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| Walker leaves game with injury | Saturday 7/5, 11:28 PM CT |
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Tyler Walker was removed from the Giants versus Dodgers game on Saturday night as he appeared to re-aggravate his a troublesome groin injury.
Our View: The Giants post-game radio wrap up said that Walker tweaked his knee, but either way he could be headed to the DL as the Giants need arms in the pen right now. |
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| Wilson NL leader in saves | Saturday 7/5, 11:24 PM CT |
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Brian Wilson converted his 15th straight save of the year on Saturday night, his 24th overall to lead the National League.
Our View: Wilson comes in throwing cheese, has the funky flavor saver on his chin and the prerequisite massive tattoos on his arms. Rickey Vaughan would be proud. |
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| Rowand back over .300 | Saturday 7/5, 11:22 PM CT |
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Aaron Rowand had two hits and an RBI in the Giants 5-2 victory over the Dodgers on Saturday night.
Our View: After seeing his average dip under .300 for a about a week he is now back up to .303 thanks to a run of seven hits in his last three games for the G-men. |
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| Kemp has two base knocks | Saturday 7/5, 11:20 PM CT |
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Matt Kemp, hitting leadoff for the Dodgers, went 2-for-4 with a run scored for the Dodgers. He was also caught stealing for the fifth time this season.
Our View: Kemp has been doing a solid job this season at the plate while adding a ton of value with his legs (18 SB). With Juan Pierre out of action for a while, Kemp will run out there every day to continue his development. He could stand to work on cutting down the strikeouts since he has 91 in just 303 AB on the year. |
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| Park looks great against Giants | Saturday 7/5, 11:17 PM CT |
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Chan Ho Park allowed just one run over six innings in a solid outing against the Giants. Park walked three and struck out seven while allowing just three hits.
Our View: Park touched 96 mph repeatedly on this night, and he looked tremendous in the no-decision. With the news that Bray Penny is likely to miss at least another two weeks, Park could remain in the starting rotation for a few more turns through the rotation. |
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| Zito dominates Dodgers | Saturday 7/5, 11:14 PM CT |
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Barry Zito pitched his most dominating game since become a Giant by striking out 10 Dodgers on his way to his first home victory of the season, 5-2 over the Dodgers.
Our View: This was Zito's first 10-K effort since 2006, and everyone of the punchouts was on a change up or curveball as he dazzled the Dodgers with an assortment of off-speed pitches that they simply couldn't square up. Believe it or not, over his last three starts Zito has 20 K, six BB and a 3.37 ERA and once again has the look of a pitcher who might actually be able to contribute to a winning fantasy squad. |
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| Curz removed from game | Saturday 7/5, 10:53 PM CT |
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Juan Cruz was removed from the D'backs game on Saturday night due to an undisclosed arm injury.
Our View: Cruz has been dealing with a troublesome side of late, so perhaps he was overcompensating on this night leading to some issue with his arm. We don't know the severity of the injury, though he could be headed to the DL. |
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| Peavy throws seven shutout innings | Saturday 7/5, 10:50 PM CT |
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Jake Peavy held the D'backs scoreless for seven innings on his way to win number six for the Padres. Peavy allowed just five base runners (three hits, two walks), while striking out six Diamondbacks.
Our View: Peavy has 26 K in 29 innings since coming back from the DL as his ERA is back down to 2.67. He appears to be all the way back from the arm issues that hampered him, though his somewhat violent delivery still leaves him as someone to monitor closely. |
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| Davis keeps down almost all Padres | Saturday 7/5, 10:47 PM CT |
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Doug Davis held the Padres 2-9 hitters to four hits and no runs through eight innings, but unfortunately for him, Padres leadoff hitter Scott Hairston hit two home runs leading to three RBI to saddle Davis with his fourth loss.
Our View: Too bad for Davis the lineup includes nine players as he was otherwise pretty masterful when not facing Hairston. This was his fifth straight game of three or fewer earned runs, it's just too bad the D'backs offense has dried up of late leading to just one win in that time. |
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| Hairston hits two bombs | Saturday 7/5, 10:43 PM CT |
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Scott Hairston powered two long balls on Saturday night off Doug Davis as he went on to produce three hits, three RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: Hairston is hitting only .246, but he has provided just enough offense to wind up playing almost every day until recently when he has lost some playing time to Chase Headley. Perhaps this outing will allow him to recapture some of that work. |
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| De La Rosa victorious over Marlins | Saturday 7/5, 10:38 PM CT |
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Jorge De La Rosa improved to 3-4 after allowing three runs in five innings against the Marlins. De La Rosa was a bit erratic allowing six hits and three walks, but he still held on for the win.
