|
| Upton in the midst of serious slump | Tuesday 5/27, 11:58 PM CT |
|
Justin Upton was 0-for-4 with three strikeouts Tuesday night and is in the midst of a 0-for-26 slump with 17 strikeouts.
Our View: Upton's hot start wasn't going to last forever. Twenty-year-olds are going to struggle at some point, no matter how talented they may be. |
|
|
| Anderson pulls Angels to late-inning rally | Tuesday 5/27, 11:56 PM CT |
|
Down 2-0 for the most of the game, the Angels rallied in the 8th and 9th to pull victory from the jaws of defeat against the Detroit Tigers, with outfielder Garret Anderson serving as the catalyst for the win. Anderson went 3-for-4 on the evening with an RBI single to get the Angels moving in the right direction (and doing so with two outs).
Our View: Anderson has been on fire this month, going 35-for-94 through May with 17 RBIs to show for his efforts. |
|
|
| Molina continues to rake | Tuesday 5/27, 11:55 PM CT |
|
Bengie Molina was named the NL Player of the Week last week, and he hasn't slowed down. The rotund catcher had a pair of hits, including a three-run homer, in Tuesday's win over Arizona.
Our View: Molina is batting .640 with two homers and 12 RBI over the last six games. His .329-6-34 line so far is outstanding for a backstop. |
|
|
| Delgado may get two nights in a row off | Tuesday 5/27, 11:50 PM CT |
|
Manager Willie Randolph rested the slumping Carlos Delgado Tuesday night, hoping to clear the veteran's head. Randolph said he might sit Delgado again Wednesday against lefty Scott Olsen, according to the AP.
Our View: Delgado is batting .184 over the past two weeks and has a .215 mark for the season. Damion Easley started in Delgado's place tonight and went 1-for-3 with an RBI and run scored. |
|
|
| Mora homers in Baltimore win | Tuesday 5/27, 11:45 PM CT |
|
Baltimore third baseman Melvin Mora did his part to contribute to the 11-inning win for the Orioles, taking the Yankees 10-9. Mora went 3-for-6 at the dish, hitting his sixth home run of the season to post two RBIs and two runs scored on the evening.
Our View: Mora had been struggling at the plate with no homers since May 9th. |
|
|
| Millar hits two homers in win for O's | Tuesday 5/27, 11:41 PM CT |
|
It wasn't easy, but Baltimore used every bit of 11 innings, including topping the Yanks' run with two of their own in the bottom of the 11th, to emerge 10-9 for the win. Baltimore first baseman Kevin Millar was the force of offensive reckoning for the O's, going 3-for-5 with a walk at the dish, hitting his fifth double of the season as well as two home runs on the night, totaling three RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: These are Millar's first homers since May 20th, but he now carries 13 RBIs for the month of May. |
|
|
| Damon dominates, but Yanks take the loss | Tuesday 5/27, 11:33 PM CT |
|
Yankee outfielder Johnny Damon enjoyed a wonderful evening at the plate despite the extra-innings loss to Baltimore. Damon went 4-for-5 with a walk, hitting two doubles and his sixth home run of the season, totaling three RBIs and two runs scored on the evening.
Our View: Damon now has a seven-game hit streak running, going 13-for-30 during that span. He also added his seventh stolen base of the season. |
|
|
| A-Rod and others homer, but Yanks fall | Tuesday 5/27, 11:28 PM CT |
|
Four of the big names posted home runs for the Yankees this evening, but Baltimore prevailed after 11 innings and put the loss on New York. DH Jason Giambi, outfielders Bobby Abreu and Johnny Damon, and third baseman Alex Rodriguez all hit home runs, but it was all for naught as the effort falls short.
Our View: A-Rod left a total of four men on-base in the match, but he has hit three homer in his last five games against the Orioles. |
|
|
| Borkowski designated for assignment | Tuesday 5/27, 11:28 PM CT |
|
The Astros designated Dave Borkowski for assignment after Tuesday's game. The move was made to make room on the roster for Wandy Rodriguez. Borkowski has a 6.86 ERA in 18 games with the 'Stros.
Our View: Borkowski will probably clear waivers, but he may or may not accept an assignment to Triple-A Round Rock. |
|
|
| Rodriguez activated from DL | Tuesday 5/27, 11:26 PM CT |
|
The Astros activated Wandy Rodriguez from the DL after Tuesday's game. Rodriguez, who will start Wednesday night, is coming back from a strained left groin. Dave Borkowski was designated for assignment to make room on the roster.
Our View: Rodriguez has a tough first assignment, as he's matched up against Adam Wainwright. It may be best to see what he's got his first time out before activating him. |
|
|
| Mixed bag for Mauer in win | Tuesday 5/27, 11:24 PM CT |
|
Minnesota catcher Joe Mauer helped his team get the 4-3 win over Kansas City in 12 innings this evening, but a review from fantasy owners may offer mix emotions. Mauer went 0-for-4 at the plate, but he failed to strike out, he took two walks, and he posted two runs scored along the way.
