.P. Ricciardi said. "It's nothing really serious. He's pretty much day-to-day, so we're going to try to see if we can keep him playing." Injured John McDonald (ankle) will also avoid the DL.
Our View: Jorge Velandia was called up to give the team some depth until Eckstein and McDonald are ready to go. |
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| Moehler to start on Friday | Wednesday 5/7, 7:55 PM CT |
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Houston RHP Brian Moehler completed his second simulated game today as he prepares to return to the mound as the Astros' starting pitcher on Friday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Moehler is scheduled to replace Wandy Rodriguez in the rotation while the Houston lefty continues his effort to rehab from a groin injury, a start that will mark Moehler's first since September of 2006. Moehler also completed a simulated outing on Saturday, though Moehler has seen just five opportunities to pitch in league games this season. The team expects Rodriguez to miss at least two starts beyond Friday. |
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| Markakis has three hits | Wednesday 5/7, 7:47 PM CT |
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Nick Markakis had three hits and a run scored for the Orioles on Wednesday and is now hitting .270 on the season.
Our View: Markakis has been in a slump that has dropped his average from .324 to .270 over his last 13 games during which time he has only four RBI. He is too good not to rebound, so ride out the rough play and wait for better days. |
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| Suzuki hits first home run | Wednesday 5/7, 7:43 PM CT |
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Kurt Suzuki had two hits, including his first home run of the season on Wednesday for the A's. Suzuki ended the day with two hits, two runs and two RBI.
Our View: Suzuki has been on a hot streak of late that has vaulted his average with hits in nine of his last 10 games. Look for him to continue to provide value as a depth catcher. |
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| Guthrie continues decent start | Wednesday 5/7, 7:38 PM CT |
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Jeremy Guthrie picked up the no-decision on Wednesday as he allowed four runs over 5.2 innings to the A's. Guthrie struck out six while allowing eight base runners.
Our View: Guthrie had gone six straight starts allowing three or less runs, and this was the fourth straight time he has put up at least five K. Look for him to continue to post solid but unremarkable numbers. |
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| Marte in lineup again | Wednesday 5/7, 7:33 PM CT |
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Andy Marte made his second straight start at third base on Wednesday as the team might be giving him one last chance to make his mark, according to MLB.com. "We want to give him a chance to play two days in a row," manager Eric Wedge said. "I felt he had some decent swings [on Tuesday] night."
Our View: Casey Blake shifted to first base on this night to allow Marte to be in the lineup. Marte is running out of chances to prove he is the Indians third baseman of the future, and with no minor league options left, the team could end up placing him on waivers if he doesn't start to show something. |
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| Kendrick out until next week | Wednesday 5/7, 7:29 PM CT |
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Howie Kendrick suffered yet another setback in his recovery from an injured hamstring and he will likely not be back with the Angels until sometime next week, according to MLB.com. "Hamstrings are a life of their own," manager Mike Scioscia said. "Sometimes the last 10 percent can take some time. We want to make sure this thing is 100 percent. The fact he still feels it is indicative that he needs more time.
Our View: Kendrick has felt fine hitting, but when running or trying to field his position he just doesn't feel right. With Chone Figgins and Macier Izturis dealing with their own injuries, Sean Rodriguez should continue to play second for the Angels. |
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| Lowrie to stay in Boston | Wednesday 5/7, 7:24 PM CT |
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Jed Lowrie not only started on Wednesday for the Red Sox to give Dustin Pedroia a day off, he has endeared himself to manager Terry Francona who said that even when Alex Cora is activated from the DL Lowrie will stay with the team, according to MLB.com. "He's done a great job of playing a couple times a week, and not letting his swing get long, making the plays, trying to listen," Francona said.
Our View: Lowrie was the Sox Minor League Player of the Year last season as he hit .297, and though he likely should be playing everyday at this point of his career, he will stick around as a utility player for the time being. Feel free to pick him up in deep AL Only leagues. |
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| Padres purchasing Estes to help bullpen | Wednesday 5/7, 7:07 PM CT |
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Updating a rumor we reported earlier today, the San Diego Padres have confirmed their intentions to purchase the contract of LHP Shawn Estes on Thursday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The team reports Estes will be in uniform for the Padres' final game of a three-game series against the Atlanta Braves and will used to bolster a struggling bullpen. As a result, RHP Kevin Cameron will be placed on the 15-day DL with a first-degree sprained ulnar collateral ligament of his right elbow, an injury suffered just three pitches into his appearance in Tuesday's 5-3 loss to the Braves. Estes was 4-2 with an ERA of 3.67 in six starts for Triple-A Portland. |
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| Loaiza to 15-day DL | Wednesday 5/7, 7:02 PM CT |
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Dodgers RHP Esteban Loaiza will be place on the 15-day disabled list on Friday, according to LA Daily News.
