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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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| 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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| Reineke traded to Padres | Tuesday 7/22, 3:34 PM CT |
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Triple-A pitcher Chad Reineke has been traded from the Astros to the Padres in exchange for starter Randy Wolf, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Our View: The 26-year-old Reineke is 5-9 with a 4.41 ERA over 112 innings in the minors this season, but has fired 100 strikeouts. He has yet to pitch in a major league game, and isn't likely to make an impact if called up to the Padres this season. |
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| Wolf dealt to the Astros | Tuesday 7/22, 3:21 PM CT |
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Randy Wolf has been dealt from the Padres to the Astros in exchange for Triple-A pitcher Chad Reineke, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Our View: He held a 6-10 record over 21 starts with a 4.74 ERA and 1.42 WHIP over 21 starts with San Diego, who have two pitchers set to return from the DL soon (Chris Young and Shawn Estes). He has been a disappointment so far with the Padres, but could still be viewed as an improvement to the back end of the Astros' rotation. |
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| Bard likely to return this week | Tuesday 7/22, 2:49 PM CT |
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Manager Bud Black mentioned that Josh Bard is likely to come off the DL this week following his battle with a high ankle sprain, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Our View: He would be a welcome addition back to the Padres, but not for fantasy teams, as he held a .200 average with no homers and seven RBI over 130 at-bats prior to going down. |
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| Francis fares well in rehab | Tuesday 7/22, 1:47 PM CT |
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Jeff Francis pitched 3.2 innings, with two strikeouts and only one hit issued, in his first rehab start on Monday (with Double-A Tulsa), according to the Rocky Mountain News. He threw 51 pitches, 39 of which were strikes.
Our View: It was an encouraging outing for Francis in his recovery from left shoulder inflammation, and he will be re-evaluated Sunday to determine whether he makes another rehabilitation start or rejoins the Rockies. |
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| No deals for Fuentes yet | Tuesday 7/22, 1:42 PM CT |
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During last weekend, the Phillies, Red Sox, Tigers, Diamondbacks, and Angels all had scouts assigned to watch Brian Fuentes, according to the Rocky Mountain News. The Yankees and Rays have scouts to track him during the series with the Dodgers too, but no concrete offer has been made for the coveted reliever as of yet.
Our View: Fuentes will likely serve as a setup man if he is dealt to any of the aforementioned clubs, which will compromise his fantasy value. |
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| Glavine scheduled for pen session | Tuesday 7/22, 1:26 PM CT |
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Tom Glavine, who is recovering from a partial tear of the flexor tendon near his left elbow, was scheduled for a bullpen session Tuesday afternoon, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: Glavine hopes to return to the Braves' rotation in mid-August, but won't know if that is a realistic goal until he throws hard off the mound to test his elbow. |
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| Hampton to throw pen session Tues. | Tuesday 7/22, 1:21 PM CT |
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Mike Hampton is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Tuesday, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: Hampton, out of frustration, is not going to predict a return date to the Braves. He will complete his session, see how it feels, and move forward from there. He is trying to recover from a strained groin. |
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| Escobar set to return tonight | Tuesday 7/22, 1:16 PM CT |
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Yunel Escobar missed his seventh straight start on Monday, but has been penciled back into the lineup Tuesday, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: He was scratched Monday to give his rotator cuff one more day to rest. Fantasy owners may want to wait until he proves to be effective again before activating him. |
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| VandenHurk recalled | Tuesday 7/22, 12:53 PM CT |
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As expected, Rick VandenHurk has been called up for tonight's start against the Braves, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View: VandenHurk allowed seven earned runs and 12 hits over 5.1 innings with the Marlins prior to his demotion, and ranks as a risky option for NL-only leagues for tonight's start. |
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| LaRoche may be dealt? | Tuesday 7/22, 12:48 PM CT |
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Andy LaRoche may start at third base for the entire series against Colorado, which the LA Times suggests could be an indication the Dodgers are showcasing him for a potential trade.
Our View: It is speculation that the team may trade him, and the Dodgers could just be getting him some work to keep him sharp. |
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| Pierre close to returning | Tuesday 7/22, 12:43 PM CT |
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Juan Pierre is close to returning to the Dodgers as he is expected to be sent on a rehab assignment this week, according to the LA Times. He could be with triple-A Las Vegas before the Dodgers start their next homestand Friday.
Our View: His rehab assignment is expected to last no longer than three games, putting him on track to return to the Dodgers at some point in early August. |
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| Gibbons on Brewers' radar | Tuesday 7/22, 12:38 PM CT |
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Jay Gibbons is said to be on the Brewers' radar, according to the AP. Gibbons has been unable to find work with another club since getting released by the Orioles in March.
Our View: The Brewers are aggressively trying to win their first playoff spot since 1982. Gibbons could benefit from a fresh start with a contender, but may only be offered a minor league deal to start with. |
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| Pena undergoes surgery | Tuesday 7/22, 12:33 PM CT |
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Wily Mo Pena underwent left shoulder surgery to repair a small tear and fraying of the labrum in his left rotator cuff on Tuesday, according to the AP.
Our View: The procedure was performed in Cincinnati and Pena will be in a sling for three weeks before beginning a rehab program. He will be sidelined 4-6 months. The Nationals expect him to be ready for spring training next year. |
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| Soriano fares well in rehab | Tuesday 7/22, 11:59 AM CT |
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Alfonso Soriano fared well in Monday's minor league rehab assignment with Rookie-A Mesa, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. He said, "I made a couple of hard swings, hit a couple of balls off the end of the bat and had a couple close to my hands. And I felt nothing in my fingers. It worked out perfect." He also stated that he is ready to be activated whenever the team needs him.