Our View: De La Rosa really needed a positive outing after getting bombed his last time out (six runs, 11 hits over five innings), but he is still nothing more than a pitcher with strikeout stuff that could doom your ratios. |
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| Lindstrom back, throws strikes | Saturday 7/5, 10:35 PM CT |
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Matt Lindstrom pitched a clean inning in his first appearance since June 22nd thanks to two strikeouts.
Our View: Lindstrom has 21 K but an unhealthy total of 16 BB that have held him back from truly establishing himself at the big league level. The talent is there for a more substantial role, but he has to harness the raw stuff. |
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| Ross on tear at plate | Saturday 7/5, 10:33 PM CT |
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Cody Ross ripped his 14th home run leading to three hits, two runs and four RBI for the Marlins.
Our View: Over his last three starts Ross has nine hits and 10 RBI as he has boosted his average to .258. Ross has carved out a niche for himself in the Marlins lineup and doesn't appear to want to give it up anytime soon. |
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| Spilborghs has seven runs in two games | Saturday 7/5, 10:31 PM CT |
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Ryan Spilborghs, continuing to take advantage of an injury that is keeping Willy Taveras out of the lineup, went 2-for-4 with three runs scored on Saturday night.
Our View: Spilborghs has seven runs and six hits in his last two games and is hitting a robust .309 in 178 AB on the year as he continues to provide ample value in NL only leagues. |
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| Hairston keys victory | Saturday 7/5, 10:12 PM CT |
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Jerry Hairston Jr. scored the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning for the Reds. Hairston went 3-for-4 with two runs scored and his 14th steal of the year on the night.
Our View: What an out of nowhere performance this guy is showering on his owners. There is zero reason to think that Hariston will be able to maintain the pace that has him hitting .341 with 14 steals, but even if that is that is the case he has been a tremendous asset this year. |
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| Cordero picks up win after blown save | Saturday 7/5, 10:10 PM CT |
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Francisco Cordero blew his fourth save of the year on Saturday, but his offense bailed him out leading to his fourth victory of the year.
Our View: Cordero has two saves and a win this week giving him a tone of value for those using him in head to head matchups. He should continue to serve as a top-10 closer the rest of the year. |
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| Fogg pitches well | Saturday 7/5, 10:06 PM CT |
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Josh Fogg allowed just one run over six innings in a masterful job stepping in for Aaron Harang. Fogg allowed just one walk and six hits over the six innings with only one K.
Our View: Fogg would appear to have pitched himself back into the Reds plans moving foward with this effort, though he could still be sent back to the minors if the team deems Harang to be healthy enough for his next start. |
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| Redding piles up no decisions | Saturday 7/5, 10:03 PM CT |
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Tim Redding allowed just one run over six innings against the Reds, but he was still left without a win or loss in his ninth straight no-decision.
Our View: Redding lowered his ERA to 4.06 in this outing, though he allowed eight hits in six innings leaving him with 108 hits allowed in 108 innings this season. Redding has been solid for most of the year, even if his record fails to reflect that fact. |
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| Moyer solid for Phillies | Saturday 7/5, 9:48 PM CT |
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Jamie Moyer failed to secure his eighth victory of the season on Saturday night though he held the Mets to three runs over 6.2 innings.
Our View: That's five straight outings for Moyer of three or fewer runs allowed as he continues to give his club a chance to win every time he takes the hill, something he has been able to do since roughly the Jurassic age. |
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| Howard blasts 23rd home run | Saturday 7/5, 9:46 PM CT |
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Ryan Howard socked his 23rd home run of the season on Saturday leading to three RBI to give him 76 on the year.
Our View: Care to hazard a guess as to what Howard did in the two AB where he didn't hit a home run? If you need us to tell you, then you just haven't been paying attention. He has 119 K in 88 games in case you were wondering. |
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| Easley hitting well | Saturday 7/5, 9:44 PM CT |
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Damion Easley had a big night on Saturday with three hits, two runs scored and an RBI for the Mets out of the five hole.
Our View: That's seven games with a hit for Easley who is hitting .458 in that time (11-for-24). With the injury to Luis Castillo, Easley figures to see a substantial amount of playing time the next coupe of weeks. |
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| Church sidelined by dizziness | Saturday 7/5, 9:32 PM CT |
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Ryan Church was removed from the Mets game on Saturday night after complaining of dizziness, according to the New York Post.
