|
| Verlander left with no-decision | Monday 6/16, 11:34 PM CT |
|
Justin Verlander allowed three runs (two earned), five hits and a walk to the Giants while striking out seven for the Tigers. He picked up a no-decision when Fernando Rodney blew the game in the eighth inning.
Our View: Thats the fifth quality start in six outings for Verlander who has clearly turned around his slow start of late as he is once again starting to resemble the pitcher who won 35 games the past two years for the Tigers. |
|
|
| Lincecum allows four runs for first time | Monday 6/16, 11:31 PM CT |
|
Tim Lincecum allowed five hits and three walks in permitting four runs over seven innings against the Tigers in a no-decision on Monday night.
Our View: Lincecum's night was ruined by two pitches, both of which were deposited in the left center field seats by Marcus Thames. This was just the second outing on the year that "The Franchise" had allowed more than three earned runs as his ERA rose to 2.21. |
|
|
| Garciaparra to begin rehab assignment | Monday 6/16, 11:22 PM CT |
|
Nomar Garciaparra (strained calf) has been cleared to begin a rehab assignment on Tuesday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: With Rafael Fucal still on the DL, and Chin-lung Hu on the Triple-A disable list, Garciaparra will likely play shortstop when he is activated from the DL, possibly by the weekend if all goes well. |
|
|
| Penny has clear MRI | Monday 6/16, 11:20 PM CT |
|
Brad Penny had an MRI on his ailing shoulder and the good news is that no structural damage was found, according to MLB.com. Penny will miss his next scheduled start on Friday, but beyond that there is no word.
Our View: Chan Ho Park will likely make the start or the team could turn to Eric Stults of Triple-A. Regardless, Penny could still be headed for the DL as he has looked like a pitching machine of late, so even if there isn't a serious problem he would likely benefit from some time off. |
|
|
| Silva ejected from game | Monday 6/16, 10:58 PM CT |
|
Carlos Silva was ejected from his 15th start of the season on Monday night after arguing a safe call at first base in a matchup with the Marlins.
Our View: Silva allowed two runs and five hits in 4.2 innings before he was replaced by Ryan Rowland-Smith. |
|
|
| Dice-K does well in rehab start | Monday 6/16, 10:55 PM CT |
|
Daisuke Matsuzaka, in his first game since straining his rotator cuff, allowed three hits and two runs against Triple-A Lehigh Valley, according to the Associated Press. Matsuzaka struck out five, walked one, and threw 47 of 65 pitches for strikes.
Our View: Matsuzaka hopes to be able to face the Cardinals this weekend, and baring any unforeseen setbacks, it appears that he should be able to do just that. |
|
|
| Chipper holding on to .400 | Monday 6/16, 10:27 PM CT |
|
Chipper Jones entered the game on Monday in a 2-for-15 slump and emerged from the matchup with the Rockies sporting two hits and two RBI.
Our View: The resent slump has Chipper's average down to .403, but he continues to come through in roughly two out of every five at-bats from the middle of the Braves order. |
|
|
| Holliday has two hits in loss | Monday 6/16, 10:24 PM CT |
|
Matt Holliday had two hits, one a double the other a single, on Monday night in five trips to the plate to finish the night with a .318 batting average.
Our View: This night gives Holliday a .296 average in 27 AB since returning from the DL as he has now gone seven games without a long ball. |
|
|
| Jurrjens allows no runs | Monday 6/16, 10:21 PM CT |
|
Jair Jurrjens improved to 7-3 after holding the Rockies scoreless for 7.2 innings on Monday night.
Our View: This was a great bounce back effort for a guy who was torched for 20 hits and 11 runs his last two outings. Jurrjens is still an above average pitcher, so don't let the previous two outings sway your from having faith in the right hander that the Tigers sorely wish they had held on to. |
|
|
| Jimenez falls to Braves | Monday 6/16, 10:14 PM CT |
|
Ubaldo Jimenez held the Braves scoreless for four innings before they finally got to him in the fifth inning to send him to his seventh loss of the year as they scored three runs (two earned).
Our View: Jimenez needed 110 pitches to make it through the evening as he struck out seven while issuing five walks. His stuff is elite, his control sub par and the results are predictably poor. |
|
|
| Rollins starts things off with a bang | Monday 6/16, 10:07 PM CT |
|
Jimmy Rollins lead off the Phillies game on Monday with a home run on his way to three hits, two runs and three RBI against the Red Sox.
Our View: Rollins is back in full destruction mode for the Phillies and he is primed to really take off as the summer months are nearly upon us. |
|
|
| Drew scalding hot | Monday 6/16, 10:01 PM CT |
|
J.D. Drew hit his 12th home run of the year on Monday off of the Phillies Cole Hamels in the Red Sox 8-2 loss to the Phils.
