| Hudson looking happy to be back | Wednesday 5/14, 11:59 PM CT |
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Arizona 2B Orlando Hudson has been enjoying his new-found health over the past weeks, ramping up the offense and helping the Snakes to a 4-3 win over Colorado. Hudson went 2-for-4 with his eighth double of the year and two RBIs on the night.
Our View: Hudson earned a handful of days off to rest a bad hammy, and he gets to return just in time to hit the ball around Coors Field, now sitting at 4-for-8 on the series. |
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| Helton goes 3-for-4 in loss | Wednesday 5/14, 11:55 PM CT |
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Colorado 1B Todd Helton is starting to round into form despite the 4-3 loss to Arizona this evening, going 3-for-4 at the dish with one walk and one run scored.
Our View: He's still struggling in the power department, but that trademark Helton batting average is starting to come up (now residing at .284). |
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| De La Rosa falls to Arizona | Wednesday 5/14, 11:52 PM CT |
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Colorado LHP Jorge De La Rosa lasted just 4 2/3 innings in taking the loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks this evening, 4-3. The lefty gave up all four runs, all earned, on seven hits with three walks and six stikeouts.
Our View: It was just De La Rosa's third start of a young career, and his first without surrendering a home run. |
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| Owings keeps his hand strong vs Colorado | Wednesday 5/14, 11:49 PM CT |
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The Arizona Diamondbacks nearly lost the effort to bad relief pitching, but RHP Micah Owings was on his mark and pitching well, earning his fifth win of the season. Owings went six innings of shutout ball, giving up just five hits with two walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: By the way, Owings, known for his hitting as much as his pitching, went 0-for-3 at the dish, but his work with the arm was solid. He is now 5-1 and leading the way for the Snakes in the NL West. |
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| Izturis tops list of strong outings for Cards | Wednesday 5/14, 11:43 PM CT |
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The Cardinals didn't need much hitting this evening to pull the 5-1 victory over Pittsburgh, but SS Cesar Izturis finished as the top offensive performer on a night when the Cards racked up 15 total hits. Izturis went 3-for-5, all singles with an additional stolen base (his third of the season), with one RBI.
Our View: Five different players posted multiple hits in this game for the Cards, but none earned more than one RBI. Give Izturis the nod for the swipe. |
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| Bay with an o'fer vs St. Lou | Wednesday 5/14, 11:35 PM CT |
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In the midst of the pitching clinic RHP Todd Wellemeyer was putting on against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the best hitter on the Pittsburgh team was falling well short of setting a standard for others to follow. LF Jason Bay went 0-for-4 with one strikeout and three men left on base.
Our View: Bay is struggling to keep pace, but no one was hitting Wellenmeyer this evening. Don't read too much into it. |
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| Wellemeyer dominates Pirates | Wednesday 5/14, 11:28 PM CT |
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The Pirates managed to find just four hits in their bats this evening as they suffered the 5-1 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals, all but dominated by RHP Todd Wellemeyer in earning his fourth win of the season. Wellemeyer pitched seven innings, giving up a lowly one run on an even lowlier two hits. He walked three, struck out five, and did so on 11 fly outs mixed with five grounders.
Our View: Since hitting May, Wellemeyer is pitching as well as any hurler in the game. Including this evening, he has allowed just six runs (four earned) on 13 hits combined. |
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| Lilly gets third consecutive win | Wednesday 5/14, 11:08 PM CT |
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The Cubs used offense to get the win over San Diego, 8-5, this evening, but the work of LHP Ted Lilly was not without merit. Lilly pitched six innings, giving up four runs (all earned) on six hits with just one walk and 11 strikeouts on the night.
Our View: Lilly entered May at 1-4 with 6.46 ERA. His ERA isn't going much lower, but he has three wins in a row to get his record to 4-4. |
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| Fukudome comes through in win | Wednesday 5/14, 11:04 PM CT |
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The Cubs put the hurt on the San Diego Padres this evening, winning 8-5 with the bat of OF Kosuke Fukudome doing much of the damage. Fukudome went 3-for-5 at the dish, hitting his 11th double with two runs scored.
Our View: Fukudome's average has been falling a bit this month, coming into the month at .327 and now sitting at .312. However, his numbers are serving the Cubs well and he seems to hit rather well in clutch situations. |
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| Iguchi drives in three in loss | Wednesday 5/14, 10:58 PM CT |
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The Padres struggled to get the offense going as the Cubs put the 8-5 win on the board, leaving 2B Tadahito Iguchi as the primary man for San Diego on the night. Iguchi went 2-for-5 with three RBIs on the night, though his three strikeouts are reason for concern.
Our View: Iguchi is hitting the ball well but rarely drives in runs and strikes out too often to garner too much confidence from fantasy owners. |
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| Soriano dings Peavy for homer | Wednesday 5/14, 10:54 PM CT |
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The Chicago Cubs put eight runs on the board against Jake Peavy and the San Diego Padres tonight, an effort largely led by leadoff man LF Alfonso Soriano . Soriano went 2-for-5 at the dish with his sixth home run of the year, totaling three RBIs.
Our View: Soriano has been red hot this month, going 17-of-51 at the plate with 13 RBIs. |
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| Peavy suffers third loss | Wednesday 5/14, 10:50 PM CT |
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San Diego ace Jake Peavy pitched well, but the Cubs still managed to score runs and handed Peavy his third loss of the season, winning 8-5. Peavy pitched just four innings, giving up four runs (all earned) on seven hits, walking just two with eight strikeouts.
Our View: Peavy now has just one win in his last six outings and his ERA is steadily on the rise. |
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| Italiano has another scoreless start | Wednesday 5/14, 10:50 PM CT |
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Craig Italiano allowed only two hits and two walks in six scoreless innings for Low-A Kane County to improve his record to 5-0 on Wednesday. He struck out four batters.
Our View: Italiano’s ERA is down to 0.90. He has allowed only one earned run in his last seven starts. It’s safe to say that the 21-year-old is ready for a promotion. |
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| Hellickson earns win for Vero Beach | Wednesday 5/14, 10:49 PM CT |
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Jeremy Hellickson improved to 4-0 for High-A Vero Beach on Wednesday after allowing two runs on five hits in six innings. He struck out nine batters.