Our View: Church, who has suffered two concussions this year, had recently returned from more than three weeks on the DL. Given the flack that the Mets took for allowing him to play earlier on, and the fact that Church clearly isn't right, it would be a shocker if he wasn't shutdown at least until after the All-Start break, and possibly much longer. |
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| Dukes carted off field | Saturday 7/5, 9:28 PM CT |
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Elijah Dukes may have severely injured his right knee after crashing into a wall while make a catch, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Dukes needed to be carted off the field after writhing in pain holding his knee. It appears that he will be headed to the DL after this injury, too bad considering he was hitting .325 with five home runs and five SB over his last 20 games. It remains to be seen who will fill in if he is indeed out for a while, but on this night Willie Harris replaced him in left field. |
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| McCann has big stick working | Saturday 7/5, 9:17 PM CT |
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Brian McCann went deep for his 15th home run of the year for the Braves.
Our View: McCann is on pace for a tremendous season as he is currently hitting .298-15-48 as he is threatening to match his power production from 2006 (24 HR, 93 RBI). |
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| Sampson steps up in win | Saturday 7/5, 9:15 PM CT |
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Chris Sampson took advantage of a start picked up due to injury to Roy Oswalt, and he used the chance well in his fourth victory of the season. Sampson allowed a mere two hits, and no walks, in holding the Braves to one run over five innings.
Our View: Sampson could remain in the rotation depending on whether or not Oswalt finds himself on the DL, but counting on Sampson is akin to playing with fireworks - eventually you are going to get burned. |
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| Reyes unimpressive on Saturday | Saturday 7/5, 9:12 PM CT |
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Jo-Jo Reyes fell to 3-7 on Saturday by allowing four tuns to the Astros in 4.1 innings. Reyes allowed six hits and three walks while only striking out two.
Our View: Reyes has now lost three straight decisions and six of his last seven. He still is maintaining average ratios (4.40 ERA, 1.43 WHIP), but those clearly aren't numbers you should be running out there each week. |
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| Loretta knocks in four runs | Saturday 7/5, 9:05 PM CT |
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Mark Loretta had a big night on Saturday with three doubles, leading to four RBI, in the Astros 6-1 victory over the Braves.
Our View: Loretta continues to be a useful spare part in NL only leagues where his ability to hit for average and to play multiple positions is a big bonus. |
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| Smith walks six in loss | Saturday 7/5, 9:00 PM CT |
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Greg Smith had another rough outing on Saturday as he was tagged with his seventh loss do to four runs in five innings against the White Sox.
Our View: Smith only gave up five hits on the night but he walked six batters for the second time in five starts. Over his last seven starts Smith has allowed one run three times and four or more in the other four starts. The ERA continues to creep up for the rookie (3.62), and it still has a ways to go to match his overall level of production. |
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| McLouth returns but struggles | Saturday 7/5, 8:52 PM CT |
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Nate McLouth returned to the lineup on Saturday after a bout with the stomach flu, but he went 0-for-4 dropping his average to .278.
Our View: McLouth is hitting .203 with just one home run over his last 16 games as the early season gravy train has almost completely dried up. He wasn't that good, and he isn't this bad, so look for his production to normalize in the coming weeks. |
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| Gagne picks up second win | Saturday 7/5, 8:49 PM CT |
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Eric Gagne was the beneficiary of offense on Saturday as he worked a scoreless ninth inning and then watched his teammates score the winning run off the Pirates to give him his second victory of the season.
Our View: Gagne has now appeared twice without allowing a run since returning from injury, and with the Brewers struggles in the pen there could be some consideration of moving Gagne back into the closers role soon. |
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| Bush tremendous against Pirates | Saturday 7/5, 8:46 PM CT |
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Dave Bush dazzled the Pirates for eight innings allowing just one run without walking a single batter in a seven strikeout no-decision.
Our View: This is the third time in four starts that Bush has allowed a single earned run, and over his last nine starts he has walked just nine batters as his WHIP is down to 1.22. If he is still on waivers in your league, he probably shouldn't be. |
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| Maholm, Bush in a duel | Saturday 7/5, 8:43 PM CT |
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Paul Maholm pitched eight excellent innings on Saturday though he picked up a no-decision after engaging in a pitching battle with David Bush. Both pitchers went eight innings and allowed just a single run, with Maholm walking one and striking out six.
Our View: Maholm continues to bring his ERA down with his fourth straight quality start for the Pirates (4.05). He still comes with some risk as he doesn't have a true "out pitch", but he is on a solid roll right now. |
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| Sabathia talks slow with Brewers | Saturday 7/5, 8:17 PM CT |
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The Milwaukee Brewers continue to pursue C.C. Sabathia, but according to a report on ESPN they haven't yet offered a package of players strong enough to entice the Indians.
