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| Zito earns the win | Tuesday 7/22, 11:57 PM CT |
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Barry Zito lasted six innings on Tuesday for his fifth win, this one over the Nationals. He struck out five while giving up seven hits and three walks.
Our View: Zito may have gotten the win but it wasn't pretty. Disregard his success until he strings together four or five straight quality starts. |
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| Molina goes yard twice | Tuesday 7/22, 11:54 PM CT |
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Bengie Molina hit two home runs and recorded three RBI in a 6-3 win over Washington on Tuesday.
Our View: Molina was hitting only .189 since June 9th, but this night has slump-buster written all over it. |
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| Torres notches 18th save | Tuesday 7/22, 11:35 PM CT |
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Salomon Torres recorded his 18th save in 22 chances on Tuesday in St. Louis. He pitched a perfect ninth to protect a 4-3 lead.
Our View: Torres has pitched well enough to become the no-question closer for the Brewers despite the successful return of Eric Gagne. |
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| Liriano: One earned run in last 35 IP | Tuesday 7/22, 11:24 PM CT |
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The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that Francisco Liriano gave up no runs and only two hits and two walks in seven innings while striking out 10 for Triple-A Rochester on Tuesday. He threw 99 pitches, 62 for strikes, in improving to 9-2 with a 3.13 ERA at Rochester.
Our View: It's hard to believe he is still in the minors and you have to believe the Twins will call him up soon. In his past five starts, he has a 0.26 ERA, with one earned run in 35 innings. In that time, he has struck out 42. |
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| Weaver leaves with back tightness | Tuesday 7/22, 11:16 PM CT |
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Angels RHP Jered Weaver has been forced off the mound this evening against the Indians after just three innings because of tightness in the middle of his back and is listed as day-to-day, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Weaver allowed two runs on three hits, walking two and hitting another, but struck out four batters. It was also the shortest start of the season for Weaver, who broke a streak of four straight starts in which he pitched at least five innings and allowed two earned runs or fewer. |
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| Stewart looking good | Tuesday 7/22, 11:01 PM CT |
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Since being recalled from Triple-A to become the regular third baseman with Todd Helton on the DL, Ian Stewart is 9-for-17 with 10 RBI in four games. He was 3-for-3 with four RBI and a home run on Tuesday.
Our View: Is he turning the corner? In his previous 18 games in the pros, he was irrelevant with a staggering amount of strikeouts. It looks like he's found his swing for now. |
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| Baker has hot bat | Tuesday 7/22, 10:57 PM CT |
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Jeff Baker went 4-for-5 with two runs and an RBI on Tuesday against the Dodgers.
Our View: Baker is 12-for-23 (.522) since the All-Star break. |
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| Taveras steals his 42nd base | Tuesday 7/22, 10:54 PM CT |
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Willy Taveras picked up his 42nd steal on Tuesday. He was 2-for-5 on the night with a run scored.
Our View: He's only hitting .244 but his steals make him well a roto-league must. |
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| Jimenez goes the distance | Tuesday 7/22, 10:50 PM CT |
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Ubaldo Jimenez threw a complete game against the Dodgers on Tuesday. He allowed just one run, a Matt Kemp solo shot in the ninth, on four hits.
Our View: This is his fourth win in his last five outings. His four strikeouts in the game give him 102 on the year. He is worth picking up if he's still available in your league. |
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| Kershaw rocked by Rockies | Tuesday 7/22, 10:47 PM CT |
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Upon his return to the bigs on Tuesday, Clayton Kershaw surrendered 10 hits and three walks in just three innings. He was charged with five earned runs.
Our View: The rookie's domination of the minor leagues has yet to translate into the pros. The Dodgers may recall the more impressive Eric Stults who was sent down for Kershaw earlier in the day. |
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| Rollins is clutch | Tuesday 7/22, 10:43 PM CT |
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Reigning MVP Jimmy Rollins delivered a two-run double in the ninth on Tuesday against the Mets in a six run inning. It was his only hit of the night, but it came at a critical time.
Our View: It is safe to bet that as the games take on more meaning, Rollins' production will increase. |
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| Lidge remains perfect in save opportunities | Tuesday 7/22, 10:39 PM CT |
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Brad Lidge recorded his 22nd save in 22 chances on Tuesday against the Mets. He gave up one run in the effort.