Our View: He is assigned for one more rehab game tonight. Manager Lou Piniella will then determine if he will return Wednesday, or if he needs another day of rehab. |
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| Guzman hopes to return next month | Tuesday 7/22, 11:53 AM CT |
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Angel Guzman said his rehab from last year's Tommy John surgery is going well, and he plans to start a rehab assignment within two weeks, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Our View: He hopes to return to the Cubs' by mid August, but won't likely hold any fantasy value in a talented and crowded pitching staff. |
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| Helton not close to returning? | Tuesday 7/22, 11:49 AM CT |
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The Denver Post states that Todd Helton is not close to returning to the Rockies. He is slowly recovering from a sore back and he said, "It's not easy not being able to help your team. That's the frustrating part of it. They don't want me to hit yet. Even though I feel like I could, they're thinking one bad swing could set me down again."
Our View: His back is feeling better and he is playing catch and running on the treadmill, but the Rockies want to remain cautious with him, and there remains no timetable for his return. |
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| Wagner has muscle spasms | Tuesday 7/22, 11:34 AM CT |
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Billy Wagner has tightness around his left shoulder, which an MRI exam Tuesday revealed was a muscle spasm around his pitching arm, according to the AP.
Our View: Team spokesman Jay Horwitz said Wagner was examined at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. Wagner is considered day-to-day.
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| Miller close to returning | Tuesday 7/22, 11:14 AM CT |
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Justin Miller is close to returning to the Marlins' bullpen following his battle with right elbow inflammation, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View: He could be back as early as Wednesday, but holds little to no value in fantasy leagues that don't use middle relievers. |
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| Sanchez pushed back | Tuesday 7/22, 11:10 AM CT |
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Anibal Sanchez, who is recovering from right shoulder surgery, had his next rehab start pushed back one day to Thursday, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View: He did not suffer a setback and the club just wants to give him an extra day of rest. That would put him on track to likely join the Marlins and pitch against the Mets on July 29.
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| Penny to throw bullpen session | Tuesday 7/22, 10:27 AM CT |
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Brad Penny, who is recovering from mild tendinitis in his right shoulder, will throw a bullpen session Tuesday, according to the AP.
Our View: Penny has also been scheduled for a minor league rehab start next weekend, and could be activated from the DL in early August. He could provide a boost to fantasy lineups during the stretch run at the playoffs, and should remain stashed away until he returns.
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| Thompson shut down at Triple-A | Tuesday 7/22, 9:39 AM CT |
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Daryl Thompson has been placed on the DL at Triple-A Louisville due to a shoulder strain, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Our View: The ailment is not believed to be serious and is expected to pitch again this season after some rest and rehab. He is considered the Reds' top pitching prospect and is a prime candidate for next season's rotation, but won't likely hold any fantasy value for the remainder of the 2008 campaign. |
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| Cruz scheduled for side session | Tuesday 7/22, 9:15 AM CT |
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Juan Cruz, who is recovering from a strained left oblique, is scheduled to throw a side session Tuesday, according to the Arizona Republic.
Our View: Barring a setback, he would then likely partake in a one-game rehab assignment prior to rejoining Arizona's pen. |
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| Petit to start Tuesday | Tuesday 7/22, 9:11 AM CT |
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Micah Owings threw one inning in relief on Monday, so Yusmeiro Petit will start in his place in the rotation on Tuesday, according to the Arizona Republic.
Our View: Petit has been effective this season with a 0.74 WHIP over 17.2 innings of work, and is worth a look in NL-only leagues for Tuesday. |
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| Paulino to throw pen session | Tuesday 7/22, 7:57 AM CT |
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Felipe Paulino, who is trying to bounce back from a pinched nerve in his upper right arm, will throw a bullpen session Tuesday for the first time since he got back on the mound last week, according to the Houston Chronicle.
Our View: He also threw a bullpen session Friday for the first time since he was shut down May 7 after aggravating the injury he suffered in spring training. He is reportedly feeling good.
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| Borkowski designated for assignment | Tuesday 7/22, 7:54 AM CT |
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Dave Borkowski has been designated for assignment, according to the Houston Chronicle. The team recalled Jack Cassel from Triple-A, and viewed Borkowski as expendable to free up a roster spot.
Our View: Borkowski held no fantasy value prior to his designation, as he surrendered 24 earned runs, 45 hits, and 10 walks over 29 innings of work with the Astros this season. |
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| Quintero activated | Tuesday 7/22, 7:51 AM CT |
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Humberto Quintero has been activated from the DL following his recovery from a concussion, according to the Houston Chronicle. J.R. Towles was optioned to Triple-A Round Rock as the corresponding move.
Our View: Quintero held little fantasy value prior to suffering a concussion on July 1, and should not be considered in anything but larger NL-only leagues. |
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| Towles optioned to Round Rock | Tuesday 7/22, 7:46 AM CT |
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J.R. Towles has been optioned to Triple-A Round Rock as the Astros activated catcher Humberto Quintero from the DL, according to the Houston Chronicle.
Our View: Towles only hit .143 over 140 at-bats with the Astros this season, and proved he is not yet ready to make an impact in the big leagues. |
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| Cassel recalled | Tuesday 7/22, 7:44 AM CT |
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As expected, Jack Cassel has been recalled from Triple-A Round Rock, according to the Houston Chronicle. Dave Borkowski was designated for assignment as the adjoining move.
Our View: Cassel was brought back to start Tuesday's game against Pittsburgh | |