Our View: Matt LaPorta would likely be at the center of any deal, but the Brewers have apparently trying to fill in around him with a couple of lesser prospects instead of another blue chipper. If the Brewers cannot work out a deal, the Phillies, Dodgers and Rays appear to still be in on the action according to Buster Olney. |
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| Penny out two more weeks | Saturday 7/5, 8:10 PM CT |
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Brad Penny will not return from his injured shoulder before the All-Start break, according to MLB.com. Penny had to be removed from a simulated game on Saturday as his shoulder began to bother him yet again. "He stopped himself. He felt something in the back of the shoulder," said manager Joe Torre. "He didn't do anything on that particular pitch, but all of a sudden something was weird."
Our View: The team will send him for an exam on Monday, and while no one seemed overly concerned that this setback was major, it just goes to show you that Penny isn't someone that should be counted on to return to form quickly. Regardless, he is out until after the All-Star break. |
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| Maine forced from start | Saturday 7/5, 8:05 PM CT |
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John Maine was forced from his start on Saturday night with an injury to his non-pitching arm, an apparent forearm cramp, according to the MLB.com.
Our View: This is the second time Maine has been bothered by cramps this year (the other date was April 26th). Someone tell the guy to drink a bottle of Gatorade on days he pitches. |
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| Beltran to hit second? | Saturday 7/5, 7:53 PM CT |
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Carlos Beltran could be move up to second in the batting order as manager Jerry Manuel is locking for a way to spark some life into his offense, according to MLB.com. "It's a strong consideration if his bat doesn't liven up quickly," Manuel said.
Our View: With Luis Castillo on the DL, the team went with Ryan Church in the spot on Saturday, but the team has to figure out what to do with the slumping Beltran who's average has fallen to .262 with only two hits in his last 28 AB. |
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| Wigginton to bat leadoff | Saturday 7/5, 7:43 PM CT |
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Ty Wigginton's versatility came into play yet again on Saturday as he was placed in the leadoff role for the Astros, according to MLB.com. "I loved leading off in college. I led off regularly my junior year -- at least 30, 40 games," Wigginton said.
Our View: This move was made because the Astros are facing a lefty tonight, and there was no word that this would become a long-term decision. However, given that his OBP is a full .080 points better than leadoff man Michael Bourn (.360 to .280), it doesn't take a genius to figure out that this move makes sense for a lineup struggling to score runs. |
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| Soriano feels good after throwing | Saturday 7/5, 7:39 PM CT |
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Rafael Soriano threw two bullpen sessions in the past week and reported no discomfort in his continually sore elbow, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Fool me once shame on you. Fool me twice... Soriano has started and stopped about as many times as a jackhammer knocking out an old sidewalk this year. Continue to monitor his progress, but it is patently obvious that he just isn't an arm that you can count on. |
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| Sanchez on pace for August return | Saturday 7/5, 7:35 PM CT |
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Anibal Sanchez continues to rehab from right shoulder surgery, and he is progressing well, according to the Palm Beach Post. Sanchez's next start will be at Single-A on Tuesday, and he is on schedule to return to the majors on August 1st.
Our View: If the Marlins continue to hang around the playoff chase, Sanchez could serve in the same capacity as a trade deadline deal in adding another arm to the staff. Continue to monitor his progress. |
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| Uggla takes BP, fields grounders | Saturday 7/5, 7:30 PM CT |
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Dan Uggla took BP and fielded some grounders on Saturday though he is still having some difficulty running, according to the Palm Beach Post.
Our View: The report went on to state that Uggla probably won't play in either game this weekend, but that the team is extremely hopeful that he will return to action next week. |
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| Cabrera takes BP, will play on Tuesday | Saturday 7/5, 7:27 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report, Jolbert Cabrera is indeed progressing well in his recover from a fractured left index finger, and he not only hit in the batting cage on Saturday he also plans to begin his rehab assignment on Tuesday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Cabrera could find himself activated late next week of the rehab process goes well now that Alex Gonzalez is lost for the year due to knee surgery. |
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| Cantu out with sore arm | Saturday 7/5, 7:23 PM CT |
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Jorge Cantu has been scratched from the Marlins lineup on Saturday due to a sore left triceps, according to the Palm Beach Post. Wes Helms will start in his place and hit in the third spot.
