|
| Maddux shines over Cubs | Wednesday 6/4, 11:56 PM CT |
|
San Diego RHP Greg Maddux was brilliant in support of the 2-1 win over the Chicago Cubs, a pitcher's duel won by the consummate veteran and future Hall of Famer. Maddux went seven strong innings to allow just one run on three hit with no walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Maddux now carries an ERA of 3.48, but this is his first win in his last five starts. He stands at 4-4 on the season with just 12 walks allowed versus 42 strikeouts. |
|
|
| Konerko hits game winning HR | Wednesday 6/4, 11:55 PM CT |
|
Paul Konerko hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the 15th inning Wednesday night, helping the Chicago White Sox to a 6-4 victory against the Kansas City Royals.
Konerko, who has Jimmy Gobble's number, was batting only .198 when he hit the game winning shot.
Our View: It was the second time this season that Konerko has hit a game winning home run of the Royals left-handed specialist, Gobble. |
|
|
| Drew continues offensive onslaught | Wednesday 6/4, 11:52 PM CT |
|
J.D. Drew, batting third in place of the injured David Ortiz, continued his offensive onslaught with an RBI double and a single.
Our View: Drew had a two-run homer and a double in Tuesday win over the Rays. With Wednesday's performance -- Drew raised his average over the .300 mark. |
|
|
| Lilly pitches well but suffers loss | Wednesday 6/4, 11:51 PM CT |
|
Chicago LHP Ted Lilly put an outstanding performance on the mound this evening, but the end result was his fifth loss of the season as the Cubs fell 2-1 to the Padres. Lilly pitched 7 1/3 innings, allowing just two runs (both earned) on seven hits with two walks and eight strikeouts.
Our View: Lilly has been pitching rather well, going 4-0 through May and putting an outing on the hill that should have garnered the win in his first start in June. |
|
|
| Jackson suffers fifth loss | Wednesday 6/4, 11:50 PM CT |
|
Edwin Jackson allowed four runs on six hits, walked three and struck out four in the Rays 5-1 loss to the Red Sox.
Our View: Jackson's ERA took a small hit moving from 3.70 to 3.95 in the loss. |
|
|
| Beckett wins sixth; tweaks foot | Wednesday 6/4, 11:47 PM CT |
|
Josh Beckett allowed one run in six innings of work, and the Red Sox won their 12th consecutive home game. Beckett issued seven hits, no walks and struck out five in the win.
Our View: Beckett left the game after only 92 pitches spiking internet blogs with rumors of "injury". The 20-game winner slipped on the wet mound and suffered a slight foot sprain. Red Sox manager Terry Francona and assistant trainer Mike Reinold went to the mound and Beckett stayed in the game to finish the six inning, his final frame in the win. |
|
|
| Giles leads the way for San Diego | Wednesday 6/4, 11:41 PM CT |
|
The Padres emerged victorious from a pitcher's duel fought against the Chicago Cubs, taking the 2-1 win. The top man behind the offensive effort was outfielder Brian Giles , going 2-for-3 with a walk and two doubles on the evening, posting one run scored.
Our View: This brings Giles to a batting average of .299 on the season, boasting hits in each of his last three games, in six of his last seven, and 12 of his last 14. He's not hitting the ball for power or driving in a ton of runs (8 RBIs in the month of May), but he is putting the bat on the ball. |
|
|
| Theriot lone Cub with hits in loss | Wednesday 6/4, 11:34 PM CT |
|
The Cubs suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to the San Diego Padres this evening, posting a total of just four hits as a team. The leader of the cause was shortstop Ryan Theriot , going 2-for-4 with two singles and his 11th stolen base of the season.
Our View: Theriot has been playing well at the plate, posting at least one hit in 14 of his last 17 games. Thus far in June, he is 7-for-16 with two RBIs. |
|
|
| Ponson lasts only four innings | Wednesday 6/4, 11:33 PM CT |
|
Sidney Ponson, who was starting on three days rest for the first time in his career, was the victim of shoddy defense and funny bounces and the Ranger lost to the Indians 15-9 in embarrassing fashion. Ponson allowed six runs (two earned because of three errors by his teammates) and eight hits.
Our View: Texas is the graveyard for castoff pitchers, and Ponson fits the bill. His 3.63 ERA coming into the game is a typo. His 1.50 WHIP, however, rings true. It is just a matter of time before Ponson's earned runs near five per game. |
|
|
| Lee scratches out win | Wednesday 6/4, 11:25 PM CT |
|
Cliff Lee needed 112 pitches and an aspirin after his five innings on the mound against the Rangers Wednesday night. Lee somehow salvaged a win as he watched his teammates rally for five runs in the sixth to take the lead for good. Lee allowed six runs on nine hits, walked two and struck out eight. The win is Lee's ninth of the season.
