|
| Howard swinging with eyes closed? | Wednesday 5/7, 11:58 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Young does deep for 7th time | Wednesday 5/7, 11:54 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Owings offers hope | Wednesday 5/7, 11:52 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Lidge continues to dominate | Wednesday 5/7, 11:50 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Livan hurls complete game | Wednesday 5/7, 11:33 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Craig blasts two homers for Springfield | Wednesday 5/7, 11:29 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Stewart showing pop in Triple-A | Wednesday 5/7, 11:26 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Iannetta continues to frustrate the Cards | Wednesday 5/7, 11:00 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Wainwright shines, but no decision | Wednesday 5/7, 10:55 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Ludwick stays hot | Wednesday 5/7, 10:50 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Pujols struggling to work as leader | Wednesday 5/7, 10:46 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Oswalt misses win but pitches well | Wednesday 5/7, 10:36 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Kaz swipes two bases in win over Nats | Wednesday 5/7, 10:29 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Berkman goes off (again) in win over Nats | Wednesday 5/7, 10:24 PM CT |
|
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.
|
|
|
| Zimmerman batters Oswalt, but Nats fall | Wednesday 5/7, 10:19 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Hanley being Hanley | Wednesday 5/7, 9:51 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Badenhop earns first win versus Brew crew | Wednesday 5/7, 9:42 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Weeks lone note in Brewers loss | Wednesday 5/7, 9:39 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Molina puts best foot forward versus Pitt | Wednesday 5/7, 9:15 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Dumatrait earns first win over San Fran | Wednesday 5/7, 9:09 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Zito suffers loss, but improves | Wednesday 5/7, 9:04 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Chipper just keeps hitting | Wednesday 5/7, 9:00 PM CT |
|
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). |
|
|
| McCann sets pace in Atlanta win | Wednesday 5/7, 8:56 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Kouzmanoff puts bat to use in loss to ATL | Wednesday 5/7, 8:50 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Hudson gathers fifth win, beating Padres | Wednesday 5/7, 8:45 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Redman to pen for Rockies | Wednesday 5/7, 8:19 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Jacobs leaves with leg injury | Wednesday 5/7, 8:15 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Eckstein to avoid DL | Wednesday 5/7, 8:01 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Moehler to start on Friday | Wednesday 5/7, 7:55 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Padres purchasing Estes to help bullpen | Wednesday 5/7, 7:07 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| MRI for Soriano brings good news | Wednesday 5/7, 6:56 PM CT |
|
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." |
|
|
| Hennessey demoted to minors | Wednesday 5/7, 6:49 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Chico out, O'Connor in for Washington rotation | Wednesday 5/7, 6:43 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Blanton solid but unspectacular | Wednesday 5/7, 6:30 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Hoffman hoping to get into games | Wednesday 5/7, 6:26 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Hudson has strained hamstring | Wednesday 5/7, 5:57 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Casanova makes most of start | Wednesday 5/7, 5:46 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Wright struggling with stroke | Wednesday 5/7, 5:41 PM CT |
|
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? |
|
|
| Church continues to excel | Wednesday 5/7, 5:39 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Kemp extends hitting streak | Wednesday 5/7, 5:37 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Maine dominates Dodgers | Wednesday 5/7, 5:34 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Penny destroyed by Mets | Wednesday 5/7, 5:29 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Pedro to throw in Friday | Wednesday 5/7, 4:50 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Schmidt throws, looks good | Wednesday 5/7, 4:16 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Furcal hopes to play Friday | Wednesday 5/7, 4:11 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Beltran returns to lineup | Wednesday 5/7, 3:54 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Mulder shutdown | Wednesday 5/7, 3:50 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| El Duque cleared to run | Wednesday 5/7, 3:47 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Pagan exits early to shoulder injury | Wednesday 5/7, 3:45 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Harden to start Friday | Wednesday 5/7, 3:42 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Phillips hits his sixth HR | Wednesday 5/7, 3:37 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Volquez earns fifth win | Wednesday 5/7, 3:33 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Votto goes deep three times | Wednesday 5/7, 3:30 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Lieber bombed in first start | Wednesday 5/7, 3:24 PM CT |
|
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. |
|
|
| Gaudin moving to A's bullpen | Wednesday 5/7, 3:17 PM CT |
|
Chad Gaudin is moving from the Oakland Athletics’ rotation to the bullpen, where he’s spent most of his previous five major league seasons, this according to the AP.
