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| Tomko falls for fourth loss | Saturday 5/10, 11:56 PM CT |
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It was a mixed bag for RHP Brett Tomko this evening, suffering his fourth loss of the season as his Royals fell 6-5 to the Baltimore Orioles. Tomko completed just 5 1/3 innings of work, surrendering six runs (all earned) on nine hits. However, Tomka failed to walk a single batter and struck out eight.
Our View: This is Tomko's fourth loss in his last six outings, though his BB/K ratio remains positive (11/29). |
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| DeJesus swings well despite loss | Saturday 5/10, 11:51 PM CT |
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The Royals suffered a heartbreaking 6-5 loss to the Baltimore Orioles, but leadoff man RF David DeJesus did what he could to put his team in position to win. DeJesus went 2-for-3 at the plate with two walks, adding two runs scored and his second stolen base of the season.
Our View: DeJesus left April on fire but has fallen a bit in May, his batting average falling from .354 to .317 following this loss. |
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| Sherrill gets 13th save | Saturday 5/10, 11:44 PM CT |
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Baltimore closer George Sherrill picked up his 13th save of the season, putting the Kansas City Royals to bed in the ninth, 6-5. Sherrill pitched the ninth inning, allowing one hit and one walked seasoned, allowing one earned run to score, with two strike outs.
Our View: While Sherrill is getting the saves, he has been anything but relieving. His 4.41 ERA is all too stressful for fantasy owners while his propensity for walks is a recipe for disaster. |
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| Millar shows well in Orioles win | Saturday 5/10, 11:40 PM CT |
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The Baltimore Orioles continue to surprise, tonight pulling a 6-5 win over the Kansas Royals. 1B Kevin Millar was the weapon of choice in the victory, going 3-for-4 at the plate with his fifth home run of the season to total three RBIs and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Millar's home run is the first of the month after hitting four through April. |
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| Wagner shows reason for concern | Saturday 5/10, 11:35 PM CT |
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The situation was not set for a save, but if it had been, Mets closer Billy Wagner might have suffered his first blown opportunity of the season. Through 12 outings this season, Wagner had allowed just one run (unearned, of course) to be scored. Today, in the second game of the double-header with the Reds, Wagner surrendered three runs, all unearned, on two hits over 2/3 of an inning.
Our View: Wagner had failed to surrender a single hit in his first nine outings of the season. Over his last four, he has allowed five hits with four runs scored. |
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| Reyes can't get going | Saturday 5/10, 11:29 PM CT |
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The Mets couldn't get their bats going in the second game of their double-header with the Reds today, falling 7-1 to the Cincinnati Reds. In a continued line of concern, SS Jose Reyes just can't seem to get going, hitting 1-for-4 today with his seventh double of the season. The outing is tainted with two strike outs.
Our View: Through the month of May, Reyes has totaled seven hits (no home runs), three RBIs, six walks and six strike outs. |
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| Arroyo pulls much-needed win | Saturday 5/10, 11:23 PM CT |
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Cincinnati RHP Bronson Arroyo has been struggling of late, but today he found his comfort zone and pitched the Reds to a strong 7-1 win. Arroyo pitched eight full innings, giving up just one run on four hits, walking two while striking out nine.
Our View: Arroyo has struggled to get to the sixth inning, this being his longest start thus far. He continues to give up the long ball, but a win is a win. |
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| Hatteberg drives in three | Saturday 5/10, 11:19 PM CT |
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Cincinnati 1B Scott Hatteberg enjoyed a productive day at the plate, going 3-for-4 with his third double of the season to total three RBIs.
Our View: Hatteberg has struggled mightily at the plate this season, so we hope this surge serves to get him back on track. |
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| Keppinger goes 5-for-5 | Saturday 5/10, 11:14 PM CT |
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The Mets took the win in the first game of the day, but it was the Reds in the turnaround, taking a 7-1 win with a full offensive surge from the entire lineup. Top man of the twilight revisit was SS Jeff Keppinger , going 5-for-5 at the dish, all singles, with two runs scored and one RBI on the day.
Our View: Keppinger has shown flashes of potential, but today's performance has us wondering why we don't see it more often. |
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| Miller puts Washington into loss column | Saturday 5/10, 11:07 PM CT |
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Florida LHP Andrew Miller may be difficult to recognize through the forest of offense the Marlins produced this evening, but he certainly deserves praise for the strong outing. Miller pitched seven innings, failing to surrender a single run on just two hits allowed, walking one and striking out seven.
Our View: This was Miller's deepest and most productive outing thus far, giving him his second win in his last three starts. |
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| Ross finds groove vs Nats | Saturday 5/10, 11:03 PM CT |
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Florida OF Cody Ross is one of few members of the Marlins lineup struggling to hit, but tonight he got it going in the right direction as the Marlins put an 11-0 whooping on the Washington Nationals. Ross went 1-for-3 with two walks, adding his second homer of the season total three runs scored and one RBI.
Our View: Both of Ross' homers come in the month of May as do all four of his RBIs. |
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| Uggla lights up Nats | Saturday 5/10, 11:00 PM CT |
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The Florida Marlins were not short on offense this evening, led by 2B Dan Uggla . Uggla went 2-for-4 including a grand-slam home run in the 9th, bringing him to five total RBIs on the evening.