Our View: It was just the sixth earned run Lidge has endured in 42 innings this season. |
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| Roberts is activated | Tuesday 7/22, 10:36 PM CT |
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Dave Roberts was activated from the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday. He was recovering from knee tendinitis.
Our View: Roberts takes Ray Durham's roster spot. He'll be the Giants' fourth outfielder for now and the Giants are likely shopping the veteran as they move towards a younger lineup. He has appeared in just six games this season. |
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| Buehrle puts Texas in their place | Tuesday 7/22, 10:36 PM CT |
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The White Sox brought all of the offense needed to get the win, but the 10-2 victory over the Rangers was earned from the arm of LHP Mark Buehrle , pitching 7 1/3 innings to allow one run on six hits with no walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Buehrle pulls to .500 on the season (8-8) with a 3.56 ERA. He is 2-2 for the month of July but has gone 6-2 over his last 10 starts. |
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| Sanchez fails to close | Tuesday 7/22, 10:34 PM CT |
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Duaner Sanchez was summoned from the 'pen in the ninth inning but failed to record an out while giving up three runs on three hits.
Our View: Earlier in the day, Mets manager Charlie Manuel said he wouldn't hesitate using Sanchez as the closer if Wagner was not available. We're guessing that he might next time around. |
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| Rookie Davis warming up | Tuesday 7/22, 10:32 PM CT |
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The Rangers posted 10 total hits on the night but managed to find just two runs through that effort, falling 10-2 against the White Sox. The Rangers were led by rookie first baseman Chris Davis , going 3-for-4 at the plate with his eighth homer of the season total one RBI and one run scored.
Our View: Davis is just getting comfortable in the show, but he has posted nine hits (including two homers) over his last eight games. |
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| Suppan is solid in return | Tuesday 7/22, 10:31 PM CT |
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Jeff Suppan allowed three runs and eight hits in seven innings after being activated from the 15-day disabled list with joint irritation in his elbow
Our View: It was a decent return for Sup. On a team like Milwaukee, who has homered in 18 straight games, any pitcher that can keep the game close has to be monitored. |
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| Glaus ends streak | Tuesday 7/22, 10:30 PM CT |
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Troy Glaus was 0-for-3 with a walk on Tuesday, ending a 10-game hitting streak in which he batted .525 (21-for-40) with five homers.
Our View: Glaus has surprised many with his rebound effort. Beware of a possible slump ahead for the streaky third baseman. |
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| Ludwick hits his 23rd home run | Tuesday 7/22, 10:28 PM CT |
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Ryan Ludwick connected for his 23rd home run of the season on Tuesday. It was estimated to be a 450-foot shot, the longest by a Cardinal in their three-year old stadium.
Our View: Ludwick was out of the starting lineup twice out of five games since the All-Star break, but with Chris Duncan landing on the DL, he should see a long string of starts coming his way. |
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| Swisher homers in win | Tuesday 7/22, 10:28 PM CT |
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The White Sox sent the Rangers walking with a troubling 10-2 loss this evening, using the bat of outfielder Nick Swisher to get the job done. Swisher went 1-for-3 at the plate with one walk and his 14th homer of the season, totaling three RBIs and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Swisher has turned it one over recent days, hitting two homers over his last three games with six RBIs and four runs scored. |
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| Gonzalez is hot | Tuesday 7/22, 10:22 PM CT |
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Edgar Gonzalez was 3-for-5 against the Reds on Tuesday. In his last six games he is 14-for-27 (.519) with nine runs and five RBI.
Our View: Despite the incredible tear, its hard to justify picking up a Padres second baseman to improve your fantasy squad. |
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| Sanchez hits a home run out of the park | Tuesday 7/22, 10:18 PM CT |
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Freddy Sanchez, who had a three-run, inside-the-park homer in Monday’s 9-3 win, went 3-for-5 with another home run and two more RBIs on Tuesday.
Our View: Sanchez has eight home runs in his last 12 games at Minute Maid Park. |
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| Braden gets win in first start | Tuesday 7/22, 10:15 PM CT |
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Oakland LHP Dallas Braden got his second win of the season this evening, helping his Athletics to a dominating 8-1 win over Tampa Bay. Braden pitched just five innings but allowed just one run on four hits with four walks and one strikeout.