Our View: Drew has been one of the best hitters in all of baseball in June as he has eight home runs, 17 RBI and a .440 batting average in 15 games. When he is healthy that smooth swing is a thing of beauty, and right now he has it all going for him, though we wouldn't be at all surprised to find him injured at some point soon given his track record. |
|
|
| Hamels holds Red Sox in check | Monday 6/16, 9:58 PM CT |
|
Cole Hamels held the mighty Red Sox lineup to just two runs, on back-to-back solo home runs to Dustin Pedroia and J.D. Drew, in his seventh victory of the season. Hamels struck out five while allowing seven hits over seven innings.
Our View: Hamels continues to throw quality start after quality start with no sign of letting up. We are always concerned about his ability to stay healthy and throw 200 innings, but as long as he is healthy he should continue to function as a top-20 hurler. |
|
|
| Howard hits two bombs | Monday 6/16, 9:53 PM CT |
|
Ryan Howard had another big night on Monday night as he hit two opposite field home runs on his way to three hits and four RBI for the Phillies.
Our View: Howard has nine hits over the last four games during which time he has gone deep four times with 13 RBI thanks to three games in the stretch with four, four and five RBI. He might only be hitting .224, but the 19 home runs and 62 RBI are certainly strong enough to help one overlook that average. |
|
|
| Uggla on record pace | Monday 6/16, 9:47 PM CT |
|
Dan Uggla has 19 home runs which puts him on pace to challenge the franchise record of 42 set by Gary Sheffield in 1996, according to MLB.com. "Anytime anybody hits 40, it's a feat, no matter where you're playing," Uggla said. "To do it at Dolphin Stadium, it says a lot. You play half your games in a non-hitter-friendly ballpark."
Our View: Uggla has been one of the best power hitters in the game as we approach the mid-point of the season as in addition to the home runs he has scored a ton of runs scored (52) while knocking a whole boatload in as well (48). |
|
|
| Fuentes excels in closers role | Monday 6/16, 9:43 PM CT |
|
Brian Fuentes has taken over the closers role in Colorado from Manny Corpas and not looked back, according to MLB.com. "I'm very confident that I'm going to get the job done, but I try not to be borderline cocky," Fuentes said.
Our View: Fuentes, who has been rumored to potentially be on the move before the trade deadline, has 11 saves and a 2.20 ERA since taking back the closers role on April 24th marking him, yet again, as one of the better second shelf closers in the National League. |
|
|
| Murphy on ROY pace | Monday 6/16, 9:37 PM CT |
|
David Murphy continues to put up tremendous numbers in his effort to capture the AL Rookie of the Year award, according to the Dallas News.
Our View: Murphy is tied for the AL rookie lead in home runs (10), is first in RBI (47), doubles (20) and is second with a .787 OPS. His minor league numbers simply don't support the level of production we have seen thus far, so don't be surprised if things slow down considerably in the second half. |
|
|
| Lineup looking for production | Monday 6/16, 9:33 PM CT |
|
Vladimir Guerrero is hitting .429 in 10 games in June with three home runs and seven RBI after a dismal May (.219), according to MLB.com. However, the rest of his teammates have really struggled in June with Garrett Anderson (.140), Casey Kotchman (.222) and Torii Hunter (.212) failing to do much of anything.
Our View: Chone Figgins and Howie Kendrick are now back in the fold, so perhaps with everyone back in the roles they were expected to fill this year, the results will turn around soon. |
|
|
| Buck trying to relocate game | Monday 6/16, 9:27 PM CT |
|
Travis Buck will try to recapture the form he had last season at Triple-A as the A's will go with Ryan Sweeney and Carlos Gonzalez at the big league level, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Besides having to battle injury and the effects that brought to his timing, Buck will need to work on quieting his hand movement while waiting for the pitch as he has too much movement at the plate. Look for him to return as soon as an injury strikes an A's outfielder. |
|
|
| Lewis trying to settle into leadoff role | Monday 6/16, 9:23 PM CT |
|
Fred Lewis is the Giants leadoff hitter, but he is acutely aware of some of the issues he has at the plate that might preclude him from excelling in the role long-term, according to MLB.com. "I'm not trying to get too deep in the count. I tend to strike out a lot," he said.
Our View: It's nice to see a player being self critical (he has 63 K in 69 games). Lewis is right, he should be hitting lower in the order at this point of his career, but with few other options, Lewis is doing his best to help the squad. He has value in mixed leagues with his speed, but he is really only an asset in NL Only leagues. |
|
|
| Ichiro to move back to RF | Monday 6/16, 8:58 PM CT |
|
Ichiro Suzuki will be returned to his former home, right field, according to the Associated Press. “I’ve been thinking about it for over a month. It’s nothing against Ichiro in center field, of course. I just think he’s a great right fielder and I want to see his zest and smile and everything going,” manager John McLaren said
Our View: The Mariners will audition Willie Bloomquist, Jeremy Reed and Wladimir Balentin in center field. None of these options is appealing from a fantasy perspective though Bloomqvist could add a nice set of legs to a team in need of the stolen base if he is given a real shot at the position. |
|
|
| Rodney activated from DL | Monday 6/16, 8:36 PM CT |
|
Fernando Rodney, out due to shoulder tendinitis, has been activated from the DL on Monday, according to the Associated Press. “I don’t know exactly how I’ll use Rodney, whether in a big-game situation," manager Jim Leyland said. "I’d like to get his feet wet for an inning. It was nice to put his name on the card. It’s been a while.”
