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| Baek falls to Arizona | Wednesday 7/30, 11:58 PM CT |
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Cha Seung Baek had a rough outing on Wednesday night as he permitted five runs, four earned, in 4.1 innings against the D'backs in his fifth loss of the year.
Our View: Baek struck out five while walking only one, but he gave up eight hits on the night. This is the second straight start in which he permitted at least four runs without recording 18 outs, so his hold on a starting spot in the rotation could be tenuous unless the team trades Greg Maddux. |
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| Haren wins again | Wednesday 7/30, 11:55 PM CT |
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Dan Haren did what he always does and that is he gave the D'backs a chance to win which they did for the 55th time this season in Haren's 11th victory of the year.
Our View: Haren allowed three runs in seven innings, but as his his M.O. he didn't walk anyone while striking out six. The guy is simply money as he has allowed as many as three earned runs only twice in his last 11 starts. |
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| Winn has two hits for G-men | Wednesday 7/30, 11:52 PM CT |
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Randy Winn had two hits for the Giants on Wednesday night which could be his last in a San Francisco uniform.
Our View: Winn's name hasn't come up in many trade rumors, but he is on the block as the Giants are attempting to get younger. It certainly hasn't helped his value that he has hit .232 in July, but many teams could use his veteran presence. |
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| Sanchez struggles in loss | Wednesday 7/30, 11:50 PM CT |
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Jonathan Sanchez simply didn't have it on this night as he allowed five hits, four walks and four runs in just four innings in his seventh loss of the year.
Our View: In July Sanchez was brutal with an 0-3 record, a 8.57 ERA and a terrible 1.50 K/BB mark. Sanchez could certainly be tiring given that he worked mainly out of the pen the past two seasons. If you can still move him for something, you would be advised to give it a shot. |
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| Kemp pushes streak to 17 | Wednesday 7/30, 11:47 PM CT |
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Matt Kemp upped his hitting streak to 17 games on Wednesday night as he also stole two bases to give him 26 on the year.
Our View: Kemp has been a marvel this year because of the speed on the bases, though he was also thrown out by about 15 feet on a play at the plate as he continues to run without much concern for what's happening around him. |
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| Billingsley throws CG shutout | Wednesday 7/30, 11:45 PM CT |
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Chad Billingsley tossed a complete game shutout against the Giants that was preserved on a play at the plate as Andre Ethier threw out Jose Castillo for the last out of the game.
Our View: Billingsley dominated all game long as he improved to 11-9. The big difference tonight was Chad's control of the strike zone as he struck out eight without walking a single batter. When he is in control of his stuff, he is just about as hard to hit as any starter in the league. |
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| Pence leads Astros offense | Wednesday 7/30, 11:26 PM CT |
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Hunter Pence went 2-for-4 and had an RBI, his 12th in his last 17 games played and 53rd on the year.
Our View: Though those numbers sound promising, it should be noted that Pence is hitting just .245 over his last 50 games and he has swiped only two bags in that time, scarcely the type of production that was counted on when he was drafted as a second outfielder this season. |
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| Wandy taken deep three times | Wednesday 7/30, 11:23 PM CT |
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After back-to-back outings of one run allowed, Wandy Rodriguez took a step back on Wednesday allowing six runs in just 4.2 innings of work in his fourth loss of the year.
Our View: Wandy allowed three home runs on the night while needing 87 pitches to record 14 outs. Over his last six starts Rodriguez has a 5.45 ERA and 1.61 WHIP, a far cry from earlier in the year when he was on quite a role. |
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| Volquez holds on for win | Wednesday 7/30, 11:19 PM CT |
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Edinson Volquez improved to 13-4 on the year by holding the Astros to just a single earned run over 6.1 innings. Volquez did give up five runs on the night but he also only walked one in the outing.
Our View: This was the third straight game that Edinson has allowed four or more runs, and it was also his second straight game with two home runs allowed. He certainly isn't the pitcher he was earlier in the year, but there is no shame in that since there have been very few pitchers who were that dominating at any point in the past 20 years. |
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| Dunn blasts two home runs | Wednesday 7/30, 11:16 PM CT |
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Adam Dunn homered twice for the Reds on his way to three hits and two RBI for Cincinnati.
Our View: Dunn is now just eight home runs short of his fifth straight 40 homer season, quite an accomplishment for a player who is constantly dogged because of his high strikeout totals. |
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| Another source says Manny deal done | Wednesday 7/30, 11:13 PM CT |
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The Manny Ramirez to Marlins deal has been completed according to an "American League source" as reported by the Palm Beach Post.
