|
| Davis throws great game | Tuesday 7/29, 11:59 PM CT |
|
Doug Davis took a perfect game into the seventh inning, and wound up pitching 7.2 innings, allowing no earned runs and just two hits while striking out eight against the Padres to earn his fourth win of the year.
Our View: July had not been a great month for Davis, but against the Padres he was great. Let's not forget this is a guy who missed nearly two months of the season while recovering from thyroid cancer. |
|
|
| Smith falls short on mound for A's | Tuesday 7/29, 11:46 PM CT |
|
The start was going so well, but Oakland LHP Greg Smith found troubles in the later innings and failed to do right by his team, letting the Royals take the 5-2 win. Smith pitched seven innings, allowing five runs (all earned) on four hits with two walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: Smith was strong through five, but he allowed a two-out, one-run homer in the sixth followed by a three-run shot with two outs in the seventh. Smith now stands at 5-10 on the season with 4.04 ERA. |
|
|
| Thornton placed on inactive list | Tuesday 7/29, 11:24 PM CT |
|
Braves farmhand Scott Thorman was placed on the inactive list as he will go to Shanghai to play for Canada in the Olympics, according to the AP.
Our View: Thorman has not played in the majors this year after appearing in 120 contests last season. |
|
|
| Guzman to have MRI | Tuesday 7/29, 11:22 PM CT |
|
Nationals shortstop Cristian Guzman will undergo an MRI on Wednesday on his sore right thumb, according to the AP. Guzman said he is feeling better and the test is being done solely for precautionary reasons.
Our View: It doesn't sound like Guzman will head to the DL, and Washington better hope that's the case. Without him, their horrid offense would be even more brutal. |
|
|
| Glavine will throw simulated game | Tuesday 7/29, 10:24 PM CT |
|
Tom Glavine will throw 30-40 pitches in a simulated game on Wednesday, and if all goes well, he could be cleared to return in about two weeks, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: Glavine's usefulness in fantasy baseball has nearly expired, but if you have him on your team for sentimental reasons, we'll keep you updated. |
|
|
| Smoltz to have arm looked at | Tuesday 7/29, 10:20 PM CT |
|
Atlanta pitcher John Smoltz will travel with teammate Tim Hudson to Alabama on Wednesday to have his arm's progress examined by Dr. James Andrews, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: Smoltz is still out for the season of course, and this is more about whether or not he will pitch in 2009. |
|
|
| Ramirez hits three doubles | Tuesday 7/29, 10:03 PM CT |
|
Aramis Ramirez went 4-for-5 with two doubles and an RBI, helping lead the Cubs to a 7-1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers.
Our View: Going into the game, Ramirez was hitting just .200 for the month, so this may be the type of performance that will break him out of the slump. |
|
|
| Braun whiffs twice | Tuesday 7/29, 10:01 PM CT |
|
Ryan Braun went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts against the Cubs, as the Brewers lost to Chicago for the second time in two days.
Our View: Braun has been smoking hot in July, but Carlos Zambrano was a cure for that tonight. |
|
|
| Zambrano dominates Brewers | Tuesday 7/29, 9:57 PM CT |
|
Carlos Zambrano was completely dominant against the Milwaukee Brewers, picking up his 12th win of the season by pitching eight shutout innings, allowing just five hits while striking out nine.
Our View: After a rough June, Zambrano has been great in July, and his ERA for the month is now 1.79. |
|
|
| Sheets rocked | Tuesday 7/29, 9:55 PM CT |
|
Milwaukee hurler Ben Sheets was hit hard as the Brewers lost for the second day in a row to the Cubs by a score of 7-1. Sheets went just 5.1 innings, giving up six earned runs on 11 hits.
Our View: Sheets' ERA went over 3.00 for the first time since May 15, when he also allowed six earned runs in a start against the Dodgers. This is hardly anything to worry about, however, as even the best pitchers throw a clunker once in a while. |
|
|
| Lee hits grand slam | Tuesday 7/29, 9:51 PM CT |
|
Carlos Lee went 2-for-4 and hit his 24th home run of the year, a grand slam, off of Reds starter Bronson Arroyo.
Our View: Lee's July now consists of a .387 batting average, six home runs and 25 RBI. What is there not to like about that in fantasy baseball? |
|
|
| Dunn goes 0-for-4 | Tuesday 7/29, 9:48 PM CT |
|
Reds slugger Adam Dunn had hits in eight of his last nine games before taking an 0-for-4 tonight against Houston.