Our View: Everything ball that could bounce funny, did so on Wednesday night. The Rangers keep the dirt in their infield dry and the grass cut so low that the surface plays more like artificial turf. The outfield corners are an added nightmare to command -- balls rattle around with no rhyme or reason. And even when the wind is blowing in, balls carry in Arlington. The stadium is a pitcher's hell. |
|
|
| Phillips swipes two for Cincy | Wednesday 6/4, 11:15 PM CT |
|
Cincinnati second baseman Brandon Phillips went 1-for-3 with a walk against Philadelphia this evening, but more importantly, he swiped two bases that helped him earn two runs scored.
Our View: Phillips now carries 11 stolen bases on the season and has posted at least one hit in six of his last eight games. |
|
|
| Garko drives in six vs hapless Rangers | Wednesday 6/4, 11:12 PM CT |
|
Ryan Garko drove in a career-high six runs and the Cleveland Indians won an ugly game against the defenseless Texas Rangers 15-9 on Wednesday night.
Our View: The Rangers might be able to score runs, but their pitching is easily the worst in the league, and one is almost embarrassed to watch them kick the ball around park. Their first error lead to three unearned runs by Sidney Ponson, and of the nine runs allowed by Elizardo Ramirez, four of them could have been prevented if the fielders had just the basic understanding of Baseball 101. |
|
|
| Pedro reports no pain after return | Wednesday 6/4, 11:10 PM CT |
|
Mets RHP Pedro Martinez reports he is feeling no pain or discomfort of any kind the day after his first start since returning from a strained left hamstring, according to the NY Daily News.
Our View: Martinez limited the Giants to three runs on seven hits while striking out three and walking three in six innings in the Mets' 9-6 win Tuesday night. He hit 91 mph and also matched a career high with two hits. Martinez next pitches in San Diego on Sunday. |
|
|
| Giambi sits in favor of Betemit | Wednesday 6/4, 11:05 PM CT |
|
Wilson Betemit starting at first base for the ailing Jason Giambi (foot) on Wednesday night. Giambi took a foul ball off his foot in Minnesota on Monday night.
Our View: The Yankee slugger is considered day-to-day. |
|
|
| McLouth keeps driving 'em in | Wednesday 6/4, 11:03 PM CT |
|
Pittsburgh outfielder Nate McLouth put one RBI on the board today in the win over the Astros and now carries a whopping 43 RBIs on the season.
Our View: He has gone 7-for-23 at the dish with one home run adn four RBI over his last six games, hitting safely in five of his last six games, but the tremendous run production is the story of the day. |
|
|
| Barajas suffers back injury | Wednesday 6/4, 11:03 PM CT |
|
Blue Jays catcher Rod Barajas, who is now the everyday starter for the injured Greg Zaun, left in the sixth with tightness in his lower back and was replaced by Curtis Thigpen. The team didn't announce Barajas' status for Thursday's game.
Our View: The Jays are down to their third-string catcher, utility second baseman (Marco Scutaro) and a castoff starting in right field (Brad Wilkerson). Yet they're three games over .500 and only 4.5 games out of first place. |
|
|
| Litsch's scoreless streak ends | Wednesday 6/4, 10:58 PM CT |
|
Jesse Litsch, who had a 18 inning scoreless streak entering tonight's game against the Yankees, gave up a third inning run to the Yankees ending the streak at 20. The right-hander, 5-0 with a 1.67 ERA in his previous six starts, lost for the first time since April 22 at Tampa Bay. Litsch allowed four runs on 10 hits, walked two and struck out one.
Our View: Litsch has been a fantasy windfall this year. The right-handers task was tough, facing a Yankee lineup that is patient against right-handers, felt the return of Jorge Posada, and didn't like the taste of a three-game losing streak. |
|
|
| Posada to start Thursday | Wednesday 6/4, 10:51 PM CT |
|
Jorge Posada didn't start in the Yankees Wednesday night win, but he will be in the starting lineup on Thursday. Posada, who been out since April 28 with right rotator cuff tendinitis, is slated to catch Chien-Ming Wang on Thursday in the series finale against Toronto.
Our View: Jose Molina owners need to find another option for their starting lineups next week. He will return to his backup role and see action once or twice a week. |
|
|
| Wells ahead of schedule | Wednesday 6/4, 10:48 PM CT |
|
Vernon Wells is ahead of schedule in his recovery from a broken left wrist, according to the AP. He is taking batting practice and could be back within 10 days, Gibbons said.
Our View: The return of Wells would be a huge lift for a Jays offense that has been barely good enough to keep the team within striking range of the Rays and the Red Sox. |
|
|
| Betemit goes deep in Yanks win | Wednesday 6/4, 10:46 PM CT |
|
Wilson Betemit homered off Jesse Litsch helping the Yankees snap a three-game losing streak. Betemit, starting at first base for ailing Jason Giambi (foot), hit a solo homer in the fourth.
Our View: The Yankees projected top reserve has spent time on the disabled list twice this year. In 15 games Betemit is hitting .238 with four RBI, four runs scored and two home runs. |
|
|
| Mussina wins ninth | Wednesday 6/4, 10:39 PM CT |
|
Mike Mussina tied for the American League lead in wins pitching the New York Yankees to a 5-1 win over the Toronto Blue Jays on Wednesday night.