Our View: Of course, the source is unnamed and officials from both ball clubs still deny that anything has been worked out. Though the Marlins wouldn't be on the hook for his entire $20 million contract of Ramirez since the year is two thirds over, it is still worth noting that the entire Marlins team is making roughly $22 million. Stay tuned as we will continue to report the latest rumors surrounding this deal. |
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| Three Cubs have three hits | Wednesday 7/30, 10:57 PM CT |
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Alfonso Soriano went 3-for-4 on Wednesday to lead a trio of Cubs hitters with three hits (the others were Reed Johnson and Ryan Theriot).
Our View: Soriano also stole his 10th SB of the year on the night. With a little bit of work, Soriano could still end up as a 20/20 performer this year since he also has 17 home runs, something he failed to do last season when he had 33 home runs and 19 stolen bases. |
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| Prince goes deep | Wednesday 7/30, 10:55 PM CT |
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Prince Fielder hit his 21st home run of the season on Wednesday knocking in his 60th run of the year.
Our View: Fielder is viewed as the big bopper in Milwaukee, and while might be true if you looked as his belt size, the big home run hitter this season has been Ryan Braun who has 29 taters on the year. Still, Fielder certainly isn't a bad fall back option. |
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| Parra far from best | Wednesday 7/30, 10:49 PM CT |
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Manny Parra wasn't at his best on Wednesday as he allowed eight hits, four walks and five runs in 5.1 innings in his fourth loss of the year.
Our View: Parra has now lost two straight starts after winning his previous eight decisions. Parra continues to walk far too many batters with a 4.39 BB/9 mark, and until he reigns in that tendency, he will likely struggle from time to time. |
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| Dempster dominates Brewers | Wednesday 7/30, 10:45 PM CT |
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Ryan Dempster held the Brewers to a mere run over seven innings to run his record to 12-4 on the season for the Cubs.
Our View: Dempster was in control throughout on this night as he struck out nine batters while walking only one. Dempster continues to work as a massive bonus to those who drafted him late at the start of the year and has now allowed just two runs over his last three starts (21 IP) as he continues to push for top-10 starting pitching honors. |
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| Manny to Marlins still on hold | Wednesday 7/30, 10:40 PM CT |
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In what feels like update number seventeen in the Manny Ramirez to Florida Marlins deal, latest word from Peter Gammons of ESPN is that the deal has not been finalized.
Our View: This deal could go down to the wire tommorrow, but Gammons is reporting that the real sticking point is which young players will be involved in the deal, though Manny would still have to waive his no-trade clause once the deal was finally agreed to. |
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| Dunn to Rays possible | Wednesday 7/30, 10:36 PM CT |
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Adam Dunn may be headed to the Rays as the team has apparently been unable to work out a deal with the Pirates for Jason Bay, according to Jayson Stark of ESPN.
Our View: The Rays appear to still covet Bay, but if they aren't able to work something out by early Thursday morning, they would likely turn their attention to the Big Donkey. |
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| Fuentes sets save mark | Wednesday 7/30, 10:28 PM CT |
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Brian Fuentes picked up the 103rd save of his Rockies career on Wednesday an all-time Rockies record, according to MLB.com. "After coming off the mound thinking that I have more than anyone in the organization, it feels nice," Fuentes said.
Our View: Whether or not he gets a chance to pick up number 104 is in doubt has his name continues to be one of the most talked about as we approach Thursday's trade deadline. |
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| Braves have four with at least two hits | Wednesday 7/30, 10:24 PM CT |
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Omar Infante led the Braves with three hits on Wednesday while Greg Norton, Kelly Johnson and Jeff Francoeur each had two hits.
Our View: Infante continues to receive playing time with Chipper Jones on the DL, and he has actually acquitted himself quite well with two or more hits in four of his last six games. |
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| Mather has another big night | Wednesday 7/30, 10:20 PM CT |
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Joe Mather hit his fourth home run of the season on Wednesday as he went 2-for-5 with two runs scored and two RBI for the Cardinals.
Our View: Mather continues to impress playing mostly because of an injury to Rick Ankiel. Tonight's effort gives Mather six hits and four RBI in his last three starts. |
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| Jurrjens solid in loss | Wednesday 7/30, 10:18 PM CT |
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Jair Jurrjens pitched a solid game on Wednesday night but he still lost his sixth game of the season. Jair held the Cardinals to three runs over seven innings allowing seven hits while issuing three walks.
Our View: Jurrjens continues to impress with a 3.06 ERA through 21 starts. With the recent injury to Tim Hudson, the team will continue to lean on this youngster for more effective work down the stretch. |
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| Carpenter has successful first start | Wednesday 7/30, 10:13 PM CT |
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Chris Carpenter made his first start since April of 2007, and he was very effective limiting the Braves to just one run over four innings of work.