The A’s need to make room for the return of right-handed starter Rich Harden, who is scheduled to come off the 15-day disabled list to start Sunday’s series finale at Texas.
Our View: Gaudin has a 3-2 record with a 3.75 ERA in six starts this season. This, after becoming a full time starter in 2007.
|
|
|
| Furcal misses second straight | Wednesday 5/7, 3:15 PM CT |
|
Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Rafael Furcal was out of the starting lineup for the second straight game on Wednesday. The Dodgers have won 10 of their past 11 and are looking to complete a three-game sweep of the Mets.
Our View: Furcal is being relaced by Chin-Lung Hu, who is hitting eighth in the batting order. |
|
|
| Casanova gets start | Wednesday 5/7, 2:04 PM CT |
|
New York catcher Raul Casanova is starting in place of Brian Schneider. The Mets are playing the finale of a three-game set against the Dodgers in LA.
Our View: The game will be the twelfth that Casanova has played in this year. The backup catcher is hitting eighth in the batting order against the Dodgers right-hander Brad Penny. |
|
|
| Schneider gives way to Casanova | Wednesday 5/7, 2:02 PM CT |
|
Brian Schneider is getting the day off as the Mets try to snap a two-game skid against LA and Brad Penny.
Our View: Casanova is starting behind the plate and hitting eighth in the batting order. |
|
|
| Alou replaced by Pagan | Wednesday 5/7, 1:59 PM CT |
|
Moises Alou is not in the Wednesday starting lineup for the Mets afternoon affair against the Dodgers.
Our View: Angel Pagan is starting in left field and hitting sixth. |
|
|
| Delgado held out vs. Penny | Wednesday 5/7, 1:57 PM CT |
|
Carlos Delgado is not in the starting lineup for today's finale of a three-game set against the Dodgers.
Our View: Marlon Anderson is starting at first base and hitting seventh. |
|
|
| Eyre to rejoin team Friday | Wednesday 5/7, 1:17 PM CT |
|
Scott Eyre will throw tonight in Tennessee in his final rehab outing in the minors, then report to the Cubs in time to be activated before Saturday's game against the Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field, notes the Chicago Tribune.
General manager Jim Hendry said the Cubs won't go with 13 pitchers when Eyre returns, as Lou Piniella talked about previously, so one of the relievers will have to go down to Triple-A Iowa.
Our View: Sean Gallagher may be the odd man out because he's the least experienced reliever and the Cubs still consider him a starter in the making. |
|
|
| Gonzalez suffers setback | Wednesday 5/7, 12:45 PM CT |
|
Left-handed reliever Mike Gonzalez had what the Braves described as a minor setback this week in his recovery from "Tommy John" elbow-ligament surgery, but is still expected back near the end of the month, this according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: The team didn't elaborate on the specifics of the so-called setback, but they also didn't seem to think it was significant to the degree it would result in Gonzalez missing much additional rehab work. Gonzo has some fantasy value in the current Braves bullpen; if in fact he can return by the All Star break with his arm strength in tow. |
|
|
| Bergmann earns International award | Wednesday 5/7, 12:25 PM CT |
|
Right-hander Jason Bergmann was named the International League pitcher of the week for his two starts at Triple-A Columbus in which he allowed no earned runs in 14 innings, posting two wins.
Our View: Bergmann's performance could turn into a spot in the Washington rotation, where Matt Chico (0-5, 6.87 ERA) is set to start Friday against Florida, potentially his last depending on his performance. |
|
|
| Sauerbeck released | Wednesday 5/7, 11:48 AM CT |
|
The Reds released Scott Sauerbeck , notes the AP, who was pitching for Triple-A Louisville.
Our View: The reliever was 0-1 with a 9.00 ERA in four appearances. |
|
|
| Bailey loses to Norfolk | Wednesday 5/7, 11:06 AM CT |
|
The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that right-hander Homer Bailey (4-3) started for Louisville in Monday's 4-1 loss to Norfolk and gave up four runs on seven hits in seven innings (three walks, seven strikeouts). He leads the International League with 46.1 innings pitched.