Our View: Dunn is still hitting .291 on the month, and if you can suffer through his overall bad average that now rests at .238, those 30 home runs and 72 RBI do a fantasy team good. |
|
|
| Moehler nearly throws complete game | Tuesday 7/29, 9:46 PM CT |
|
Brian Moehler got 26 outs, leaving him one shy of a complete game, as the Astros took down the Reds 6-2. Moehler went 8.2 innings, allowing two earned runs on seven hits.
Our View: Moehler has been alternating good and bad performances his last few times out, so be wary of what may happen his next time out. |
|
|
| Arroyo hammered | Tuesday 7/29, 9:44 PM CT |
|
Bronson Arroyo has started 24 games, and has given up 25 home runs, which includes the grand slam he allowed tonight to Houston slugger Carlos Lee. Arroyo got the loss after a 6.1 inning, six earned run outing.
Our View: Arroyo had been rolling along with a 3.46 ERA in July before this start, but he went back to his old ways with tonight's performance. |
|
|
| Pujols homers again | Tuesday 7/29, 9:38 PM CT |
|
First baseman Albert Pujols hit another home run in St. Louis' 8-3 victory over the Braves. The shot was his 21st of the season and third in his last four games.
Our View: Remember when Pujols' elbow was such a concern to fantasy players in spring training that he was dropping to the second and even third round in some fantasy drafts? Whoops. |
|
|
| Blanco has four hits | Tuesday 7/29, 9:36 PM CT |
|
Gregor Blanco led off and went 4-for-4 and walked, reaching base in all five plate appearances. He also scored a run and drove one in.
Our View: Blanco has had a four-hit game in two of his last six contests, but his lack of power limits his value to NL-only leagues. |
|
|
| Wellemeyer throws well | Tuesday 7/29, 9:33 PM CT |
|
Cards hurler Todd Wellemeyer threw a good ballgame against the Braves, going six innings and allowing two earned runs on eight hits.
Our View: Wellemeyer has not been very good since his outstanding May, but this was a nice start for the former reliever. He has thrown more innings this year than he ever has, however, so how long he can keep up the pace is questionable. |
|
|
| Campillo has another nice outing | Tuesday 7/29, 9:31 PM CT |
|
Jorge Campillo had a good outing for Atlanta, though the bullpen imploded and the Braves succumbed to the Cardinals. Capillo went seven innings, allowing two earned runs while striking out five.
Our View: Campillo's ERA is now at 2.76, and though he has switched from starter to reliever, he could certainly be of use in fantasy leagues. |
|
|
| Uggla's struggles continue | Tuesday 7/29, 9:27 PM CT |
|
Dan Uggla continues to struggle, as he went 0-for-4 against the Mets, and he is hitting .108 since the All-Star break.
Our View: Maybe that rough All-Star game is still on his mind, as Uggla has really seen his performance dip since that time. Don't give up on him in fantasyland, however, as a bounce back could be just around the corner. |
|
|
| Delgado homers in victory | Tuesday 7/29, 9:24 PM CT |
|
Carlos Delgado helped the Mets down the Flordia Marlins by going 1-for-3 and hitting his 23rd home run of the season.
Our View: Delgado has had a terrific July, and is hitting .372 with nine home runs and 24 RBI for the month. |
|
|
| Olsen takes sixth loss | Tuesday 7/29, 9:21 PM CT |
|
Scott Olsen threw well but suffered his sixth loss of the season after allowing two earned runs on six hits in 5.2 innings against New York.
Our View: Olsen struck out five, and saw his ERA jump over 4.00 for the first time since April 9. Still, he remains a decent fantasy option in NL-only leagues. |
|
|
| Perez continues pitching well | Tuesday 7/29, 9:19 PM CT |
|
Oliver Perez went six innings, allowing one run on five hits while striking out five and earning his seventh win against the Marlins.
Our View: Perez has a sparkling 1.35 ERA in July and has not surrendered more than two earned runs in a game in over a month. |
|
|
| Hawpe continues tear | Tuesday 7/29, 9:16 PM CT |
|
Brad Hawpe went 3-for-3, scored two runs and drove one in, though his Rockies were downed by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Our View: Hawpe is scorching hot, and has raised his averge from .242 on July 11 to .280 after tonight's game. If you had been sitting him on your bench in fantasy leagues due to his relatively poor numbers, put him back in immediately. |
|
|
| Rivas has great night | Tuesday 7/29, 9:13 PM CT |
|
Luis Rivas went 3-for-4 with three RBI while hitting a double and a triple against the Rockies tonight.
Our View: Good night for Rivas, but he is not worth considering in fantasy leagues. |
|
|
| Rusch solid | Tuesday 7/29, 9:11 PM CT |
|
Glendon Rusch was solid tonight, throwing five innings and allowing three earned runs as the Rockies lost to the Pirates.