Our View: Moving to 2-0 on the season, Braden has to be happy with the results of his first start of the 2008 season. He worked well in the minors in that role and has desires to become a reliable arm in that rotation, known for building on youth and bringing pitchers to the top of their game. |
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| Hannahan drives in four | Tuesday 7/22, 10:11 PM CT |
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Oakland and Tampa Bay hooked it up this evening to battle with the A's emerging with a dominating 8-1 win, led by the bat of third baseman Jack Hannahan . Hannahan went 2-for-4 with his fifth homer of the season, posting four RBIs with one run scored on the night.
Our View: The team has stood by Hannahan despite struggles at the dish, hitting a lowly .189 last month. Through July he is paying them back with improved returns, hitting .268. |
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| D'Antona called upon to slug | Tuesday 7/22, 10:10 PM CT |
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Jamie D'Antona had his contract purchased by the Diamondbacks on Tuesday. The 26-year-old was hitting .367/.407/.612 with 17 homers for Triple-A Tucson.
Our View: D'Antona can hit but there's a big concern with his glove. He figures to be a backup corner infielder in the majors. |
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| Robertson optioned to the minors | Tuesday 7/22, 10:08 PM CT |
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Connor Robertson of the Diamondbacks was optioned to the minors on Tuesday.
Our View: Robertson was very average in his big league stint with a 5.14 ERA and a 1.43 WHIP in six appearances. |
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| Blanton struggles in debut | Tuesday 7/22, 10:05 PM CT |
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In his first Phillies start, Joe Blanton was hit pretty hard but avoided the loss thanks to a ninth inning rally. He gave up five runs on eight hits and three walks in six innings. He surrendered two home runs on the evening.
Our View: No doubt the Phillies were hoping for a better National League debut from Blanton. He was 5-12 with a 4.96 ERA before being acquired from Oakland last week. |
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| Sonnanstine suffers 2nd straight loss | Tuesday 7/22, 10:03 PM CT |
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The Rays suffered a slip against Oakland this evening, falling 8-1 with a troubled offensive effort (just seven total hits) to waste a worthy outing for RHP Andy Sonnanstine . Sonnanstine pitched seven innings, allowing three runs (all earned) on five hits with one walk and five strikeouts.
Our View: Sonnanstine moves to 10-5 on the season with an ERA of 4.54. It represents his second consecutive loss after going without a fall over his previous seven starts. |
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| Cueto Ks 10 | Tuesday 7/22, 10:01 PM CT |
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Johnny Cueto struck out 10 Padres in six innings on Tuesday. He gave up four hits, three walks and three runs but finished with a no-decision. He threw 120 pitches.
Our View: The pitch count could be a bit alarming. Let's hope the Reds do not burn out the explosive young arm. |
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| Bruce extends hitting streak | Tuesday 7/22, 9:59 PM CT |
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Jay Bruce scored the winning run on an 11th-inning double by Jeff Keppinger on Tuesday. He was 3-for-6 and extended his hitting streak to 11 games.
Our View: After hitting just .223 in June, Bruce is beginning to show some life once again. Expect a solid second half from the rookie. |
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| Maholm goes deep again in the win | Tuesday 7/22, 9:56 PM CT |
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Paul Maholm was back at it on Tuesday in Houston. He allowed just five hits and one run over eight innings. It was the fifth game this season that he has gone at least eight innings.
Our View: Maholm is showing he can get the job done. He is 7-6 with an ERA of 3.92. |
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| Power outage for Pujols? | Tuesday 7/22, 9:53 PM CT |
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Albert Pujols has just one home run in his last 66 at-bats. He was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored in Tuesday night's 4-3 loss to the Brewers.
Our View: It's Pujols' longest such stretch of the season. He will need to pick it up if the Cardinals are to contend for the playoffs down the stretch. He has 18 home runs and 55 RBI with 60 games left in the season. |
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| Lind drives in three vs O's | Tuesday 7/22, 9:53 PM CT |
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The Blue Jays found just enough offense to earn the 10-8 win over Baltimore this evening, an effort led by outfielder Adam Lind . Lind went 4-for-5 at the dish, hitting his sixth double and fifth home run of the season to post three RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Lind is shining, hitting .340 through July with three homers and 17 RBIs thus far. This is his first multi-hit game since July 11th, but he has failed to earn at least one hit just twice this month. |
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| Hall hits another game-winner | Tuesday 7/22, 9:48 PM CT |
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Bill Hall hit his second game-winning home run in as many nights against the Cardinals on Tuesday. It was his only hit in four at-bats.