Our View: It is difficult to believe, but it appears that Mussina has taken on the Jamie Moyer arsenal and found a way to be successful doing so. Mussina's fastball topped out at 87 mph tonight, but the difference between his fastball and change-up (76-78 mph) is enough to fool even the best major league hitters. |
|
|
| Peavy progressing | Wednesday 6/4, 10:31 PM CT |
|
San Diego RHP Jake Peavy took a step towards returning to the mound today, completing a successful and challenging bullpen session, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: The reigning Cy Young winner threw 45 pitches off the mound and has reported no pain or discomfort. He will be re-evaluated on Thursday, and if things go well, he will throw his scheduled rehab start in the minors or in a simulated game on Saturday. |
|
|
| Prior undergoes surgery | Wednesday 6/4, 10:27 PM CT |
|
San Diego RHP Mark Prior underwent surgery to repair damage in his right shoulder today, and doctors report the surgery went well, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: While the operation will end his season, Prior's anterior capsule issues should be alleviated and now he looks towards the future. |
|
|
| Griffey gets plate appearance & standing ovation | Wednesday 6/4, 10:23 PM CT |
|
Cincinnati outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. wasn't in the starting lineup this evening, but his chase for home run got a shot with a pinch-hit appearance in the eighth inning, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: Griffey got on base and pitcher Bronson Arroyo came in to run for him. Leaving the field, the fans in Philadelphia gave him a standing ovation. We hope the chase for #600 will pick back up tomorrow. |
|
|
| Perkins hit hard by Birds | Wednesday 6/4, 10:21 PM CT |
|
Glen Perkins was only able to last four innings in his Wednesday night start against the Orioles. The left-hander allowed five runs (four earned) on nine hits, walked two and struck out two.
Our View: This is the second straight start where Perkins has lasted but four innings. His last was against a Yankees offense that typically struggles against left-handers. Needless to say Perkins' future in the rotation could hinge on his Monday start in hitter-friendly Comerica Park against the White Sox. Not a favorable venue for a struggling pitcher. |
|
|
| Mauer goes deep in Twins win | Wednesday 6/4, 10:15 PM CT |
|
Joe Mauer homered and drove in three runs as the Minnesota Twins defeated the Baltimore Orioles 7-5 on Wednesday night.
Our View: The home run was Mauer's second of the season in 191 at-bats. Not what fantasy owners expected from one of the top offensive catchers in the league. |
|
|
| Cabrera suffers second loss | Wednesday 6/4, 10:12 PM CT |
|
Daniel Cabrera lost for the first time in six starts as the Minnesota Twins defeated the Baltimore Orioles 7-5 on Wednesday night. The right-hander allowed six runs on eight hits, walked none and struck out three.
Our View: Another start where the enigmatic Cabrera didn't walk a batter. While that's the positive note in the outing, his line drive percentage was high as the Twins squared up on the ball most of the night. The right-hander didn't have the typical movement on his fastball, which might be part of the reason he didn't walk a batter in the loss. |
|
|
| Volquez moves to 8-2 | Wednesday 6/4, 9:37 PM CT |
|
Cincinnati RHP Edinson Volquez was strong off the hill in support of the 2-0 win over the Phillies this evening. Volquez pitched seven innings of shutout baseball, allowing just two hits with two walks and eight strikeouts.
Our View: This bring Volquez to a dominating 1.32 ERA on the season and is now 4-1 over his last seven starts. |
|
|
| Votto leads Cincy to win | Wednesday 6/4, 9:33 PM CT |
|
It wasn't pretty, totaling just three hits as a team on the evening, but Cincinnati managed to score runs and put the win on the board versus Philadelphia, 2-0. First baseman Joey Votto was the voice of offense, going 2-for-3 with a walk and two doubles, good for two RBIs on the night.
Our View: Votto has shown well, hitting .281 through may with six homers and 16 RBIs. His June has gotten off to a slow start, but tonight could get him jump started. |
|
|
| Poor Brett Myers | Wednesday 6/4, 9:30 PM CT |
|
Philadelphia RHP Brett Myers put a strong performance on the mound tonight, but there was no offensive support to speak of and thus he suffered his seventh loss of the season, falling to Cincinnati 2-0. Myers pitched 7 1/3 innings, allowing just one run on one hit with six walks and eight strikeouts.
Our View: Myers was a horrific 1-4 through May despite pitching well, and now his June is starting off on the worst possible note. |
|
|
| Howard, Phillies struggle | Wednesday 6/4, 9:26 PM CT |
|
The Phillies suffered the 2-0 loss to the Cincinnati Reds this evening, totaling just two hits as an entire team on the night. First baseman Ryan Howard went 1-for-4, outfielder Geoff Jenkins went 1-for-4, and the rest of the team went 0-for-24.