Our View: The team reports Loaiza is experiencing tightness and spasms in his throwing shoulder, problems believed to be a primary cause for Loaiza's inability to maintain and hold a six-run lead in Colorado on Saturday. The move to the DL will be retroactive to Sunday and is believed to all but guarantee a spot in the starting rotation for Chan Ho Park, coming off three perfect innings of work today. |
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| Botts sent down | Wednesday 5/7, 7:01 PM CT |
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Jason Botts, who was designated for assignment last week, passed through waivers and well be outrighted to Triple-A, according to the Star Telegram.
Our View: Botts wanted to move on as he has grown tired of the Rangers yo-yo action with him. He will look to make a statement at Triple-A in the hopes of making it back to the show quickly. |
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| MRI for Soriano brings good news | Wednesday 5/7, 6:56 PM CT |
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The Atlanta Braves report closer Rafael Soriano's right elbow appears to be fine, suffering no tears or other structural damage, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: Soriano underwent a MRI exam today which revealed no significant concerns, excellent news for the Braves. Soriano is expected to resume throwing exercises, but the team has put no timetable on his expected return. Soriano has been on the DL since April 9th with what was originally diagnosed as elbow tendinitis. However, the lack of progress over recent weeks led the Braves to push Soriano into further testing, fearing the worst. "That was a great relief," said manager Frank Wren. "What we were really trying to do was rule out a compromised ligament or stress fracture. So that was good news." |
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| Hennessey demoted to minors | Wednesday 5/7, 6:49 PM CT |
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The Giants have optioned RHP Brad Hennessey to Triple-A Fresno, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: The team will recall RHP Billy Sadler, touting a record of 0-0 with an ERA of 1.13 in 16 innings of work for Fresno, to fill the spot left vacant by Hennessey's demotion. Hennessey was 4-5 with a 3.42 ERA in 69 games with the Giants last season and had struggled to perform this season, allowing 23 earned runs and 38 hits in 16 innings. |
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| Chico out, O'Connor in for Washington rotation | Wednesday 5/7, 6:43 PM CT |
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The Washington Nationals have named LHP Mike O'Connor as their starting pitcher for Saturday night's home game against the Florida Marlins, taking the place of LHP Matt Chico, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The Nats have decided to move Chico to the bullpen, suffering through struggles with a record of 0-5 and an ERA of 7.18. Chico has not lasted beyond the fifth inning in each of his last four starts and simply isn't getting the job done. "It's not a tryout, one-game type of thing," manager Manny Acta said. "We want to relieve Matt from some of the tension he's having. And we want to give O'Connor a shot. [Chico's] having some trouble every five days, and he understands that." O'Connor is 1-0 with an ERA of 7.71 in three relief appearances since being called up from Triple-A on April 24th. With Triple-A Columbus, O'Connor went 2-0 with an ERA of 1.96 in four starts, striking out 20 and walking just four over 23 innings of work. |
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| Blanton solid but unspectacular | Wednesday 5/7, 6:30 PM CT |
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Joe Blanton limited the Orioles to just two runs in five innings on Wednesday, but he also allowed 10 base runners in a no-decision.
Our View: Blanton continues to be a serviceable starter, albeit it one with limited upside. There is still a chance he could be traded at some point, which might be the only way his value will improve this season. |
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| Ellis wins it for A's | Wednesday 5/7, 6:27 PM CT |
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Mark Ellis broke an 0-for-17 spell with a hit in the sixth inning, and he went on to make it a joyous afternoon in Oakland as he also hit a game-winning home run in the 10th inning.
Our View: Ellis had a career best season last year with 19 HR and 76 RBI, and while it might be stretching it to expect him to repeat those numbers, it is clear that he isn't a .223 hitter. Perhaps this will spark him on a nice little hot streak. |
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| Hoffman hoping to get into games | Wednesday 5/7, 6:26 PM CT |
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Closer Trevor Hoffman is hoping to see more opportunities to hit the mound in the coming weeks, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Hoffman has rarely been used by the Padres this season, having appeared in just three of the past 17 games with no appearances thus far in the month of May, typically a wonderful time of the season for the once-dominating reliever (Hoffman carries a career ERA of 2.21 in May). Hoffman suggests the lack of work has not been a concern, but he yearns to see more save opportunities and to contribute rather than working in the bullpen or on the side. "I prefer to do long toss and get side work... Game situations are good to be in but at the same time, I like to be fresh," said Hoffman. |
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| Ortiz finding groove at plate | Wednesday 5/7, 6:12 PM CT |
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In case you haven't noticed, David Ortiz is once again, well David Ortiz, according to MLB.com. "He's getting it back," Red Sox manager Terry Francona said. "I think he's taking more aggressive swings..."