Our View: Rodney will be joined by bullpen mate Joel Zumaya, hopefully by the end of the week, as the Tigers' pen will finally begin to resemble the unit they thought they would have this off-season. Rodney has suffered multiple setbacks this year, so take a careful approach toward adding him to your roster. |
|
|
| Rookie to get another start | Monday 6/16, 8:27 PM CT |
|
Jorge De La Rosa threw five shutout innings on Saturday, and as a result he will make another start for the club likely on Thursday, according to MLB.com. "We gave him another opportunity, and he came back and he stepped up," manager Clint Hurdle said. "We'll see what kind of command he has, see if he can repeat that type of performance..."
Our View: De La Rosa was impressive in his last start, but that shouldn't cause you to get all giddy when looking at his overall performance this season. You could catch lightning in a bottle, but that is likely only a chance worth taking in NL Only leagues. |
|
|
| Zumaya to join mates this weekend | Monday 6/16, 8:18 PM CT |
|
Joel Zumaya is on schedule to return to the Tigers in time for the clubs weekend series against the Padres, according to the Detroit News. Zumaya is schedule to throw 25 pitches on Monday night, and then throw an additional 25 pitches on Tuesday.
Our View: If everything goes to plan Zumaya will be bringing the heat for the Tigers in no time, just as the Tigers offense is finally starting to kick things up a notch. Zumaya should be added in mixed leagues if he is still available considering he could end up in the closers role at some point in the second half. |
|
|
| Colon removed with back stiffness | Monday 6/16, 8:13 PM CT |
|
Bartolo Colon was forced from his start on Monday against the Phillies with back stiffness, according to the Associated Press. Colon allowed six hits, two walks and four runs before exiting the game in which he picked up his second loss of the season.
Our View: Colon had all kinds of control issues tonight as his four seam fastball was darting all over the place leading to a bunch of his pitches leaking out over the plate. If this ends up being a DL type injury, Justin Masterson would likely be left in the rotation even when Daisuke Matsuzaka returns from injury. |
|
|
| Carroll making most of chance | Monday 6/16, 8:09 PM CT |
|
Jamey Carroll has stepped into the void at second base for the Indians and performed quite well, according to the Cleveland Plains Dealer. Asdrubal Cabrera is currently in the minors, and Josh Barfield on the DL, leading to Carroll's shot at starting. "With a situation like this, you don't know what's going to happen. That's what they have me here for."
Our View: Carroll has pushed his average from .194 t0 .287 over the last month, and he will continue to be a decent play in AL Only leagues even if he lacks any measurable power as he can provide the odd steal and help in the average category. If he does well, he could turn this audition into a full-time gig. |
|
|
| Hudson to make Tuesday start | Monday 6/16, 8:05 PM CT |
|
Tim Hudson is on schedule to make his start against the Rangers on Tuesday, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
Our View: Hudson had to be removed from his last start due to cramps and dehydration, an issue that he has dealt with from time to time. He appears to be in fine shape at the moment, though starting in Texas against a potent Rangers lineup will certainly be a challenge. |
|
|
| Hampton to try again | Monday 6/16, 8:03 PM CT |
|
Mike Hampton is headed to the Braves complex in Orlando where he is scheduled to make two starts for the rookie league Gulf Coast Braves, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
Our View: If these two outings go well, Hampton would then be sent to higher minor league levels to continue to rehab his injured pectoral muscle. Of course, he could injure himself picking up the phone or answering an email, so it would behoove you to take a wait and see approach. |
|
|
| Tulo to move to Triple-A | Monday 6/16, 7:28 PM CT |
|
Troy Tulowitzki will head to Triple-A Colorado in the next step of his comeback from a left quadriceps injury, according to the Associated Press. “I’m excited,” Tulowitzki said. “I know it’s getting close. I’m crossing my fingers—hopefully everything goes OK and I’m here with the guys on Friday.”
Our View: Tulowitzki obviously hopes to return to the Rockies for the weekend, and his return will be a huge boost to a team that is suddenly almost completely healthy. Tulo was 4-for-12 at Modesto as he looks to put behind him the memories of an early season swoon that resulted in a .152 average over 26 games with the Rockies. |
|
|
| Barmes to begin rehab | Monday 6/16, 7:23 PM CT |
|
Clint Barmes (knee) will begin his rehab assignment on Tuesday at Triple-A Colorado, according to the Associated Press. “The biggest thing I’m doing is just testing my knee,” Barmes said. “If I can play on that, then there’s no reason why I shouldn’t be right back up here.”