Our View: Howard is struggling mightily to break out of this funk he's in, and at the end of May, it appeared he was starting to get back on track, going 3-for-13 with eight walks, three strikeouts, eight RBIs, and eight runs scored. However, through four games in June, he is just 3-for-15 with zero walks, six strikeouts, one RBI, and one run scored. |
|
|
| Cards, Nats rained out | Wednesday 6/4, 9:20 PM CT |
|
This evening's game pitting the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals has been postponed due to rain, according to MLB.com. The game will be made up as a day-night doubleheader on Thursday with Game 1 beginning at 1:10pm and the second coming at 7:10pm.
Our View: The teams have yet to announce plans for pitchers, so make sure you stay tuned to RotoTimes and Fanball. We will update as news becomes available. |
|
|
| K-Rod earns 24th save | Wednesday 6/4, 9:09 PM CT |
|
Francisco Rodriguez pitched a perfect ninth inning securing a victory for Jered Weaver and the Angels. K-Rod leads the league in saves and recorded his 24th in a 5-4 win over Seattle on Wednesday.
Our View: Reports surfaced in early May that Rodriguez was pitching hurt, but he's showed no signs of that with his 2.00 ERA, 1.23 WHIP and 24 saves. |
|
|
| Cardinals and Nationals rained out | Wednesday 6/4, 9:01 PM CT |
|
Wednesday night's game between the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals was rained out. The contest will be made up as part of a day-night doubleheader on Thursday.
Our View: No announcement concerning the scheduled starter for Thursday's games was made by either manager. |
|
|
| Duke gets win over Houston | Wednesday 6/4, 9:00 PM CT |
|
Pittsburgh LHP Zach Duke earned his third win of the season this evening, supporting his Pirates through a 5-2 win over Houston. Duke pitched 7 2/3 innings, allowing just two runs on seven hits with two walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: Duke had suffered consecutive losses coming into this match, but tonight he pitched well and has started June with a positive note. |
|
|
| Chavez picks up three RBIs vs Astros | Wednesday 6/4, 8:55 PM CT |
|
The Pirates earned the 5-2 victory this evening over the Houston Astros, a win built on the bat of outfielder Raul Chavez . Chavez went just 1-for-3 on the night, but he made that one single work for three RBIs.
Our View: Chavez is just starting to get his feet wet in the major leagues, though he has one hit in five of his last six games. |
|
|
| Sox report Beckett OK | Wednesday 6/4, 8:54 PM CT |
|
Following up on an earlier report, according to the Boston Globe, the Red Sox announced that Josh Beckett is OK. The report noted that the right-hander did not leave the game due to an injury.
Our View: There was some concern that Beckett left the game after 92 pitches because of a leg injury. The fact that the Red Sox rebuked the report is good news for the Red Sox Nation and his fantasy owners. |
|
|
| Oswalt suffers sixth loss | Wednesday 6/4, 8:51 PM CT |
|
Houston RHP Roy Oswalt suffered his sixth loss of the season as the Astros fell 5-2 to Pittsburgh. Oswalt pitched six innings, allowing four runs (three earned) on nine hits with one walk and four strikeouts.
Our View: This is Oswalt's third consecutive loss on four starts, having allowed a combined 17 earned runs through that span. |
|
|
| Wigginton finds one of few runs for Astros | Wednesday 6/4, 8:48 PM CT |
|
The Astros suffered the 5-2 loss to the Pirates this evening, though third baseman Ty Wigginton attempted to get his team going. Wigginton went 1-for-4 at the plate, hitting his third home run of the season to finish with one RBI and one run scored.
Our View: Wigginton was hitting well through the month of May, posting a .286 batting average for the month, but his lack of run production is concerning. |
|
|
| Buck goes yard in A's win | Wednesday 6/4, 8:44 PM CT |
|
Travis Buck hit his second home run of the season Wednesday and the A's scored a 10-2 win over the Tigers. Buck went 2-for-5 in the game with two runs scored and the one RBI.
Our View: Since Buck has returned from Triple-A he's been productive. He's a solid option in AL-only formats moving forward. |
|
|
| Beckett exits start early | Wednesday 6/4, 8:40 PM CT |
|
Josh Beckett went six innings in Thursday's night battle with first place Tampa Bay. The right-hander allowed seven hits and one run. He struck out five and walked none -- and left with a 4-1 lead. Manny Delcarmen replaced Beckett in the seventh inning.
Our View: Beckett left after 92 pitches. The 20-game winner was favoring his leg in the sixth inning and his removal might be due to a undisclosed leg injury. More information on Beckett when the information is available. |
|
|
| Griffey out once again | Wednesday 6/4, 8:06 PM CT |
|
Cincinnati outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. was once again held out of the lineup this evening as the Reds face the Phillies, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View: This is the third consecutive game the Reds have held Grif on the bench due to general soreness and a bum left knee. Griffey is just one homer shy of #600 for his career, and fans are forced to wait for the big moment. |
|
|
| Perez suffering tendinitis | Wednesday 6/4, 7:41 PM CT |
|
The Nationals have announced LHP Odalis Perez is suffering from tendinitis in his left shoulder and will miss his next scheduled start, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Manager Manny Acta has yet to name a replacement pitcher, but that start is four days away and thus such a decision may not come immediately. Acta added that the new player would likely come from Triple-A Columbus. Injured starter Matt Chico was scheduled for an MRI on Wednesday, but the results of that have not been made available yet. Perez's slot in the rotation will next occur Sunday against the Giants. |
|
|
| Silva loses sixth | Wednesday 6/4, 7:01 PM CT |
|
Carlos Silva allowed five runs on eight hits, walked two and struck out two in a 5-4 loss to the Angels.