Our View: Rusch has seen his ERA drop from 7.36 to 5.70 after tonight, but using him, even in NL-only fantasy leagues, is not highly recommended. |
|
|
| Yates picks up save | Tuesday 7/29, 9:07 PM CT |
|
With Matt Capps still on the DL, and Damaso Marte dealt to the Yankees, Tyler Yates picked up the save for the Pirates as they beat the Rockies 6-4.
Our View: There is no firm date for Capps' return, so the Pirates need someone to close out games, and Yates got the call tonight. He had been scored on six of his previous seven outings, and his overall numbers, such as a WHIP of 1.61, are not good, so picking him up to get some cheap saves may not be a great idea. |
|
|
| Kearns miserable season continues | Tuesday 7/29, 8:56 PM CT |
|
Austin Kearns went 0-for-4 against the Phillies, lowering his batting average on the season to .211. He is 1-for-18 in his last five games.
Our View: Kearns has all of five home runs and 27 RBI this season, and is useless in fantasy baseball. |
|
|
| Utley homers | Tuesday 7/29, 8:54 PM CT |
|
Chase Utley went 2-for-4 and hit a two-run home run against the Nationals. It was his first round-tripper since July 3rd.
Our View: Utley now has a very modest four-game hitting streak, during which he is hitting .375. It's nice to see him hit a home run, as fantasy owners were wondering where all that power went. |
|
|
| Balester takes the loss | Tuesday 7/29, 8:50 PM CT |
|
Collin Balester threw effectively, but still got the loss as the Washington Nationals were beaten 2-1 by the Phillies. Balester went six innings, surrendering just two runs on six hits while striking out five.
Our View: Nice night for Balester, but he has all of one win on the year and an ERA over 5.00, so don't waste the space on your fantasy roster. |
|
|
| Myers throws a gem | Tuesday 7/29, 8:47 PM CT |
|
Brett Myers had arguably his best start of the season, throwing seven innings, allowing just four hits and no earned runs against Washington, earing his fourth victory of the season.
Our View: It is important to note that Myers, who only struck out two hitters, did this against one of the worst offensive teams in baseball, so before jumping to acquire him on your fantasy team, let's see if he can put two solid starts together. |
|
|
| Lo Duca upset with lack of playing time | Tuesday 7/29, 8:14 PM CT |
|
Paul Lo Duca believes that teams are not attempting to acquire him because he does not get regular time at the catcher's position, spending most of his time in left field or at third base instead, according to Nationals.com.
Our View: One would tend to think it's Lo Duca's zero home runs, .233 average, .301 on-base percentage and embarrassing .286 slugging percentage that are turning teams away. Or, it could be that catching thing. |
|
|
| Phillies working to deal for ManRam | Tuesday 7/29, 8:09 PM CT |
|
Continued reports out of Boston now have the Philadelphia Phillies working diligently to get a trade in place to acquire outfielder Manny Ramirez , according to SI.com.
Our View: Earlier today SI reported the Dodgers are also interested in getting a swap done, but this more recent report has Philly as the leader in the clubhouse. SI reports it isn't yet known what players would be going back to Boston, but left fielder Pat Burrell is having a similar year statistically (.277/.400/.585 with 26 HRs and 61 RBIs in 103 games for Burrell; .304/.400/.538 with 20 HRs and 68 RBIs in 98 games for Ramirez) and could be a logical fit. He has a no-trade clause but has told the Phillies in the past that he'd be willing to waive it for the Red Sox and Yankees. |
|
|
| Sabathia thanks fans | Tuesday 7/29, 8:02 PM CT |
|
Brewers hurler CC Sabathia spent nearly $13,000 on an ad in the Cleveland Plain-Dealer thanking Indians fans for their support of him over the years, according to Bill Lubinger of the Plain-Dealer.
Our View: A nice thing for Sabathia to do. If Brewers manager Ned Yost cuts back on Sabathia's pitch count a little bit, there is no doubt the lefty's agent, Brian Peters, will take out a similar ad in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. |
|
|
| Howry having bad July | Tuesday 7/29, 7:50 PM CT |
|
Cubs reliever Bob Howry has really struggled in the month of July, with a 7.30 ERA on the month, as he has given up four home runs, according to Cubs.com.