Our View: Hall is crushing the ball in July. His average is up to .370 on the month to go with four home runs, 13 RBI and 11 runs scored. |
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| Mora continues to stay hot | Tuesday 7/22, 9:47 PM CT |
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The Orioles may have suffered a disappointing 10-8 loss to Toronto, but third baseman Melvin Mora was on the mark and accountable. Mora went 4-for-5 at the plate with his 17th double and 15th homer of the season, posting five RBIs and one run scored on the night.
Our View: After hitting just .190 through June with three homers and 10 RBIs, Mora has hit .316 with four homers and 18 RBIs through July, a marked improvement for fans and fantasy owners alike. |
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| Lohse throws eight strong innings | Tuesday 7/22, 9:45 PM CT |
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Kyle Lohse threw eight innings against the Brewers on Tuesday but could not escape with his 11th consecutive win. He allowed three earned runs to go with seven strikeouts, seven hits and no walks.
Our View: Lohse has lost just two of his last 33 starts. By now, he should have answered any questions surrounding his legitmacy as a stud starter. |
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| Marcum gets no decision in return | Tuesday 7/22, 9:42 PM CT |
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Toronto RHP Shaun Marcum made his return from injury this evening and struggled to regain form, though his Blue Jays pulled the 10-8 win. Marcum pitched 4 2/3 innings, allowing seven runs (six earned) on eight hits with three walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: More than anything, the three homers surrendered worries the fantasy mind. It has not been a problem this season, and he is expected to struggle a bit having just returned from a significant amount of time off. He earned no decision, but the eyes will be on him the next time he hits the mound. |
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| Castro makes his case | Tuesday 7/22, 9:40 PM CT |
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Ramon Castro was 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBI on Tuesday. In his last seven starts dating back to July 1st, he is hitting .444 with three home runs, 10 RBI, and six runs scored.
Our View: It doesn't look like he'll replace Brian Schneider anytime soon, but he will continue to get his chances against lefties. |
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| Victorino hits solo shot off of Santana | Tuesday 7/22, 9:36 PM CT |
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Shane Victorino was 2-for-4 with a solo home run and two runs scored out of the seven hole on Tuesday.
Our View: Earlier in the day, Victorino pled his case to stay with the Phillies despite a host of trade rumors. He upped his value in this game. |
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| Slowey suffers loss vs Yanks | Tuesday 7/22, 9:34 PM CT |
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The Twins couldn't get anything going in a positive direction against the Yanks this evening, falling 8-2 with a grand total of just five hits and a disappointing pitching performance from RHP Kevin Slowey . Slowey pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing four runs (all earned) over five hits with two walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Slowey suffers his first loss since June 8th, earning four wins over his last six outings before this debacle (not bad for a guy with an infected fingernail). |
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| Power surge continues for Delgado | Tuesday 7/22, 9:32 PM CT |
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Carlos Delgado hit his fifth home run of the month and his 19th of the season in a 8-6 loss to Philadelphia on Tuesday.
Our View: Delgado has clearly found his stroke this month. He has 14 RBI and 16 runs to go with his five home runs in July. |
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| Ramirez ends hitless streak | Tuesday 7/22, 9:29 PM CT |
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Hanley Ramirez broke an 0-for-15 slump with a single in the seventh against the Braves on Tuesday. His average is down to .301.
Our View: It was his longest hitless streak of the season. Its only a matter of time before he gets hot again. He has 23 home runs and 23 stolen bases on the season. |
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| Abreu homers in win over Twins | Tuesday 7/22, 9:26 PM CT |
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The Yanks brought the wood to the late innings of tonight's battke against the Twins, winning 8-2 with seven combined runs in the sixth and seventh innings. One man contributing major efforts the cause would be outfielder Bobby Abreu , going 2-for-4 on the night with his 24th double and 11th homer (hit in the sixth) of the season to total three RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Abreu has struggled at the dish, touting a lowly .252 average through June only to worsen to .234 in July. This was his first home runs since June 25th and one of just three multi-RBI games this month. |
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| Lindtrom has been sharp | Tuesday 7/22, 9:26 PM CT |
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Since being recalled from the minors on July 5th, Matt Lindstrom has not given up a run in seven appearances. He has seven strikeouts versus three hits in seven innings since then.
Our View: Lindstrom, 28, is finally looking like the future closer that he was touted as for so long. He should be a good source of holds the rest of the way as the Marlins have won the last six games he has appeared in. |
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| Santana goes eight innings | Tuesday 7/22, 9:19 PM CT |
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Johan Santana pitched well on Tuesday against the Phillies but his bullpen allowed six runs in the ninth to erase his win. Over eight innings, he scattered eight hits and no walks for just two runs.