Our View: Carpenter was removed after throwing 67 pitches and he figures to be on a short leash as he continues to build up arm strength, but tonight's outing certainly was a positive one for a team that could certainly use another arm. |
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| Uggla back on track | Wednesday 7/30, 10:02 PM CT |
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Dan Uggla blasted his 26th home run of the year on his way to two hits and two RBI for the Marlins.
Our View: This was Uggla's second home run in four games after a stretch of one long ball in 20 games. He is well on pace to establish a career-high in home runs after hitting 31 last season, though his average has slipped to below .270 due to a terrible month of July (.169). |
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| Easley hits pinch home run | Wednesday 7/30, 9:59 PM CT |
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Damion Easley hit a punch hit, three run home run in the seventh inning for the Mets in their 7-5 loss to the Marlins.
Our View: Easly continues to prove worthy of at-bats as he is hitting .279 with 29 RBI in limited duty for the Mets. Luis Castillo owners should be very concerned that even when healthy, he won't be able to unseat Easley. |
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| Johnson wins first game in two years | Wednesday 7/30, 9:55 PM CT |
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Josh Johnson defeated the Mets on Wednesday night for his first victory since August 28, 2006 in just his fourth start back after undergoing elbow surgery.
Our View: Johnson is certainly a viable NL only option at this point, but he still isn't someone to count on in shallow mixed leagues. Still, it's great to see him back on the hill. |
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| Pelfrey loses win streak | Wednesday 7/30, 9:52 PM CT |
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Mike Pelfrey tied his shortest outing of the season by lasting just four innings on Wednesday night against the Marlins. Pelfrey fell to 9-7 after giving up eight hits and five runs.
Our View: Pelfrey had won seven times in his last eight starts entering the night, so he was kind of due for a stinker. This was the second time in three starts that he allowed five earned runs but it was also only the second time in his last eight starts that he permitted that many runs to cross the plate. |
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| Maddux to Dodgers deal dead? | Wednesday 7/30, 9:47 PM CT |
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Greg Maddux doesn't appear likely to join the Dodgers, according to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports.
Our View: The Padres want the Dodgers to pick up the reaming dollars on Maddux's deal ($10 million this year), something the Dodgers are reluctant to do. The Padres are also engaged in other talks to fill other needs, so it is unclear if this move will happen. |
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| Tulowitzki finds lost stroke | Wednesday 7/30, 9:44 PM CT |
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Troy Tulowitzki had three hits on Wednesday night and has racked up 13 hits over his last six games to boost his average from .195 to .241.
Our View: Now that's more like it young man. It was only a matter of time before this stud started swinging the stick, and it looks like he is heating up just as the Rockies are ready to make a run in the NL West. |
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| Iannetta blasts home run | Wednesday 7/30, 9:36 PM CT |
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Chris Iannetta hit a 3-run homer on Wednesday night and is not up to 12 home runs and 44 RBI in just 203 AB.
Our View: Iannetta has long been known as a potential every day backstop, and he is proving himself to be the clubs catcher of the future. Look for him to continue to steal at-bats from Yorvit Torreabla. |
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| Doumit hitting .333 | Wednesday 7/30, 9:33 PM CT |
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Ryan Doumit went 2-for-5 on Wednesday night as he knocked in his 39th run of the season.
Our View: What an amazing find this guy has been this season. Doumit has put up at least two bingos in six of his last nine games and he is hitting .352 in 13 games since the All-Star break. |
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| Duke pounded by Rockies | Wednesday 7/30, 9:29 PM CT |
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Zach Duke fell to 4-9 on the year on Wednesday night after being hit hard to the tune of six runs in five innings against the Rockies.
Our View: Duke has now lost five straight decisions and hasn't won in nine starts. As recently as July 1st his ERA was 3.88, but after tonight's beat down it sits at 5.27. |
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| Cook wins 14th | Wednesday 7/30, 9:26 PM CT |
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Aaron Cook won his 14th game on Friday night as held the Pirates to four runs over seven innings. Cook wasn't dazzling but he won his third straight start.
Our View: Cook has never won more than nine games before this season. His ERA (3.53) and WHIP (1.25) are spectacular for a pitcher who calls Coors Field home, even is he is deficient in strikeouts (4.15 K/9). |
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| Manny to Florida trade almost official | Wednesday 7/30, 9:04 PM CT |
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The Manny Ramirez to Florida trade has been completed pending the approval of Manny Ramirez who will need to waive his no trade clause, according to Will Carroll of Baseball Prospectus.