Our View: Barmes hopes to be ready to return to the Rockies soon, as does shortstop Troy Tulowitzki. Barmes was hitting .343 before the injury, and would have to battle to reclaim a significant role in the infield given that Tulo will be back to take over his spot at shortstop. |
|
|
| Gonzalez to return on Wednesday | Monday 6/16, 6:13 PM CT |
|
Updating an earlier report, Mike Gonzalez (elbow) will be returning to the Braves on Tuesday and will join the active roster on Wednesday, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution. "He's throwing good, they say," said manager Bobby Cox. "Hopefully we can count on him for the very end — eighth and ninth. If he's back to his old form, it's a huge plus."
Our View: With all the injuries in the Braves pen there certainly would appear to be an opportunity for Gonzalez to work his way into the closers role in short order if he displays his old form. He allowed just one earned run in 11 innings with one walk and 12 K in Triple-A, so he appears to be throwing the ball very well at the moment. |
|
|
| Schilling suffers setback | Monday 6/16, 6:05 PM CT |
|
Curt Schilling had a bit of a rough go on Friday during a throwing session, and therefore he has been deemed to have suffered a setback in his recovery from an injured shoulder, according to the Providence Journal. "He's stuck for the moment," said manager Terry Francona. "We'll have to get with him the next day or so and figure out where we need to go (in his rehab)."
Our View: Everything had proceeded pretty well so far, but it was foolish to expect his recovery to come off without a hitch. Hopefully this setback is minor and Schilling will still be able to contribute at some point in the second half. |
|
|
| Youkilis scratched from start | Monday 6/16, 5:58 PM CT |
|
Kevin Youkilis had back spasms on Monday that have resulted in his being scratched from the Sox lineup, according to the Providence Journal.
Our View: Sean Casey will take over for this night, though we have no idea of how long Youkilis will be out of action, though hopefully it won't be more than a day or two. |
|
|
| Ortiz has cast removed, replaced by splint | Monday 6/16, 5:55 PM CT |
|
Updating an earlier report, David Ortiz did have the cast removed from his wrist on Monday and the good news is that he will now have his limb placed into a removable forearm splint, according to the Boston Herald. “It’s a very good sign because they weren’t going to do that until he was pain-free,” manager Terry Francona said.
Our View: The upshot of this news is that Ortiz will be able to begin range of motion exercises immediately which, theoretically, should help to shorten his return to active duty, though no timetable has of yet been established for him to begin to swing the bat. |
|
|
| Kendall enjoying life in Milwaukee | Monday 6/16, 5:43 PM CT |
|
Jason Kendall has enjoyed his time in Milwaukee and has been just what the Brewers had hoped for, according to MLB.com. "He's been better than we thought," GM Doug Melvin said. "The one question we had was, is he going to throw people out?"
Our View: Kendall has thrown out 42.5% of runners, a tremendous improvement over last year, and he is once again on pace for 140 games played. Kendall offers next to nothing in terms of run potential, but he is still a useful play in points leagues and a solid #2 catcher in deep mixed leagues. |
|
|
| Rasmus struggling to find groove | Monday 6/16, 5:39 PM CT |
|
Colby Rasmus continues to remain positive with his attitude despite the fact that his play at Triple-A this year has been suspect, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Rasmus is hitting only .245 after a slow start with 10 home runs and 32 RBI over 69 games. Rasmus will almost certainly be called up later in the year, but it would certainly help matters if he performed like he belonged in the Show. |
|
|
| Baker fans four in one inning | Monday 6/16, 5:36 PM CT |
|
Scott Baker was the first pitcher in Twins history to record four strikeouts in an inning on Sunday, according to MLB.com. "I didn't even think about it," Baker said of the feat. "I came in [the clubhouse] and heard somebody say something about it. Yeah, that's pretty crazy.
Our View: This was the first time an AL pitcher accomplished the feat since 2003 when Kurt Suzuki turned the trick for the Mariners. |
|
|
| GM fired due to poor performance | Monday 6/16, 5:33 PM CT |
|
The Mariners fired their GM, Bill Bavasi, on Monday while promoting assistant GM Lee Pelekoudas on an interim basis, according to MLB.com. "Change is in order," club chief executive officer Howard Lincoln said. "We have determined new leadership is needed in the GM position. With a new leader will come a new plan and a new approach. A search will begin immediately for a permanent GM, and Lee will be a candidate for the position."
Our View: The Mariners are languishing at 24-45 thanks in part to a roster full of bloated contracts tied to ineffective players. A complete overhaul might be in order, so the new GM will certain have his hands full. |
|
|
| Bruce struggling at the plate | Monday 6/16, 5:29 PM CT |
|
Jay Bruce might be hitting .342 overall, but he has fallen into a deep funk at the plate which includes a .185 average, six strikeouts and only one BB over his last 27 at-bats.