Our View: Howry's overall ERA is up to 5.29, and he is not performing as he had in previous years. If you have him on your fantasy team for holds, it's time to look in a different direction until he can get out of this funk. |
|
|
| Pedro set to go on Friday | Tuesday 7/29, 7:43 PM CT |
|
Following a successful bullpen session today, the Mets have announced Pedro Martinez will pitch for the team on Friday night in Houston, a move made official when the team optioned Willie Collazo back to Triple-A on Tuesday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Martinez, who had been on the bereavement list, will throw only 80 pitches due to the fact that he has not started a game since July 12th. The Mets had originally toyed with the idea of giving Martinez some relief work during Tuesday's game against the Marlins, but nixed that plan when manager Jerry Manuel couldn't find an ideal place to slot him into the bullpen mix. |
|
|
| Collazo goes back to minors | Tuesday 7/29, 7:41 PM CT |
|
Willie Collazo has returned to the minor leagues as Pedro Martinez has returned from the bereavement list, according to the New York Daily News.
Our View: Collazo did not even appear in a game in his brief time up and has no fantasy value. |
|
|
| Weeks out but still top man at second | Tuesday 7/29, 7:26 PM CT |
|
Milwaukee second baseman Rickie Weeks is out of the lineup this evening, leading to further rumors of an end to his status as the starter at the position. However, manager Ned Yost assures reporters this is not the case, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Recently-acquired Ray Durham batted leadoff and played second base on Tuesday against Cubs right-hander Carlos Zambrano, a matchup that Brewers manager Ned Yost said he had envisioned for several days. Still, the switch was also notable because it was not clearly driven by the numbers. Weeks, a right-handed hitter, entered the night with a career .250 average (7-for-28) against Zambrano while Durham, a switch-hitter, was hitting .267 (5-for-15). This season, left-handed hitters were batting only three points higher against Zambrano than right-handers (.244 to .241). Yost has been a strong supporter of Weeks, who is hitting .224 with a .330 on-base percentage this season and leads the team with 66 runs scored. When the team traded two prospects to the Giants for Durham, Yost was clear that Weeks would remain the regular second baseman. So far that plan has held. Durham has started three of Milwaukee's nine games since the trade, including Tuesday's matchup against Zambrano and the Cubs. |
|
|
| Pads reinstate Cameron, option him to minors | Tuesday 7/29, 7:01 PM CT |
|
The San Diego Padres reinstated pitcher Kevin Cameron from the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday and optioned him to Triple-A Louisville, according to the Sports Network.
Our View: Cameron had been on the DL since early May with a 1st-degree right elbow strain. In 10 games this season before the injury, he posted a 3.60 ERA. Over 10 innings, he had given up nine runs on 10 hits with six walks and five strikeouts. |
|
|
| Young has bad matchup | Tuesday 7/29, 6:39 PM CT |
|
Chris Young has never been able to overcome Chris Young. That is not a philosophical statement, just a reflection of the fact that the Arizona outfielder is 0-for-12 in his career against the Padres pitcher of the same name who he is facing tonight.
Our View: Young is coming off a 3-for-5 night, so fantasy owners are likely hesitant to remove him from the lineup, but not only has Young not had a hit in 12 at-bats off his counterpart, he has struck out six times against him. |
|
|
| Peguero recalled | Tuesday 7/29, 6:30 PM CT |
|
Jailen Peguero has been recalled from Triple-A to take the roster spot of the demoted Micah Owings, according to Dbacks.com.
Our View: Peguero will be used as a reliever, and in his three innings in the big leagues this year, he has allowed two earned runs. He is not a fantasy option. |
|
|
| Petit will start Saturday | Tuesday 7/29, 6:29 PM CT |
|
Yusmeiro Petit will make the start on Saturday against the Dodgers, as he takes the place of the demoted Micah Owings in the rotation, according to Dbacks.com.
Our View: Petit has been very good this year, with a 2.55 ERA and 0.85 WHIP. His control has been superb, as he has walked just five batters in 24.2 innings. He could be a nice option for fantasy players in need of some pitching help. |
|
|
| Owings sent to minors | Tuesday 7/29, 6:25 PM CT |
|
Diamondbacks hurler Micah Owings was sent to Triple-A Tuscon after allowing eight earned runs to the offensively-challenged San Diego Padres on Monday, according to Dbacks.com.
Our View: Owings was known more for his bat than his arm, as he was hitting .288 with a home run on the year. Unfortunately, those numbers don't count in fantasy leagues, but his 5.93 ERA does. |
|
|
| Berkman has solid matchup | Tuesday 7/29, 5:54 PM CT |
|
Lance Berkman has a very solid match-up going in his favor tonight as the Astros take on the Cincinnati Reds and pitcher Bronson Arroyo. Berkman is 10-for-31 (.323) in his career against Arroyo, with four home runs and a .710 slugging percentage.