Our View: According to the report, Manny will end up in Florida while the Pirates will receive Jeremy Hermida and three prospects, while Jason Bay and John Grabow will now become members of the Red Sox. Again the deal isn't official, but it's getting darn close. |
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| Manny in three way deal? | Wednesday 7/30, 8:38 PM CT |
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Manny Ramirez might be at the center of a three way deal that includes the Red Sox, Marlins and Pirates, according to the Beaver County Times.
Our View: See if you can follow this. The Pirates would end up with Jeremy Hermida, the Red Sox would get Jason Bay and Manny would end up in Florida. Jack Wilson could also end up in Boston with Jed Lowrie moving to the Pirates. So many names, so little facts to go on. |
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| Wainwright to continue bullpen sessions | Wednesday 7/30, 8:21 PM CT |
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Adam Wainwright will throw at least two more bullpen sessions in his attempt to come back from an injured finger after suffering a setback on Tuesday, according to MLB.com. Wainwright will throw breaking balls on Thursday and then a normal bullpen on Saturday before being allowed to face hitters.
Our View: With continued issues with his finger, there is a growing possibility that Wainwright might return in the bullpen and not in the starting rotation. |
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| Mulder out until mid-August | Wednesday 7/30, 8:18 PM CT |
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Mark Mulder visited the doctor on Wednesday to have his shoulder examined, and he was told to rest for another two weeks, according to MLB.com. Mulder has been on the shelf since July 10th.
Our View: Face it, Mulder it at the crossroads in his career. At this point we wish him all the luck in the world, but he simply doesn't deserve to be on any fantasy roster until he proves he is healthy. |
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| Wood suffers setback | Wednesday 7/30, 8:03 PM CT |
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Kerry Wood had to skip his scheduled throwing session on Wednesday because of the blister on his finger, according to MLB.com. "Initially, they had talked about a simulated game, bringing a few hitters here, and let him get some work in with a pad on his finger," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. "That didn't happen, because he's really not close to coming back, so why risk it?"
Our View: Wood can throw his changeup but until he can let loose with his fastball he obviously can't return to the hill. There is therefore no established date for his return, which means Carlos Marmol remains the favorite for saves though rookie Jeff Samardzija could also be in the mix. |
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| Fuentes could still be moved | Wednesday 7/30, 7:57 PM CT |
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Brian Fuentes may or may not be dealt but the Rockies have informed teams that they can make one more round of proposals to pick up the lefty bullpen stalwart, according to the Rocky Mountain News.
Our View: The top contenders seem to be the Cardinals, Red Sox, Mets, White Sox and Phillies. If traded, Fuentes could end up remaining a closer or slide into a setup role, so his remaining value this season is totally dependent on what team he ends up on. |
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| Hudson to tough it out | Wednesday 7/30, 7:45 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report, it now appears that Tim Hudson will wait to decide upon whether or not he needs Tommy John surgery after a visit with renowned doctor James Andrew left him with the option of waiting a couple of weeks before making a final decision, according to MLB.com. "I'm going to tough it out," Hudson said via a text message.
Our View: Talk about conflicting reports. The Atlanta Journal Constitution reported that two doctors suggested surgery immediately, though Dr. Andrews appears hopeful that some rest and rehab could be the proper prescription to what ails Hudson. Peter Moylan received the same advice from Dr. Andrews earlier this year but after two weeks of rest it was determined that surgery was needed. Will that be the same fate as Hudson? |
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| Hawkins dealt to Astros | Wednesday 7/30, 7:35 PM CT |
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LaTroy Hawkins will be returning to the NL as he was dealt to the Astros in exchange for minor leaguer Matt Cusick, according to the Houston Chronicle.
Our View: Hawkins will add a solid arm to the Astros bullpen, but he really isn't worth a look even in NL only leagues since a ton of things would have to go wrong in the bullpen for him to even sniff a save chance. As for Cusick, he is currently playing at the Single-A level and is years away from making his mark. |
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| Castro gaining momentum | Wednesday 7/30, 7:28 PM CT |
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Kory Castro will be a part of the Nationals future moving forward, according to MLB.com. Castro will see time at third base, outfield and first base the rest of the way, the only in support of the Nationals starters.
Our View: Castro likely won't be anything more than a lefty bat off the bench for the time being, but he could offer enough versatility, which when combined with playing time, could give him some value in NL only leagues. |
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| Atkins provides steady production | Wednesday 7/30, 7:24 PM CT |
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Garrett Atkins is tied for second in the NL with 25 RBI in the month of July during which time he is hitting .313, according to MLB.com. Atkins has also been deadly against right handed pitching this year with a .411 average, second to Albert Pujol's .444 mark.