Our View: Santana has pitched far better than his 8-7 record would indicate. This was supposed to be a problem when he was with the Twins, but the Mets have little excuse. He has just one win in his last nine outings. |
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| Jacobs hits his 20th home run | Tuesday 7/22, 9:16 PM CT |
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Mike Jacobs hit his 20th home run of the season off of Charlie Morton on Tuesday night. He was 2-for-3 with three RBI on the night.
Our View: Jacobs continues to be a good source of power but has 74 strikeouts to just 17 walks. |
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| VandenHurk no-hits thru five | Tuesday 7/22, 9:13 PM CT |
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Pitching in his first major league game since April 6th, Rick VandenHurk threw five innings of no-hit ball while striking out seven for the win on Tuesday. He did walk five batters on the night.
Our View: Overall, this is an impressive performance. Of course, the five walks are a concern, but the Braves could not hit VandenHurk tonight. It's too early to tell if Rick will be a fantasy factor in the second half. |
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| Hunter on bereavement list | Tuesday 7/22, 8:53 PM CT |
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The Angels have placed outfielder Torii Hunter on the bereavement list to spend time with his ailing grandmother in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Hunter is expected to return to the club by Friday. |
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| Church in no hurry | Tuesday 7/22, 8:38 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Ryan Church is taking his time from returning to from the DL with post-concussion syndrome. He was in the Mets dugout on Tuesday and felt fine, but he won't resume any basbeall related activities until he feels good for four to five consecutive days.
Our View: Once Church returns, he will be a fantasy factor in a hot Mets lineup. His averages of .307/.370/.512 are in need as the Mets make a move to win their division. |
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| Fogg receives 30 stitches | Tuesday 7/22, 8:10 PM CT |
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SI.com reports that Josh Fogg received 30 stitches after being hit in the mouth by a ball during batting practice Tuesday.
Our View: This will put his Friday start in question. We'll keep you posted. |
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| Vizquel will see less playing time | Tuesday 7/22, 7:59 PM CT |
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Manager Bruce Bochy told 41-year-old Omar Vizquel that he will play less in the second half as the Giants look to develop some of their younger players.
Our View: If you have Vizquel on your roster, its a miracle you are even reading this! The 11-time Gold Glove shortstop is hitting .166 this season. |
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| Sanchez could close | Tuesday 7/22, 7:54 PM CT |
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If Billy Wagner cannot go in the ninth inning, Duaner Sanchez will be called upon in save situations according to MLB.com. "Duaner is a guy who has a tremendous makeup for that particular role," manager Charlie Manuel said. "I have no hesitation about that. His makeup is really off the charts."
Our View: Keep this in mind if Wagner has to spend any time on the DL this season. |
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| Leyland keeping an eye on shortstop | Tuesday 7/22, 7:54 PM CT |
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Detroit manager Jim Leyland has acknowledged concerns about the health of shortstop Edgar Renteria , though he remains open to adjust to the events yet to come, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Renteria suffered a mild hamstring strain on July 9 and sat out for a few games before the All-Star break. In the first two games after the break, he went 3-for-7, but has gone 0-for-8 over the last two games. Leyland said he wouldn't hesitate to use shortstop Ramon Santiago if he didn't think Renteria was healthy enough. |
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| Glavine pleased with progress | Tuesday 7/22, 7:50 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Tom Glavine's bullpen session on Tuesday left the lefty excited. "I felt really good today," Glavine said. "It felt like I threw a lot better than I did on Saturday. ... I just feel like [the ball] felt like it came out better and I was able to put more zip on it. [The shoulder] didn't feel as cranky. All of those were good signs."
Our View: He will throw a couple more bullpen sessions and likely see a minor league rehab assignment before returning to the Braves. In 2008, he is 2-3 with a 4.85 ERA. |
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| Hampton could return next week | Tuesday 7/22, 7:48 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Mike Hampton, who hasn't pitched in the Majors since 2005, completed a bullpen session without any discomfort on Tuesday. He feels that he could return as early as next week.