Our View: The 2005 fourth-round pick has an incredible 58/3 K/BB ratio in 46.2 innings this season, emerging as one of the top pitching prospects in the game. Not surprisingly, his ERA is down to 1.35. He is showing that he is ready for Double-A. |
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| Hessman launches 18th homer | Wednesday 5/14, 10:48 PM CT |
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Mike Hessman hit his 18th home run of the season for Triple-A Toledo on Wednesday.
Our View: Man or machine? Hessman has seven home runs in the past week and leads the minors in home runs. He should see the majors at some point, but that does not mean that the minor league veteran will actually see playing time. |
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| Parra gets no decision with two RBIs | Wednesday 5/14, 10:42 PM CT |
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It doesn't happen often, but tonight Milwaukee LHP Manny Parra was the force of reckoning both on the mound and at the plate this evening. Parra pitched 6 2/3 innings, giving up three runs (only one earned) on seven hits with two walks and four strikeouts, leaving with no decision.
Our View: Parra was also the top hitter on the evening, going 1-for-3 with two RBIs. |
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| Downs earns fifth save | Wednesday 5/14, 10:40 PM CT |
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Scott Downs picked up his fifth save of the season and secured Roy Halladay's fourth victory of the yar as the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Minnesota Twins 6-5 on Wednesday night.
Our View: Downs has taken over the role of the injured Jeremy Accardo, as the team's primary setup man and situational closer. |
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| Morneau hits seventh HR | Wednesday 5/14, 10:37 PM CT |
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Justin Morneau his his seventh home run of the season but it wasn't enough as the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Minnesota Twins 6-5 on Wednesday night.
Our View: Morneau has been quietly consistent this year scoring 20 runs, recording 31 RBI and hitting .297 on the season. |
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| Lowe gets no decision | Wednesday 5/14, 10:34 PM CT |
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Dodger RHP Derek Lowe walked off the mound with fourth no decision this season as hit team used a late surge to get the 6-4 win. Lowe pitched six innings to allow four runs (all earned) on six hits, walking three and striking out six.
Our View: That's four consecutive starts for Lowe without a win. |
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| Bonser bounced by Blue Jays | Wednesday 5/14, 10:32 PM CT |
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Boof Bonser allowed five runs on five hits, walked three and struck out three in his fifth loss of the season.
Our View: Bonser has allowed 17 runs in his past three starts and has twice allowed four or more runs in the first inning. |
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| Halladay wins fourth | Wednesday 5/14, 10:28 PM CT |
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Roy Halladay, who has been the victim of poor run support all season getting only 3.14 runs per outing, got four runs from a Matt Stairs grand slam in the top of the first and held on for his fourth victory of the season. The Toronto horse allowed four runs on nine hits, didn't walk a batter and struck out eight in 6.2 innings of work.
Our View: Halladay's ERA spiked to 3.49 and his workman like WHIP took a small bump north to 1.09. |
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| Pierra enjoys strong night at the park | Wednesday 5/14, 10:27 PM CT |
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It wasn't pretty, but the Dodgers scored three in the top of the ninth to emerge victorious over the Milwaukee Brewers 6-4. The catalyst for that surge came from leadoff man LF Juan Pierre , going 3-for-5 at the dish with his fifth double of the season, his 14th stolen base of the campaign thus far, and a total of three RBIs and one runs scored in the win.
Our View: Pierre has had to fight for consideration but is showing well in May, already matching his hit total for April (13) through 11 games with seven stolen bases and just one strikeout this month. |
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| Stairs hits sixth HR | Wednesday 5/14, 10:25 PM CT |
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Matt Stairs hit a grand slam to help the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Minnesota Twins 6-5 on Wednesday night. It was Stairs' sixth home run of the year.
Our View: While Vernon Wells serves 6-8 weeks on the disabled list, Matt Stairs is the power threat for Toronto. |
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| Gathright accounts for KC offense | Wednesday 5/14, 10:23 PM CT |
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Light-hitting Joey Gathright accounted for all of the Royals' runs batted in helping the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 2-0 on Wednesday night. Gathright drove in two runs with a second inning single.
Our View: Gathright who has 10 stolen bases on the season was caught stealing in the game. His third "caught-stealing" of the season. |
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| Hairston shows offensive value vs Marlins | Wednesday 5/14, 10:22 PM CT |
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The Cincinnati Reds emerged after 10 innings to put the Florida Marlins in the loss column, 7-6, with all seven runs attributed to different players. However, the work of SS Jerry Hairston Jr. was the saving grace of the effort. Hairston went 3-for-4 with a double (his fourth of the year) and a triple (his first) to total one RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: Hairston gave way to oncoming SS prospect Paul Janish, moved to left field, but it was his offense that got him the start at short to begin with, a decision that proved valuable. |
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| Soria outstanding in 10th save | Wednesday 5/14, 10:20 PM CT |
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Joakim Soria picked up his 10th save in as many chances with a perfect ninth inning as the Royals scored a 2-0 win over the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday night.
Our View: Soria has not allowed a run in 16.1 innings and 17 appearances this season. He's allowed just four hits while striking out 18 and walking one. |
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| Verlander losses seventh | Wednesday 5/14, 10:18 PM CT |
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Justin Verlander allowed two runs on six hits, walked three and struck out three in a tough luck 2-0 loss to rookie Luke Hochevar and the Royals. The Tigers starter suffered his seventh loss of the season.
Our View: It was Verlander's best performance of the season and while the loss stings, it was promising to see the hard-throwing right-hander have some success. |
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| Arroyo pitches well vs Marlins | Wednesday 5/14, 10:17 PM CT |
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Review the work of the starting pitching for the Cincinnati Reds tonight and you'll wonder how they got to 10 innings to pull victory from the jaws of defeat. RHP Bronson Arroyo pitched seven innings, failing to allow a single run on five hits with three walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: After going 1-3 with a 6.97 ERA in April, Arroyo has started to improve, going 1-1 with tonight's no decision in May, though he has surrendered eight earned runs overall. |
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| Uggla keeps hitting | Wednesday 5/14, 10:12 PM CT |
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Florida may have suffered the 7-6 loss in extra innings to the Cincinnati Reds, but 2B Dan Uggla has continued to swing well, going 2-for-4 with his 13th double of the season and one walk.