Our View: Cantu was hit by a pitch on Friday night, and the hope is that this is just a minor issue that, at worst, will only keep him out of the starting lineup for a day or two. |
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| Youngster Bonifacio hitting leadoff | Saturday 7/5, 7:21 PM CT |
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Emilio Bonifacio is in the lineup on Saturday night and is serving as the leadoff hitter for the D'backs, according to MLB.com. "I compare him to [Jose] Reyes," manager Doug Melvin said. "I think it's a fair comparison. I think he's got a chance to be a terrific leadoff guy. If he hits the ball on the ground, he has a good chance of being safe
Our View: Bonifacio, a second baseman by trade, will see time in the outfield with Eric Byrnes on the DL. Bonifacio stole 17 bases in the minors and should be an immediate addition in NL only leagues given the news he will see a lot of at-bats. |
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| Van Benschoten in rotation | Saturday 7/5, 7:04 PM CT |
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John Van Benschoten appears to be the most obvious choice to fill the rotation spot of the recently demoted Tom Gorzelanny, according to MLB.com. "It's John Van Benschoten's time," GM Neal Huntington said. "We need someone to step up and take that spot and run with it and become a Major League pitcher. John is going to get that first chance."
Our View: Van Benschoten was 7-2 with a 3.75 ERA in 12 Triple-A starts this year and becomes a potential option in NL only leagues starting Wednesday when he is in line for the start. |
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| Reyes looks good in simulate game | Saturday 7/5, 6:51 PM CT |
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Updating and earlier report, Al Reyes threw a simulated game on Saturday and the results were good, according to the Tampa Tribune.
Our View: The plan is for Reyes to head out for some minor league work the next week or so with a target return date of right after the All-Star break. |
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| DeRosa goes deep again | Saturday 7/5, 6:49 PM CT |
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Mark DeRosa hit his 11th home run of the season, and third in six games for the Cubs on Saturday.
Our View: DeRosa seemingly qualifies at every position this year, and given his .289-11-48 line, it can actually be argued that he is one of the top-50 fantasy options this season because of that versatility. |
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| Third baseman goes deep | Saturday 7/5, 6:47 PM CT |
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Aramis Ramirez powered his 15th long ball of the year on Saturday and finished with two RBI for the Cubs leaving him with 57 RBI on the season.
Our View: Ramirez is a slight bit behind a 30-HR pace this year, but he clearly is a solid bet to reach that total this year hitting in the heart of the Cubs order. |
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| Molina has 12-game streak | Saturday 7/5, 6:44 PM CT |
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Yadier Molina went 1-for-3 on Saturday to extend his hitting streak to 12 games for the Cardinals.
Our View: Not many people have noticed that Molina is hitting a robust .307 through 251 AB marking him as one of the surprising players at the catcher position. Unfortunately he has little power (four home runs), and no speed (19 runs and zero SB), but he is proving to be a significant asset in the batting average category. |
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| Wood falters badly on Saturday | Saturday 7/5, 6:41 PM CT |
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Kerry Wood was saddled with his second loss and fifth blown save on Saturday against the Cardinals. Wood walked two batters, then gave up a double and then a single to blow the game.
Our View: Wood has been one of the better closers in baseball this season, but eventually everyone eventually throws a stinker out there. Consider this outing to be one of those, and look for a strong comeback effort next time out for Wood. |
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| Lily solid in no-decision | Saturday 7/5, 6:31 PM CT |
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Ted Lilly picked up a no-decision against the Cards but he still pitched well allowing two runs over six innings. St. Louis managed seven hits and one walk off Lilly, but he also picked up five strikeouts.
Our View: Lilly continue to bring the type of production that he is famous for. His ratios are manageable (4.47 ERA, 1.30 WHIP)is win total solid (nine), and his strikeout totals are formidable (8.39 K/9) giving him solid but unspectacular value. |
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| Lohse continues his success | Saturday 7/5, 6:21 PM CT |
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Kyle Lohse continued his strong work on the hill on Saturday as he held the Cubs to just two runs over seven innings. Lohse walked two batters and permitted two hits while striking out six.
Our View: Lohse has now allowed two or fewer earned runs in eight of his last 10 starts, and with a 10-2 record and 3.61 ERA, he is bound to generate some all-star consideration. |
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| Ankiel wins game for Cards | Saturday 7/5, 6:19 PM CT |
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Rick Ankiel had the game-winning two out, two run single for the Cardinals on Saturday. Ankiel also had two other hits, including his 18th home run, as he knocked in three runs on the day.
Our View: Ankiel continues to prove that he is no novelty act; he is a legitimate major league power hitter. He still strikes out a fair amount with 64 K, but given that he is on pace for more than 30 home runs, we can overlook that deficiency. |
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| Manny hit by three pitches | Saturday 7/5, 6:11 PM CT |
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Manny Ramirez went 0-for-1 on Saturday as he was hit by three Yankees pitches on the afternoon.