Our View: After a 3-for-43 start to the year, Ortiz is hitting .309 though his average still sits at .226 overall. Ortiz has 27 RBI though 31 games, so his struggles at the plate haven't stopped him from knocking in runs. |
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| Hudson has strained hamstring | Wednesday 5/7, 5:57 PM CT |
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Orlando Hudson had an MRI on his hamstring which revealed a strain, according to MLB.com. "Whether it's two, three, four, or five days, we're not really sure," Arizona manager Bob Melvin said. "So we're going to have to process that here in the next couple of days and see what we're going to do."
Our View: The team could still decide to place Hudson on the DL but they will wait a day or two at least before making that call. Meanwhile, Chris Burke will likely pick up a some more work, that is if he can bring up his putrid .140 batting average. |
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| Rivera wins April award | Wednesday 5/7, 5:52 PM CT |
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Mariano Rivera was awarded the DHL Major League Delivery Man of the Month of April, according to MLB.com. Rivera went 8-for-8 on the month with a perfect 0.00 ERA.
Our View: Rivera continues to be one of the best reliever in the game and reports of his demise have been greatly exaggerated. Consider yourself lucky if you grabbed him in the middle of the closer run on draft day. |
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| Casanova makes most of start | Wednesday 5/7, 5:46 PM CT |
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Raul Casanova took advantage of a starting gig on Wendesday to produce two hits, two runs and two RBI for the Mets.
Our View: Brian Schneider is obviously the teams starter at catcher, but Casanova has done a great job filling in when needed, and today was a great example of that. |
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| Wright struggling with stroke | Wednesday 5/7, 5:41 PM CT |
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David Wright had a hit and two RBI for the Mets in their 12-1 victory over the Dodgers.
Our View: Wright is hitting a sickly .262, though don't forget that he was hitting .246 on this date last year before going on a tear to hit .325. Given that, he's a lock to bat .340 this year right? |
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| Church continues to excel | Wednesday 5/7, 5:39 PM CT |
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Ryan Church upped his average to .328 thanks to three hits on Wednesday in a game in which he also scored three times giving him 27 runs in 31 games for the Mets.
Our View: Church is making those owners who took a chance on him in the later rounds look like geniuses. His fantasy value would likely be a bit higher if the Mets left him in the second hole, but he should still be plenty valuable if he can stay in the fifth spot as well. |
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| Kemp extends hitting streak | Wednesday 5/7, 5:37 PM CT |
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Matt Kemp went 1-for-4 with an RBI to extend his hitting streak to 12-games on Wednesday.
Our View: Kemp seems entrenched in the middle of the Dodgers lineup, a position he likely should have held from opening day forward. While the .330 likely isn't sustainable, Kemp figures to be a 5x5 force for the rest of the season. |
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| Maine dominates Dodgers | Wednesday 5/7, 5:34 PM CT |
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John Maine took a shutout into the ninth inning against the Dodgers before he allowed a run as he went 8.1 innings to pick up his fourth victory of the season.
Our View: Amazingly, this was the first time all season that a Mets pitcher reached the eighth inning. Maine lowered his ERA to 3.00 with this effort, and it was encouraging to see him walk only two batters in this outing after struggling with his control in some of his outings. |
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| Penny destroyed by Mets | Wednesday 5/7, 5:29 PM CT |
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Brad Penny had the worst start of his career on Wednesday as he allowed a career worst 10 runs in just 4.2 innings against the Mets. Penny allowed three walks and 10 hits, the third time this season in just eight starts that he has allowed 10 hits.
Our View: Penny's ERA went from 3.19 to 4.79 in this one outing. We have been warning you all year about Penny who was getting by despite terrible peripherals. Penny has 22 K and 17 BB leading to a 4.21 K/9 mark, and there are very few pitchers alive that can have long term success with numbers like that. |
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| Pedroia to get night off | Wednesday 5/7, 5:24 PM CT |
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Dustin Pedroia wil be given the night off on Wednesday with rookie Jed Lowrie getting the spot start, according to the Providence Journal.