Our View: Mauer now sits at .329 on the season, hitting 28-for-76 (.368) through May. |
|
|
| Casilla bolsters 12-inning win for Twins | Tuesday 5/27, 11:20 PM CT |
|
Minnesota needed 12 innings this evening to get the win, but they got the job done, putting the 4-3 victory in the books against the Kansas City Royals. Second baseman Alexi Casilla was a large part of that effort, going 3-of-6 at the dish with one stolen base (his first of the season) and one RBI.
Our View: Casilla just recently started getting regular action in games and has posted at least one hit in seven of his last eight games, touting an impressive 10 RBIs during that span. |
|
|
| Blackburn suffers no decision but throws well | Tuesday 5/27, 11:15 PM CT |
|
Minnesota RHP Nick Blackburn put forth a strong effort tonight, and while his team needed 12 innings to put the game to bed, they emerged 4-3 to take the win over Kansas City. Blackburn pitched 8 1/3 innings, surrendering just two runs (both earned) on eight hits with no walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Reliever Joe Nathan entered and game up a homer run to Mark Teahen with two outs in the ninth, thus blowing the win for Blackburn. That would have brought him to 4-3 on the season. |
|
|
| Teahen shines in Royals loss | Tuesday 5/27, 11:11 PM CT |
|
The Kansas City Royals have suffered their ninth consecutive loss this evening, falling at home to the Minnesota Twins 4-3. However, first baseman Mark Teahen showed signs of life this evening, hitting 2-for-5 with his seventh double as well as his third home run, all totaling three RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Teahen came into the game hoping to improve his struggling .208 batting average through the month of May. He nearly doubled his RBI production for the month in one day. |
|
|
| Uribe could be activated by Saturday | Tuesday 5/27, 11:09 PM CT |
|
Juan Uribe went 0-for-3 Tuesday in his first rehab game with Triple-A Charlotte. The second baseman is recovering from a right hamstring strain and could be activated from the disabled list by Saturday if he's given clearance, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Our View: Personally we would just cut Uribe loose and give the second base job to Alexei Ramirez, but strangely, no one in the White Sox front office has asked for our input. |
|
|
| Braves plan to activate Soriano | Tuesday 5/27, 11:06 PM CT |
|
The Braves plan on activating Rafael Soriano from the DL to replace the injured Matt Diaz on the roster, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Soriano has been out since early April with right elbow tendinitis.
Our View: Soriano should immediately take over the closer duties, but his return to the role will likely be short-lived, as John Smoltz is slated to return and is expected to be the ninth inning man. |
|
|
| Dice-K hurt | Tuesday 5/27, 10:48 PM CT |
|
Boston starter RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka has left tonight's game against Seattle early with an apparent injury, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: Matsuzaka had gone to the mound to start the fifth inning, had thrown a few warmup pitches, and stopped. He left the field under his own power, but reports indicate he was clearly holding either his side or his lower back. We will update as news comes forth. |
|
|
| Diaz leaves with PCL strain | Tuesday 5/27, 10:43 PM CT |
|
Matt Diaz left Tuesday's game in the sixth inning with a left PCL strain and a laceration below the knee that required stitches, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The Braves placed the outfielder on the DL after the game. Diaz suffered the injury when he slid into the wall trying to make a catch in foul territory.
Our View: The team plans on activating Rafael Soriano from the DL to replace Diaz on the roster, though this injury leaves them with just four healthy outfielders, so you have to figure another move will come at some point. |
|
|
| Youkilis should return soon | Tuesday 5/27, 10:42 PM CT |
|
The Boston Red Sox report injured first baseman Kevin Youkilis should be back on the field soon, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Youkilis had X-rays performed on his injured hand today and results show no significant damage. Youk was out of the lineup this evening, his second consecutive missed game, but manager Terry Francona hopes to get him back in to face LHP Erik Bedard on Wednesday. |
|
|
| Julio designated for assignment | Tuesday 5/27, 10:26 PM CT |
|
The Cleveland Indians have announced reliever Jorge Julio will be designated for assignment, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The move comes as a result of the return of starter Jake Westbrook who the team plans to activate from the 15-day disabled list tomorrow. In 15 appearances for Cleveland, Julio has earned a 5.60 ERA, walking 11 and striking out 15 through nearly 18 innings of work. He has struggled of late, surrendering nine earned runs over his last 10 2/3 innings. |
|
|
| Chavez progressing, but no rush necessary | Tuesday 5/27, 10:22 PM CT |
|
Oakland third baseman Eric Chavez is progressing through is rehab assignment in Triple-A Sacramento, though the A's suggest he has more work to do before he will rejoin the team, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Chavez is on the 60-day disabled list with chronic back pain, yet he was eligible to return to the roster today. With several young infielders on hand to take care of business, Oakland is taking time with Chavez and not rushing him along. Chavez has appeared in seven games for Sacramento, batting .417 with 10 hits, including one homer, in 24 at-bats. The team has yet to put a timetable on Chavez return, and while the work he is putting forth suggests that move will come soon, you can bet the A's are not going to rush things along. |
|
|
| Pujols picks up four hits in loss | Tuesday 5/27, 10:06 PM CT |
|
Albert Pujols was one of the few bright spots for the Cardinals Tuesday. The slugger went 4-for-4 at the plate in the 8-2 loss to Houston, finishing a triple short of the cycle.