Our View: Manny is in an awful 9-for-48 slump (.188) that has lowered his average to .279. Hopefully today's outing will spark something in his bat, though he continues to appear to be completely off when it comes to his timing. |
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| Hall starting versus lefty | Saturday 7/5, 5:02 PM CT |
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Bill Hall will be in the lineup on Saturday as the Brewers are facing left-hander Paul Maholm, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Our View: Hall, who continues to split time at the hot corner with Russell Branyan, has been hideous versus right handers (.154 with a .510 OPS), but dynamic against lefties (.360/1.057). |
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| Lindstrom back in the bigs | Saturday 7/5, 4:07 PM CT |
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The Marlins called up reliever Matt Lindstrom from Triple-A Albuquerque on Saturday, the Palm Beach Post reports.
Our View: Lindstrom was sent down on June 24, and he posted a 9.00 ERA while in the minors. We're not sure why the Marlins think he'll be any better this time around. Lindstrom has good stuff, but we can't trust him in fantasy leagues. |
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| Miller goes on DL with sore elbow | Saturday 7/5, 4:04 PM CT |
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The Marlins have placed reliever Justin Miller on the 15-day DL due to right elbow inflammation, the Palm Beach Post reports.
Our View: Miller can be a decent setup man and maybe useful in NL-only leagues when he's healthy, but he obviously has no business being on fantasy rosters right now. |
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| Oswalt to miss Tuesday start | Saturday 7/5, 3:57 PM CT |
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Roy Oswalt will miss his re-scheduled start on Tuesday due to a strained left hip abductor, the Houston Chronicle reports. The ace has returned to Houston on Saturday morning. Brandon Backe will take his place against the Pirates.
Our View: With the All-Star break approaching, it wouldn't be surprising to see Oswalt land on the DL and get that extra time to let his hip heal. We'll let you know if that happens. |
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| Izturis to return on Sunday | Saturday 7/5, 3:12 PM CT |
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The Cardinals will activate Cesar Izturis from the DL on Sunday, not Saturday, MLB.com reports. He has been out due to a strained right hamstring suffered on June 21.
Our View: The light-hitting shortstop can then resume his role of not helping fantasy teams. |
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| Gorzelanny sent down | Saturday 7/5, 3:11 PM CT |
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The Pirates optioned Tom Gorzelanny to Triple-A Indianapolis on Saturday, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports. The southpaw is 6-7 with a 6.57 ERA and 1.83 WHIP, and he is coming off a rough outing against the Brewers.
Our View: Little has gone right for Gorzelanny this year, and fantasy owners likely gave up on him well before this. He seems too talented not to bounce back, but how many times have we said that about a Pirates pitcher before? |
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| Soriano takes batting practice | Saturday 7/5, 2:50 PM CT |
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Alfonso Soriano took batting practice on Saturday for the first time since fracturing his left ring finger on June 11. "The most important thing is I feel good and there's no pain at all in my hand," he explains to MLB.com. Soriano admits that his left hand is still a little weak, but he hopes to be ready for the All-Star game on July 15.
Our View: We'd be a little surprised if the Cubs allowed Soriano to actually play in the All-Star game. Fantasy owners can tentatively plan on using the superstar when the break ends on July 18. |
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| Webb to start All-Star game | Saturday 7/5, 2:27 PM CT |
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Brandon Webb will be the NL starter for the 2008 All-Star game, the New York Post reports. The 2006 Cy Young winner is tied for the major league lead with 12 wins, and he boasts a 3.43 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and 100 strikeouts.
Our View: Some people will undoubtedly quibble with this choice, but Webb has to enter any discussion about the best pitchers in the majors. |
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| Reynolds sent down | Saturday 7/5, 12:07 PM CT |
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Greg Reynolds has been demoted to Triple-A Colorado Springs, the Rocky Mountain News reports. Veteran southpaw Glendon Rusch will be called up to take his place. Reynolds allowed seven hits and seven runs over 1.1 innings on Friday.
Our View: Reynolds, who turned 23 on Thursday, obviously needs some more work. He still has a bright future, but keeper league owners need to be patient. |
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| Tulowitzki injures thumb, goes on DL | Saturday 7/5, 12:04 PM CT |
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The Rockies have placed Troy Tulowitzki on the disabled list due to an injured thumb. He needed surgery after he smashed a bat and it splintered into his thumb, the Rocky Mountain News reports. The team has not stated a timetable for his return.
Our View: Fantasy owners have already been mad at Tulo, and now he adds this injury to a disappointing year. Clint Barmes will slide back to shortstop, and the tandem of Jeff Baker and Omar Quintanilla will handle second base duties. |
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| Reyes on the mend | Saturday 7/5, 10:40 AM CT |
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Al Reyes will throw a simulated game on Saturday. He is on the DL due to right shoulder tendinitis. "Every time he goes out in the bullpen, he feels better," manager Joe Maddon tells the Tampa Tribune. "The recovery's better, he's not as sore. And he's starting to gain more confidence in the arm strength."