Our View: Berkman has cooled off a smidge since the beginning of the season, but his numbers are still lights-out, and he very easily could improve on them tonight. |
|
|
| Treanor will need surgery | Tuesday 7/29, 5:29 PM CT |
|
Florida catcher Matt Treanor will need to undergo surgery to repair three separate muscle tears in his left hip and pelvic area, according to FloridaMarlins.com.
Our View: Treanor hopes to put the surgery off until after the season, as he will try to play through the pain after undergoing cortisone shots. |
|
|
| Kotchman swapped for Teixeira | Tuesday 7/29, 5:09 PM CT |
|
First baseman Casey Kotchman has been sent to the Atlanta Braves as one part of a swap for Mark Teixeira, according to ESPN.com.
Our View: Kotchman is three years younger, and considerably cheaper than Teixeira, who is making $12.5 million this season, compared to Kotchman's salary of $1.45 million. He'll be under the Braves' control until 2011. |
|
|
| Hall out of tonight's lineup | Tuesday 7/29, 4:32 PM CT |
|
Bill Hall is out of the lineup tonight for the Milwaukee Brewers as he is hitting just .184 against Chicago Cubs starter Carlos Zambrano, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Our View: Hall has a decent amount of home runs with 14 on the year, but his batting average overall is .230, so he probably should not be on fantasy rosters, but if he is, make the appropriate changes. |
|
|
| Cervanek called up to Philadelphia | Tuesday 7/29, 4:04 PM CT |
|
The Sports Network reports that third baseman Michael Cervenak has been recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to replace Pedro Feliz who was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday with lower back inflammation.
Our View: In 99 games with Lehigh Valley, Cervenak posted a .320 average with seven home runs and 56 RBI. He will likely see a few starts before Feliz returns.
|
|
|
| Interest in Hawkins | Tuesday 7/29, 3:45 PM CT |
|
Despite recently being designated for assignment, some AL contenders, namely the Twins and Tigers, are said to be interested in reliever LaTroy Hawkins, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Our View: Hawkins struggled this season, with a 5.71 ERA and 1.44 WHIP while striking out just six more batters (23) than he walked (17). |
|
|
| Cervenak recalled from Triple-A | Tuesday 7/29, 3:03 PM CT |
|
The Phillies recalled Mike Cervenak from Triple-A Lehigh Valley Tuesday to replace the injured Pedro Feliz on the roster.
Our View: Cervenak has had a nice year at Lehigh Valley (.320-7-56), but he doesn't figure to see more than a start or two while Feliz is out. |
|
|
| Feliz placed on DL | Tuesday 7/29, 3:02 PM CT |
|
The Phillies placed Pedro Feliz on the DL Tuesday with lower back inflammation. The move was retroactive to July 25. Mike Cervenak was recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to replace him on the roster.
Our View: Feliz has been bothered by the ailment for a few weeks now. Greg Dobbs will handle most of the starts at third while he's out. Eric Bruntlett should also get some time. |
|
|
| Bixler recalled from Triple-A | Tuesday 7/29, 2:45 PM CT |
|
The Pirates recalled Brian Bixler from Triple-A Indianapolis Tuesday. He replaced the injured Adam LaRoche on the roster.
Our View: Bixler doesn't figure to see much playing time unless Jack Wilson is dealt before the deadline. |
|
|
| LaRoche placed on DL | Tuesday 7/29, 2:39 PM CT |
|
The Pirates officially placed Adam LaRoche on the DL Tuesday with back spasms. Brian Bixler replaced him on the roster.
Our View: It's a shame LaRoche had to come down with an ailment now that he's finally starting to heat up. Doug Mientkiewicz will see the bulk of the playing time at first. |
|
|
| Jones records RBI off the bench | Tuesday 7/29, 1:38 PM CT |
|
Andruw Jones came off the bench as a pinch hitter on Monday night to drive in his 13th RBI of the season in the Dodgers 7-6 loss to the Giants.
Our View: At this point the Dodgers are paying Jones almost $1.5 million per run batted in. |
|
|
| Penny close to return | Tuesday 7/29, 1:35 PM CT |
|
The LA Times reports that right-hander Brad Penny , recovering from shoulder tendinitis, is scheduled to start a two-game rehabilitation assignment Wednesday with Class-A Inland Empire.
Our View: He will throw 45 pitches and at some point finish his assignment with a start for Triple-A Las Vegas, putting him on track to pitch for the Dodgers Aug. 9 at San Francisco. |
|
|
| Padilla is released | Tuesday 7/29, 1:26 PM CT |
|
The NY Daily News reports that the Mets have released pitcher Juan Padilla. He has already signed with York in the independent Atlantic League.