Our View: Bailey will return to the Reds rotation this year as the fifth starter. When that will happen isn't yet clear. |
|
|
| Iannetta making his mark | Wednesday 5/7, 10:55 AM CT |
|
The Denver Post reports that catcher Chris Iannetta started in front of Yorvit Torrealba on Tuesday night for the third straight game, and for manager Clint Hurdle it was a no-brainer. "I don't think I've ever sat a guy after a three-hit game," Hurdle said, referring to Iannetta's 3-for-4 performance Monday that boosted his average to .349. But there's more to it than that.
Our View: The unflappable Iannetta — who clubbed his third homer of the season to lead off the fifth inning and hit a two-run double in the ninth to boost his average to .362 — is flashing the talent that made him the club's No. 1 catcher coming out of spring training in 2007. |
|
|
| Arias recalled from Triple-A | Wednesday 5/7, 10:45 AM CT |
|
The Rockies recalled right-handed reliever Alberto Arias from Triple-A Colorado Springs on Monday night and optioned left-handed reliever Josh Newman to the farm.
Our View: Arias appeared in six games last season recording a win in 7.1 innings of work. The right-hander has no fantasy value. |
|
|
| Ankiel does it all | Wednesday 5/7, 10:41 AM CT |
|
According to the Denver Post, Rick Ankiel went from throwing strikes, to having trouble throwing stikes -- and in turn became a center fielder. However, he had no problem throwing from the outfield Tuesday night. In the first inning, Ankiel caught Todd Helton's drive to center, then nailed Willy Taveras on a perfect throw to third to complete the inning-ending double play. In the eighth, he gunned down Omar Quintanilla, who appeared to have an easy triple. "I was shocked he threw me out," Quintanilla said.
Our View: Ankiel is a great story, one that will eventually have a movie. For now, fantasy owners have gotten everything they could have asked for from the Cardinals outfielder. The left-handed hitter has 21 runs, 18 RBI, six home runs and is batting .277 on the season. |
|
|
| Valverde back in groove | Wednesday 5/7, 10:36 AM CT |
|
The Houston Chronicle reports that Jose Valverde appears to be in a groove again. After reviewing hours of film from his 47 save season, and then Aprils mound work, the right-hander found a flaw almost immediately. "When I figured out what I was doing wrong, it was easy to fix," he said.
Our View: Valverde didn't share what flaw he saw and corrected, but he made good on his fifth straight save chance Tuesday night. |
|
|
| Abreu shutdown by LA | Wednesday 5/7, 9:58 AM CT |
|
The LA Times reports that utility infielder Tony Abreu has been shut down for three to seven days, as he experienced tightness in his groin after playing in an extended spring training game Monday.
Our View: Abreu has yet to play yet this season and currently has zero fantasy value. |
|
|
| Lowry wearing wrist guard | Wednesday 5/7, 9:22 AM CT |
|
Noah Lowry seemed to be in a better place after a Monday trip to Birmingham, Ala., where he visited noted sports surgeon Dr. James Andrews and another hand specialist, Dr. Thomas Hunt, notes the San Francisco Chronicle. They confirmed what Lowry was told last week by a San Francisco hand doctor, Jeffrey Saal, that the median nerve in his left hand is irritated and he should rest his arm another month before throwing again.
Our View: Lowry is wearing a wrist guard to keep him from unknowingly placing pressure on the nerve. Groeschner said Lowry will resume throwing only when the arm fatigue is gone. When or if he can return to active duty this year is unknown. |
|
|
| Burnett back in uniform | Wednesday 5/7, 9:19 AM CT |
|
Sean Burnett was in a Pirates uniform last night for the first time since 2004, notes the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. "It's been a long time coming," the left-hander said. "People kept telling me to hang in there [through two surgeries], but it was hard to hang in there.