Our View: Pujols had a .365-5-20 line in April and has posted a .356-7-14 line so far in May. The elbow is becoming less and less of an issue as the days pass.
|
|
|
| Pence goes 5-for-5 Tuesday | Tuesday 5/27, 9:59 PM CT |
|
The red-hot Hunter Pence continued to rake Tuesday, going 5-for-5 in the 8-2 win over the Cardinals. Pence is batting .378 with six homers and 21 RBI in May.
Our View: Pence had four four-hit games last year, but this is the first five-hit game of his career. |
|
|
| Bruce reaches in all five plate appearances | Tuesday 5/27, 9:54 PM CT |
|
Jay Bruce had quite a debut for the Reds Tuesday, going 3-for-3 at the plate while reaching base in all five plate appearances. He scored two runs, drove in two and stole a base.
Our View: Bruce hit second in the Reds order and played center field. In case you've been living under a rock, this young phenom is worth a pickup in all formats. |
|
|
| Wilson gets three hits in return | Tuesday 5/27, 9:51 PM CT |
|
Jack Wilson had three singles Tuesday in his first game back from a strained left calf. He hadn't played since April 3.
Our View: Wilson didn't take long to shake off the rust. Feel free to insert him into your lineup if you normally would. |
|
|
| Boggs hits well in Texas win | Tuesday 5/27, 9:49 PM CT |
|
Texas outfielder Josh Hamilton may steal the show with is prolific offense surge, but fellow outfielder Brandon Boggs enjoyed a great game at the plate in tonight's 12-6 drumming of the Tampa Bay Rays as well. Boggs went 3-for-5 with is fifth double of the season to total three RBIs.
Our View: Boggs was touting just ten total RBIs coming into this game, hitting just .221 through the month of May. This may be a sign of better things to come. |
|
|
| Tatis drives in a pair | Tuesday 5/27, 9:46 PM CT |
|
Fernando Tatis had a pair of RBI singles in the Mets' 5-3 win over the Marlins Tuesday. He now has six hits, including a home run in 15 at-bats for New York since his call-up.
Our View: Tatis is in line for a few starts per week with the injuries to the other Mets outfielders. He could be worth a pickup in NL-only play. |
|
|
| Sonnanstine struggles versus Texas | Tuesday 5/27, 9:44 PM CT |
|
It was a difficult evening on the mound for RHP Andy Sonnanstine this evening, taking the loss as the Rays fell 12-6 to the Rangers. Sonnanstine lasted just five innings, surrendering seven runs (only two earned) on ten hits with one walk and seven strikeouts.
Our View: Sonnanstine left the month of April with a record of 4-1, but with his second consecutive loss, he has fallen to 6-3, and tonight's performance will not help an already-distressing 6.12 ERA through May. |
|
|
| Gallagher keeps Dodgers in check | Tuesday 5/27, 9:42 PM CT |
|
Sean Gallagher put together the best start of his young major league career Tuesday, limiting the Dodgers to just one run on four hits and two walks while striking out three over seven innings.
Our View: Gallagher is too inconsistent at this point to be relied upon in anything but very deep leagues, but this start was certainly encouraging. |
|
|
| Floyd goes yard, but Rays fall | Tuesday 5/27, 9:40 PM CT |
|
Tampa Bay may have fallen to the Texas Rangers in depressing fashion (12-6) this evening, but designated hitter Cliff Floyd did his part to reverse their fortunes. Floyd, hitting late in the order, went 2-for-2 with two walks at the dish, smacking a home run to total two RBIs and three runs scored on the evening.
Our View: Floyd has seen a significant drop in his batting production this month, going 9-for-40 coming into this game. Tonight's homer was his first in May and just his third this season. |
|
|
| Lo Duca plays catch without problems | Tuesday 5/27, 9:40 PM CT |
|
Paul Lo Duca played catch before Tuesday's game without any problems, according to MLB.com. The catcher, who hasn't played in a game since May 7 because of a fractured right hand, is hoping to be back in action right after the All-Star break, if not sooner. He will take some dry swings in the next couple days and then will go through some soft-toss drills next week. "Throwing-wise, it's fine. I was trying to get a workout in," Lo Duca said. "The hand is getting better and stronger."
Our View: Jesus Flores has done well as the Nats' primary catcher, so the team probably will ease Lo Duca and Johnny Estrada back. |
|
|
| Hamilton with the granny as Texas rips Rays | Tuesday 5/27, 9:36 PM CT |
|
Texas posted a whopping 12 runs against the Tampa Bay Rays this evening, an effort that allowed six different Rangers to post multiple hits. The charge was led by outfielder Josh Hamilton who continues to rip the cover off the baseball, tonight going 2-for-5 at the plate with his 15th double of the season as well as his 13th home run, a grand slam hit in the 8th inning.