Our View: Since hitting the month of May, Uggla has been on fire, posting five home runs with 13 RBIs over nine games. |
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| Hanley makes those checks count | Saturday 5/10, 10:54 PM CT |
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Florida SS Hanley Ramirez solidified a fat pay day before taking the field today, but then he put his money where it matters and helped the Marlins to a dominating 11-0 win over the Washington Nationals.
Our View: Ramirez went 1-for-2 at the plate with two walks, adding two runs scored to the cause. |
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| Youk, Lowell, & Varitek get it done | Saturday 5/10, 10:50 PM CT |
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Boston's lineup is feared for the hitters in the 3, 4, and 5 holes, but tonight it was the 5, 6, and 7 doing damage as the Red Sox picked up the 5-2 win versus Minnesota. 3B Mike Lowell, recently returned from injury, went 2-for-4 with his third home run of the season. 1B Kevin Youkilis went 2-for-5 at the plate with his eighth home run of the year. Catcher Jason Varitek followed, going 2-for-3 with a double.
Our View: Youkilis is the one to note, now touting 29 RBIs on the season with a .319 AVG, though stranding four runners on base this evening is sure to bother him and fantasy owners. |
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| Dice-K gets win #6 | Saturday 5/10, 10:42 PM CT |
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Boston RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka picked up his sixth win of the season as the Boston Red Sox used home runs and a strong pitching performance to put the Minnesota Twins in the loss column, 5-2. Matsuzaka pitched seven innings, allowing just two runs on six hits, walking three and striking out seven.
Our View: Six wins in eight starts is impressive with two no-decisions coming in the other two. Dice continues to struggle a bit with control (30 walks on the season), but his 2.45 ERA shows he is getting the job done. |
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| Perkins takes loss in first start | Saturday 5/10, 10:35 PM CT |
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The suffered a rough 5-2 loss to the Boston Red Sox, giving LHP Glen Perkins , who put forth a valiant but tainted effort, his first loss of the season. Perkins pitched six innings, allowing three runs (all earned) on nine hits, walking none and striking out three.
Our View: It was the three homers surrendered that did the Twins in, and for that, Perkins gets his first loss on his first start of the season. |
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| Kazmir gets first win | Saturday 5/10, 10:07 PM CT |
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Tampa Bay LHP Scott Kazmir picked up his first win of the season, a great sign for a staff ace recently returned from rehab in the minors. Kazmir pitched six innings, failing to allow a single run on just three hits surrendered, walking three and striking out six.
Our View: In just his second outing of the season, Kazmir looked like the power pitcher we have all suspected we would be upon return. It is a great sign for those fantasy owners with Kazmir on the roster looking forward. |
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| Crawford hits, runs for the Rays in win | Saturday 5/10, 10:03 PM CT |
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Tampa Bay LF Carl Crawford enjoyed an intriguing night at the park, helping his Rays to a 2-0 victory over the LA Angels. Crawford went 1-for-2 at the plate with two walks and a run scored, also adding his 10th stolen base of the season.
Our View: Crawford also got caught stealing for just the second time this year, but he is swinging the bat well and seems to have overcome the rough start that startled more than a few fantasy owners. |
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| Saunders falls due to lack of support | Saturday 5/10, 9:56 PM CT |
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Angels LHP Joe Saunders watched a good effort go to waste as his teammates failed to produce any semblance of run support, falling 2-0 to the Tampa Bay Rays. Saunders pitched six innings, allowing just one run on four hits, walking four and striking out three.
Our View: Saunders left with the loss, his first of the season. |
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| Matthews top man on bad night for Angels | Saturday 5/10, 9:53 PM CT |
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With just three hits for the entire team on the evening (none resulting in runs), the Angels carry few offensive notes of worth. CF Gary Matthews Jr. went 1-for-2 with two walks on the night.
Our View: Matthews has battled with pitch selection thus far, nothing new for the free swinger. However, his steady regression in the batting average category could use any sign of reversal. This may be just what the doctor ordered. |
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| First win for Laffey | Saturday 5/10, 9:28 PM CT |
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Cleveland LHP Aaron Laffey gave up his fair share of hits this evening, but none resulted in a single run as the Indians put him into his first win of the season, 12-0. Laffey pitched seven innings, failing to allow a single run on six hits with one walk and two strike outs.
Our View: Laffey has suffered loss in his only two starts of the season prior to win #1, though he has pitched rather well, allowing just 13 combined hits through all three starts with four walks and eight strike outs. |
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| V-Martinez drives in 3 versus Toronto | Saturday 5/10, 9:25 PM CT |
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Cleveland catcher Victor Martinez brought the big stick out to play as the Indians put Toronto to bed 12-0. Martinez went 2-for-4 at the plate with three RBIs and a run scored.