Our View: Silva actually lowered his ERA with his lackluster performance, from 6.00 to 5.96. Outside of an occasional favorable start in H2H formats, Silva has no fantasy value. |
|
|
| Weaver hit hard again | Wednesday 6/4, 6:57 PM CT |
|
Jeff Weaver allowed 10 hits for the fifth time in 13 starts this season -- but won for the third time in four starts. He allowed four runs, struck out three and walked one.
Our View: Weaver is hot and cold. He's either bad or really good, unfortunately this year he's been bad more often than good, as evident in his 6.14 ERA. |
|
|
| Pujols out with leg tightness | Wednesday 6/4, 6:55 PM CT |
|
St. Louis first baseman Albert Pujols is out of the lineup once again this evening as he continues to battle with tightness in his left calf, according to the Sports Network.
Our View: Pujols left last night's game early with the same issue. The team does not believe the problem is serious or will result in extended time missed. We will update if more news becomes available. |
|
|
| Loaiza signs with White Sox | Wednesday 6/4, 6:41 PM CT |
|
The Chicago White Sox announced the addition of free-agent right-handed pitcher Esteban Loaiza to their bullpen on Wednesday, this according to the team website. The veteran signed a one-year contract through the 2008 season.
Our View: The team optioned right-handed pitcher Ehren Wassermann to Triple-A Charlotte. At this point Loaiza has no fantasy value. His switch from the NL to the AL doesn't favor his already huge 5.63 ERA. |
|
|
| Ankiel contracts infection | Wednesday 6/4, 6:32 PM CT |
|
Updating an earlier report, Rick Ankiel has contracted an infection in his right knee, this according to the team website. The center fielder will not play tonight after being sent back to the Cardinals' team hotel this afternoon. The team has not commented on Ankiel's status moving forward.
Our View: Ankiel sustained scrapes on both his left hand and his knee when he made a sensational diving catch in Sunday's home game against Pittsburgh. His dive took him on the graveled warning track which resulted in several deep abrasions. |
|
|
| Wagner saves lucky 13 | Wednesday 6/4, 6:27 PM CT |
|
Billy Wagner allowed a ninth inning hit on Wednesday but he secured John Maine's sixth win of the season with his 13th save.
Our View: At 37 years old Wagner continues to get it done. His ERA is now 0.36 and his 0.76 WHIP are -- wow. The southpaw has struck out 28 in 25 innings and walked only four in 23 appearances. |
|
|
| Valdez working on return | Wednesday 6/4, 6:21 PM CT |
|
Giants right-hander Merkin Valdez was scheduled for a two-inning outing at extended spring in Arizona as part of his recovering from a strained elbow, this according to the AP. If he comes out of it OK, he would likely pitch again Saturday.
Our View: The Giants starter has no current fantasy value. |
|
|
| Posada activated from the DL | Wednesday 6/4, 6:16 PM CT |
|
Fox Sports reports that Yankee catcher Jorge Posada was activated from the disabled list Wednesday. He won't start but he will be available off the bench against Toronto. Posada had been out since April 28 with right rotator cuff injury. "I don't think it's going to be 100 percent, but it's good enough," he said. "I think it's good enough to get going.
Our View: The All-Star catcher didn't start because he caught the previous two days while rehabilitating his throwing shoulder at extended spring training in Florida. |
|
|
| Pedro reports in OK on Wednesday | Wednesday 6/4, 6:13 PM CT |
|
The AP noted that Pedro Martinez reported no problems a day after making his second start of the year and first since leaving his April 1st outing with a hamstring injury.
Our View: Martinez struggled early in his first start back from the DL and needed 108 pitches in his six inning win. The team had scheduled a limit of 95 pitches for the former Cy Young winner. Expect him to have some residual effects after over-extending himself on Tuesday night. However, the right-handers next start comes against the light-hitting Padres in hitter-friendly PETCO. |
|
|
| Durham could return Friday | Wednesday 6/4, 6:01 PM CT |
|
Ray Durham, who strained a calf muscle while running the bases Tuesday, grounded out as a pinch-hitter in the sixth inning of Wednesday's 5-3 loss to the Mets. Skipper Bruce Bochy said Durham could play Friday's series opener at Washington after the team has a day off Thursday, this according to the AP.