Our View: Atkins is about as steady a run producer as you'll find, and his 338 RBI since the start of the 2005 season is the seventh best mark in baseball. |
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| Castillo may not start when healthy | Wednesday 7/30, 7:16 PM CT |
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Luis Castillo, out since July 3rd with a strained left hip flexor, isn't certain to return to the starting lineup once healthy, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Damon Easley and Argenis Reyes have hit a nearly combined .300 in July providing the Mets with more offense then they were getting from Castillo who is hitting only .261. Given the leg injury, Castillo might not even be capable of bringing the speed that he once supplied leaving him with little fantasy value except in NL only leagues. |
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| Details emerging of possible Manny trade | Wednesday 7/30, 7:06 PM CT |
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Though nothing is official, details of a potential Manny Ramirez to Marlins trade are emerging, according to ESPN. The report speaks of the Marlins including Jeremy Hermida, Ryan Tucker and Mike Stanton, a minor leaguer with huge upside. There is also a version of the deal that replaces Josh Willingham for Hermida.
Our View: Peter Gammons was vociferous in his statements that the Red Sox must simply trade Ramirez because he no longer respects anyone in the Red Sox organization. At this point, it honestly seems that this deal could happen. |
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| Hudson likely done for year | Wednesday 7/30, 6:52 PM CT |
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Two doctors have recommended that Tim Hudson should undergo Tommy John surgery to repair the injured ligament in his elbow, according the the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
Our View: Hudson was reportedly shocked by the diagnosis and was throwing 90 mph in his last outing even with the injury. It appears that his season is over, and his 2009 season is also likely done as well, at least until late in the year if he announces that he will undergo the procedure (a decision is due on Thursday). |
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| Church changes rehab assignment | Wednesday 7/30, 6:48 PM CT |
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The Mets have decided to alter the rehab work of Ryan Church as he will now travel with the team instead of heading to Florida for a minor league assignment as previously planned, according to the New York Post.
Our View: Church is eligible to return on Tuesday, but it is unclear if that is a realistic target date or not. He would more than likely need a couple of games in the minors to get ready. |
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| Glavine throws without pain | Wednesday 7/30, 6:42 PM CT |
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Tom Glavine was "pleasantly surprised" with his how elbow felt after throwing a three inning simulated game on Wednesday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Glavine has been on the DL since June 11 with a partially torn flexor tendon in his elbow. He will throw again on Saturday and if that goes well he will head out on a minor league rehab assignment that will probably encapsulate two starts. |
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| Harang has encouraging outing | Wednesday 7/30, 6:35 PM CT |
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Aaron Harang (forearm) threw 50 pitches in a simulated game on Wednesday and the results were extremely positive, according to MLB.com. "He looked pretty good," said manager Dusty Baker, who watched from behind the batting cage. "I was surprised that his location was really good and velocity was good. His changeup was pretty good."
Our View: Harang will throw a light session in the bullpen on Friday and if that goes well he will head to Triple-A next week to make a rehab start with a pitch limit of 75. Given that fact, he will likely need to make two starts in the minors putting his return around before middle of August. |
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| Street loses again | Wednesday 7/30, 6:13 PM CT |
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Huston Street picked up his fourth loss of the year on Wednesday after allowing two hits and two walks in 1.2 innings leading to a single earned run.
Our View: Was this the last game for Street in an Oakland uniform? Street's numbers are down this year with a 4.05 ERA and a 8.68 K/9 mark, but that hasn't stopped many teams from being interested in adding Sheets to their bullpen mix. |
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| Dodgers interested in Maddux | Wednesday 7/30, 5:37 PM CT |
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Greg Maddux may not accept a deal to the Phillies but it appears that he could be headed to the Los Angeles Dodgers, according to ESPN.
Our View: Maddux only will accept a deal to another team on the West Coast, and he could be headed back to the club that he pitched for in 2006. Maddux might be only 4-8 on the year, but his WHIP is still solid at 1.29 and his ERA a serviceable 4.29. |
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| Manny could be moved to Marlins | Wednesday 7/30, 5:34 PM CT |
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The Manny Ramirez trade rumors are heating up as Buster Olney of ESPN reports that the Sox are "serious" about moving Manny. Olney also reported that the Marlins appear to be the front runner for Manny's services.
Our View: Olney said that Ramirez was clocked at 6.0 seconds the other night as he "attempted" to beat out a double play. Given that Bengie Molina, who appears to be running in slow motion like the Bionic Man, is faster than that, it is clear why the Sox think Manny is just plain dogging it. After years of discussing moving him, it seems like it might actually happen. |
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| Barmes to play in OF | Wednesday 7/30, 5:06 PM CT |
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Clint Barmes will make his first career start in the outfield tonight for the Rockies, according to the Denver Post.