Our View: Uggla failed to drive in any runs, but he now sits at 18-for-45 (.400) with eight homers in the month of May (we are just reaching the half-way point for the month). |
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| Royals rookie earns third win | Wednesday 5/14, 10:09 PM CT |
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Luke Hochevar allowed four hits, walked three and struck out five while pitching six scoreless innings for his third win of the season.
Our View: The rookies ground ball to fly ball ratio (8:5) wasn't as good as it has been in recent outings, but the cool air at the "K" kept most of the air bound cowhide in the park on Wednesday night. |
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| Ross shines in new leadoff role | Wednesday 5/14, 10:08 PM CT |
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The battle lasted lasted 10 inning, but the Cincinnati Reds emerged victorious, winning 7-6 over the Florida Marlins. For the Marlins, it was newly-crowned leadoff man CF Cody Ross getting the job done on offense. Ross went 1-for-4, making the one hit good for a three-run homer in the 9th inning to help Florida surge with six total runs to tie it up late.
Our View: Ross has been sharing time in the field but got the call tonight thanks to his hot bat, now sitting at 6-for-20 with four homers in the month of May. |
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| Rivera earns 11th save | Wednesday 5/14, 9:46 PM CT |
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Mariano Rivera earned his 11th save of the season as the Yankees ended the Rays' six-game winning streak with a 2-1 victory on Wednesday night.
Our View: Rivera worked a perfect ninth inning striking out one. |
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| Redding dominates Mets | Wednesday 5/14, 9:39 PM CT |
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Washington needed a strong outing off the mound from RHP Tim Redding with the offense struggling, and the hurler came through, pitching six innings to allow just one run on a lowly two hits, walking two and striking out four.
Our View: Redding has shown flashes of greatness this season and tonight gives more indication of a bright future. |
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| Lopez gets it going in Nats win | Wednesday 5/14, 9:36 PM CT |
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The Washington Nationals made the best of their six hits to pull a 5-3 win over the New York Mets. The charge was started by leadoff man 2B Felipe Lopez , going 2-for-2 with two walks, hitting his fifth double of the season to garner one RBI and one run scored.
Our View: Lopez is enjoying good returns in May, going 14-for 48, though he has yet to steal a base after swiping four in April. |
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| Shields outpitched by Mussina | Wednesday 5/14, 9:32 PM CT |
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James Shields allowed two runs on six hits, walked two and struck out six, but took the 2-1 loss to the Yankees and Mike Mussina on Wednesday night.
Our View: Shield's effort was plenty good enough to earn a win. The right-hander lowered his ERA to 3.05 in the loss. |
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| Schneider tops Mets in loss to Nats | Wednesday 5/14, 9:31 PM CT |
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The Mets managed to post just six hits on the evening with no player earning more than one, falling 5-3 to the Washington Nationals. Catcher Brian Schneider was the man of note from the New York offense, going 1-of-4 with his second home run of the season to total two RBIs.
Our View: Schneider has been gaining momentum this month, going 10-of-30 with two home runs thus far. |
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| Mussina wins sixth | Wednesday 5/14, 9:26 PM CT |
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Mike Mussina allowed one run on five hits, walked one and struck out four in 6.1 innings to win his fifth consecutive decision. He improved to 18-7 in 31 starts against Tampa Bay, which held on to its slender lead in the AL East.
Our View: Mussina is finding a way to get hitters out. He's discovered how to use his slight velocity difference between his 87 mph fastball and his 82 mph change, and be successful. |
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| Myers suffers rough evening on the mound | Wednesday 5/14, 9:26 PM CT |
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Philadelphia RHP Brett Myers suffered through a horrendous outing in the Phillies 8-5 loss to the Atlanta Braves. Myers lasted just 4 1/3 innings, giving up eight total runs (six earned) on nine hits, walking three and striking out six.
Our View: The bulk of the damage was done on three homers allowed, all in the first two innings of the game to surrender three total runs. |
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| Glavine gets first win | Wednesday 5/14, 9:25 PM CT |
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Atlanta LHP Tom Glavine has enjoyed better evenings, but his work against the Philadelphia Phillies was enough to earn the win. Glavine pitched 5 2/3 innings, giving up four runs (all earned) on four hits with two walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Glavine got his first win of the season, but we doubt he's terribly happy with the effort. |
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| Chamberlain earns 10th hold | Wednesday 5/14, 9:22 PM CT |
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Joba Chamberlain struck out the side in the eighth to earn his 10th hold of the season as the Yankees held on to score a 2-1 victory over the Rays on Wednesday night.
Our View: Chamberlain to Rivera is a nice option for a manager to have. When the Yankees have the lead after seven innings, they are nearly automatic. |
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| McCann keeps swinging a strong stick | Wednesday 5/14, 9:19 PM CT |
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The Atlanta Braves enjoyed a big night on the scoreboard, pulling the 8-6 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. Catcher Brian McCann led the way, going 2-for-4 with his 13th double of the season and three total RBIs on the evening.
Our View: McCann is now hitting .395 for the month of May, touting 12 RBIs with six doubles on the month. |
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| Cano has four-hit game | Wednesday 5/14, 9:17 PM CT |
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Robinson Cano went 4-for-4 and and drove in a run with an RBI single to help the Yankees end the Tampa Bay Rays' six-game winning streak with a 2-1 victory on Wednesday night.
Our View: Cano, who has been in a major slump, need a night like this to get his engine started. The four hit performance raised his average from 1.83 to .205 on the season. |
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| Chipper can't stop hitting | Wednesday 5/14, 9:16 PM CT |
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Atlanta 3B Chipper Jones is working as one of the hottest bats in the league and continued to work as such this evening as the Braves dismissed the Phillies 8-6. Jones went 2-for-4 at the plate with one walk, hitting his 11th home run of the season in the 1st inning to set the tone for an offensive surge by the Braves.