Our View: The slump actually extends back even further as he is hitting just .241 with a .305 OBP over his last 14 games. He should still continue to be a productive bat, but you might consider moving him for a more established veteran bat before the bottom falls out. |
|
|
| Last HOF game cancelled | Monday 6/16, 5:01 PM CT |
|
Jim Edmonds and his Chicago teammates had their Hall of Fame Game with the Padres cancelled due to rain, according to the Associated Press. “I think all the anticipation of having a rough day of travel in the middle of the season— it’s all worth it once you get here," Edmonds said.
Our View: This was to be the last HOF Game as MLB has decided to stop playing the exhibition game even though it has taken place each year since 1940. Hopefully MLB will change its mind as a whole lot of fans are angry with the decision and have begun to protest the decision. |
|
|
| Hamels gearing up to battle Sox | Monday 6/16, 3:56 PM CT |
|
Cole Hamels will be on the hill tonight when the Phillies host the Red Sox, according to MLB.com. Hamels is 6-4 this season with a 3.27 ERA and strong 1.02 WHIP and this will be his first meeting with Boston.
Our View: Hamels racked up a season-high 13 strikeouts in his last start (against Florida), and has allowed two or less earned runs in four of his last six contests. The Phillies' ace is a solid start tonight at home, despite a tough game against Boston. |
|
|
| Lincecum targeting ninth win | Monday 6/16, 3:45 PM CT |
|
Tim Lincecum will be targeting his ninth win of the season when the Giants host the Tigers in inter-league play tonight, according to MLB.com. Lincecum is 8-1 with a 1.99 ERA and 1.22 WHIP over 90.2 innings, with 92 strikeouts.
Our View: He has made 15 consecutive quality starts dating back to 2007, and is 13-4 with a 2.46 ERA in his career when he pitches at least six innings. Lincecum has also allowed one or less earned runs in three straight outings, and should remain in your lineup despite a tough assignment against the Tigers.
|
|
|
| Gibbons agrees to minor league deal | Monday 6/16, 3:34 PM CT |
|
Jay Gibbons has signed a deal with the Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League on Monday, according to the Sports Network.
Our View: Gibbons, who was suspended for 15 days by MLB commissioner Bud Selig following reports that he received a shipment of human growth hormone, never got an offer from a major league club this season.
|
|
|
| Johnson to have wrist re-evaluated | Monday 6/16, 3:27 PM CT |
|
Nick Johnson will have his injured wrist re-evaluated on Tuesday, according to MLB.com. Around two weeks ago, Johnson suffered a setback with his right wrist, as he still felt soreness after the cast was removed. The wrist was then re-cast for another two weeks.
Our View: He has been on the DL since May 15 due to a torn tendon in his right wrist. |
|
|
| Diamond activated, and optioned | Monday 6/16, 3:11 PM CT |
|
Pitcher Thomas Diamond has been activated from the minor league DL, and optioned to Double-A Frisco, according to the AP.
Our View: The former first-round pick missed all of last season after elbow ligament replacement surgery.
|
|
|
| Ponson placed on waivers | Monday 6/16, 3:05 PM CT |
|
Sidney Ponson has been placed on waivers by the Rangers, according to the AP. The team also activated minor league pitcher Thomas Diamond from the DL, and he was optioned to Double-A Frisco
Our View: Ponson was 4-1 over nine starts with the Rangers, but held a 3.88 ERA and poor 1.56 WHIP and fell out of favor with the team when he rubbed management the wrong way. |
|
|
| Sabathia named AL Player of Week | Monday 6/16, 2:30 PM CT |
|
C.C. Sabathia has been named the AL Player of the Week, according to the AP. Sabathia went 2-0 with a 1.59 ERA in two starts last week. The lefty went 17 innings, while allowing just three runs with one walk and 15 strikeouts.
Our View: Other nominees for the honor were Indians' team-mate Grady Sizemore, Alex Rodriguez, and JD Drew. |
|
|
| Nolasco shares weekly honor | Monday 6/16, 2:23 PM CT |
|
Ricky Nolasco has been selected as the NL Co-Player of the Week with Pirates' catcher Ryan Doumit, according to the AP. Nolasco went 2-0 with a 1.23 ERA this past week, while striking out 15 batters in 14.2 innings of work. The righty struck out a career-high 12 over 8.2 innings on Sunday, while locking up the win against the Rays.
Our View: This is the first weekly honor for Nolasco. He is 7-4 overall this season, with a 4.35 ERA and 1.36 WHIP. |
|
|
| Nady receives MRI results | Monday 6/16, 2:17 PM CT |
|
Xavier Nady's MRI results have revealed that he sustained a sprained left shoulder, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. There is no damage to the cuff or labrum.