Our View: Pedroia was the only member of the team to have played in all 35 games, and after an 0-for-5 night the team decided to get him some time off. Look for Pedroia to return next time out and try to get that .299 average back over .300. |
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| Colon to pitch for Pawtucket | Wednesday 5/7, 5:21 PM CT |
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Bartolo Colon threw a side session on Wednesday for the Red Sox and is scheduled to throw three innings for the Pawtucket Sox on Saturday, according to the Providence Journal.
Our View: Colon has reportedly hit about 93 mph on the gun, which should be enough to allow him to have some success once he returns to the big leagues if he can locate his pitches. Still, he is a big-time risk to be anything more than a spot starter in AL Only leagues at the moment. |
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| Mauer to get night off | Wednesday 5/7, 5:17 PM CT |
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Joe Mauer will sit out the Twins game on Wednesday night simply as a break to rest his body, according to the Star Tribune.
Our View: Mauer is hitting a scalding .407 over his past 16 games to bump his average all the way up to .337. Mike Redmond will make just his fifth start of the season in Mauer's absence. |
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| Jones given day off | Wednesday 5/7, 5:14 PM CT |
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Adam Jones was given the day off on Wednesday simply to receive a day off, according to MLB.com. Brian Roberts was also given the day off. "It didn't matter if they were 3-for-3 or 4-for-4 [Tuesday] night," said manager Dave Trembley. "They were not going to start today."
Our View: Jones has satisfied the Orioles with his work so far, but his fantasy owners were hoping for more from Jones than a .233-2-10-11-3 line through 116 AB. Jones posses 20/20 potential, but until he learns to control the strike zone a bit better, his average will likely lag behind his other numbers. |
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| V-Mart back in lineup at DH | Wednesday 5/7, 5:09 PM CT |
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Victor Martinez appears to be slated to start at DH tonight after sitting out two games with a sore neck, according to the AP.
Our View: V-Mart has been a hitting machine all season with a .347 average, and we are just glad he is in the lineup, though this most recent injury likely won't help him to start hitting the longball (he has six doubles and no home runs). |
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| McDonald's injury not serious | Wednesday 5/7, 5:06 PM CT |
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John McDonald's injured ankle isn't as badly hurt as originally thought and he even took part in batting practice on Wednesday, according to the Tampa Tribune.
Our View: Though the injury appears to be mild, McDonald still may miss a couple of days. With David Eckstein also sidelined, the team called up Jorge Velendia to backup Mark Scutaro. |
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| Lind sent down | Wednesday 5/7, 5:00 PM CT |
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Adam Lind was demoted so that the Jays could call up Jorge Velandia to help give the team some depth at shortstop after injuries to David Eckstein and John McDonald, according to the Tampa Tribune.
Our View: Lind is one heck of a hitter, but he has yet to find his legs at the major league level. Look for him to be recalled at some point in the near future as he has little to prove in the minors. Shannon Stewart will be the benefactor of this move in the Jays outfield. |
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| Pedro to throw in Friday | Wednesday 5/7, 4:50 PM CT |
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Pedro Martinez will throw a side session on Friday as he attempts to return from his strained left hamstring, according to the AP. “Until Pedro gets on the mound where he starts moving around, he’s just doing his rehab, so there’s nothing to report that’s significant,” manager Willie Randolph said.
Our View: Pedro apparently hasn't suffered any setbacks on his way back to the hill, but he is still likely at least a couple of weeks away from returning to the mound for the Mets. |
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| Martinez held out of the lineup | Wednesday 5/7, 4:35 PM CT |
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Victor Martinez tried to beg his way into the lineup tonight when the Indians play the Yankees in New York, but the coaching staff felt inclined to give their catcher another day to get his neck straight. Martinez will miss his second straight game to a crick in his neck.
Our View: Yes a "crick." Kelly Shoppach receives his second straight start in place of the All Star and the American League's leading hitter. |
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| Schmidt throws, looks good | Wednesday 5/7, 4:16 PM CT |
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Jason Schmidt (shoulder) threw on Wednesday, a day later than anticipated, but reports are that it went well, according to MLB.com. Schmidt threw 36 pitches in front of trainers and the teams GM, and no setbacks were reported.