Our View: Martinez has spent time at both DH and C, now hitting .346 on the season (though he has yet to hit his first home run of the season). |
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| Sizemore slaps Toronto with 2 HRs | Saturday 5/10, 9:21 PM CT |
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The Cleveland Indians smacked the Toronto Blue Jays around the yard today, winning 12-0. CF Grady Sizemore was (as usual) a weapon of choice, going 3-for-5 with a double (his sixth this year) and two home runs (six total on the year) to ring up five RBIs and three runs scored on the evening.
Our View: Sizemore started the season well but hit a bit of slide in late April. However, he has gone 12-for-36 since April 29 with three home runs. |
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| Double for Scutaro lone highlight for Jays | Saturday 5/10, 9:14 PM CT |
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The Toronto Blue Jays posted nine hits against the Cleveland Indians this evening, but not one resulted in a run scored as the Jays fall hard, 12-0. SS Marco Scutaro went 2-for-4 at the plate and was the only Jay to post an extra-base hit, picking up his second double of the season.
Our View: Scutaro is now on a role, going 8-for-17 over his last four games. |
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| Bay getting it done for Pirates | Saturday 5/10, 9:07 PM CT |
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Pittsburgh LF Jason Bay was the monster of misfortune for the Atlanta Braves today, leading his team to a 5-2 win. Bay went 2-for-4 at the dish, hitting his fifth double as well as his seventh home run of the year. Bay totaled two RBIs, two runs scored, and one stolen base (his fourth of the year) in an outstanding effort that proved too much for the Braves to overcome.
Our View: Since hitting May, J-Bay has been getting in the groove: 12-for-31 (.387), seven walks, four strike outs. The only thing missing has been the run production, and tonight he got that done as well. |
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| Gorzellany gets to 3-3 with win over ATL | Saturday 5/10, 8:57 PM CT |
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Pittsburgh LHP Tom Gorzelanny put his best foot forward today to lead his Pirates to a 5-2 win over the Atlanta Braves. Gorzelanny pitched 7 1/3 innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on seven hits. He struck out four, walked two, and gave up a dinger to 1B Mark Teixeira.
Our View: This evens Gorzelanny at a record of 3-3 gives him consecutive wins for the first time this season. It is also the first time he has pitched more strike outs than walks in a single game this season. |
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| Infante shows well vs Pirates | Saturday 5/10, 8:51 PM CT |
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Atlanta 2B Omar Infante did his job as the Braves' leadoff man in the 5-2 loss to the Pirates. Infante went 3-for-4 at the dish, hitting his first double of the season.
Our View: This is only his second start of the season, going 1-for-3 two days ago against the Padres. Let's see if he can keep it going and continue to earn opportunities. |
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| Teixeira gets on track despite loss | Saturday 5/10, 8:47 PM CT |
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The Braves fell 5-2 to the Pittsburgh Pirates today, but 1B Mark Teixeira did his best to change that result. Teixeira went 2-for-3 at the plate with one walk and his fifth home run of the season. The homer was good for two RBIs and provides a much-needed lift for the power-hitting first bagger.
Our View: Teixeira has struggled to put the bat on the ball. This was his first homer since April 20th, though he has improved his eye at the plate, touting eight walks versus just four strike outs through May. |
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| Prior still feeling pain | Saturday 5/10, 8:37 PM CT |
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The San Diego Padres report RHP Mark Prior has been experiencing discomfort in his surgically repaired right shoulder during today's throwing sessions, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Prior's return from shoulder surgery has been approached with extreme caution as the Padres continue to take it easy on his with stunted throwing sessions. He has spent most of his time in Arizona, but the team has not definitive timetable for his return. The team hopes to get him into a minor-league rehab assignment at some, but until the pain subsides, he will be slowly encouraged to take it easy. |
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| Millwood leaves with injury | Saturday 5/10, 8:29 PM CT |
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Texas starter Kevin Millwood left today's game against Oakland with two outs in the first inning with an apparent leg injury, according to the Star Telegram.
Our View: Millwood seems to have suffered in the injury in the midst of a 3-0 pitch, though he attempted to play through but couldn't complete additional warm-up pitches to stay in the game. We will update as news becomes available. |
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| Punto to DL | Saturday 5/10, 8:24 PM CT |
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The Twins have placed 3B Nick Punto on the 15-day disabled list with a hamstring injury, according to SLAM Sports.
Our View: Punto strained his left hamstring during the Twins' trip to Chicago. He attempted to do some running before tonight's game with Boston, but he reported additional pain and thus is on his way to the DL. |
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| Buck off DL, but down to minors | Saturday 5/10, 8:18 PM CT |
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The Oakland A's have activated OF Travis Buck and optioned him to Triple-A Sacramento, according to SLAM Sports.
Our View: Buck was batting .154 through 15 games before falling to the DL with shin splints. The A's want Buck to get some swings in the minors with hopes of ramping him back towards his potential before returning to the majors. |
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| James recalled, Carlyle to DL | Saturday 5/10, 8:14 PM CT |
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The Atlanta Braves have recalled LHP Chuck James from Triple-A Richmond, slating him to start Saturday night's game versus the Pittsburgh Pirates, according to SLAM Sports.