Our View: Padilla had surgery on his elbow in April and his velocity never returned. He had a 9.64 ERA at Triple-A this season. |
|
|
| Manny to the Dodgers? | Tuesday 7/29, 12:55 PM CT |
|
SI.com reports that the Red Sox and Dodgers continue to discuss a Manny Ramirez trade, but the deal is not close to being finalized. Other reports suggest the Dodgers would be willing to part with either Andre Eithier or Matt Kemp should the Red Sox send enough cash to cover the remaining amount left on Ramirez's hefty contract.
Our View: Don't count on his going down unless the Red Sox are foolish enough to add Andrum Jones' giant salary to the deal. Dodgers owner Frank McCourt, a Bostonian, is believed to love the idea of adding Ramirez to bolster the Dodgers' mediocre offense. However, McCourt has been telling Dodgers' people he doesn't want to add payroll during this trading season, and has been openly complaining about disappointing attendance and revenues. |
|
|
| Happ recalled from Triple-A | Tuesday 7/29, 12:28 PM CT |
|
The Phillies recalled J.A. Happ from Triple-A Lehigh Valley Tuesday to replace Adam Eaton on the roster. Happ will fill a long relief role.
Our View: Happ's stay could be a short one if Ron Mahay is acquired, which has been the rumor. |
|
|
| Hudson might need Tommy John surgery | Tuesday 7/29, 11:57 AM CT |
|
Tim Hudson will meet with a team physician before traveling to Birmingham, Alabama to see famed orthopedic surgeon James Andrews, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. It's already been revealed that he has ligament damage, and it's possible he could require Tommy John surgery. Hudson said he hasn't felt pain in his elbow. "I'm starting to wonder if it's been like this for three or four years, and is just something I learned to deal with," Hudson said Monday.
Our View: It's purely speculative at this point, but obviously Hudson would miss the rest of this year and most, if not all, of next year if he goes under the knife. |
|
|
| Sullivan recalled | Tuesday 7/29, 11:40 AM CT |
|
The Rockies recalled Cory Sullivan from Triple-A Colorado Springs Tuesday to replace the injured Scott Podsednik on the roster.
Our View: Sullivan will back up at all three outfield spots but figures to see little playing time. |
|
|
| Pods placed on DL | Tuesday 7/29, 11:38 AM CT |
|
The Rockies placed Scott Podsednik on the DL Tuesday due to a broken bone in his hand, according to the Rocky Mountain News. The team recalled Cory Sullivan from Triple-A Colorado Springs to replace Pods on the roster.
Our View: Pods held a bit of value in NL-only play with his 10 steals, but Sullivan will be a comparable replacement, at least from the Rockies' standpoint. |
|
|
| Sox talking to 'Stros about Brocail | Tuesday 7/29, 11:35 AM CT |
|
The Red Sox aren't talking to the Astros about Miguel Tejada, but they are interested in reliever Doug Brocail, according to Peter Gammons of ESPN Insider.
Our View: The 41-year-old Brocail has had a solid year in Houston and would give the Sox more stability than the likes of Craig Hansen can provide. |
|
|
| Maine to have MRI on shoulder | Tuesday 7/29, 11:24 AM CT |
|
John Maine will undergo an MRI today after leaving Monday's start with shoulder stiffness, according to MLB.com. "You get soreness," Maine said, "but it's never felt like this before." Manager Jerry Manuel added: "If there's any, any, any pain, (he) will miss a start. (He) won't pitch (his) way through it."
Our View: It sure sounds like Maine will miss at least one outing. We'll let you know how the MRI results come out. |
|
|
| Wainwright to make rehab start Friday | Tuesday 7/29, 10:59 AM CT |
|
Adam Wainwright, recovering from a sprained right middle finger, will begin a rehab assignment Friday with an abbreviated start, probably with Double-A Springfield, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Pitching coach Dave Duncan did not project Wainwright's role upon returning, but the team has discussed using the righty in the closer role.
Our View: Obviously if Wainwright comes back as a reliever he should return sooner. The team hopes to have him back before their August 8-10 series against the Cubs. |
|
|
| Mets interested in Manny | Tuesday 7/29, 10:51 AM CT |
|
The Mets have publicly denied interest in Manny Ramirez, but Dan Graziano of the Newark Star-Ledger reports that officials from both teams say the Mets have contacted the Red Sox about acquiring the pouting slugger. The Mets are reluctant to part with a top-flight prospect, though, which obviously hinders a potential deal.
Our View: It's very unlikely the Sox will trade Manny anywhere, but the Mets seem likely the most likely destination should it happen. |
|
|
| Moskos headed to bullpen | Tuesday 7/29, 10:38 AM CT |
|
Daniel Moskos is headed to the bullpen after seven consecutive subpar starts for Single-A Lynchburg, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Kyle Stark, the Pirates' director of player development, said that Moskos will start again someday, but management wants to lessen the workload in his first full professional season.