Our View: Hamilton finished with five RBIs and three runs scored on the evening. He is now 34-for-104 through the month of May with seven home runs and 26 RBIs. |
|
|
| Frandsen tests out Achilles tendon | Tuesday 5/27, 9:31 PM CT |
|
Kevin Frandsen, who is likely out for the year with an injured left Achilles tendon, has begun walking under controlled conditions, according to MLB.com. "It's tight, but it feels great," he said.
Our View: Barring a miracle, we won't see Fransen anytime this season. |
|
|
| Valdez throws off flat ground, mound | Tuesday 5/27, 9:29 PM CT |
|
Merkin Valdez made 45 throws on flat ground and threw 20 pitches off a bullpen mound Tuesday. The Giants will see how the reliever's arm feels Wednesday before determining his next step, according to MLB.com. Valdez is recovering from a strained right elbow.
Our View: The Giants have been waiting for Valdez to come into his own for a while now. He got off to a great start before this injury, so hopefully he can get right back on track once he completes his rehab. |
|
|
| Correia set for first rehab outing | Tuesday 5/27, 9:24 PM CT |
|
Kevin Correia will make his first minor league injury rehab start Friday with Single-A San Jose. It's possible he'll need only one more rehab start after that before rejoining the Giants rotation, manager Bruce Bochy told MLB.com. Correia went on the disabled list April 27 with a strained muscle in his left side. "It's still not 100 percent," Correia said, "but that's the way it is for a while if you pull a muscle. It's not unmanageable."
Our View: We'll let you know how Correia fares on Friday. He's been usable in NL-only play this year, so his progress is worth tracking. |
|
|
| Laffey hurls well versus White Sox | Tuesday 5/27, 9:22 PM CT |
|
It was the offense that shined for Cleveland in tonight's 8-2 win over the Chicago White Sox, but starter Aaron Laffey did more than his fair share to get the victory. Laffey lasted six innings, surrendering just two runs (one earned) on seven hits, walking two but failing to strikeout a single batter.
Our View: Laffey now sits at 3-3 on the season, has won three of his last four starts, and has an impressive 1.59 ERA. |
|
|
| Geary could be back within a week | Tuesday 5/27, 9:20 PM CT |
|
Geoff Geary threw 25 pitches during a pain-free bullpen session on Tuesday and could be activated from the DL within a week, according to MLB.com. "I threw a couple slide-step pitches and didn't feel anything," Geary said. "The next step is doing side-to-side movements and bunt defense, bunt plays. Once I feel OK with that, there's no reason why I shouldn't be out there in a game." Geary has been on the DL since May 16 with a strained right groin.
Our View: Manager Cecil Cooper doesn't think Geary will need to go on a rehab assignment. He's had a very nice year for Houston, compiling a 1.47 ERA with 17 Ks in 18 1/3 innings. |
|
|
| Soriano has 'perfect' session | Tuesday 5/27, 9:18 PM CT |
|
Rafael Soriano's bullpen session Tuesday went very well. In fact, pitching coach Roger McDowell called the session "perfect," according to MLB.com. The reliever, who is coming back from right elbow tendinitis, could be activated as early as Thursday. Manager Bobby Cox plans to evaluate Soriano's situation again on Wednesday.
Our View: Assuming Soriano doesn't have a setback (which is certainly possible with him), we should see him later this week. |
|
|
| Gutierrez smacks grand slam for Indians | Tuesday 5/27, 9:18 PM CT |
|
Cleveland outfielder Franklin Gutierrez wasted no time in putting his Indians on top of the Chicago White Sox, eventually moving on the take the 8-2 win. Gutierrez got it all started with a grand slam in the first inning, his only hit of the night, a hit that proved too much for the Sox to overcome.
Our View: This is Gutierrez's third homer of the season and represents his first RBIs for the month of May. |
|
|
| Buehrle takes sixth loss vs Cleveland | Tuesday 5/27, 9:15 PM CT |
|
Chicago LHP Mark Buehrle suffered his sixth loss of the season this evening as his White Sox fell to the Cleveland Indians, 8-2. Buehrle lasted just five innings, giving up seven runs (six earned) on eight hits with two walks and just one strikeout.
Our View: Buehrle has been atrocious this month, suffering his fourth loss in six starts through May, giving up a total of 21 earned runs along the way. |
|
|
| MRI brings good results for Peavy | Tuesday 5/27, 9:13 PM CT |
|
Jake Peavy threw 40 pitches on flat ground and took batting practice Tuesday in his first baseball-related action since his right elbow strain, according to MLB.com. "Everything felt normal, so that was good news," said Peavy. "Obviously, it's gone longer than we thought, but everything went well today, and we'll try again tomorrow and hopefully everything will go well and we can progress towards getting back out there." Peavy had an MRI Tuesday morning, and the results were positive. "The MRI looked good today, with no structural damage. Everything looked intact with tendons and ligaments." When asked when he might return to the mound, Peavy responded, "I don't know, maybe sometime this weekend. I hope we can climb up on the mound and have enough arm strength to get through that. And hopefully it won't take too much longer after that to get on the mound for real."