Our View: To make room for James on the roster, the Braves have placed reliever Buddy Carlyle on the 15-day disabled list with a strained neck. James was 2-1 with an ERA of 7.62 in three starts with Atlanta before his demotion. Carlyle suffered his neck injury when he collided with Kevin Kouzmanoff of the Padres on Thursday night. |
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| Sexson suspension lowered to five games | Saturday 5/10, 8:00 PM CT |
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Seattle 1B Richie Sexson had his suspension reduced from six games to five following an official league appeal, according to TSN.ca.
Our View: Sexson was handed the suspension after charging the mound to attack pitcher Kason Gabbard in Thursday's game against the Texas Rangers. Both benches cleared, no punches were thrown, but Sexson as suspended. He will begin serving that suspensions immediately and will be available to return as the Mariners begin a three-game set against the San Diego Padres on Friday. |
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| Castillo goes 4-for-4 versus Philly | Saturday 5/10, 7:41 PM CT |
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San Francisco 3B Jose Castillo enjoyed an outstanding day at the ballpark today, going 4-for-4 in the Giants' 8-2 win over Philadelphia. Castillo hit his 12th double of the season, driving in one run and adding three runs scored to the day.
Our View: Castillo has struggled in recent weeks, but the month of May is bringing better returns, going 10-for-28 thus far. |
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| Rowand swings well in Giant win | Saturday 5/10, 7:37 PM CT |
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Four different players picked up three or more hits for the Giants today as they romped over the Phillies, 8-2. One of those players was CF Aaron Rowand , going 3-for-4 with his fourth home run of the year. Rowand ended with two runs scored, one RBI, and one strikeout on the day.
Our View: You won't find a hotter bat on the left coast as Rowand has posted at least one hit in 10 of his last 11 games, going 17-for-39 (.436) over that same span. |
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| Lincecum continues to shine | Saturday 5/10, 7:29 PM CT |
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San Francisco RHP Tim Lincecum is off to a fabulous start, picking up his fifth win today as the Giants put an 8-2 whooping on the Philadelphia Phillies. Tincecum pitched eight full innings, allowing just two runs (both earned) on four hits, walking just one and striking out eight.
Our View: Lincecum did surrender two home runs, but those are two of four he has give up total this season. He now sits at 5-1, touting a lowly 1.61 ERA with an outstanding 18 walks versus 53 strike outs. |
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| Moyer takes third loss | Saturday 5/10, 7:23 PM CT |
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Philadelphia LHP Jamie Moyer continues to struggle through a rough start to the '08 season, suffering this third loss in troublesome fashion to the San Francisco Giants, 8-2. Moyer pitched just four innings, giving up six runs (all earned) on nine hits. Moyer struck out one, walked one, and allowed two home runs.
Our View: In fact, Moyer has allowed five homers over his last three starts, now touting an ERA of 5.02. |
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| Howard hits HR #7 | Saturday 5/10, 7:16 PM CT |
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The Phillies managed just four hits in today's 8-2 loss to the San Francisco Giants, but one of those hits and one of those runs happens to carry a ton of optimism for Philly moving forward. 1B Ryan Howard went 1-for-4, hitting his seventh home run of the season.
Our View: Howard is struggling in a major way, fighting to get his batting average to .200 (not a number you want to aim for). This is his first home run since May 1st and one of just five hits he has this month. Hopefully, the former MVP will use this homer to get back on track. |
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| Ludwick keeps the stick hot | Saturday 5/10, 6:51 PM CT |
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Eight different players recorded hits for the St. Louis Cardinals today in a 5-3 win over the Brewers, but once again it was OF Ryan Ludwick doing the most with a limited opportunity. Ludwick failed to earn the start, but he entered the game late and made good, going 1-for-2, hitting a two-out single in the ninth to drive in two and secure the win.
Our View: The month of May has been very good for Ludwick, going 13-for-29 with five runs scored, three home runs, and nine RBIs. |
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| Pineiro pitches well | Saturday 5/10, 6:45 PM CT |
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St. Louis RHP Joel Pineiro put forth a strong effort today and, while he walked off the mound with no decision, he set the stage for a 5-3 victory over the Brewers. Pineiro pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on four hits, walking three and striking out four.
Our View: After struggling in his first two starts of the season (0-2, 18 combined hits, nine earned runs), Pineiro has settled in, going 2-0 with just 17 combined hits and six earned runs allowed over his last four starts. |
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| Sheets breaks record, suffers no decision | Saturday 5/10, 6:40 PM CT |
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Milwaukee RHP Ben Sheets was strong off the mound today, but the Brewers failed to support his cause and the team ace left with no decision. Sheets pitched seven innings, surrendering three runs (all earned) on nine hits.
Our View: Sheets walked just one and struck out six, bringing his ERA to 2.53 on the season. As we noted earlier, he used the day to become Milwaukee's all-time strikeout leader, but he would likely admit he would prefer the win. |
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| Braun comes hitting, but Brewers fall | Saturday 5/10, 6:35 PM CT |
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The Brewers suffered the hard-fought 5-3 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals today, but OF Ryan Braun did his best to end things differently. Braun went 3-for-5 at the dish with two doubles, though he failed to drive in a single run and stranded five runners on base.