Our View: Jones is now hitting .418 on the season, sitting at 20-for-46 (.435) with three homers and 11 RBIs. |
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| Utley, Howard homer in loss | Wednesday 5/14, 9:11 PM CT |
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The Phillies managed to suffer the 8-6 loss to the Atlanta Braves despite bombs from the power battery of the order. 2B Chase Utley went 1-for-4 at the plate, totaling two RBIs on his 14th homer of the season. 1B Ryan Howard brought a home run of his own, going 1-for-4 at the plate with his 8th home run of year.
Our View: Those are the only hits those two players posted and the rest of the group failed to get the job done. |
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| Rollins plays well, but Phillies fall | Wednesday 5/14, 9:08 PM CT |
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SS Jimmy Rollins did what he could to get the Phillies back in the hunt, but his team fell 8-6 to that Atlanta Braves. Rollins went 2-for-5 at the dish with his fifth double of the season, also adding his third stolen base of the season.
Our View: Rollins totaled two RBIs and one run scored on the evening. |
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| Coste goes 4-for-4 in loss | Wednesday 5/14, 9:05 PM CT |
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The Phillies came up short in their 8-6 loss to the Atlanta Braves this evening, but catcher Chris Coste tried his best to improve the effort. Coste went 4-for-4 at the plate with two runs scored.
Our View: This is just the fourth game this season in which Coste has posted multiple hits, and his first this month. |
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| Blanton goes seven strong | Wednesday 5/14, 8:40 PM CT |
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Joe Blanton allowed two runs on four hits, walked two and struck out four in seven innings of work. Blanton pitched well enough to win, but he was facing C.C. Sabathia who pitched a complete game shutout in a 2-0 win over the A's.
Our View: Blanton lost his sixth game of the season against two wins. His 3.69 AL ERA and 1.34 WHIP says he deserves a better record than 2-6 on the season. |
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| Garko goes deep on A's | Wednesday 5/14, 8:33 PM CT |
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Ryan Garko hit a solo home run, C.C Sabathia pitched a complete-game five-hit shutout and the Indians defeated the A's 2-0 on Wednesday night.
Our View: Garko, who has been a major funk for the last month, was 1-for-3 on the day. The first baseman now has four home runs, 17 RBI, 15 runs scored and is hitting .234 on the season. |
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| Sizemore goes deep against A's | Wednesday 5/14, 8:29 PM CT |
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Grady Sizemore was half of the Cleveland offense as C.C. Sabathia shutout the Oakland Athletics 2-0 on Wednesday night. The Cleveland center fielder hit a solo home run that gave the Indians a 1-0 lead, all they would need with last year's Cy Young winner on the mound.
Our View: Sizemore has 24 runs, 21 RBI, seven home runs, seven stolen bases and is hitting .274 on the season. Sizemore has three leadoff home runs this season and 14 in his career, the second-most in franchise history behind Kenny Lofton's 18 |
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| Sabathia throws shutout | Wednesday 5/14, 8:26 PM CT |
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C.C. Sabathia pitched a five-hitter and struck out 11 in the Cleveland Indians' major league-leading seventh shutout, a 2-0 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday night.
Our View: If there was any question about whether last year's Cy Young winner was back on track, this effort against the A's should answer any and all questions. |
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| Schmidt ready for second minor league start | Wednesday 5/14, 8:24 PM CT |
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The Dodgers report RHP Jason Schmidt completed today's bullpen session and is scheduled to make his second minor league rehab appearance on Saturday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Schmidt threw 38 pitches today, 11 months after undergoing shoulder surgery, and manager Joe Torre reports he will make the start for Class A Inland Empire on Saturday with plans to throw three innings or a pitch count between 30 to 45 pitches. |
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| Pale Sox prospect hits for cycle | Wednesday 5/14, 8:23 PM CT |
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Warthogs first baseman Brandon Allen, the 22-year-old Texan in the White Sox farm system, hit for the cycle as part of a 5-for-5 ballgame. Allen scored four runs and drove in two, according to MILB.com.
"I'm disappointed we couldn't come out with the win, obviously," said Allen. "As for the cycle, the game's all about getting on base and scoring runs, and I was glad to be to be able to do that today."
Our View: Allen bashed a solo homer in the second inning, singled in the fourth, and doubled in both the fifth and seventh before leading off the ninth with a triple. |
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| Lackey officially on active duty | Wednesday 5/14, 8:17 PM CT |
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John Lackey was officially taken off of the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday afternoon, which is where he’s been since the beginning of the season with a strained right triceps.
The Angels are hoping that he can quickly regain the form that led to his 19-win season from a year ago. Lackey faces off against the White Sox and Jose Contreras tonight in Los Angeles.
Our View: The White Sox were one of the few teams to beat Lackey last season. Careerwise, Lackey is 3-4 against Chicago.
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| Sheffield's days in the OF over | Wednesday 5/14, 8:10 PM CT |
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The Tigers team website reports that Gary Sheffield's days as a regular outfielder appear to be over.
After just over a week in left field, Sheffield was out of the lineup on Wednesday for a day off. When he returns on Thursday, however, he'll be back at designated hitter.
Manager Jim Leyland made the decision and talked with Sheffield about it prior to Wednesday's game. Leyland saw signs that Sheffield is still being bothered by his right shoulder, a sign Sheffield confirmed.
Our View: Leyland believes that playing the field and hitting isn't going to help the healing process, despite Sheff's desire to be both in the field and the batters box with claims it makes him a better hitter. |
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| Spilborghs gets leadoff spot | Wednesday 5/14, 8:09 PM CT |
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The Rockies are struggling to find wins and, as a result, manager Clint Hurdle has made a few changes to the lineup, according to the Denver Post. Most notably, CF Ryan Spilborghs will bat leadoff, taking the place normally filled by Willie Taveras.
Our View: Also, Omar Quintanilla has gotten the start at shortstop with Jonathan Herrera starting at second base. Quintanilla will bat second with Herrera batting eighth. |
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| Park to start on Saturday | Wednesday 5/14, 8:03 PM CT |
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Los Angeles skipper Joe Torre told the LA Times that Chan Ho Park should be able to throw 85-90 pitches, who was announced the Dodgers Saturday starter.