Our View: The Rockies face a left-hander tonight in Zach Duke, and given that Brad Hawpe is hideous against lefties (.229 in 314 career AB), Barmes will get the start (.296 in 287 career AB). |
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| Kendell hits Dempster well | Wednesday 7/30, 4:46 PM CT |
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Jason Kendall may be hitting only .248 on the season, but he is 13-for-29 (.448) against Cubs starter Ryan Dempster who the Brewers face tonight, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Our View: Kendall is only 14-for-82 in July (.171), so he could certainly use a matchup with a pitcher who has had a lot of success against. |
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| Durham to play on Wednesday | Wednesday 7/30, 4:44 PM CT |
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Ray Durham is in the lineup tonight for the Brewers after injuring his shin on Tuesday night, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Our View: Durham is 5-for-8 against Ryan Dempster, the Cubs starter tonight, so the team is hopeful that Durham will be able to continue that success. It is unclear if this is a changing of the guard with Rickie Weeks heading into the background, but it certainly is a situation to monitor closely over the next couple of days. |
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| Yadier on leaderboard | Wednesday 7/30, 4:30 PM CT |
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Yadier Molina has five hits in his last two games to push his average up to .307 on the year, the ninth best mark in the National League.
Our View: Molina actually has hits 5-straight games and is hitting .341 over his last 85 AB. After hitting .216 in 2006, Molina improved to .275 last year and seems intent on bettering that total yet again this season. |
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| Five clubs targeting Ohman | Wednesday 7/30, 3:26 PM CT |
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There are five teams believed to be interested in Braves' reliever Will Ohman, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: Those clubs are the Red Sox, White Sox, Marlins, Tigers, and the aforementioned Cardinals, who are believed to be his mostly likely landing spot. |
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| Twins inquire about Aurilia | Wednesday 7/30, 3:00 PM CT |
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ESPN reports that the Twins have inquired about Rich Aurilia of the Giants.
Our View: The Twins are dangling Boof Bonser in exchange for Aurilia. The Twins like Aurilia because they covet a right-handed bat and middle infield depth. |
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| Ohman bound for St. Louis? | Wednesday 7/30, 2:22 PM CT |
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MLB Blogs Network states that Will Ohman will definitely be traded by Atlanta, and suggests a likely destination is St. Louis. The source did not indicate which players from the Cardinals would be considered in the deal.
Our View: Ohman would help provide solid depth as a lefty reliever in the Cardinals' pen, as he racked up 41 strikeouts over 44.1 innings, with a 1.13 WHIP. |
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| Ramirez on Marlins' radar? | Wednesday 7/30, 1:54 PM CT |
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Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports indicates that the Marlins are interested in dealing for Manny Ramirez.
Our View: The source stated that the deal could work if the Red Sox would pay nearly all of the approximately $7 million remaining on Ramirez's salary, and if the Marlins would include Josh Willingham or Jeremy Hermida, either of whom could replace Ramirez in left field, as well as a prospect. Ramirez would also have to waive his no-trade clause in exchange for the right to become a free agent at the end of the season, and would agree to decline salary arbitration when offered it by the Marlins in December. |
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| Ambres designated for assignment | Wednesday 7/30, 1:21 PM CT |
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Chip Ambres has been designated for assignment to make room for Chris Young on the roster, according to the North County Times.
Our View: Ambres held no fantasy value prior to the move, as he only registered two hits (both singles) over 17 brief at-bats with the Padres this season. |
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| Padres reject offer for Bard | Wednesday 7/30, 1:17 PM CT |
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The Padres have reportedly rejected an offer from the Marlins involving catcher Josh Bard, according to the North County Times.
Our View: Bard is only hitting .217 with one homer over 138 at-bats, but the club felt the Marlins' proposal to unload him wasn't good enough. The Marlins seek a catcher as insurance and depth for Matt Treanor, who is opting to play through a hip injury rather than undergo surgery. |
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| Estes update | Wednesday 7/30, 1:07 PM CT |
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Shawn Estes, who is recovering from a broken left thumb, will pitch a second bullpen session Wednesday and a simulated game Saturday before joining Single-A Lake Elsinore next Tuesday to begin a rehab assignment, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Our View: He figures to make around three rehab starts, and looks to return to the Padres at some point in August, barring a setback. |
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| Guzman day-to-day | Wednesday 7/30, 12:58 PM CT |
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Cristian Guzman is considered day-to-day after an MRI on his left thumb came up negative on Wednesday, according to the AP.