Our View: Braun came into the month smoking hot, going 8-for-18 with nine RBIs and two home runs coming in. However, he has since cooled, going 2-for-24 coming into today. |
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| Fielder homers, but falls short in loss | Saturday 5/10, 6:26 PM CT |
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Milwaukee 1B Prince Fielder his his fifth home run of the season today, but his efforts weren't enough as his Brewers fell 5-3 to the St. Louis Cardinals. Fielder went 1-for-5 overall.
Our View: Though he failed to collect a single strike out, Fielder stranded three runners on base, a tough reality in a tight-fought battle that ended in a loss. |
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| Joyce gets 1st homer of year | Saturday 5/10, 6:22 PM CT |
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Only two Detroit players managed to post more than one hit against the Yankees today in the Tigers' 5-2 loss, one of them being OF Matt Joyce . Joyce went 2-for-4 at the plate, hitting his first home run of the year in the 1st inning.
Our View: Joyce, recently called up from Triple-A Toledo, is getting the opportunity to play while the team shops Jacque Jones (currently on assignment in Toledo). He hasn't done too much thus far, but today's performance shows the talent is there. |
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| Rasner pitches for 2nd win | Saturday 5/10, 6:16 PM CT |
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New York RHP Darrell Rasner is becoming an arm of faith for the Yankees, picking up his 2nd win of the season in a 5-2 win over the Detroit Tigers. Rasner pitched six innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on four hits with one walk and one strike out.
Our View: That's two wins on two starts thus far for Rasner, a desperately-needed effort from a starting pitcher that appears to be on his way towards a continued presence in the rotation. |
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| Jeter stays hot with 1st HR | Saturday 5/10, 6:12 PM CT |
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The Yankees put the hurt to the Detroit Tigers, 5-2, today, an effort led by SS Derek Jeter . Jeter went 2-for-5 on the day, hitting his first home run of the year to drive in his 18th RBI of the season.
Our View: Jeter has been surging since the last week of April, going 22-for-60 (.366) since April 26. |
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| Dempster pitches well for Cubs | Saturday 5/10, 6:05 PM CT |
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The Cubbies used offense to gather the win today, but RHP Ryan Dempster enjoyed a strong performance on the mound. Dempster pitched six full innings, allowing just two runs on three hits, walking three and striking out seven.
Our View: Dempster has been solid for the Cubs thus far, going six-innings deep in seven of eight starts this season, now touting an ERA of 2.76. |
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| Fukudome goes deep | Saturday 5/10, 6:01 PM CT |
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Chicago OF Kosuke Fukudome smacked his 2nd home run of the year today, doing deep in the 7th inning to drive in two and seal the 7-2 win for the Cubs over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Fukudome finished going 1-for-3 at the plate with a walk, leaving one man on board.
Our View: Fukudome has struggled a bit since entering May, going 3-for-19 over his last six games. |
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| Soriano sets pace for Cubs in win | Saturday 5/10, 5:56 PM CT |
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The Cubs had to wait for the relief pitching to enter the game, but once they did, the offensive surge began as the Cubbies ran up a 7-2 victory against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Leadoff man LF Alfonso Soriano enjoyed the day more than any other Cub, going 4-for-5 at the dish with his fifth double of the season. Soriano picked up one RBI and two runs scored on the day.
Our View: Soriano is putting the wood on the ball each day he goes out, sporting hits in 14 of his last 17 games. However, he has multiple hits in just four of those games. |
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| Scherzer shines, Diamondbacks don't | Saturday 5/10, 5:49 PM CT |
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Arizona RHP Max Scherzer put forth a strong effort today against the Chicago Cubs, but the offense failed to support the cause and reliever Chad Qualls blew the save as the Diamondbacks took the 7-2 loss in the end. Scherzer pitched six full innings, giving up one unearned run on five hits, walking just one while striking out six.
Our View: The rookie hurler has three starts, all resulting in no decisions, touting an impressive three combined walks versus 18 strike outs. |
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| Ojeda only offensive note in Zona loss | Saturday 5/10, 5:45 PM CT |
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The Arizona Diamondbacks managed just four hits (none for extra bases) as a team in a 7-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs, two of those hits coming from leadoff man 3B Augie Ojeda . Ojeda went 2-for-3 on the day, raising his season batting average to .390.