Our View: Durham is an aging veteran who will receiver more days off moving forward. The second baseman has 18 RBI, 19 runs and two home runs in 147 at-bats this season. |
|
|
| Cain losses to able Maine | Wednesday 6/4, 5:56 PM CT |
|
Matt Cain allowed five runs on five hits, walked four and struck out three. The Giants right-hander lost his fourth game of the season, his first to the Mets this year.
Our View: In the young starters last two outings he had limited his opponents to five runs over 13 innings. |
|
|
| Maine wins sixth in San Fran | Wednesday 6/4, 5:53 PM CT |
|
John Maine allowed two runs (one earned) on seven hits, walked one and struck out four and the Mets scored a 5-3 win over the San Francisco Giants. The Mets right-hander lowered his ERA from 3.66 to 3.47 with his one-run performance.
Our View: The victory is the sixth of the season for Maine. He continues to be the teams most consistent starter behind lefty Johan Santana. |
|
|
| Reyes goes yard; steals 19th | Wednesday 6/4, 5:47 PM CT |
|
Jose Reyes hit a leadoff double, a home run and finally a single helping the the New York Mets beat the San Francisco Giants 5-3 on Wednesday. Reyes also scored twice.
Our View: Reyes is melting anything in his way, especially poorly placed fastballs. The Mets shortstop also stole his 19th base of the season. |
|
|
| Santiago leaves with shoulder injury | Wednesday 6/4, 5:43 PM CT |
|
Shortstop Ramon Santiago had to leave today's game in Oakland after appearing to injure his left shoulder while diving at a Rob Bowen single to center. There is no word yet on the severity of the injury.
Our View: Santiago rolled around on the ground and appeared to be wincing in serious pain. The trainer came out to look at the shortstop, touched his shoulder, setting off a jerk reaction from Santiago. At first glance, one should expect the shortstop to spend some time on the disabled list. |
|
|
| Duchscherer over-the-top good again | Wednesday 6/4, 5:39 PM CT |
|
Justin Duchscherer allowed three hits during his 6.2 innings of work on Wednesday and helped the Oakland Athletics beat the Tigers 10-2, completing a three-game sweep of Detroit.
Our View: Wow. See, I said it louder. What can one really say about Duchscherer. He struck out three and faced only one batter over the minimum through the first five innings while winning his fifth game of the season. The right-hander has yet to give up over three earned runs in nine starts this season, yet his record is only 5-4. He did walk a season-high five batters today, but he is so confident right now in his breaking ball he believes he can get out of any walk-fest he contributes to. |
|
|
| Helton extends hitting streak | Wednesday 6/4, 5:34 PM CT |
|
Todd Helton extended his hitting streak to 11 games with an infield single in the first inning of the 2-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday.
Our View: Helton is batting .292, well below his career average and he has only 22 RBI on the season in 216 at-bats. Need some evidence as to why the Rockies are struggling? Look no further than the team's injuries and the lack of production from past-his-prime Helton. |
|
|
| Bakers goes deep in win over LA | Wednesday 6/4, 5:30 PM CT |
|
Jeff Baker drove in both Colorado runs with his first home run of the season. The long ball was enough to help the Rockies to a 2-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday.
Our View: Baker has 12 RBI in 79 at-bats after today's performance. His fantasy value rests as a middle infielder in deep NL-only formats. |
|
|
| Kershaw losses first big league affair | Wednesday 6/4, 5:27 PM CT |
|
Clayton Kershaw struggled with his command on Wednesday. He threw 104 pitches in only five innings, allowing two runs and five hits with five strikeouts and four walks. It was the young left-handers first career loss.
Our View: Kershaw had no-decisions in his first two starts, but the Dodgers ended up winning both those games. The youngster will garner more command in time, but until he shows better control his best fit is in NL-only formats. |
|
|
| Cook goes eight strong in win | Wednesday 6/4, 5:23 PM CT |
|
Aaron Cook worked eight strong innings and the Rockies defeated the Dodgers 2-1 on Wednesday.
Cook allowed a run and six hits, struck out six and walked one.
Our View: It took a slow roller, a sacrifice and a misplayed ground ball for the Dodgers to score their only run. The right-hander lowered his ERA to 3.16. Cook is the only Rockies pitcher to throw a complete game this season and he came close today. |
|
|
| Metcalf sent to Triple-A | Wednesday 6/4, 5:20 PM CT |
|
The Rangers optioned reliever Travis Metcalf to Triple-A Oklahoma on Wednesday, this according to the Star-Telegram.
Our View: Kameron Loe and Elizardo Ramirez were promoted from the Oklahoma City RedHawks today to assist a tired Rangers bullpen. |
|
|
| Rangers purchase Ramirez contract | Wednesday 6/4, 5:17 PM CT |
|
The Rangers added arms to their weary bullpen today by recalling Kameron Loe from Oklahoma City and purchasing the contract of Elizardo Ramirez, this according to the Star Telegram.