Our View: LA won't need a fifth starter after that until May 27 at the Cubs. |
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| Alou ejected | Wednesday 5/14, 7:58 PM CT |
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Mets LF Moises Alou has been ejected from tonight's matchup against the Washington Nationals, according to Yahoo Sports.
Our View: Alou was ejected in the 5th inning for arguing balls and strikes after being called out looking at a third strike. |
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| Doumit out at least four weeks | Wednesday 5/14, 7:55 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier story, Ryan Doumit is slated to miss at least four weeks as he nurses a fractured left thumb, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Today's examination by Dr. Mark Baratz in Pittsburgh suggests the Pirates catcher should refrain from any baseball activities for at least four weeks, and the team feels he is likely to miss significantly more time than that. "We'll give it four weeks, and then we'll see where we're at," said manager John Russell. To fill the void left by moving Doumit to the 15-day disabled list, the Pirates have recalled catcher Raul Chavez from Triple-A Indianapolis. |
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| Westbrook start pushed back | Wednesday 5/14, 7:53 PM CT |
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Jake Westbrook , who threw a 70-pitch simulated session on Tuesday, was originally scheduled to make a rehab start for Single-A Lake County on Saturday, but Soloff said it's likely the start might be pushed back to Sunday, according to MLB.com. Soloff was still waiting to gauge how Westbrook was feeling from Tuesday's effort.
Our View: The Indians won't know how many rehab starts Westbrook will need before the staff witnesses his work at Lake County this weekend. |
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| Castillo struggling with quad injury | Wednesday 5/14, 7:50 PM CT |
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Mets 2B Luis Castillo may be headed for the disabled list, according to MLB.com. Nursing a strained left quad, Castillo hasn't been able t
Our View: Nursing a strained left quad, Castillo hasn't been able to play since Sunday and the team anticipates he won't be able to hit the field until this coming weekend, at the earliest. As a result, both manager Willie Randolph and general manager Omar Minaya are suggesting the DL might be the best place for Castillo right now. Castillo has missed three games and received additional treatment for the quad on Wednesday, and while he reports he feels "better," he does not argue that it could be some time before he feels ready to play. We will update as news comes forth. |
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| Ross leading off for Marlins | Wednesday 5/14, 7:35 PM CT |
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The Florida Marlins are seeking ways to keep their offense fresh and their first step came this evening as OF Cody Ross has been moved into the leadoff position in the batting order, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Ross has been platooning with switch-hitting Alfredo Amezaga, but Amezaga has failed to hit as hoped and now Ross is getting his chance to shine, getting the start this evening and looking to improve on his 3-for-11 numbers as the leadoff man thus far. |
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| Pedro throws simulated game | Wednesday 5/14, 7:28 PM CT |
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The New York Mets report RHP Pedro Martinez threw 55 pitches during a simulated game today in Florida, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Pedro pitched four innings against minor leaguers and fielded his position at the team's complex in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The three-time Cy Young Award winner is battling to return from a strained left hamstring, suffered during his only start this season (April 1st vs Florida). General manager Omar Minaya states the team is unwilling to release a timetable for his continued rehab and return, but he did reveal that Martinez is now going to be placed into a regular schedule, likely to start with a bullpen session in the coming days followed by another simulated game with a higher pitch count. If those go well, look for a minor league rehab assignment. |
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| Varitek goes long for the 4th time | Wednesday 5/14, 7:20 PM CT |
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Jason Varitek hit his fourth home run of the season on Wednesday afternoon but it wasn't enough as Boston lost 6-3 to division rival Baltimore.
Our View: Varitek has seen action 34 times this year. The left-handed batter has 15 RBI and 10 runs scored in 110 at bats. |
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| Reds ready to give SS prospect his shot | Wednesday 5/14, 7:20 PM CT |
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The Cincinnati Reds have recalled SS Paul Janish to replace the injured Jeff Keppinger at the position, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Keppinger suffered a fractured left kneecap against the Florida Marlins. He has been placed on the 15-day disabled list, but he is expected to miss 4 to 6 weeks, thus giving Janish his first prolonged shot to play in the majors. This evening, manager Dusty Baker has inserted veteran Jerry Hairston Jr. at shortstop, hoping he can help the struggling offense back on track. Janish, viewed as a defensive gem, could be in the lineup as soon as this week. |
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| Molina fined, not suspended | Wednesday 5/14, 7:13 PM CT |
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St. Louis catcher Yadier Molina has been fined an undisclosed amount but will avoid suspension following his ejection from Monday's battle with Milwaukee, according to the St. Louis Post Dispatch.
Our View: Molina was arguing calls with home plate umpire Paul Schrieber before being ejected, at which time Molina disrobed of his equipment and left his gear all over the field. |
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| Stairs the Jays power threat | Wednesday 5/14, 7:03 PM CT |
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It appears the the Blue Jays will settle on their current lineup and wait for their injured to return. While Vernon Wells serves 6-8 weeks in DL confinement, Matt Stairs is the power threat for Toronto. Blue Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi says he has faith in the manager and his staff and there's really nothing that he can see that would improve this team. "We're done. This is our team," said Ricciardi, notes the Toronto Star.
Our View: It had been 47 innings between Vernon Wells' ninth-inning home run last Thursday and Stairs' sixth-inning shot last night, a five-game power outage. |
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| Rivera arguably the best | Wednesday 5/14, 6:59 PM CT |
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Mariano Rivera gave up his the first run all season on Tuesday night when Gabe Gross hit an RBI single giving Tampa Bay a 2-1 victory over the New York Yankees sending the Rays into first place in the AL East.