Our View: This is certainly positive news on Peavy, but he's obviously not out of the woods yet. We'll continue to track his recovery. |
|
|
| Cabrera tops offensive efforts for Chicago | Tuesday 5/27, 9:11 PM CT |
|
The White Sox took the 8-3 fall this evening from the Cleveland Indians despite the efforts from shortstop Orlando Cabrera . Cabrera went 2-for-4 with a walk at the plate, including his eighth double of the season to total one RBI.
Our View: Cabrera went 4-for-6 against Cleveland on Sunday and seems to have a good thing working against the Indians' pitching. |
|
|
| Liriano struggles but shows progress | Tuesday 5/27, 9:06 PM CT |
|
Minnesota LHP Francisco Liriano gave up six runs on seven hits through 6 2/3 innings on Monday, his latest rehab start for Triple-A Rochester, but the team continues to see progress in his work, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The stats were atrocious to say the least, but manager Ron Gardenhire noted the bulk of the damage was done on one pitch (a grand slam) and that Liriano gave up just one walk and struck out four. The string of success in Rochester has some wondering if the Twins may attempt to bring Liriano back sooner rather than later, but you can bet the cautious approach will be the sell in Minnesota. |
|
|
| Eckstein back, will be eased in | Tuesday 5/27, 8:31 PM CT |
|
The Blue Jays have activated shortstop David Eckstein who is in the lineup for Toronto this evening versus Oakland, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Eckstein went on the disabled list on May 8 with a strained right hip flexor, which he tested in five rehab games before being cleared. Manager John Gibbons plans to be cautious with Eckstein, batting .246 with one home run and 12 RBIs in 30 games this year. He'll likely sit out Wednesday night's middle game against the Oakland Athletics and play again in a day game Thursday. |
|
|
| Yanks sign Broussard | Tuesday 5/27, 8:25 PM CT |
|
The New York Yankees signed veteran first baseman Ben Broussard to a minor league contract, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: The Yankees, currently using a platoon system at first base, signed Broussard on Tuesday and assigned him to Triple-A Scranton. |
|
|
| Punto staying in Florida until rehab is completed | Tuesday 5/27, 8:23 PM CT |
|
Updating an earlier report, Minnesota has decided to keep infielder Nick Punto in Florida to complete his rehab start and he will not rejoin the team in Kansas City, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Punto has progressed nicely as he recovers from a strained left hamstring, and early reports indicated the Twins were hoping to see him with the major league club before the weekend. Now the Twins plan to keep Punto in extended spring training until at least Saturday. |
|
|
| Kotsay may need to go on DL | Tuesday 5/27, 8:20 PM CT |
|
Mark Kotsay's back with likely keep him out of the lineup for a few more days, and it's possible a DL stint could be in his future, according to MLB.com. "We're going to see how he is day-to-day," manager Bobby Cox said Tuesday. "He won't be available for anything, tonight anyhow."
Our View: Kotsay missed over half of last season with back problems, and the back has flared up on him again. It appears we could see a lot more Gregor Blanco in our future. |
|
|
| Kennedy leaves early with injury | Tuesday 5/27, 8:19 PM CT |
|
Yankees RHP Ian Kennedy has left his start this evening after three innings with a slightly strained right lat muscle, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Kennedy was charged with four runs on four hits against Baltimore, having allowed back-to-back home runs to Kevin Millar and Ramon Hernandez in the second inning. The team has not released information on the severity of the injury at this point. We will update when that becomes available.
|
|
|
| Pedro could return early next week | Tuesday 5/27, 8:13 PM CT |
|
Pedro Martinez is slated to make a rehab start Wednesday night for Class-A St. Lucie, according to the AP. He'll then join the Mets rotation early next week if that start goes well. Pedro is coming back from a strained hamstring.
Our View: Pedro has said that he's ready to go, but he'll get one more rehab start to tune up. |
|
|
| Minaya doesn't rule out DL stint for Church | Tuesday 5/27, 8:08 PM CT |
|
Ryan Church, still dizzy from his concussion last week, was sent home Tuesday, according to the AP. Church was examined by a neurologist and underwent an MRI exam that did not reveal any brain injuries. GM Omar Minaya said Church is considered day-to-day and could rejoin the team Wednesday, but the GM also didn't rule out a potentialy DL stint for the outfielder. "It's going to be how he feels," Minaya said. "We've done a CT scan and that came out normal. The MRI has come out normal. There's no brain injuries or (anything) like that, but the fact that there is some dizziness, we want to be cautious."