Our View: The Rangers optioned Travis Metcalf to Triple-A and put A.J. Murray on the disabled list. |
|
|
| Murray placed on disabled list | Wednesday 6/4, 5:14 PM CT |
|
A.J. Murray, who has been diagnosed with a left rotator cuff strain, was placed on the disabled list Wednesday, according to the Star Telegram. Murray missed the 2006 season to shoulder surgery and didn't throw a pitch in 2004 to a torn labrum.
Our View: The Rangers purchased the contract of Elizardo Ramirez from the RedHawks. He will join the team tonight for the game against the Indians. |
|
|
| Jenson optioned back to Triple-A | Wednesday 6/4, 5:09 PM CT |
|
Jensen Lewis, who was promoted to the 25-man roster on Tuesday, was optioned to Buffalo today to make room for reliever Rick Bauer, notes the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Our View: Jenson has no fantasy value in traditional formats, and neither does the recently promoted Bauer. |
|
|
| Mastny optioned back to Buffalo | Wednesday 6/4, 5:06 PM CT |
|
Tom Mastny, who was called up from Buffalo to made his first big league start Tuesday, was optioned back to Buffalo today, this according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Our View: Mastny was moved when the Indians decided to bolster their heavily used bullpen. Reliever Brian Slocum took Mastny's spot on the 25-man roster. |
|
|
| Loe added to Rangers pen | Wednesday 6/4, 5:02 PM CT |
|
Kameron Loe was recalled from Oklahoma City. He was added to the 25-man roster to bolster a bullpen that has been depleted in the Rangers current series against the Indians, this according to the Star-Telegram.
Our View: The Rangers optioned Travis Metcalf to Oklahoma and put A.J. Murray (last night's spot starter) on the disabled list. Loe has no fantasy value in traditional formats, as a starter or reliever. |
|
|
| Slocum recalled from Triple-A | Wednesday 6/4, 4:54 PM CT |
|
Reliever Brian Slocum was promoted from Triple-A Buffalo today to bolster a depleted Indians bullpen, this according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. The promotion is a result of the Jake Westbrook injury.
Our View: Slocum was on the 40-man roster and had just been moved to the pen from the rotation. He will serve in long-relief. |
|
|
| Rangers shuffle rotation | Wednesday 6/4, 4:52 PM CT |
|
The Rangers expect Vicente Padilla back from his bereavement leave tomorrow, and he will make a start Friday, notes the Star-Telegram. Scott Feldman will pitch Saturday and Doug Mathis Sunday.
Our View: The Rangers had said Padilla needed to throw a bullpen before starting, but he did that while in Nicaragua on his bereavement leave. |
|
|
| Bauer promoted from Buffalo | Wednesday 6/4, 4:45 PM CT |
|
Reliever Rick Bauer was promoted from Triple-A Buffalo, N.Y., to patch the Indians' battered pitching staff, this according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Our View: The promotion is a result of the Jake Westbrook injury.
Bauer was a non-roster player and had to be added to the 40-man roster. |
|
|
| Owings yanked after three innings | Wednesday 6/4, 4:39 PM CT |
|
Micah Owings allowed five runs (four earned) on eight hits, walked one and struck out three in only three innings of work. Owings got a quick hook in the loss, but all in all, most of the hits he surrendered were singles. He wasn't sharp and his fastball and slider were flat, but his removal after only 67 pitches was somewhat of a surprise.
Our View: Owings was also a victim of poor defensive support. For now, the right-hander is not in jeopardy of losing his starting slot, but Max Scherzer is waiting for a chance to pounce. |
|
|
| Parra wins his fourth | Wednesday 6/4, 4:30 PM CT |
|
Manny Parra tied a career high with eight strikeouts in seven innings, retiring his final 14 batters and the Milwaukee Brewers routed the Arizona Diamondbacks 10-1 on Thursday.
Our View: Parra got hit hard in nearly every inning, but the line drives were all right at the Brewers well placed defense. A solid outing for Parra, his second straight, but his LD percentage in the contest was high. |
|
|
| Hart homers in Milwaukee win | Wednesday 6/4, 4:26 PM CT |
|
Corey Hart hit a three-run, inside-the-park home run and the Milwaukee Brewers scored a 10-1 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday.
Our View: It counts as a home run, but it was a single, double at the most, that was misplayed by the Diamondbacks largest defensive liability, Justin Upton. The Diamondbacks right fielder made more than one blunder in the game and committed his seventh error of the season. Seven errors in right field? This is Conseco like. |
|
|
| Pena lands on DL | Wednesday 6/4, 3:56 PM CT |
|
Carlos Pena has been placed on the 15-day DL due to a fractured left index finger, according to the St. Petersburg Times. To fill his spot on the roster, the team recalled outfielder Justin Ruggiano.
Our View: Pena suffered the injury during the first at bat of Tuesday's game against the Red Sox, when he was struck by a pitch. He later doubled and homered. Pena commented that he was fine after the game but will be reevaluated.
|
|
|
| Glavine fares well in no decision | Wednesday 6/4, 3:53 PM CT |
|
Tom Glavine was handed a no decision today, but fared well as he only surrendered two runs on six hits over five innings, in a 6-4 loss to Florida, with two walks and five strikeouts. One of the runs allowed came on a Hanley Ramirez homer.