Our View: The team will use Burnett in long relief, or for sixth and seventh inning work. |
|
|
| Wilson rehabbing calf | Wednesday 5/7, 9:16 AM CT |
|
Jack Wilson once again is making progress in his recovery from a strained left calf that has had him on the disabled list since the first weekend of the season , notes the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. The Pirates hope Wilson can begin a rehab stint with Triple-A Indianapolis or Double-Altoona (at Reading beginning Friday) this weekend.
Our View: Wilson has played in only three games this year and has one hit and one RBI on the season. |
|
|
| Gorzelanny to start Saturday | Wednesday 5/7, 9:05 AM CT |
|
The Pittsburgh Post Gazette reports that Tom Gorzelanny, who missed his last start because of soreness in his lower back, has "a lot less" discomfort.
Our View: Gorzelanny, who came to PNC Park to play catch Monday, is scheduled to start Saturday night against Atlanta. |
|
|
| Estes still a possibility | Wednesday 5/7, 8:28 AM CT |
|
Veteran left-hander Shawn Estes , pitching well as a Triple-A starter, is still on the club's radar for a promotion before he can become a free agent May 15, notes SignOnSanDiego.com.
Our View: Much of what happens with Estes will depend on the progress of Mark Pryor and how well Will Ledezma pitches on Thursday in Atlanta. |
|
|
| Barrett making progress | Wednesday 5/7, 8:24 AM CT |
|
The San Diego Union Times reported on Tuesday that catcher Michael Barrett played catch for the third time since he sprained his elbow on April 7, but is still more than two weeks from returning to active duty.
Our View: Barrett played in three games and recorded eight at-bats before going on the disabled list. |
|
|
| Stanton flashing power in low minors | Wednesday 5/7, 2:17 AM CT |
|
Mike Stanton hit two home runs for Low-A Greensboro on Tuesday, giving him six homers for the season.
Our View: No, not the reliever. This Mike Stanton was a second-round pick for the Marlins out of high school last year, and he is fast becoming one of the best power prospects in the low minors. He is also hitting .297, but 42 strikeouts in only 111 at-bats shows that he has a long way to go. |
|
|
| DeWitt showing his potential | Wednesday 5/7, 12:58 AM CT |
|
Dodger 3B Blake DeWitt , a rookie in the midst of an impressive introduction to the league, did the heavy lifting to help LA post a 5-4 victory over the New York Mets. DeWitt went 3-for-4 at the plate, hitting his 2nd home run of the season to total four RBIs and two runs scored on the evening.
Our View: Over his last 10 games, DeWitt has totaled 13 hits, 13 RBIs, and 23 total bases. |
|
|
| Where is Reyes? | Wednesday 5/7, 12:51 AM CT |
|
Mets SS Jose Reyes continues to struggle at the plate, going 1-for-5 with no walks and one strike out on the evening.
Our View: Reyes posted his 13th RBI of the season, but in his last 14 games, Reyes has posted just two multi-hit games with four combined RBIs and no home runs. |
|
|
| Kuo makes lemonaide out of rotten lemons | Wednesday 5/7, 12:44 AM CT |
|
The effort to start on the right foot proved a failure with the first pitcher the Dodgers put on the mound, but the second found a reversal of fortune and helped LA build the foundation for a 5-4 victory over the New York Mets. LHP Hong-Chih Kuo entered after RHP Hiroki Kuroda, starting the effort, failed to get the job done. Kuroda surrendered four runs on eight hits over 3 1/3 innings before giving way to Kuo, allowing the lefty to settle in and pitch 3 2/3 innings allowing no runs on no hits, walking just one and striking out eight.
Our View: Kuo earned the win for his efforts, his second consecutive win to start May with success. Kuo has yet to pitch more than four innings, but in the short frame of work, he has shown great potential. Tonight's performance only solidifies that belief. |
|
|
| Baek has long night of relief | Wednesday 5/7, 12:03 AM CT |
|
Cha Seung Baek was pressed into service for a struggling Miguel Batista on Tuesday night, and he worked 4.2 innings. The right-hander threw 93 pitches and allowed four runs. All told, the Mariners hurlers tossed 209 pitches in the game.
Our View: We imagine Baek might not be available for a few days. He wasn't terribly effective on Tuesday, but his 93 pitches saved a couple other arms. |
|