Our View: The reliever could be close to returning, but the Rays don't need to rush him. They've been getting wonderful work from other bullpen members. Reyes was the closer for much of 2007, but he doesn't have much value at this point. |
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| Barrett out at least six weeks | Saturday 7/5, 10:15 AM CT |
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Catcher Michael Barrett may be able to return this season, but he will need at least six weeks to recover from a broken nose, fractured right orbital bone, and other facial injuries, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.
Our View: Barrett is working under a one-year deal, and the Padres probably won't be in a hurry to get him back or use him late in the season. Fantasy owners can let him go. |
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| Yabu has shoulder tightness | Saturday 7/5, 10:08 AM CT |
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Keiichi Yabu reported right shoulder tightness while he was warming up on Friday night, the San Francisco Chronicle reports.
Our View: Yabu is coming off a rough June, and maybe his shoulder has been bothering him for a while. Regardless, he has no fantasy value. |
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| McLouth sits out | Saturday 7/5, 10:04 AM CT |
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Nate McLouth wasn't able to play on Friday night. He had an upset stomach on Wednesday and was still feeling the effects. "I spent pretty much all day (Thursday) in bed," McLouth informs the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "I don't know if it was something I ate or what."
Our View: It sounds like McLouth is day-to-day, and fantasy owners shouldn't be too surprised if he's out on Saturday too. |
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| Flores cleared to throw | Saturday 7/5, 10:00 AM CT |
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Randy Flores threw a light bullpen session on Friday night after being cleared by team doctors, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch notes. The reliever is on the DL due to left ankle inflammation.
Our View: That's probably more Randy Flores news than you were expecting today, huh? The southpaw remains at least one week away from returning. |
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| Sanchez trying to figure out swing | Saturday 7/5, 9:54 AM CT |
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Freddy Sanchez was out of the lineup for the second straight game on Friday. He is in a slump due to a hitch in his swing. "Something's got to change, because I'm not getting it done," Sanchez informs the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. "I'm working every day and, hopefully, I can turn this thing around." The second baseman has been dealing with right shoulder soreness for much of the season.
Our View: Many fantasy owners have given up on Sanchez at this point, and we can't blame them. Hopefully a few days off will help him relax. Freddy hit very well over the second half of 2006 and 2007, so he bears watching. |
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| Alou status update | Saturday 7/5, 9:49 AM CT |
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Moises Alou could resume his rehab assignment on Monday, the New York Daily News reports. He is on the DL due to a strained left calf and had a setback this past week.
Our View: Alou remains on pace to set the record for most injury status updates in a single season. He has appeared in one major league game since May 21. |
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| Carrasco dealing with sore shoulder | Saturday 7/5, 9:47 AM CT |
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Carlos Carrasco could pitch in the Futures Games on July 13 even though he missed his last Double-A start due to right shoulder tightness, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. The injury is not believed to be serious. Carrasco, 21, is 5-7 with a 4.18 ERA over 97.0 innings.
Our View: Keeper league owners likely know all about the Phillies top pitching prospect. Carrasco has been uneven at Double-A this year, but we still love his upside and could see him getting a call in September, if not sooner. |
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| Wright not bothered by groin | Saturday 7/5, 9:43 AM CT |
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David Wright started on Friday despite a sore left groin that caused him to leave Thursday's contest early, the New York Daily News notes. He went 0-for-3 with a walk and an RBI on Friday.
Our View: It sounds like this ailment is very minor. Fantasy owners shouldn't be too concerned. |
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| Yost worried about Mota | Saturday 7/5, 9:35 AM CT |
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The Brewers are worried that reliever Guillermo Mota may be tipping his pitches, as he's been hit hard recently. "His stuff has been really, really good, but he has not been productive. It kind of boggles my mind," manager Ned Yost tells the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Our View: Mota was solid through April and May, but he didn't have a very good June and has been awful in two outings this July. It's possible that he watched Eric Gagne and Derrick Turnbow and just figured that he was supposed to pitch this way. Anyway, Mota has no fantasy value. |
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| Colletti open to dealing Kemp? | Saturday 7/5, 9:29 AM CT |
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The Dodgers will be looking to acquire a shortstop before the July 31 trading deadline, and general manager Ned Colletti may be willing to discuss some of the team's formerly "untouchable" players. "We're more open-minded to what we may have to move than we have been in the past," Colletti informs the Los Angeles Daily News. That list could include outfielder Matt Kemp.