Our View: Hampton will push himself a little harder during another bullpen session in Philadelphia on Friday. If he's finally able to avoid another injury-related setback, Hampton plans to tell the Braves he's ready for immediate activation without the need to make another Minor League rehab start. However, with Hampton's history, it might be closer to next decade than next week before he returns. |
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| Crede scratched | Tuesday 7/22, 7:41 PM CT |
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Chicago third baseman Joe Crede has been scratched from tonight's lineup against the Rangers, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Crede is hampered by lower back stiffness and thus has been given the night off. He has been replaced by versatile infielder Juan Uribe. |
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| A-Rod looking beyond baseball | Tuesday 7/22, 7:31 PM CT |
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Yankee third baseman Alex Rodriguez has joined the William Morse Agency, one of the more powerful talent agencies in the world, hoping to "extend his brand beyond the baseball diamond," according to the Associated Press.
Our View: A-Rod joined up with the powerhouse talent agency in Beverly Hills, Calif., and becomes part of a client list that includes some of the biggest names in sports, entertainment and business. The deal, first reported by The Wall Street Journal, was completed this month and set up by Rodriguez's manager, Guy Oseary, a music business mogul who has worked closely with William Morris. Among the star athletes handled by William Morris are Dwyane Wade, Serena Williams and Kevin Garnett. The agency represents such movie stars as Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. |
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| Owings in the bullpen | Tuesday 7/22, 7:26 PM CT |
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Micah Owings' last two appearances have come out of the bullpen. He has thrown three innings, allowed no hits, two walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: No word yet if this will become a permanent role for Owings. He struggled greatly in his last eight starts. |
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| Lillibridge back to Triple-A | Tuesday 7/22, 7:21 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Brent Lillibridge was sent back to Triple-A on Tuesday to make room for Omar Infante.
Our View: In 53 at-bats this season, Lillibridge hit .208. |
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| Infante is activated | Tuesday 7/22, 7:19 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Omar Infante was activated after testing his strained right hamstring during batting practice preceding Tuesday night's game against the Marlins. To make room for him on the 25-man roster, the Braves optioned Brent Lillibridge to Triple-A Richmond.
Our View: Infante will be used as a utility man in the infield and outfield. He has three triples in 110 at-bats, but don't count on him as a source of fantasy production. |
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| Walker hoping to be activated Thursday | Tuesday 7/22, 6:57 PM CT |
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Orioles LHP Jamie Walker has returned to the team after throwing a 25-pitch simulated game today, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Walker, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 30 with left elbow inflammation, threw to catcher Guillermo Quiroz and shortstop Brandon Fahey -- the first hitters he has faced since pitching to one batter in the Orioles' loss to the Cubs on June 25. Walker, who said he felt no pain during the session, will be reevaluated on Wednesday, and hopes to be activated on Thursday. |
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| Ellis experiences shoulder pain | Tuesday 7/22, 6:56 PM CT |
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Mark Ellis was a late scratch in Tuesday night's lineup. He is experiencing pain in his right shoulder, according to MLB.com.
Our View: No word how serious the pain is at this point. An update should be coming soon. |
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| Bedard undergoing MRI | Tuesday 7/22, 6:54 PM CT |
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The Mariners report LHP Erik Bedard is awaiting results from an MRI exam performed today, according to the Seattle Times.
Our View: The report comes via the Times blogs, thus we are hoping to have results in the coming hours. Earlier this week we reported Bedard is not likely to make a start until at least August due to a sore left shoulder, and it now appears the Mariners are concerned there is more reason for concern. We'll keep you posted. |
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| Mock recalled | Tuesday 7/22, 6:46 PM CT |
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Garrett Mock was recalled from Triple-A Columbus by the Washington Nationals on Tuesday, according to MLB.com. He will take the traded Jon Rauch's roster spot.
Our View: Mock went 2-1 with a 2.52 ERA in four starts with Columbus in July. He will likely be used as a starter in Washington. |
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| Girardi to split Molina & Moeller at catcher | Tuesday 7/22, 6:38 PM CT |
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Yankees manager Joe Girardi has told reporters that he intends to split the work load at catcher from here on out, looking to give both Jose Molina and Chad Moeller time behind the plate, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Molina (.227 batting average, 11 RBIs) has made 52 starts this year, and he leads the Majors with a 48.1 caught stealing percentage. Moeller has started 18 games and caught starting pitcher Darrell Rasner against Minnesota on Tuesday. The decision to start either one will be "day by day," Girardi said, and Molina will probably catch Mike Mussina on Wednesday, like he typically does. |
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| Wagner could pitch tonight | Tuesday 7/22, 6:17 PM CT |
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According to the NY Daily News, Billy Wagner said he felt all right and sounded as if he would be able to pitch if needed. When Manuel was asked how it looked for Wagner tonight, he held up a hand and made the “so-so” sign. He is having muscle spasms around the joint in his shoulder.