Our View: Schmidt is scheduled to throw on Sunday, either in the form of minor league game or a simulated game at Dodger Stadium, but with all the stops and starts he has faced during his comeback, we would like to see him throw in a game before rendering an opinion on what to expect. Regardless, he will likely take the full 30 days allowed during his rehab assignment putting his return at no early than around mid-June. |
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| Furcal hopes to play Friday | Wednesday 5/7, 4:11 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report on Rafael Furcal, word is that his sore back is improving and that he should be back in the lineup for Friday's game with the Astros, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Furcal has been the Dodgers catalyst this season creating havoc at the plate and on the bases. Keep a close eye on if he curtails his running once he returns. |
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| Beltran returns to lineup | Wednesday 5/7, 3:54 PM CT |
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Carlos Beltran's flu-like symptoms, subsided enough by Wednesday for Beltran to return to his starting role in center field on Wednesday, this according to MLB.com.
"I'm better now," Beltran said. "It's good. No problem."
The team announced on Tuesday, prior to the game, that the Mets cleanup hitter was experiencing flu-like symptoms. Beltran told the team's website it was a stomach virus.
Our View: Beltran came into Wednesday's finale of a three-game set against the Mets with 24 runs scored, 13 RBI and two home runs, while hitting a puny .219. |
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| Mulder shutdown | Wednesday 5/7, 3:50 PM CT |
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Mark Mulder will be shut down for at least a week, notes the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, to calm what’s being called a “mild rotator cuff strain."
Our View: Mulder experienced “shoulder fatigue” during his last start in Memphis. He was scheduled for one start on his rehab assignment, and then the Cardinals were going to have to decide what do with the left-hander when the 30 days of his rehab assignment expired May 14. |
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| El Duque cleared to run | Wednesday 5/7, 3:47 PM CT |
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Orlando Hernandez has shed the protective boot on his right foot and has been cleared to do some light running, this according to the New York Daily News. Assistant GM John Ricco said El Duque, who visited team doctors in New York on Tuesday, no longer has tenderness with the tendon that was plaguing him.
Our View: There is no current timetable for the return of the veteran right-hander. |
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| Pagan exits early to shoulder injury | Wednesday 5/7, 3:45 PM CT |
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Mets left fielder Angel Pagan left Wednesday's game in the third inning against the Dodgers with what is assumed to be a right shoulder injury.
Our View: Pagan was hurt trying to make an over the fence (railing) catch on a foul ball. He was replaced by Endy Chavez. |
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| Harden to start Friday | Wednesday 5/7, 3:42 PM CT |
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The A's announced on Wednesday that Rich Harden would come off the disabled list on Sunday and start against the Rangers, according to the Sports Ticker.
Our View: The often injured Harden has been on the DL since April 2 with a right shoulder strain. There was no indication that Harden will be on a strict pitch count in his first start back, but this has been the case in previous returns for the hard-throwing right-hander. |
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| Phillips hits his sixth HR | Wednesday 5/7, 3:37 PM CT |
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Brandon Phillips helped the Reds break out of their offensive funk on Wednesday afternoon by hitting his sixth home run of the season. Phillips left with a bruised left calf, sustained on a foul tip. The team is calling him day-to-day.
Our View: Phillips and the Reds offense has been stale as of late. The fifteen run performance against Chicago comes on the heels of being shutout by Carlos Zambrano on Tuesday. The Cincinnati second baseman now has 20 runs, 16 RBI and five stolen bases on the season. |
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| Volquez earns fifth win | Wednesday 5/7, 3:33 PM CT |
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Edinson Volquez earned his fifth win of the season on Wednesday afternoon with a 9-0 win over the Chicago Cubs. The rookie struck out 10 while lowering his ERA to 1.04, best in the National League.
Our View: The right-handed rookie is garnering accolades from players and coaches around the league for his high 90s fastball and the maturity he's shown in his first full season. |
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| Votto goes deep three times | Wednesday 5/7, 3:30 PM CT |
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Joey Votto started a four-homer second inning for the slumping Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday afternoon by hitting a solo shot of Jon Lieber. Votto followed that plate appearance with two more home runs on the afternoon, registering his fifth, sixth and seventh long balls of the season.
Our View: Votto finished the game with four RBI and three runs scored. This performance is reward for those who believed Votto would eventually win out at first base over veteran Scott Hatteberg this spring. |
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| Lieber bombed in first start | Wednesday 5/7, 3:24 PM CT |
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Jon Lieber became only the second pitcher in Chicago Cubs history to give up four home runs in an inning. The veteran right-hander did this in Wednesday afternoon's 9-0 loss to the Reds.
Our View: The unsuccessful outing will likely find Lieber back in the bullpen with Rich Hill returning from Triple-A or fellow lefty Sean Marshall getting a shot at the No. 5 role. |
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| Gaudin moving to A's bullpen |
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