Our View: Rivera has been outstanding this year. His .056 ERA and 13 strikeouts to zero walks in 16 innings pitched, is as good as it gets. While most consider Jon Papelbon the best ninth inning option in baseball, one could argue that the Yankee veteran still reigns. |
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| Johnson out, will also miss Thursday | Wednesday 5/14, 6:54 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier story, Washington 1B Nick Johnson will in fact miss tonight's game against the New York Mets and is likely to miss tomorrow's game as well, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Johnson strained a tendon in his wrist on a swing made on Tuesday night. The MRI results suggest no prolonged concern is present, but Johnson was sent back to Washington and will undergo further testing. We will update with news as needed. |
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| Putz wins in extra innings | Wednesday 5/14, 6:53 PM CT |
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J.J. Putz , the Seattle closer, worked two scoreless innings before starter Jarrod Washburn made his first relief appearance since 1999, and only his 11th in 265 games over 11 major league seasons. Putz, who earned his first win of the season, allowed one hit, walked one and struck out two.
Our View: With Wednesday night's game in extra innings, Putz was asked to extend his work load and pitched himself into a win. |
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| Pedro back in weeks, not months | Wednesday 5/14, 6:48 PM CT |
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Pedro Martinez continues to knock off milestones toward his return, reports MLB.com, and Wednesday Pedro pitched in his first simulated game, facing hitters and fielding his position in Port St. Lucie, Fla.
Our View: Now four innings and 55 pitches closer to a return, Martinez used the session to restate his case for returning to New York within a matter of weeks -- not months. |
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| Tucker learns from Volquez | Wednesday 5/14, 6:45 PM CT |
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The Palm Beach Post reports that Edinson Volquez, who beat the Marlins Tuesday night, has a connection with Florida. The report notes that Volquez, who was sharing a booth with a Florida prospect Ryan Tucker , demonstrated how he grips his changeup to the young pitcher. Tucker, who two months later was picked 35th overall in the draft by the Marlins, started using the same grip and is now among the Double-A Southern League leaders with a 0.97 ERA.
Our View: Tucker is one of the many talented farm hands the Marlins have working hard to earn on ticket to the big club. According to Baseball America, Tucker is the Marlins' third-best prospect (Volstad is first, Sinkbeil second). His fastball, which has been clocked at 97 mph, is rated the best in the organization. As you might expect, he has an effective change-up and has also been working on a slider. |
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| Stewart and Wilk to platoon | Wednesday 5/14, 6:41 PM CT |
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The Toronto Star reports that when it comes to the new-look Blue Jays, another day, another platoon. Manager John Gibbons said on Tuesday that newcomer Brad Wilkerson and Shannon Stewart will split leadoff duties for the foreseeable future.
Our View: Until Vernon Wells returns (6-8 weeks) the Blue Jays will be ultra-creative with their daily lineups. |
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| Pirates retain Meek | Wednesday 5/14, 6:26 PM CT |
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The Pittsburgh Pirates have conceded due cash considerations to the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for the retained rights to pitcher Evan Meek , according to the Tampa Tribune.
Our View: The Pirates claimed Meek from the Rays via the Rule 5 Draft. However, Meek had cleared waivers and was designated for assignment by the Rays, thus the Pirated had to sign a check to get the deal worked out. |
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| Kazmir signs extension | Wednesday 5/14, 6:21 PM CT |
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The Rays and Scott Kazmir have agreed to terms on a contract extension, this according to the Tampa Tribune. The contract will keep Kazmir in Tamap at least through 2011, with the team holding an option for 2012. The deal, which begins next season, guarantees Kazmir at least $28.5 million and could be worth up to $39.5 million.
Kazmir said after avoiding arbitration and agreeing to a one-year, $3.875-million deal for 2008 in January that he wanted to see more from the Rays before locking into a long-term deal.
Our View: Between the team’s moves to lock up James Shields, Carlos Pena, Evan Longoria and Dan Wheeler and the way the team has played this season, it appears that the dominant left-hander likes what he sees. |
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| Smoltz passes another test | Wednesday 5/14, 6:17 PM CT |
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After playing catch from a distance of 90 feet at Citizens Bank Park on Wednesday night, John Smoltz didn't feel any discomfort in his shoulder following the workout. The Braves right-hander threw on flat ground from a distance of 120 feet on Wednesday and if all goes well, he'll get a true test on Saturday, when he throws off the mound for the first time since going on the disabled list, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Smoltz went on the disabled list on April 26 because both his right rotator cuff and right biceps tendon were inflamed. This prolonged shoulder discomfort, which he battled in each of his five starts, prompted him to decide he'll be best utilized as a reliever for the remainder of the season. |
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| Hairston starting at shortstop | Wednesday 5/14, 5:53 PM CT |
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Jerry Hairston Jr. , who replaced the injured Jeff Keppinger (kneecap) on Tuesday night, is starting at shortstop for the Reds tonight.
Our View: The versatile Hairston has played 16 games this season. He is hitting .316 with five RBI, four runs scored and two stolen bases. |
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| Tex back in the starting lineup | Wednesday 5/14, 5:42 PM CT |
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Mark Teixeira, who missed the last two games with tightness in his back, is penciled into the starting lineup for the Braves on Wednesday in Philadelphia.
Our View: Greg Norton had started for the Braves first baseman in the final game of the Pirates series and the opening game against the Phillies. |
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| Washburn earns first save | Wednesday 5/14, 5:31 PM CT |
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Seattle starter Jarrod Washburn earned his first career save as the Mariners defeated the Rangers 4-3 on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Washburn was expected to start on Friday against the Padres so whether the Seattle rotation stays on schedule is a question yet to be answered. |
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| Cairo hits game winning single | Wednesday 5/14, 5:25 PM CT |
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Miguel Cairo hit a two-out RBI single in the 12th inning and the Seattle Mariners beat Texas 4-3 on Wednesday to avoid a sweep.