Our View: Ojeda is enjoying a productive month of May, going 11-for-24 with seven RBIs and just two strike outs. |
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| Sheets becomes top K man for Brewers | Saturday 5/10, 5:28 PM CT |
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Milwaukee RHP Ben Sheets has officially become the Brewers' all-time leader in strike outs, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Sheets, the longest-tenured member of this year's Milwaukee team, put St. Louis 1B Albert Pujols away on an 0-2 breaking ball to record his 1,082 career strike out, surpassing Teddy Higuera as the team's top strike out man. |
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| Betemit injured | Saturday 5/10, 5:23 PM CT |
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Yankee infielder Wilson Betemit has left today's game against the Detroit Tigers, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Facing RHP Jeremy Bonderman, Betemit doubled over the head of the CF Curtis Granderson and pulled up lame rounding 1st base. He made it to second, called time, and was helped off the field by trainers. Betemit was replaced by Morgan Ensberg. We will update as news becomes available. |
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| Troubling news for Mathieson | Saturday 5/10, 5:19 PM CT |
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Philadelphia athletic trainer Scott Sheridan reports top prospect RHP Scott Mathieson is likely to undergo a second surgery to reconstruct his right elbow next week, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Mathieson underwent Tommy John elbow ligament replacement surgery in September of 2006, but a recent visit with Dr. James Andrews for an arthroscopic procedure on Thursday revealed the ulnar collateral ligament is likely to be a significant problem and needs to be reconstructed. This is horrific news for Mathieson as only 10% of today's patients fail to recover from Tommy John surgery, but only 30% of patients that need a second procedure are able to recover. |
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| Glaus out | Saturday 5/10, 5:07 PM CT |
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St. Louis 3B Troy Glaus is out of the lineup for the Cardinals today as the team battles with the Milwaukee Brewers, according to TSN.ca.
Our View: Glaus left Friday night's game against Milwaukee in the third inning with a bruised left triceps, hit by a pitch from Manny Parra . The team does not believe the injury to be serious and believes Glaus will not be missing significant time. |
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| Delgado continues to improve | Saturday 5/10, 4:24 PM CT |
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It wasn't that long ago that rumors of a potential release followed Mets 1B Carlos Delgado on to the field as he struggled with hitting woes, but his numbers have improved over recent weeks and now he is surging as the hitter we have grown to respect. Delgado went 3-for-4 at the plate in the Mets' 12-6 win over Cincinnati today, hitting his sixth double and fifth home run of the year to gather one RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: Delgado has posted at least one hit in each and every one of the Mets' games this month. Over his last nine games, Delgado has gone 12-for-34 with four home runs and seven RBIs. |
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| Beltran enjoys big day vs Cincy | Saturday 5/10, 4:19 PM CT |
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The Mets racked up a total of 12 runs on 12 hits in a big win over the Cincinnati Reds, led by an outstanding performance by OF Carlos Beltran . Beltran went 2-for-3 at the dish with a walk, hitting his second triple of the season to total a whopping five RBIs and one run scored on the day.
Our View: The fans in New York have been waiting to see if Beltran was going to step it up this season, and while he has not hit a HR since April 24th, Beltran has seen improved results with the bat and has his numbers on the rise as a result. |
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| Encarnacion goes deep | Saturday 5/10, 4:14 PM CT |
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Mets starter Johan Santana may have enjoyed the offensive support needed for a win, but the Cincinnati Reds managed to put wood on the ball. 3B Edwin Encarnacion went 2-for-5 at the dish, hitting his eighth homer of the season. Encarnacion totaled two RBIs, two runs scored, and three runners left on the base.
Our View: Encarnacion has seen his batting average go into steadily decline this month, touting just two hits over six games coming into today. Today may serve as a reversal of fortunes moving forward. |
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| Freel hits and steals in Cincy loss vs Mets | Saturday 5/10, 4:07 PM CT |
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The Cincinnati Reds found hard times versus the Mets today, but the team raked a few hits on starter Johan Santana, led by OF Ryan Freel . Freel went 3-for-5 at the plate with is fifth double of the season, also adding his fifth stolen base of the season.
Our View: Unfortunately for his fantasy owners, Freel failed to drive in a single run and seen just one RBI this month. |
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| Santana earns fourth win | Saturday 5/10, 4:02 PM CT |
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Johan Santana earned his fourth win of the season on Saturday as the Mets pounded the Reds 12-4. The Mets' new ace allowed three runs on 10 hits over six innings, with one walk and five strikeouts.
Our View: Santana is now 4-2 with a 3.10 ERA over eight starts. |
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| Mench & Wilkerson to see more action? | Saturday 5/10, 3:49 PM CT |
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Newly acquired outfielders Kevin Mench and Brad Wilkerson could see more action with Vernon Wells on the shelf for six to eight weeks due to his broken wrist.
Our View: Both hitters are good against left-handed pitching, and they can both play on the same days, if one is used as the DH. It remains to be seen which will see more action, and Manager John Gibbons will likely go with the hot bat. Also of note, Alex Rios could move into Wells' spot in center field, and Mench and Wilkerson could work in right field.
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| Benitez recalled from Triple-A | Saturday 5/10, 3:44 PM CT |
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Armando Benitez has been promoted from Triple-A Syracuse, according to globeandmail.com. Jeremy Accardo has been placed on the DL due to a right forearm strain, and Benitez has been brought in to cover his spot on the roster.
Our View: Benitez allowed 30 earned runs and 29 walks over 50.1 innings in 2007, and will hold little to no fantasy value during his time with Toronto this season. His strikeout totals could be favorable (57 in 2007), but not much else. |
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| Inglett recalled from Triple-A | Saturday 5/10, 3:38 PM CT |
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Infielder Joe Inglett has been recalled from Triple-A Syracuse, according to globeandmail.com. He was brought up to cover the roster spot for star outfielder Vernon Wells, who was placed on the DL due to a broken wrist.