Our View: Moskos, the team's first-round draft pick last year, was a closer in college and many scouts thought he would end up in the bullpen eventually. We'll see if the club stays true to their word and moves him back to the rotation at some point. |
|
|
| Grabow likely to be dealt | Tuesday 7/29, 10:31 AM CT |
|
John Grabow is the most likely Pirate to be traded next, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The Rays, Cardinals, Phillies, Red Sox and Angels are known to have inquired about trading for the southpaw.
Our View: There is one caveat to Grabow being dealt. He was shut down for nine days earlier this month due to arm fatigue, so the interested parties will obviously want to make sure he's healthy before a deal is consummated. |
|
|
| Bixler will be recalled today | Tuesday 7/29, 10:26 AM CT |
|
Brian Bixler will be recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis today when the Pirates place Adam LaRoche on the DL, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Bixler batted just .175 in his earlier stint with the Bucs.
Our View: Freddy Sanchez's back has acted up on him, so the Bucs could use the middle infield depth. |
|
|
| Treanor won't need surgery | Tuesday 7/29, 9:46 AM CT |
|
After visiting a specialist Monday, it was determined that Matt Treanor would not need surgery on his left hip, according to the Palm Beach Post. The catcher has been cleared to continue his rehab, but his return date is uncertain.
Our View: The Marlins are looking for a catcher to bolster their production from behind the plate. Treanor didn't have much value before getting injury, and his value could be nil by the time he returns. |
|
|
| Nomar could be headed back to DL | Tuesday 7/29, 9:39 AM CT |
|
A sprained MCL will limit Nomar Garciaparra over the next few days, and if progress isn't made over that time, the veteran could be headed to the DL for the third time this season, according to the LA Daily News. "I think he felt it more (Monday)," manager Joe Torre said. "I'm not sure if there was puffiness in there or not. He had it wrapped up when I saw him on the trainer's table."
Our View: Is anyone really surprised? The bummer is that Nomar was actually swinging the bat well. |
|
|
| Hairston to begin rehab today | Tuesday 7/29, 9:34 AM CT |
|
Jerry Hairston Jr., coming back from a hamstring injury, will begin a rehab assignment today with Triple-A Louisville, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. "He needs to go play and see what he can do," manager Dusty Baker said.
Our View: The Reds had hoped Hairston could return to the big club today, but they'll give him a few games to knock the rust off. |
|
|
| Harang to face hitters Wednesday | Tuesday 7/29, 9:31 AM CT |
|
Aaron Harang's recent bullpen session went great, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.
"It felt really, really good," he said, "so good that I got in the rapid-fire mode. I had to stop myself." Harang, who is recovering from a strained forearm, threw 31 pitches in the session. He will face hitters Wednesday.
Our View: Harang will likely go on a rehab assignment if Wednesday's session goes well. Manager Dusty Baker said Harang is still 10-14 days away. |
|
|
| Church could be back in a week | Tuesday 7/29, 9:26 AM CT |
|
Ryan Church was cleared to begin baseball activities Monday and should resume hitting Tuesday, according to the NY Daily News. The outfielder, who is coming back from post concussion syndrome, expects to play in rehab games this weekend and could be back with the Mets in a week.
Our View: The Mets suddenly aren't that desperate for outfield help with the emergence of Fernando Tatis, but they will welcome Church back into the right field slot. |
|
|
| Tatis anointed as everyday left fielder | Tuesday 7/29, 9:23 AM CT |
|
Manager Jerry Manuel has tabbed Fernando Tatis as his everyday left fielder, according to the NY Daily News. Tatis, who was out of baseball entirely in 2004 and 2005, is batting .415 with six homers and 18 RBI this month.
Our View: Tatis has been a godsend for a team desperate for corner outfield help with the injuries to Moises Alou and Ryan Church. Expect the Mets to continue to pursue an outfielder, but Tatis is clearly their best internal option right now. |
|
|
| Petit could replace Owings in rotation | Tuesday 7/29, 8:40 AM CT |
|
With Micah Owings' latest debacle and Yusmeiro Petit showing well again in relief, we could see Petit take Owings' spot in the rotation, according to the East Valley Tribune. Manager Bob Melvin said there's "no question" Petit is making a case to start.