Our View: That was the eighth time over 11 starts that he allowed two or less earned runs, yet he only holds a 2-2 record. |
|
|
| Francoeur goes 2-for-5 | Wednesday 6/4, 3:48 PM CT |
|
Jeff Francoeur went 2-for-5 with an RBI in Wednesday's 6-4 loss to Florida.
Our View: He now has 35 RBI this season, but is only hitting .254 with seven homers. He needs to limit his strikeouts, which currently stand at 39. |
|
|
| Lowry may not return in 2008? | Wednesday 6/4, 3:42 PM CT |
|
Noah Lowry reportedly may not return to the diamond in 2008, according to the AP. He underwent another MRI on his surgically repaired throwing forearm, and could be done for 2008. Manager Bruce Bochy commented, "That’s questionable. We don’t know if he will be back on the mound this year. It’s fair to say we’re getting to that point that it’s a fair question."
Our View: Lowry is still feeling “pins and needles” in his ailing forearm and the tingling has moved down toward his hand as part of the healing process. Once Lowry is cleared medically, he would need to begin a basic throwing program of playing light catch, working into longer distances, simulated games and, eventually, making rehab assignments in the minor leagues. There is still no timetable when that might be, or if it will happen at all this year.
|
|
|
| Hendrickson ends with no decision | Wednesday 6/4, 3:37 PM CT |
|
Mark Hendrickson allowed four runs on nine hits over six innings in Wednesday's 6-4 win over the Braves, with two walks and two strikeouts. He ended the day with a no decision.
Our View: He is still a solid 7-3 for the season, but his ERA climbed a little bit higher to an unfavorable 5.33. He has now allowed at least four runs in each of his last three starts, with 10 surrendered against the Phillies on May 30. |
|
|
| Ramirez blasts pair of homers in win | Wednesday 6/4, 3:31 PM CT |
|
Hanley Ramirez went 2-for-3 with three RBI in Wednesday's 6-4 win against the Braves, with both of his hits going for home runs. He also walked twice, and added a stolen base to his already strong stat-line for the day.
Our View: He raised his average to .297 over 57 games, with 11 homers, 26 RBI, 48 runs scored, and 14 stolen bases. |
|
|
| Shields leaves team to visit Dr. Yocum | Wednesday 6/4, 3:25 PM CT |
|
Scot Shields has left the Angels' in Seattle to be examined by Dr. Lewis Yocum in Southern California, according to the OC Register. Shields felt tightness in his left side while warming up Saturday. He pitched a scoreless inning that night but has not pitched since.
Our View: He is yet to undergo an MRI, but Mike Sciosca plans to have him back this weekend. He added that it wouldn't surprise him if Shields landed on the DL, however. |
|
|
| Vlad to visit Dr. Yocum | Wednesday 6/4, 3:15 PM CT |
|
Vladimir Guerrero has left the Angels in Seattle to be examined by Dr. Lewis Yocum in Southern California, according to the Orange County Register. Guerrero has not played since suffering a hyperflexion of his right knee Sunday.
Our View: He hasn't underwent an MRI yet, and Manager Mike Sciosca plans to have him available for this weekend, but added that he wouldn't be surprised if he landed on the DL. |
|
|
| Figgins not expected to begin rehab | Wednesday 6/4, 3:08 PM CT |
|
Chone Figgins, who is battling right hamstring irritation, is not expected to begin his rehab assignment this weekend, according to the Orange County Register. Figgins said he ran the bases before Tuesday’s game and was a little sore in the ailing area of his hamstring. Coach Mike Sciosca said, "He’s probably not progressing enough to be in games this weekend but he’s definitely moving in the right direction."
Our View: Figgins wants to get the soreness out before he plays again. He doesn't want to resume playing, just to have to sit out some more due to soreness. Fantasy owners shall remain patient. |
|
|
| Schneider returns to action | Wednesday 6/4, 2:45 PM CT |
|
Brian Schneider returned to the Mets' lineup today against the Giants following a two-game absence, according to the NY Daily News.
Our View: Schneider only holds value in NL-only leagues, as he is hitting .258 with two homers and 15 RBI over 124 at-bats. |
|
|
| Stockman recalled | Wednesday 6/4, 2:23 PM CT |
|
Reliever Phil Stockman has been recalled from Triple-A Richmond, according to MLB.com. He will cover the roster spot for John Smoltz, who fell back on the DL, and is expected to undergo season-ending surgery on his shoulder.
Our View: Stockman will help the Braves' pen following the loss of Smoltz, as he only allowed one hit over 4.1 innings of work this season, with six strikeouts. |
|
|
| Alou pushes back return date | Wednesday 6/4, 2:19 PM CT |
|
Moises Alou has stated that he doesn't expect to come off the DL until next Tuesday, at the earliest, after suffering a slight setback with his strained left calf, according to the NY Post.
Our View: Alou previously expected to come off the DL Friday, but experienced a | |