Our View: The team will take the next two to three days to decide what to do next with Nady, and there is no plan to put him on the DL, as of now. |
|
|
| Doumit shares NL Player of Week | Monday 6/16, 2:10 PM CT |
|
Ryan Doumit has been named the NL Co-Player of the Week with the Marlins' Ricky Nolasco, according to the AP. Doumit hit .400 (10-for-25) during the week with a league-high four home runs. Last Tuesday, Doumit enjoyed his third career four-hit game with two home runs and three RBI against the Nationals.
Our View: This was Doumit's first weekly honor. He is hitting .346 overall, with nine homers, 22 RBI, and 29 runs scored through 36 games. |
|
|
| Wang could miss 2-3 months | Monday 6/16, 2:02 PM CT |
|
Chien-Ming Wang doesn't need surgery for his foot injury, but could miss two-to-three months of action, according to the NY Daily News. A source close to the situation said, "He's going to be out for awhile. It could be 60 to 90 days. The good news is he doesn't need surgery. We're delighted it's not more serious, but we're very concerned that it'll take him out for a couple months."
Our View: That means he will be on the shelf until at least mid-August, on the short end. This is a tough loss for the Yankees' rotation, and the team is already dealing with injuries to Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy. The team is yet to name a replacement for Wang. |
|
|
| Silva on hill against Marlins | Monday 6/16, 1:53 PM CT |
|
Carlos Silva will take the hill tonight when the Mariners host the Marlins, according to MLB.com. Silva is 3-7 with a 5.79 ERA and 1.46 WHIP this season over 84 innings, with only 31 strikeouts.
Our View: Silva faced the Marlins last season, while a member of the Twins, and only surrendered one earned run on four hits over seven innings of work. Silva should still be avoided from your lineups for tonight, as he allowed at least five earned runs in five of his last eight starts. |
|
|
| Miller looks to even his record at 5-5 | Monday 6/16, 1:43 PM CT |
|
Andrew Miller will be looking to even his record to 5-5 when the Marlins face the Mariners in Seattle tonight, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Miller is only 4-5 with a poor 5.22 ERA and 1.61 WHIP, but has allowed two or less earned runs in six of his last eight starts, and is facing a Mariners team that is an MLB-worst 24-45. Miller has a great arm, and ranks as a potential sleeper tonight for NL-only leagues. |
|
|
| Aubrey placed on minor league DL | Monday 6/16, 1:06 PM CT |
|
Michael Aubrey has been placed on the minor league DL with Triple-A Buffalo, according to the TribeTimeReport.com. Michael Valdez took his spot on the Bisons' roster while he is out of action.
Our View: The team did not disclose why he was placed on the DL. Aubrey was hitting .313 over 17 games in Triple-A, but only hit .185 over 27 at-bats with the Indians, and holds no fantasy value. |
|
|
| Bailey to be demoted to Louisville | Monday 6/16, 12:36 PM CT |
|
After scuffling in his third start since being called up from Triple-A Louisville, it appears Homer Bailey could be headed back after suffering a 9-0 loss to the Red Sox on Sunday, this according to the team website.
Bailey was the victim of a red-hot Red Sox lineup, lasting just 2 1/3 innings, allowing five runs on four hits with three walks and no strikeouts.
Our View: If Bailey is demoted to Louisville, Daryl Thompson, who pitched 8 2/3 innings and gave up just one run for Louisville on Saturday is expected to get a shot at the No. 5 slot in the Reds rotation. |
|
|
| Weaver set for 15th start | Monday 6/16, 12:25 PM CT |
|
Jered Weaver will make his 15th start of the season tonight when the Angels host the Mets, according to MLB.com. Weaver is 6-6 this season with a 4.45 ERA and decent 1.31 WHIP. He has never faced the Mets, but is 3-0 with a 3.10 ERA in four career inter-league starts.
Our View: Weaver only allowed one earned run on four hits over eight innings in his last outing (against the Rays), but has been erratic from start to start, and he remains a risky fantasy hurler. In his favor, he does have a good record in inter-league play and is at home tonight. |
|
|
| Pelfrey to battle Angels | Monday 6/16, 12:18 PM CT |
|
Mike Pelfrey will battle the Angels tonight in inter-league play, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Pelfrey notched a season-high eight strikeouts in his last outing against the Diamondbacks, and hurled eight scoreless innings, and was the third straight outing that he allowed two or less earned runs. He should be considered for your lineups tonight, despite his 2-6 record. |
|
|
| Davis swinging well | Monday 6/16, 12:03 PM CT |
|
Chris Davis keeps on hitting. The first baseman is batting .355 with six homers, 20 RBI, and 18 runs over 22 games since his promotion to Triple-A. Over his two stops, the 22-year-old Davis is hitting .340-19-62-61 over 68 contests.
Our View: The Rangers are set to try out Hank Blalock at first base, but Davis is pushing to get a call later this year. He probably profiles best as a DH in the long run. |
|
|
| James sharp at Triple-A | Monday 6/16, 11:59 AM CT |
|
Chuck James tossed seven scoreless innings for Triple-A Richmond on Sunday night, extending his streak to 14 frames without a run this June. The southpaw walked none and struck out eight in his latest effort. He has allowed only seven hits over 14.0 innings this month.