Our View: Inglett fared well in limited action this season, as he hit .303 with four RBI over 33 at-bats. He also registered two stolen bases. He now gets another shot to prove his worth with the Jays, but doesn't merit fantasy consideration at this time. |
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| Accardo lands on DL | Saturday 5/10, 3:35 PM CT |
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Jeremy Accardo has landed on the 15-day DL due to a right forearm strain, according to globeandmail.com. Armando Benitez has been recalled from Triple-A Syracuse to cover his spot on the roster.
Our View: Accardo racked up four saves, but was also dealt three losses, and allowed nine runs and four walks over 12.1 innings, with only five strikeouts, and he held little fantasy value prior to his injury. |
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| Wells placed on DL | Saturday 5/10, 3:28 PM CT |
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It has been determined that Vernon Wells has a broken left wrist, and he has been placed on the 15-day DL, according to globeandmail.com. Infielder Joe Inglett has been called back up from Triple-A Syracuse to cover his spot on the roster.
Our View: He will be on the shelf for six to eight weeks. This is a tough loss as Wells was leading the offense-deprived Jays with five homers and 24 RBI. |
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| Bocock optioned to Triple-A | Saturday 5/10, 3:21 PM CT |
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Brian Bocock has been optioned to Triple-A Fresno, according to CBSsports. Omar Vizquel returned from the DL today, and the team needed to free up a roster spot for him.
Our View: Bocock was seen as expendable, as he only hit .143 with no homers and two RBI over 77 at-bats, with 29 strikeouts. He held no fantasy value prior to his deserved demotion. |
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| Laffey looking for first win | Saturday 5/10, 3:15 PM CT |
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Aaron Laffey will be looking for his first win of the season when the Indians host the Blue Jays today, according to MLB.com. Laffey is 0-2 with a 2.84 ERA and 0.79 WHIP, and is 0-3 with a 4.26 ERA in four career home games at Progressive Field.
Our View: Laffey is pitching well despite his winless record, and only allowed one run over seven innings in his last loss. Toronto is a good match-up for him, and he is worth starting if you have him on your roster. |
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| Wells expected to miss Saturday | Saturday 5/10, 3:09 PM CT |
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Vernon Wells will likely miss today's game against Cleveland due to his tight right hamstring and sprained left wrist, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The team did not state if Wells will miss any more games beyong today. Either Brad Wilkerson or Kevin Mench will get a crack at covering his spot in the outfield, namely against lefty hurler Aaron Laffey. |
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| Bautista's progress slowed | Saturday 5/10, 3:00 PM CT |
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Denny Bautista felt tenderness in his right shoulder after playing catch on Thursday, hence slowing his path back to the diamond from shoulder tendinitis, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The Tigers' athletic training staff will continue to monitor Bautista while he plays catch. He held a 1.88 WHIP over 13.1 innings before getting hurt, and isn't worth waiting for as a fantasy prospect. |
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| Joyce to start in LF today | Saturday 5/10, 2:56 PM CT |
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Matt Joyce is going to start in left field today against the Yankees, according to MLB.com. Gary Sheffield will serve as the DH to get Joyce on the field.
Our View: Joyce is 2-for-11 (.182) so far, with no homers and one RBI (over four games). He could use the practice with today's start. |
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| Sheffield will serve as DH | Saturday 5/10, 2:54 PM CT |
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Gary Sheffield will serve as the Tigers' DH against the Yankees today, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Manager Jim Leyland made the call to rest his shoulder, and to give Matt Joyce some action as the starter in left field. |
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| Polanco to sit out Saturday | Saturday 5/10, 2:51 PM CT |
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Placido Polanco will be given a day off on Saturday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Polanco is hitting .280 with two homers, 13 RBI, two stolen bases, and 18 runs scored over 29 games this season. He is not hurt, he is just given the day off to rest. |
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| Rasner set for second start | Saturday 5/10, 2:45 PM CT |
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Darrell Rasner is set for his second start of the season against the Tigers today, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Rasner had a strong season debut (against Seattle) as he only allowed two runs on five hits over six innings, with no walks and four strikeouts. He will look to prove that his success in his first start was not a fluke. He has a chance to stick with the Yankees, and he noted that he intends to take advantage of it. Start him if you have him, despite a tough match-up against Detroit at Comerica Park. |
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| Franklin / Springer inherit closer's role | Saturday 5/10, 1:58 PM CT |
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Ryan Franklin and Russ Springer are going to share the closer's role as the struggling Jason Isringhausen has been pulled from the job, according to the AP. Manager Tony LaRussa said, "We’ll mix and match. I think all things, everyone rested, Franklin and Springer are the guys that match up the best. Franklin gets righties and lefties out, he’s very quick off the mound, so he’s tough to run on. He gives you a lot as a guy that’s pitching important innings in games."