Our View: It's just a hunch, but we're betting a retroactive DL stint is in Church's future. Fernando Tatis and Nick Evans are playing surprisingly well as fill-ins, though Endy Chavez isn't doing anything noteworthy. |
|
|
| Bonser likely out when Baker returns for Twins | Tuesday 5/27, 8:05 PM CT |
|
The Minnesota Twins report RHP Scott Baker is near ready to return to the team's starting rotation, and when he does, Boof Bonser is the likely man out of a job, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Manager Ron Gardenhire spoke with the press today, deciding to keep starter Glen Perkins in his normal schedule spot as the team's starting pitcher today while pushing Bonser's next start to Saturday. That puts Bonser and Baker on the same schedule, and while Gardenhire refused to comment on Bonser and a potential move, his 0-2 record and 9.59 ERA through five May starts may be too much to ignore. |
|
|
| Zimmerman sits again with shoulder ailment | Tuesday 5/27, 8:03 PM CT |
|
Ryan Zimmerman is out of the lineup for the second straight day because of his sore left shoulder, according to the Washington Post. He told the Post his shoulder feels much better today than it did yesterday, though he said he would probably rest another day or two. "It's just soreness," Zimmerman said of his shoulder. "It's been checked out, and they said there's nothing structurally wrong with it. Basically just wait for [the soreness] to go away."
Our View: Zimmerman isn't likely to land on the DL at this point, but that could certainly change in the coming days. |
|
|
| Punto nearing return | Tuesday 5/27, 7:48 PM CT |
|
Minnesota infielder Nick Punto is progressing nicely in his rehabilitation and could be back this week, according to the Sports Xchange.
Our View: The team reports Punto worked out with the Twins' extended spring training team in Ft. Myers, Florida on Sunday and Monday. He has been on the DL since May 7th with a strained left hamstring, but the Twins believe he could rejoin the team in Kansas City later this week. |
|
|
| Romero summoned from Triple-A | Tuesday 5/27, 7:46 PM CT |
|
The D'Backs recalled Alex Romero from Triple-A Tucson Tuesday to replace the injured Eric Byrnes on the roster. Romero made the team out of spring training and had three hits in 10 at-bats before getting sent down.
Our View: Romero should get plenty of playing time in left while Byrnes is out, but he'll have to share time with Jeff Salazar and Chris Burke. |
|
|
| Uribe hoping to return on schedule | Tuesday 5/27, 7:45 PM CT |
|
Chicago infielder Juan Uribe is on track with is rehabilitation, recovering from an injured hamstring, according the Sports Xchange.
Our View: Uribe took batting practice with the club today and was running in the field a bit. He was placed on the 15-day disabled list on May 15th and the team is hopeful he will return on schedule. |
|
|
| Sheffield sent to 15-day DL | Tuesday 5/27, 7:30 PM CT |
|
Detroit has placed designated hitter Gary Sheffield on the 15-day disabled list, suffering a left oblique strain during Monday's game against the Angels, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Sheffield suffered his injury starting out of the batter's box on a ground ball in his second at-bat. He pulled up lame about midway down the line, immediately turning to limp towards the dugout. To replace Sheffield, Detroit will purchase the contract of Jeff Larish from Triple-A Toledo on Wednesday. The team is expected to push Carlos Guillen into the DH role in the short-term future. |
|
|
| Bynum officially the starting SS in Baltimore | Tuesday 5/27, 7:25 PM CT |
|
The Baltimore Orioles have decided to move shortstop Luis Hernandez to a reserve role on a permanent basis, instead giving utilityman Freddie Bynum and veteran Alex Cintron a shot to compete for the starting job, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Hernandez has seen just five at-bats since Cintron joined the team. The young prospect tabbed to work as the replacement for Miguel Tejada struggled through a horrific spring training and is now on the outs, viewed as one of the lower bench options on the roster. Meanwhile, Bynum has started nearly every game at short for the last three weeks, and manager Dave Trembley has announced this will be the way the team moves forward. |
|
|
| Baldelli working towards return for Rays | Tuesday 5/27, 7:16 PM CT |
|
Tampa Bay outfielder Rocco Baldelli took batting practice with the Rays today and appears to be nearing a return to the lineup, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Baldelli is currently on the 60-day disabled list with a mitochondrial disorder, a abnormality that keeps the veteran outfielder in a constant state of fatigue. Baldelli asserts he will be back this season, but the Rays remain cautious in their expectations. He has not played since last May, though manager Joe Maddon has expressed great interest in getting Baldelli into the lineup as a reserve, filling in spots and working in situations as needed. For now, there is no definitive timeline for Baldelli's return, but things are looking good. |
|
|
| Marte to see more action | Tuesday 5/27, 7:09 PM CT |
|
As the Indians continue to search for the proper team chemistry, manager Eric Wedge has announced he wishes to give more starts and playing time to third baseman Andy Marte , according to MLB.com.