Our View: With a big series against the Phillies on hand, Wagner will likely push himself to pitch. Hopefully, he won't be needed for a couple of nights. |
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| Martinez to start this weekend | Tuesday 7/22, 6:14 PM CT |
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The NY Daily News reports that Pedro Martinez will start either Friday or Saturday after a 56-pitch bullpen session. His start will come against the Cardinals.
Our View: Martinez carries a 6.25 ERA this season. Until he proves he can still be effective, we would not suggest using him in your fantasy lineups. |
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| Stults sent to Triple-A | Tuesday 7/22, 6:00 PM CT |
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According to the Sports Ticker, Eric Stults was sent to Triple-A after allowing six hits, three walks, and three runs in 3.2 innings on Monday night.
Our View: Aside from Monday's start, Stults was very good over six starts with the Dodgers. His ERA for the year is just 3.18. |
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| Kershaw back with the Dodgers | Tuesday 7/22, 5:58 PM CT |
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The Sports Ticker reports that Clayton Kershaw has been recalled from Double-A Jacksonville. Eric Stults has been demoted to Triple-A.
Our View: Kershaw was 2-0 with a 1.00 ERA in three starts at Jacksonville. In eight major league starts this season, he is 0-2 with a 4.42 ERA. |
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| Victorino dropped in the order | Tuesday 7/22, 5:54 PM CT |
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Shane Victorino has been dropped to seventh in the order against the Mets.
Our View: Manager Charlie Manuel will bat Pat Burrell third in the order against the Mets. |
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| Burrell bumped up in the lineup | Tuesday 7/22, 5:50 PM CT |
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Pat Burrell will bat third tonight against the Mets on Tuesday.
Our View: Burrell hits the Mets hard. He has 42 home runs and 104 RBI in his career against the Metropolitans. |
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| Durham missing from lineup again | Tuesday 7/22, 5:47 PM CT |
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Ray Durham will sit out his second consecutive game since being traded to the Milwaukee Brewers.
Our View: Durham is hitting .316 against righties and .221 against lefties. Still, this is the second night in a row that he is not starting against a RHP. Rickie Weeks, starting ahead of him, hits just .205 against right handers. |
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| Fogg takes a ball to the face | Tuesday 7/22, 5:36 PM CT |
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Josh Fogg was hit during batting practice on Tuesday and suffered a split lip according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Our View: It's hard to imagine this incident would cause him to miss his Friday's start, but we've seen whimpier acts from baseball players. |
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| Gomez moved to ninth | Tuesday 7/22, 5:31 PM CT |
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The Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune reports that Carlos Gomez will bat ninth in the lineup following a meeting with manager Ron Gardenhire.
Our View: Gomez was 0 for 5 on Monday, extending his slump to a horrific 5 for 58 (.086). Gomez was batting .274 on July 2 but is now at .247. |
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| Span will lead off | Tuesday 7/22, 5:29 PM CT |
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The Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune reports that Denard Span has been moved to the leadoff spot. Carlos Gomez will bat ninth.
Our View: Span has hit .370 since being called up on June 30 and he has a .424 OBP on the year. He has five steals in 29 games. Span is worth keeping an eye on for the red hot Twins. |
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| Stetter sent down | Tuesday 7/22, 5:10 PM CT |
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Mitch Stetter has been sent back to Triple-A Nashville after just two days.
Our View: Stetter could be recalled soon as he is one of the more reliable pitchers in the Brewers' bullpen. In 22.2 innings with 29 strikeouts with a 2.78 ERA. |
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| Marcum returns from DL | Tuesday 7/22, 5:00 PM CT |
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Shaun Marcum will rejoin the Blue Jays starting rotation tonight against Baltimore. Marcum is returning from a right elbow strain that had landed him on the DL.
Our View: Marcum (5-4, 2.65 ERA) hopes to continue his outstanding season. Hopefully his elbow wont cause any future problems. |
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| Guzman gets extension | Tuesday 7/22, 4:53 PM CT |
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The Sports Ticker reports that the Washington Nationals have rewarded a career year from Cristian Guzman with a two-year contract extension.