Our View: Petit boasts a 2.55 ERA and 0.85 WHIP on the year. He's allowed just two runs over his 11 innings as a starter. Mixed leaguers should look his way if he officially gets the nod in place of Owings this weekend in LA. |
|
|
| Wood still several days away | Tuesday 7/29, 8:34 AM CT |
|
Kerry Wood threw Monday afternoon but did so with a protective pad on his right index finger, according to the Arlington Daily Herald. "He threw with the protective pad on it for a while, and it felt OK," manager Lou Piniella said. "Then he took it off and tried to throw without it and couldn't. When he's ready, he'll let us know."
Our View: Wood is eligible to come off the DL today, but he won't be back for another several days. Jeff Samardzija, Carlos Marmol and Bob Howry will form a closer by committee while Wood is out. |
|
|
| Samardzija in the mix to close | Tuesday 7/29, 8:31 AM CT |
|
When the Arlington Daily Herald asked if Jeff Samardzija would be in the mix to close games out while Kerry Wood is on the DL, manager Lou Pinella responded, "Why not?" The rookie wasn't available Monday when Carlos Marmol closed out the win. Pinella said he has a three-man closer committee of Samardzija, Carlos Marmol and Bob Howry.
Our View: We would still expect Marmol to get most of the chances, but Samardzija has apparently already earned the trust of his manager with his impressive work in his first two appearances. |
|
|
| Ankiel not ready yet | Tuesday 7/29, 7:38 AM CT |
|
The Cardinals didn't place Rick Ankiel on the DL Monday, but the outfielder missed his second straight game and the team isn't sure when he'll return to the starting lineup, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Ankiel is dealing with an abdominal strain. Manager Tony La Russa said Ankiel has little discomfort swinging a bat, but that the outfielder "can't run."
Our View: Nick Stavinoha was brought up Monday to give the Cards some outfield insurance, but he's a candidate to be sent back down Wednesday when Chris Carpenter is activated from the DL. The team is probably hoping Ankiel will be ready to play by then. |
|
|
| Astros not talking to Sox about Tejada | Tuesday 7/29, 7:22 AM CT |
|
Despite having zero chance at making the playoffs, the Astros are considering themselves buyers at the deadline, according to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal. They have had no discussions with Boston regarding Miguel Tejada, which refutes an earlier report from ESPN.
Our View: We didn't like this fit anyway, as Jed Lowrie and Alex Cora have played respectably while Julio Lugo has been sidelined. |
|
|
| LaRoche lands on the DL | Tuesday 7/29, 12:29 AM CT |
|
The Pittsburgh Post Gazette reports that Adam LaRoche is headed to the 15-day disabled list with back spasms. LaRoche had been batting .390 in July, with home runs in his past three games. Jose Bautista will likely get starts in his place.
Our View: LaRoche should be able to return when he is eligible and once he does, expect solid production from him as usual in August and September. |
|
|
| Blake tossed from the game | Tuesday 7/29, 12:28 AM CT |
|
The AP reports that Casey Blake was 2-for-4 with two runs scored on Monday against the Giants. However, he was thrown out of the game after his second strikeout. The first base umpire called his check swing a strike for the second time in the game and it was more than Blake could handle.
Our View: In a mere three games with the Dodgers, Blake has already gone through a number of ups and downs. His manager Joe Torre came to defend him and was also thrown out of the game. |
|
|
| Kuroda lit up at home by Giants | Tuesday 7/29, 12:23 AM CT |
|
Hiroki Kuroda was drilled hard for the third straight start, this time at the hands of the San Francisco Giants. In 3.2 innings he gave up seven runs on nine hits. Some of his own questionable fielding led to his downfall.
Our View: He is now 5-8 and continues to be one of the most frustrating pitchers in fantasy. |
|
|
| Young finally goes deep again | Tuesday 7/29, 12:19 AM CT |
|
Chris Young showed signs of life against the Padres on Monday. He hit his first home run since June 18th while going 3-for-5 with two RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: Young has been heating up over the past week and rewarding his very patient fantasy owners. He is now batting out of the two-hole and should pick it up down the stretch. |
|
|
| Owings terrible again | Tuesday 7/29, 12:15 AM CT |
|
Micah Owings, who has been absolutely terrible since late May, returned to the starting rotation on Monday. He was at it again as he surrendered eight earned runs to the Padres in three innings.
Our View: Sooner or later, Owings will be sent to the minors or the bullpen. His previous three appearances before Monday's start came out of the pen. Yusmeiro Petit will likely replace him in the rotation. |
|
|
| Maddux finally gets a win | Tuesday 7/29, 12:08 AM CT |
|
Greg Maddux won his first game since May 10 on Monday over Arizona. He also moved into 10th all-time on the strikeout list.
Our View: Maddux didn't have his best night tonight but did have something he's not used to - run support. Maddux gave up nine hits and four runs in only five innings but benefitted from the Padres eight runs in the first three innings. |
|