Our View: Casey Blake has been the primary third bagger for Cleveland and is batting just .221 with three home runs, though he touts a team-high 27 RBIs. Blake has also spent time at first base and right field during recent seasons and could be moved to one of those positions to make room for Marte in the starting lineup. Of course, the continued shoulder woes for designated hitter Travis Hafner could open a spot there as well. Marte has been with the club since opening day, but he has just 12 appearances to date. Out of minor league options, the Indians have no desire to expose Marte to waivers and are ready to give him a true shot as the team struggles for offense. |
|
|
| Hafner continues to nurse bad shoulder | Tuesday 5/27, 6:50 PM CT |
|
Cleveland DH Travis Hafner has been withheld from tonight's starting lineup, the second consecutive missed game for Hafner, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Hafner has battled a bum shoulder all season long and manager Eric Wedge may be thinking of keeping him out longer. Wedge spoke with reporters and suggested that if Hafner's shoulder continues to ache following the team's off-day on Thursday, he may be headed to the disabled list. Hafner has missed five of the last 11 games and wasn't lined up at first base when the team faced Cincinnati in interleague play. We will update as news becomes available. |
|
|
| Moehler retains starting spot | Tuesday 5/27, 6:33 PM CT |
|
Brian Moehler has retained his spot in the starting rotation with four strong starts (2-1, 3.43 ERA, 1.33 WHIP in 21 innings). Chris Sampson will be demoted to the bullpen when Wandy Rodriguez is activated from the DL. "I'm not going to sit here and lie to you and say I'm not happy, because I am," Moehler said. "At the same time, I told Coop I'd be happy to relieve as well. My goal is to help get this team in the playoffs. This is my 11th year and I haven't experienced that yet."
Our View: Moehler should be avoided in all leagues despite his strong showing of late. His track record shows he simply won't keep it up. |
|
|
| Sampson demoted to bullpen | Tuesday 5/27, 6:31 PM CT |
|
Chris Sampson will be the odd man out in the Astros' rotation when Wandy Rodriguez returns from the DL on Wednesday, according to the AP. The righty will be relegated to bullpen duty "He says at this point it's maybe not permanent," Sampson said. "It may be permanent. This game is a funny game and anything can happen. I'm not going to get down. I'm still here in the big leagues, still living a dream."
Our View: Sampson holds a 6.04 ERA in 10 starts this year, so his demotion doesn't come as a surprise. Brian Moehter retains his spot on the strength of four solid starts. |
|
|
| Hall not happy with platoon | Tuesday 5/27, 6:24 PM CT |
|
Bill Hall has found himself in a platoon at third base because of his inability to hit righties, and he's not happy. "Obviously, they're not happy with me hitting off righties. I'm not happy with me hitting off righties," Hall said. "(But) I'm not the only one that's struggling with right-handed pitching—or pitching in general." Manager Ned Yost didn't mind Hall being upset. "If Bill Hall was happy about it, I wouldn't want him on this team," Yost said.
Our View: Russell Branyan is starting at third tonight with the right-handed Tim Hudson on the mound, and Craig Counsell will also see significant action there in the future. |
|
|
| Burrell scratched due to neck stiffness | Tuesday 5/27, 6:20 PM CT |
|
Pat Burrell was scratched from Tuesday's lineup due to a stiff neck, according to SportsTicker. Burrell was replaced by Greg Dobbs.
Our View: We'll give you more info on Burrell's ailment when more is known. |
|
|
| Schmidt comes out of rehab start fine | Tuesday 5/27, 6:18 PM CT |
|
Jason Schmidt threw 45 pitches over 3 1/3 innings in a rehab start with High-A Inland Empire, allowing three runs (two earned) on three hits while striking out three. "He was good. He came out of it fine," manager Joe Torre said. "Next time he'll probably go to 60. I don't think they've set the exact date but there will be and there was nothing to keep him from still going forward." Torre said Schmidt, who is coming back from shoulder surgery, was throwing in the low 90s and using all his pitches.
Our View: Sounds good so far. We'll let you know how Schmitty progresses. He is still a long ways away from the Dodgers rotation. |
|
|
| Jones undergoes knee surgery | Tuesday 5/27, 6:13 PM CT |
|
Andruw Jones underwent surgery to repair torn cartilage in his right knee Tuesday, according to the AP. The procedure will sideline the outfielder 4-6 weeks. "They fixed what they thought they had to fix," manager Joe Torre said. "He'll start in the next day or so with the rehab that he's going to have to do."
Our View: Matt Kemp will continue to start in center in Jones' absence, while Juan Pierre will hold down left. |
|
|
| Kent scratched from lineup | Tuesday 5/27, 5:59 PM CT |
|
Jeff Kent has been scratched from Tuesday's lineup due to lower back spasms, according to the LA Daily News. Chin-Lung Hu has replaced Kent at second base, while Luis Maza is playing short.
Our View: The Daily News speculates that this isn't a serious injury, but we'll update you when we know more. |
|
|
| Pineiro questionable for Saturday | Tuesday 5/27, 5:56 PM CT |
|
Joel Pineiro was supposed to start tonight's game but was pushed back until Saturday because of a sore groin. Now the right-hander is questionable for his re-scheduled start this weekend, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Pineiro met with a team doctor Tuesday morning and was diagnosed with a mild strain of his right groin. He first injured the area while shagging fly balls in the outfield during the road trip.