Our View: James has pitched very well since coming off the minor league DL. He needs to stretch out his arm a little more and continue to work consistently, but the Braves could turn to him soon. The major league club is running low on options. |
|
|
| Liriano wins again | Monday 6/16, 11:55 AM CT |
|
Francisco Liriano worked 7.1 innings against Triple-A Louisville on Sunday, and he allowed only five hits and two runs while improving to 3-2. The southpaw walked none, struck out five, and threw 62 of his 95 pitches for strikes. He has picked up a victory in each of his last three starts.
Our View: We have to believe Liriano is getting closer and closer to a bump up to the majors. We don't know that we'll see a dominant Francisco this year, but he's beginning to look more like the hurler of old. |
|
|
| Jimenez in action tonight | Monday 6/16, 11:23 AM CT |
|
Ubaldo Jimenez will be in action tonight when the Rockies host the Braves at Coors Field, according to MLB.com. Jimenez is only 1-6 with a 4.93 ERA this season, but his lone win came against the Braves.
Our View: Jimenez has struggled this season, but has a great arm, and hurled seven scoreless innings in his last start on June 11 (against the Giants). He could be a sleeper for tonight in NL-only leagues. |
|
|
| Manny missed another game Sunday | Monday 6/16, 11:13 AM CT |
|
Manny Ramirez missed his second straight start on Sunday due to nagging soreness in his right hamstring, according to the Boston Herald.
Our View: It remains in question if he will be able to return to the lineup tonight against the Phillies. He cannot play as a DH as the game is in Philadelphia. |
|
|
| Ortiz scheduled to have cast removed | Monday 6/16, 11:07 AM CT |
|
David Ortiz is scheduled to have his cast removed on Monday, in order to have his injured left wrist examined, according to the Boston Herald. A decision will then be made regarding keeping the cast off and beginning the rehab process. Ortiz sustained a torn tendon sheath in the left wrist, and there is a chance that another cast will be put on the wrist as a precautionary measure for a few more days, especially if the wrist remains tender. Manager Terry Francona said, "The pain level is actually gone, which is good news. That’s basically what we’ve been told is kind of the criteria for cast removal because the sheath will heal over. You go off the pain because they say when the pain goes away, he’s going to be OK."
Our View: We will keep you posted on the team's decision for his next step following his cast removal and exam today. |
|
|
| Church close to rejoining Mets | Monday 6/16, 10:57 AM CT |
|
Ryan Church will likely rejoin the Mets during their homestand against the Mariners that begins June 23, according to the NY Daily News. He is recovering from a mild concussion and will begin working out again today. Church said, "I feel great, every day is getting better. I haven't had any spells or anything like that. It's one of those things now, just waiting out the time on the DL."
Our View: He will provide a solid boost to the Mets' lineup when he returns, as he was hitting .300 with 10 homers, 35 RBI, and 35 runs scored over 50 games. |
|
|
| Hernandez nowhere close to return | Monday 6/16, 10:51 AM CT |
|
Orlando Hernandez is nowhere close to returning to the Mets, according to the NY Daily News. He is very slowly recovering from foot surgery.
Our View: He has advanced to pitching off a mound, but the front office does not expect him back with the Mets until about one month after the All-Star break. |
|
|
| Bastardo will miss next start at AA | Monday 6/16, 10:47 AM CT |
|
Antonio Bastardo will miss his next start with Double-A Reading due to inflammation in his pitching shoulder, according to the Reading Eagle.
Our View: The ailment is said to be minor and the team is hopeful the 22-year old lefty will bounce back with a little bit of rest. Bastardo is considered to be a top pitching prospect in the Phillies' low-minors. |
|
|
| Carpenter to visit Dr. Andrews | Monday 6/16, 10:39 AM CT |
|
Chris Carpenter will be examined by Dr. James Andrews in Alabama today, and will provide a second opinion regarding his persistent right forearm ailment, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: A nerve problem is suspected but Andrews’ opinion is being asked regarding whether corrective surgery is needed. This does not sound good for his prospects of returning in the second half of the season.
|
|
|
| Wellemeyer could pitch Thursday | Monday 6/16, 10:33 AM CT |
|
Todd Wellemeyer is listed as the Cardinals' starter for Thursday, but the team will wait until he completes a Tuesday bullpen to make an exact decision, as he has been suffering from elbow and forearm pain, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: The team will pull him back if any issue arises regarding his elbow. Anthony Reyes and Kyle Lohse are the top candidates to pitch Thursday if Wellemeyer is unable to go. He is enjoying a strong campaign with a 7-2 record and a 3.67 ERA and 1.21 WHIP. |
|
|
| Molina not likely to land on DL | Monday 6/16, 10:24 AM CT |
|
Yadier Molina is not likely to land on the DL, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He sustained a mild concussion during Sunday's hard collision at home plate during battle with the Phillies, and it looked worse than it actually turned out to be.