Our View: Cairo, playing a part-time role for the Mariners, has plated in 17 games this year. The utility infielder is hitting .188 with four RBI, four runs scored and one stolen base. |
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| Feldman throws quality start | Wednesday 5/14, 5:22 PM CT |
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Scott Feldman allowed one run on six hits, walked none and struck out four in seven innings of work. The Rangers ended up losing the extra-inning affair 4-3 to the Seattle Mariners on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Feldman earned himself two starts (at Minnesota - at Cleveland) in Fantasy Week 7 with this effort. |
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| Silva walks none in no-decision | Wednesday 5/14, 5:18 PM CT |
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Carlos Silva allowed two runs on five hits, walked none and struck out four as the Seattle Mariners beat the Texas Rangers 4-3 on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Silva wasn't involved in the decision but was able to pitch well against a good lineup and in a hitter-friendly park. The right-hander worked 6.1 innings before being relieved by Brandon Morrow. |
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| Payton is Grand | Wednesday 5/14, 5:07 PM CT |
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Jay Payton hit a grand slam home run to left field scoring Freddie Bynum, Guillermo Quiroz and Brian Roberts in the seventh inning of Wednesday's 6-3 win over the Red Sox.
Our View: Payton finished the day with one hit in five at-bats but had five RBI. |
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| Sherrill saves 15th | Wednesday 5/14, 4:59 PM CT |
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George Sherrill registered a league high 15th save on Wednesday afternoon as the Orioles beat John Lester and the Red Sox, 6-3.
Our View: His league leading 15th save wasn't easy, though. Sherrill gave up two hits that sandwiched a double play before finally getting Alex Cora to foul out to left field. |
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| Cabrera wins fourth | Wednesday 5/14, 4:56 PM CT |
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Daniel Cabrera allowed three runs on 10 hits, walked none and struck out three in winning his fourth game against one loss. Cabrera worked a strong seven innings, made pitches when he needed them and stranded a boat load of runners.
Our View: One can't count the number of times Cabrera has put together two strong outings. But one also can't count on Cabrera until he shows he can put at least a half a season together. Cabrera came in 1-9 with a 7.84 ERA in 11 career starts against Boston. He had lost seven straight to the Red Sox since 2005. |
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| Lester throws QS | Wednesday 5/14, 4:53 PM CT |
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Jon Lester allowed two runs on five hits, walked two and struck out four in six innings of work as the Red Sox lost 6-3 to the Orioles on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Lester pitched well enough to win, but the lack of run support and the four runs that the bullpen gave up didn't help the left-hander. |
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| Edmonds to take physical | Wednesday 5/14, 4:49 PM CT |
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Following up on a previous report, Jim Edmonds will in fact join the Cubs after passing a physical. Cubs general manager Jim Hendry told the media before Wednesday night's game that Edmonds was on his way to Chicago and must pass a physical before he can join the team, this according to the AP.
Our View: Edmonds still has very little fantasy value. His skill-set has diminished and he will have a backup role with the Cubs. |
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| Suzuki falls to eighth in the order | Wednesday 5/14, 4:28 PM CT |
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Kurt Suzuki, who replaced the slumping Travis Buck in the leadoff spot for the A's in mid-April, gave way to Raja Davis in Wednesday's game against C.C. Sabathia.
Our View: Suzuki, with is batting lines .248/.314/.297, is hitting eighth tonight. |
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| Sweeney in the two slot | Wednesday 5/14, 4:26 PM CT |
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The Oakland A's penciled in a peculiar lineup for Wednesday's game against C.C. Sabathia and the Indians. Slugger Mike Sweeney is hitting second in the lineup and in front of Jack Cust and Frank Thomas.
Our View: Sweeney is no longer the young slugger he used to be, but he also doesn't hit to the opposite field as much as he used to. |
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| Davis starting vs Sabathia | Wednesday 5/14, 4:21 PM CT |
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Rajai Davis , the A's second option in center field since Chris Denorfia went on the disabled list, is starting and batting leadoff tonight when Oakland visits Cleveland.
Our View: Davis' strength is his speed, but he can't contribute if he doesn't get on base (.190). |
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| Silva injures back | Wednesday 5/14, 3:57 PM CT |
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Carlos Silva left his start against the Rangers on Wednesday due to mild lower back tightness, the Seattle Times reports. The right-hander had allowed five hits and two runs over 6.1 innings.
Our View: What else can go wrong for the Mariners these days? We'll update Silva's status when more is known. |
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| Reyes activated | Wednesday 5/14, 3:48 PM CT |
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The Rays activated Al Reyes from the 15-day DL on Wednesday, the Tampa Tribune confirms. Reyes had been out since April 14 due to a right shoulder impingement.
Our View: The Rays currently boast the second-best bullpen in the AL despite Reyes' struggles earlier this year. Reyes closed games in 2007, but it may take more than a Troy Percival injury to get Al back into that role this year. |
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| Weeks to get day off | Wednesday 5/14, 3:35 PM CT |
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Rickie Weeks is getting the day off on Wednesday, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports. Craig Counsell is starting in his place.
Our View: Maybe a day of rest will help Weeks get that average back above .200. We're all pulling for you, Rickie. |
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| Wilson still the closer | Wednesday 5/14, 2:56 PM CT |
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Manager Ron Washington confirms that C.J. Wilson is still the Rangers closer. Eddie Guardado shut the door on Tuesday night. "I said in Spring Training that Eddie would get some opportunities to save ballgames," Washington tells MLB.com. "That might be a week from now, or it might be four or five days from now. I'm glad to have him. The situation is going to dictate. If C.J. can't go, Eddie is going to get the ball."
Our View: Wilson has struggled recently, but fantasy owners can continue to count on him the near future. Guardado hasn't exactly been sharp this year (5.40 ERA), so we don't imagine Washington is eager to hand him the job. |
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| Borowski to start rehab on Monday | Wednesday 5/14, 2:53 PM CT |
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Joe Borowski will test his strained right triceps when he twirls for the Low-A Lake County Captains on Monday, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Our View: We're not sure how long Borowski's rehab stint will last, but we imagine the Indians will make him prove his velocity and endurance over at least three outings. Borowski is expected to regain his closer's role when ready. |
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| Chavez called up | Wednesday 5/14, 2:50 PM CT |
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The Pirates called up Raul Chavez on Wednesday to take the roster spot of injured catcher Ryan Doumit, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports. Chavez, 35, was hitting .306-3-13 over 26 games at Triple-A Indianapolis.