Our View: Isringhausen blew five saves, but still racked up 11, meaning whoever holds the closer's role in St. Louis will have a chance to be productive and hold solid fantasy value if effective. As of now, it appears that LaRussa favors Franklin for the role, although Springer will get a fair shot. |
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| Isringhausen update | Saturday 5/10, 1:48 PM CT |
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Updating a previous report, Jason Isringhausen has in fact been pulled from the closer's role in St. Louis, according to the AP. Manager Tony LaRussa made his decision and stated, "Jason's still prepared to pitch important innings, but for a while we’ll try to keep him out of the ninth inning. If we’re playing well, there’s still going to be games where you can’t cherry pick his situations because if we’re playing well, you need your bullpen."
Our View: Isringhausen has blown five saves, and holds a 1.72 WHIP. Isringhausen has recorded 11 saves however, and his replacement will have a chance to be productive, and hold solid fantasy value if effective. Ryan Franklin and Russ Springer are going to split the role for now. |
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| Isringhausen needs time away | Saturday 5/10, 1:40 PM CT |
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Jason Isringhausen blew a save in Friday's 4-3 loss to Milwaukee, and he admitted that he needs a rest from the closer's role, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Isringhausen said, "I'm just getting sick of embarrassing myself and letting my team down. I remember in '06, I had an explanation. I just wasn't telling anybody. Now, I don't have an explanation. I'm just pitching like a second grader. My curveball is an out pitch. It's not a throw-for-a-strike pitch. It's just time for them to figure out, we should have five more games in the win column, in my mind. So we should be out there in first place even more. They can't keep sending me out there when I'm pitching the way I'm pitching. We're going to have to figure out some kind of remedy. I'm sure that remedy will give me some time off from that role and we'll get somebody in who can do a better job right now."
Our View: Isringhausen has blown five saves, and Manager Tony LaRussa said it is due to poor mechanics (and not a physical problem), and said he will decide what to do with Isringhausen today. |
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| Neshek out for season | Saturday 5/10, 12:39 PM CT |
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Pat Neshek has been placed on the 15-day DL on Friday, after an MRI exam revealed an acute partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow, according to ESPN. Neshek will not be allowed to throw for a minimum of three months, which means the injury has ended his season. But he said he won't need surgery. Neshek said, "Obviously it's really bad, but it's good I can come back and rehab this and not have to go through surgery and sit out for a good year. So we're going to prepare for Opening Day next year. It just needs a little bit of time to heal and a little bit of rehab to build it back up."
Our View: The Twins' setup man held a 1.20 WHIP over 13.1 innings, with 15 strikeouts. Jesse Crain and Matt Guerrier will likely share the eighth inning role, until one of them outperforms the other. |
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| Ramirez agrees to new deal | Saturday 5/10, 12:31 PM CT |
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Hanley Ramirez has reportedly agreed on a contract extension with the Marlins for six years and $70 million, according to ESPN. An official announcement is expected to come as early as next week.
Our View: The Marlins have locked up one of the game's most valuable shortstops and complete players, and at a good price if the $70 million figure stands. |
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| Perkins to start | Saturday 5/10, 12:25 PM CT |
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Glen Perkins will be called up from Triple-A and start tonight against Boston, according to TwinkieTown.com. He replaces Pat Neshek, who is likely out for the season with a serious elbow injury.
Our View: Perkins held a 1.22 WHIP over 28.2 innings of work in 2007, with 20 strikeouts. He is worth a look if you need help in AL-only leagues, but he draws a tough assignment against a tough Boston lineup. |
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| Laird was late scratch | Saturday 5/10, 11:55 AM CT |
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Gerald Laird was a late scratch on Friday, according to the Star Telegram. Laird and Jarrod Saltalamacchia had each caught consecutive days starting Sunday, and Laird caught Thursday, but Manager Ron Washington said he wanted Laird to catch Millwood on Saturday.
Our View: Laird will be in action tonight against Oakland. He is hitting well, by his standards, as he holds a .268 average over 27 games, with three homers and 13 RBI. |
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| Young comments on return to action | Saturday 5/10, 11:49 AM CT |
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Michael Young missed two full games due to a left hip flexor ailment, but returned Friday and is feeling great, according to the Star Telegram. Young said, "I feel great. It was still a little tight Thursday, but it was already way better than the night before. I was told that particular part of the body heals pretty quickly, and considering I didn't do anything major to it the first time, I knew it would be real quick before I was back in the lineup."
Our View: Young is safe to return to your roto-lineups. He is hitting .292 with 10 doubles, three homers, 16 RBI, 22 runs scored, and one stolen base over 35 games. |
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| Nomar expected to begin short rehab | Saturday 5/10, 11:42 AM CT |
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Nomar Garciaparra is expected to begin a short rehab assignment on Monday, according to the LA Times. He is recovering from a strained left calf.
Our View: He could be activated for the series opener against the Angels on May 16 in Anaheim.
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| Wood attributes success to new slider | Saturday 5/10, 11:38 AM CT |
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| Kerry Wood decided to re-grip his slider and not rip it so hard, and he shut down Arizona's hitters by throwing nothing but strikes with his new and improved slider, according to the Daily Herald. Wood struck out Chris Young on three pitches, then forced 0-2 groundouts from Conor Jackson and Justin Upton to wrap up the Cubs' 3-1 victory on Friday. Wood said, "I didn't have a lot of | |