Our View: This is good news, but the team is expected to call up a catcher to serve as backup to Jason LaRue while Molina recovers, and will likely trim a pitcher to make room on the roster. |
|
|
| Nady scheduled for MRI | Monday 6/16, 10:18 AM CT |
|
Xavier Nady is scheduled for an MRI on his ailing left shoulder on Monday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Nady hopes he only sustained a bruise, and Manager John Russell added, "It's definitely not as bad as we initially thought it might be. Your first instinct is, 'Well, he's hurt pretty bad.' But we don't want to get too far ahead of ourselves until after the MRI."
Our View: If the MRI checks out fine, Nady will fly to Chicago to join his team-mates, who have today off before beginning a three-game set against the White Sox Tuesday night. When he plays again won't be immediately known, however. The team will need to determine what he can handle when the pain subsides.
|
|
|
| Hardy could return soon as Tuesday | Monday 6/16, 10:11 AM CT |
|
J.J. Hardy, who is nursing an irritated left shoulder, could return to the Brewers' lineup as soon as Tuesday, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Hardy was available to pinch-hit over the weekend if needed, and Manager Ned Yost said, "He feels much better. I’ll re-evaluate it after the off day today. What we’re trying to do is build his strength back up in his shoulder. It’s been causing him problems off and on all season. It’s hard to get a handle on it because you don’t have the time to work the shoulder to get it strong when you’re playing every day."
Our View: Hopefully he can put this ailment behind him and get on track, as he is only hitting .248 with four homers and 18 RBI over 59 games. |
|
|
| Lo Duca will not reclaim starting job | Monday 6/16, 10:02 AM CT |
|
Paul Lo Duca is close to returning from the DL, but will not reclaim the starting role at catcher, according to the Washington Post.
Our View: Jesus Flores has been rock solid behind the plate, and will not relinquish his starting role. The team will also keep Wil Nieves as a third catcher. Lo Duca will see limited playing time at catcher, but the team expects to give him time at first base and in left field, to potentially increase his trade value. |
|
|
| Gonzalez close to return | Monday 6/16, 9:56 AM CT |
|
Mike Gonzalez's surgically repaired left elbow has responded well during his rehab assignment with Triple-A Richmond, according to MLB.com.
Our View: He could be activated from the DL during the Braves' next homestand, which begins June 20 against the Mariners. Gonzalez is worth taking a shot on, as he could be tried out for the closer's role with Rafael Soriano's elbow still not where it needs to be, and with John Smoltz done for the season. |
|
|
| Kotsay pleased with progress | Monday 6/16, 9:51 AM CT |
|
Mark Kotsay sprinted in the outfield on Sunday and was pleased with the progress in his ailing lower back, according to MLB.com. He will test the back again on Tuesday and could begin swinging a bat on Wednesday or Thursday.
Our View: This is favorable news and he is seemingly not too far from returning to the Braves. |
|
|
| Jones served as DH Sunday | Monday 6/16, 9:45 AM CT |
|
Chipper Jones was used as a DH on Sunday in inter-league action against the Angels, according to MLB.com. Mark Teixeira will likely serve as the DH for one of the games against his former Rangers' teammates this week.
Our View: Manager Bobby Cox used Jones as the DH in an effort to rest his legs, and the move was not related to his eye contusion. Omar Infante covered third base, but went 0-for-3. |
|
|
| Jurrjens expected to start tonight | Monday 6/16, 9:41 AM CT |
|
Jair Jurrjens has been slowed by a twisted ankle, and there was a possibility he could be headed to the DL, but is expected to make his start tonight against the Rockies, according to MLB.com.
Our View: He had his last start on Wednesday scratched due to the bum ankle. Jurrjens is 6-3 this season with a 3.77 ERA, but has given up four homers in his last three starts, and Colorado is the worst possible place he can pitch right now. |
|
|
| McAnulty injured Sunday | Monday 6/16, 9:26 AM CT |
|
Outfielder Paul McAnulty was forced out of Sunday's game against the Indians in the first inning due to a sore back, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. He sustained the injury when Jamey Carroll hit a double over his head.
Our View: Edgar Gonzalez left second base to fill McAnulty's spot in right field, and Craig Stansberry came off the bench to cover second. The severity of the ailment is yet to be determined. |
|
|
| Berkman sat out Sunday to rest leg | Monday 6/16, 9:20 AM CT |
|
Lance Berkman sat out Sunday's battle against the Yankees as he is dealing with a sore leg, according to the Houston Chronicle. Manager Cecil Cooper said, "Lance has a little tenderness in his leg, and we talked about it, and today was the day we were going to hold him out."
Our View: He admitted he is banged up, and the day off will do him good. The team is also off on Monday, and he is expected back on Tuesay, to begin a series against the Orioles. |
|
|
|