Our View: This report feels like a lot of speculation, but it's not a stretch to think the Dodgers would be willing to move a notable piece in order to shore up their holes. The NL West is wide open. |
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| Wigginton back with the club | Saturday 7/5, 9:24 AM CT |
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Ty Wigginton rejoined the Astros on Friday, although he didn't play. The third baseman was away due to the birth of his third child. Laila Faith Wigginton was delivered on Wednesday, the Houston Chronicle notes.
Our View: Fantasy owners wondering why Wiggy hasn't been in a box score since July 1 now know. |
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| Johnson sharp in Double-A outing | Saturday 7/5, 9:21 AM CT |
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Josh Johnson threw eight shutout innings for Double-A Carolina on Friday night. He allowed five hits, walked two, and struck out seven. Johnson underwent Tommy John surgery on August 3, 2007 and has made five rehab starts.
Our View: That was a bit of an eye-opener after two unremarkable Double-A showings. We're wary about a guy who is still less than a year removed from major elbow surgery, but Johnson could be back up soon and may be worth pursuing in NL-only leagues. |
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| Matsui on target for Tuesday | Saturday 7/5, 9:17 AM CT |
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Kazuo Matsui did some on-field work prior to Friday's game and remains on track to come off the DL on July 8, the Houston Chronicle reports. He is out due to a strained right hamstring and will not go on a minor league rehab assignment.
Our View: Hopefully the oft-injured Matsui can stick around for a while after he returns. He has performed decently for fantasy teams when healthy this year. |
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| Maybin injures back | Saturday 7/5, 9:15 AM CT |
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Outfielder Cameron Maybin has been placed on the minor league disabled list due to a back injury, the Miami Herald reports.
Our View: Maybin, 21, is coming off a solid June, but this injury could obviously set him back. We don't know how serious it is at this point, but it's good news that he has yet to pull out of the Double-A All-Star game. |
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| Bourn sits | Saturday 7/5, 9:11 AM CT |
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Manager Cecil Cooper gave slumping outfielder Michael Bourn a day off on Friday. "My leadoff hitter was doing really well and got up to .240, .242 and then got into a slump," Cooper tells the Houston Chronicle. "He's doing the things we want him to do, but he's grinding and the average is going the other way." Darin Erstad started in his place.
Our View: Bourn has been a frustration for the Astros and fantasy owners alike. His speed requires that we use him, but his awful average and OBP are killers. The Astros are likely to continue showing patience with the youngster, as they'd like him to be a long-term solution in center. |
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| Gregg not on hot seat | Saturday 7/5, 9:08 AM CT |
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Kevin Gregg blew his second straight save on Friday, but the Marlins are sticking with him. "Do we have a quarterback controversy here? It's fine. One-run ballgames are tough, and I got no problems with Kevin Gregg," manager Fredi Gonzalez informs the Miami Herald.
Our View: Gregg has issued 16 walks over the past 15.2 innings, which is cause for concern. He has generally been solid this year, though, and Gonzalez will likely be very patient. |
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| Cabrera hits off tee | Saturday 7/5, 9:02 AM CT |
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Infielder Jolbert Cabrera hit off a batting tee on Friday. It was his first such work since suffering a compound fracture of his left index finger on June 20. he is expected to take batting practice on Saturday, the Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Our View: Cabrera's injury required surgery, which makes this news fairly impressive. He doesn't have any fantasy value, but the Reds seem to be going through shortstops like sunflower seeds this year. |
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| Marmol issues a mystery | Saturday 7/5, 8:37 AM CT |
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The Cubs weren't able to find any issues with reliever Carlos Marmol tipping his pitches. "We thought we had found something on the plane [Thursday] night, and we looked at it further [Friday], and it wasn't much different, so we don't think that's it," manager Lou Piniella tells the Chicago Sun-Times. "The next step is we run him out there tonight if we need him and get people out." Marmol has allowed 10 runs over his last seven appearances.
Our View: We're just going to throw this out there, but have the Cubs considered not driving Marmol into the ground? He is a brilliant setup man, but Carlos has been one of the most heavily-used relievers over the last calendar year. |
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| Fogg to start Saturday | Saturday 7/5, 8:34 AM CT |
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Josh Fogg will come off the DL on Saturday and start in place of Aaron Harang against the Nationals, the Cincinnati Enquirer confirms. Fogg has been on the DL due to back spasms.
Our View: We know it's only the Nationals, but there's no reason for fantasy owners to like Fogg's chances. |
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| Owings to start Tuesday or Wednesday | Saturday 7/5, 8:27 AM CT |
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| Micah Owings worked 0.2 innings of hitless relief on Friday night. He will get back into the rotation next Tuesday or Wednesday, the Arizona Republic notes. Owings' las | |