Our View: This is good news as it appears he will need to spend time on the DL. He currently leads Washington with a .303 average, with 27 doubles, three triples, five homers, and 57 runs scored. |
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| Gordon update | Wednesday 7/30, 12:53 PM CT |
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Tom Gordon, who is recovering from right elbow inflammation, is throwing off the mound in Clearwater, Florida, according to the Philadelphia Daily News.
Our View: Pitching coach Rich Dubee doesn't have a timeline on when to expect Gordon back with the Phillies, but he is hopeful it will be before September. |
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| Manuel wants Happ to be starter | Wednesday 7/30, 12:48 PM CT |
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Manager Charlie Manuel noted that he views J.A. Happ as a starter, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. Happ is currently being used in the bullpen, but Manuel left open the possibility that the arrangement would be short-lived. When asked if there was a chance Happ would be given another shot in the rotation, Manuel answered, "Without a doubt there's a chance, yes. We liked what Happ showed us."
Our View: The club did not indicate who would be dropped from the rotation for Happ. Also of note, the team is believed to be interested in reliever Ron Mahay of the Royals, who would be the replacement for Happ if promoted to the rotation. |
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| Dunn not drawing much interest | Wednesday 7/30, 12:01 PM CT |
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There is surprisingly little buzz about Adam Dunn as we near the July 31 trade deadline, the Newark Star-Ledger reports.
Our View: Dunn has his obvious flaws, but any team looking for left-handed pop could hardly find a guy with more power than Adam. |
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| Rockies seeking starter | Wednesday 7/30, 11:32 AM CT |
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The Rockies are willing to deal Brian Fuentes if they can land a young starting pitcher they can plug into the rotation immediately, according to the Rocky Mountain News.
Our View: There are believed to be seven clubs interested in Fuentes, so at least one would likely be willing to deal a young pitcher to acquire his services. |
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| Miller still a few weeks away | Wednesday 7/30, 10:57 AM CT |
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Andrew Miller, who is battling right patellar tendinitis, feels he is still about 2-3 weeks away from returning to the Marlins, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View: Miller may not have a rotation spot when he returns, if Anibal Sanchez fares well. He is not worth waiting for as a fantasy hurler, especially since he held a 5.63 ERA and 1.66 WHIP over 20 starts with the club this season. |
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| Treanor to play through injury? | Wednesday 7/30, 10:51 AM CT |
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Matt Treanor noted that he plans to postpone surgery on his hip as he plans to play through the injury, according to the Miami Herald. He said, "I felt like the best thing to do was see if I could get through the season. The purpose isn't to get out there and see what I can do and hurt the ballclub. If I don't feel like, and the club doesn't feel like I'm going to be effective, they're not going to put me back out there."
Our View: Treanor was told by a specialist that surgery was inevitable after an MRI revealed three muscle tears in his hip and pelvic region. But he will opt to postpone surgery, and he states that he may be able to return as soon as Tuesday when the club opens a series against the Phillies. The team may still add a catcher prior to the July 31 trade deadline. |
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| Rhodes bound for Florida? | Wednesday 7/30, 10:44 AM CT |
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The Marlins are reportedly close to a deal to acquire Arthur Rhodes from the Mariners, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View: The Mariners are only believed to be looking for a midlevel minor league prospect in return. The 37-year-old Rhodes has held up pretty well this season, as he only allowed six earned runs over 21.1 innings, with 26 strikeouts and a 1.27 WHIP. He has also been scoreless in eighteen straight appearances dating back to the start of June. |
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| Maddux says no to Philadelphia | Wednesday 7/30, 10:31 AM CT |
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Greg Maddux reportedly told the Padres he would not accept a trade to the Phillies, according to the FriarForum.com.
Our View: Maddux has allowed 14 home runs with San Diego this season, and you cannot blame him for not wanting to play his home games at hitter-friendly Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. |
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| Edmonds held out | Wednesday 7/30, 10:23 AM CT |
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Jim Edmonds was held out of Tuesday's lineup, despite indicating he was ready to return to action, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. He has been nursing a sore left knee.
Our View: The team trainer thought another day of rest would do him good. Another reason Edmonds was held out is the fact that he is a .204 career hitter against Ben Sheets (with 18 strikeouts), who was the opposing hurler for Milwaukee. |
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| Wainwright update | Wednesday 7/30, 10:10 AM CT |
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Adam Wainwright, who is trying to bounce back from a sprained right middle finger, is no longer scheduled to begin a minor league rehab assignment Friday after struggling during a pen session Tuesday, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: GM John Mozeliak indicated that he may not begin a rehab assignment until August 5 as well. The team will take each bullpen as it comes. |
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| Upton getting closer | Wednesday 7/30, 9:32 AM CT |
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Justin Upton, who is recovering from a left oblique strain, is getting closer to taking batting practice, according to the Arizona Republic. Manager Bob Melvin believes that might happen when the team plays the Dodgers, starting July 31.