Our View: Pineiro was scheduled to play catch Tuesday but instead just iced his groin. He conceded that he would be unable to throw off a mound Tuesday with how the groin felt. We should know later in the week whether he's good enough to go. Mike Parisi would be an option to fill in for Pineiro, or if the team decides to call someone up, Anthony Reyes is the obvious candidate. |
|
|
| Byrnes lands on DL for first time | Tuesday 5/27, 5:48 PM CT |
|
The D'Backs placed Eric Byrnes on the DL Tuesday because of sore hamstrings, according to the East Valley Tribune. "He tried to play through it," general manager Josh Byrnes said. "To get him back to 100 percent, he needs to heal." Alex Romero was recalled from Triple-A Tucson to take Byrnes' place on the roster.
Our View: This is the first time in Byrnes' nine-year career that he's landed on the DL. Hopefully he'll rediscover his batting stoke with a little time off. Romero, Jeff Salazar and Chris Burke should all see time in left field over the next couple weeks. |
|
|
| Stewart gets start at second | Tuesday 5/27, 5:41 PM CT |
|
With Garrett Atkins back from his neck injury, Ian Stewart is making his first ever start at second base as a professional.
Our View: It's a little strange that the Rox are just throwing Stewart out there at second with no professional experience at the position, but injuries have apparently forced their hand. If Stewart can gain eligibility at the position and continue to get playing time, he would see his fantasy value shoot up. |
|
|
| Atkins returns to lineup Tuesday | Tuesday 5/27, 5:37 PM CT |
|
Garrett Atkins is back in the lineup Tuesday after missing three games with a stiff neck.
Our View: With Atkins' return, Ian Stewart is staring at second base for the first time in his major league career. |
|
|
| Catalanotto back in lineup | Tuesday 5/27, 5:33 PM CT |
|
Frank Catalanotto is back in the starting lineup Tuesday after missing seven games with a sore back, according to the AP.
Our View: Catalanotto is playing first base, which means Chris Shelton is on the bench. |
|
|
| Millwood will be on pitch count | Tuesday 5/27, 5:28 PM CT |
|
Kevin Millwood will be limited to 85-90 pitches in his first start Friday since returning from a strained right groin, according to the AP.
Our View: It would be a good idea to wait and see what Millwood has Friday before putting him in your lineup. |
|
|
| Blalock gets cortisone injection | Tuesday 5/27, 5:25 PM CT |
|
Hank Blalock had a cortisone shot Tuesday in an attempt to alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome in his right wrist, according to the AP. Blalock had been on track to come back from his "He got the injection," manager Ron Washington said. "We'll see if the injection helps."
Our View: Blalock will need to go on a minor league rehab assignment before being activated from the DL, so he appears to be at least a week away from returning. |
|
|
| Gonzalez to have elbow checked out | Tuesday 5/27, 5:16 PM CT |
|
Mike Gonzalez will have his surgically repaired elbow examined by a team doctor Tuesday before beginning what could be a one- to two-week rehab assignment, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: The lefty should be back with the Braves before the All-Star break, barring any setbacks. He'll slide into a setup role. |
|
|
| Soriano still feeling soreness | Tuesday 5/27, 5:09 PM CT |
|
Rafael Soriano still has some discomfort in his right elbow and is scheduled to throw another side session in the bullpen Tuesday, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Soriano could be activated sometime during the team's three-game series in Milwaukee if the session goes well, despite the lingering soreness. "I don't think it'll be a big deal," said Soriano. "It feels alright."
Our View: It seems a little strange that the Braves would consider rushing Soriano back even if he still has soreness, especially with John Smoltz also on the way soon. We'll let you know how the session goes. |
|
|
| Keppinger progressing well | Tuesday 5/27, 4:49 PM CT |
|
Jeff Keppinger is progressing well in his recovery from a broken left kneecap. The shortstop has been walking without a limp and is in not real pain, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. "It feels good," Keppinger said. "It's good to be able to walk. I don't have any pain, just a little discomfort."
Our View: Keppinger has been hitting for a week and hopes to be cleared to start running tonight when he visits the doctor. It should be about a month before he returns. |
|
|
| Horne working his way back | Tuesday 5/27, 4:36 PM CT |
|
Alan Horne allowed one run on four hits while striking out seven over 3 2/3 innings in his third extended spring start Monday, according to the Canadian Press. One of the Yanks' top prospects, Horne is on the Triple-A DL with a biceps injury.
Our View: Horne figures prominently in the Yankees future, but he's unlikely to make it on the fantasy radar this season. |
|
|
| Pavano throws of half-mound | Tuesday 5/27, 4:34 PM CT |
|
Carl Pavano threw 35 pitches off a half-mound Monday, according to the Canadian Press. The righty is coming back from Tommy John surgery.
Our View: Yes, Pavano is still alive in case you were wondering, but fantasy owners don't really need to pay attention. |
|
|
| Sanchez could be ready for games in June | Tuesday 5/27, 4:32 PM CT |
|
Humberto Sanchez, recovering from Tommy John surgery, had a bullpen session Monday, according to the Canadian Press. The righty might be ready for minor league games in mid-June.
Our View: Sanchez has yet to pitch in th | |