Our View: Chavez will serve as one of the backups to Ronny Paulino, who should start nearly every day while Doumit is out. |
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| Keppinger placed on DL | Wednesday 5/14, 1:43 PM CT |
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As expected, the Reds placed Jeff Keppinger on the DL on Wednesday. The infielder fractured his left kneecap when he fouled a ball off the joint on Tuesday. Keppinger will undergo an MRI later on Wednesday, the Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Our View: The Reds will likely wait for the test results before issuing a timetable. We don't imagine he'll have a quick return, though. |
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| Mora receives cortisone shot | Wednesday 5/14, 1:39 PM CT |
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Updating a previous report, Melvin Mora received a cortisone shot in his right shoulder on Wednesday, the Baltimore Sun reports. The Orioles are off on Thursday.
Our View: Cortisone shots often take a couple days to recover from, but Mora could be ready by Friday. We have to wonder if his injury is more than just a bruise, though. |
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| Bruce is on fire | Wednesday 5/14, 1:37 PM CT |
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Jay Bruce had a decent little afternoon at the dish on Wednesday. The outfielder went 3-for-3 with a double, triple, homer, three RBI, two runs, and two walks against Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Bruce is 22-for-36 (.611) with three homers and 12 RBI over the last 10 games.
Our View: It's ridiculous that the Reds haven't called Bruce up and handed him the keys to Corey Patterson's locker. |
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| Hernandez scratched | Wednesday 5/14, 1:30 PM CT |
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Updating a previous report, Ramon Hernandez has been pulled from Wednesday's lineup because he felt more soreness in his left wrist while swinging a bat in pre-game warm-ups, the Baltimore Sun reports. Guillermo Quiroz will start in his place.
Our View: The O's are off on Thursday, and hopefully the rest will work wonder for Hernandez. He has been dealing with this pain for a couple weeks, which is not a good sign. |
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| Mora sitting on Wednesday | Wednesday 5/14, 12:59 PM CT |
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Melvin Mora is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Red Sox, the Baltimore Sun reports. Aubrey Huff is starting at third base. Mora is day-to-day due to a sore right shoulder.
Our View: The O's are off on Thursday, and we imagine Mora could return for the weekend. |
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| Crisp still feeling ill | Wednesday 5/14, 12:57 PM CT |
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Coco Crisp continues to be bothered by headaches and nausea and is not in Wednesday's lineup. "I feel off-and-on better and weird. I woke up feeling better, did some late Mother's Day shopping... but then started feeling sick again," he informs the Boston Globe. "My head is messed up... a heavy-type feeling."
Our View: Crisp must have been watching his game tapes from 2007. Bah doom ching! |
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| Hernandez back in lineup | Wednesday 5/14, 12:54 PM CT |
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Ramon Hernandez is listed as the starter for Wednesday's tilt against the Red Sox, according to the Baltimore Sun. The backstop hasn't played since May 9 due to a sore left wrist.
Our View: Hernandez isn't quite out of the woods yet, as this injury has plagued him for a couple weeks. Fantasy owners can feel free to use him, for now. |
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| Lugo out again | Wednesday 5/14, 12:52 PM CT |
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Julio Lugo is out again on Wednesday due to a concussion, and he will be examined by team doctors in Boston on Thursday, the Boston Globe reports. Alex Cora is starting in his place.
Our View: We hope this is a case of the Sox being overly protective and not something where the symptoms aren't going away as hoped. |
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| Hoey out for season | Wednesday 5/14, 12:49 PM CT |
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Jim Hoey underwent right shoulder surgery in early May and will miss the remainder of the season, the Baltimore Sun reports.
Our View: Details? Anyone? Details? The Sun balks at providing any more information, but we imagine a rotator cuff or labrum was involved. Anyway, so much for the promising Hoey ever making a case to be a closer down the road. |
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| Van Every to start in center | Wednesday 5/14, 12:47 PM CT |
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Jonathan Van Every was called up on Wednesday and will start in center against the Orioles, the Boston Globe confirms. The 28-year-old outfielder was batting .287-6-20 over 40 games for Triple-A Pawtucket.
Our View: Welcome to the bigs, Mr. Van Every. His stay could be short if J.D. Drew (wrist) and Coco Crisp (illness) aren't out too much longer. |
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| Buchholz placed on DL | Wednesday 5/14, 12:44 PM CT |
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The Red Sox have placed Clay Buchholz on the 15-day DL due to a torn fingernail on his right middle finger, the Boston Globe reports.
Our View: We're not yet sure how the Sox will fill the gap in the rotation, and we'll be on the lookout for news about that situation. We imagine the club might make more roster moves in the coming days. |
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| Janish called up | Wednesday 5/14, 12:23 PM CT |
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The Reds have called up Paul Janish to take the roster spot of Jeff Keppinger, who fractured his left kneecap on Tuesday night, ESPN.com confirms. Janish, 25, was hitting .293-4-20 over 35 games at Triple-A Louisville.
Our View: The Reds could use Janish or Jerry Hairston, and knowing Dusty Baker, the veteran will get the call on most nights. There's a bit of NL-only league value here. |
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| Byrd activated | Wednesday 5/14, 11:58 AM CT |
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The Rangers activated Marlon Byrd from the DL on Wednesday, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram confirms. Infielder Travis Metcalf was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma. Byrd had been out due to a sore left knee.
Our View: Byrd returns to a roster that not only features David Murphy but now Brandon Boggs as well. Marlon will find it hard to be anything more than part of a platoon. |
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| Abreu struggling in Tampa | Wednesday 5/14, 11:28 AM CT |
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Bobby Abreu is struggling with the Tampa pitching staff. In the last two games the Yankee right fielder is 0-for-8 with three strikeouts.
Our View: Abreu's lines over the first six weeks are acceptable (.287/.355/.427) but he's beginning to show his age with some regression in the power and speed categories (only 3 stolen bases). |
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| Joyce goes deep again | Wednesday 5/14, 11:24 AM CT |
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Matt Joyce recorded another multi-hit effort on Tuesday night in KC. The Tigers outfielder hit a home run for the second straight finishing the game 2-for-4.
Our View: The prospect is batting .333 in his first 18 at-bats with two home runs and three RBI. |
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