Our View: Guzman is coming off of his second All-Star appearance and has been the best player for the Nationals this season. He is hitting .310 with 56 runs scored. |
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| Hart not in Tuesday's line-up | Tuesday 7/22, 4:49 PM CT |
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Corey Hart is not in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Cardinals.
Our View: He is available to pinch-hit and he does not have an injury. |
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| Peralta recalled | Tuesday 7/22, 4:43 PM CT |
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Joel Peralta has been recalled by the Royals, according to the Kansas City Star.
Our View: Peralta replaces struggling reliever Jimmy Gobble, who was just placed on the DL. |
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| Mather is recalled | Tuesday 7/22, 4:37 PM CT |
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Joe Mather was recalled from Triple-A Memphis on Tuesday to replace Chris Duncan, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a pinched nerve in his back.
Our View: Mather has hit OK in some spot duty with the Cardinals this season. He will play some against lefties but won't be much of a factor in fantasy. |
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| Gobble hits the DL | Tuesday 7/22, 4:35 PM CT |
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The Royals placed reliever Jimmy Gobble on the disabled list before Tuesday’s game against Detroit because of a strained lower back, reports the Kansas City Star.
Our View: The Royals replaced Gobble by recalling reliever Joel Peralta from Class AAA Omaha. |
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| Gibbons deal on the brink | Tuesday 7/22, 4:32 PM CT |
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Jay Gibbons is expected to sign with the Brewers as early as today, reports the Baltimore Sun. Gibbons has been unable to find work with another club since getting released by the Orioles in March.
Our View: The deal will start Gibbons in the Brewers' minor league system. |
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| Blanton starts tonight | Tuesday 7/22, 4:31 PM CT |
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Joe Blanton will make his Phillies debut tonight against the New York Mets.
Our View: Blanton has not given up a run to the Mets over fifteen innings in his career. |
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| Bonifacio lands in DC | Tuesday 7/22, 4:30 PM CT |
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The Nationals acquired Emilio Bonifacio from the D'Backs Tuesday in exchange for reliever Jon Rauch. Bonifacio is batting .302 with 17 steals this year at Triple-A Tucson.
Our View: Bonifacio is a speedster who has stolen 40+ bases four different times in the minors. He has also made huge strides at the plate the last couple years. He immediately becomes the Nats' second baseman of the future, and he could be the second baseman of the present if the team rids themselves of Ronnie Belliard and/or Felipe Lopez. |
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| Hanrahan likely to close for Nats | Tuesday 7/22, 4:21 PM CT |
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With Jon Rauch traded to Arizona, Joel Hanrahan is likely to be the new closer in Washington. Hanrahan holds a 3.94 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 9.9 K/9 rate on the year, but walks have been a problem (4.9 BB/9).
Our View: Hanrahan has failed in his chances as a starter but has appeared to found his niche in the bullpen. He is a must-add in all formats. |
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| Duncan placed on DL | Tuesday 7/22, 4:21 PM CT |
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The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Chris Duncan was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday with a pinched nerve in his back.
Our View: Duncan had been hitting slightly better since his return from a couple weeks down in the minors. He played last night and there was no apparent injury suffered in the game. The Cardinals recalled OF Joe Mather from Triple-A. |
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| Rauch acquired by D'Backs | Tuesday 7/22, 4:18 PM CT |
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ESPN is reporting that the D'Backs have acquired Jon Rauch from the Nationals. Arizona gave up Emilio Bonifacio in return.
Our View: Brandon Lyon has been lit up his last two outings, but that doesn't mean Rauch will be taking over the closer duties. He will probably work in a setup role initially. |
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| Zimmerman activated | Tuesday 7/22, 4:11 PM CT |
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Ryan Zimmerman has been activated from the disabled list. He had been on the 15-day DL since June 3 with a small labral tear in his left shoulder. He will take Dmitri Young's spot on the roster. Young was placed on the DL on Saturday.
Our View: Zimmerman batted .280 with a home run and three RBI during a six-game rehab assignment at Triple-A Columbus and Single-A Potomac.
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| Phillies eye Blake | Tuesday 7/22, 3:51 PM CT |
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The Philadelphia Phillies have expressed interest in Casey Blake, reports Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com.
Our View: Blake could fill the void in right field for the Phillies. |
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| Washburn getting look by Yankees | Tuesday 7/22, 3:44 PM CT |
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| The Yankees may be interested in Seattle starting pitcher Jarrod Washburn, reports Buster Olney of | |