Our View: Upton will take at least three days of batting practice before going on a minor-league rehab assignment. So Upton could be around two weeks from returning to the team. |
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| Saito to be out longer than expected | Wednesday 7/30, 8:55 AM CT |
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Takashi Saito's recovery from a sprained elbow ligament could take a little longer than expected, according to the LA Times. He still hopes to pitch again this season and said, "Of course, that's my goal, but I can't give you an exact date."
Our View: Saito began a 10-day period of strengthening muscles around the elbow Tuesday, which is the first phase of a rehab program that could stretch deep into August. Saito said he felt no pain in his elbow but noted that surgery might be a possibility if he suffered any setbacks in his recovery. The 38-year-old reliever is scheduled to begin throwing toward the end of next week.
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| Penny's timetable changed | Wednesday 7/30, 8:48 AM CT |
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Brad Penny's timetable has been changed and he is now scheduled to come off the DL next Friday, according to the LA Times.
Our View: Basically his rehab assignment has been shortened from two games to one, so that the Dodgers can use Monday's off day to give Penny and Hiroki Kuroda extra rest prior to their scheduled starts next week during a six-game trip. Penny is scheduled to pitch for triple-A Las Vegas on Saturday before pitching for the Dodgers on five days' rest Friday in San Francisco against the Giants.
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| Sanchez targets Friday | Wednesday 7/30, 7:53 AM CT |
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Freddy Sanchez missed a second full game due to back spasms Tuesday, but the Pirates are targeting Friday for his return (against the Cubs), according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: Sanchez has been hitting very well as of late, as he recorded five straight multi-hit games from July 21-25, and it looks like fantasy owners will be able to pencil him back into lineups for the upcoming week. |
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| LaRoche injury update | Wednesday 7/30, 7:47 AM CT |
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Adam LaRoche, who is battling a strained intercostal muscle that runs through the ribs on the right side of his back, hopes to come off the DL when first eligible August 12, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He said, "I want to be back the first day I can, but we'll see."
Our View: He will need 7-10 days of rest before he can begin swinging a bat. LaRoche feels a pinching pain when he rotates, and that must subside before serious activity resumes. It is a shame that he is injured, as he was hitting .390 in July with six homers and 18 RBI. |
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| Bourn out until Friday | Wednesday 7/30, 7:35 AM CT |
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Michael Bourn will likely be held out of the lineup until Friday, according to the Houston Chronicle. That way the club will take advantage of Thursday's off day to give his sprained right ankle another day to heal.
Our View: Bourn was hitting .500 in the five games before his injury, and has 33 stolen bases for the season. He should be safe to pencil back into fantasy lineups for the upcoming fantasy week.
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| Carpenter ready to return tonight | Wednesday 7/30, 7:28 AM CT |
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Chris Carpenter, who has recovered from right elbow surgery, will be returning to the diamond tonight for the first time in 485 days, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He said, "I don't think I would come up here if I didn't think I could help or be successful. I don't think you can get away from people putting expectations on it. I'm going to go out, give it my best shot and compete my butt off."
Our View: Manager Tony LaRussa will monitor him closely and will not hesitate to pull him if he sees a problem. The club hopes he will throw efficiently before reaching a pitch limit of 80-85 pitches. He is worth returning to fantasy lineups in his first start back, especially against an injury weakened Braves team.
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| Will Street remain in Oakland? | Wednesday 7/30, 7:03 AM CT |
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Huston Street is unsure if he will be traded, but commented, "I said awhile ago I don't want to be traded. Billy Beane said all along it'll take a deal to knock his socks off for me to get traded, and that's where we stand right now. I'm very comfortable with that because I like it here." This according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: Street's trade value will be high, and he threw two perfect innings in each of his last two trips to the hill. |
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| Hudson gets three hits | Wednesday 7/30, 12:05 AM CT |
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Orlando Hudson got three of the Diamondbacks nine hits as they beat the Padres 3-0. Hudson also stole his fourth base of the season.
Our View: Hudson is feeling no ill effects from his sore right ankle and has gone 5-for-9 in his last two games. |
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| Gonzalez strikes out three times | Wednesday 7/30, 12:03 AM CT |
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Adrian Gonzalez went 0-for-4 and struck out three times against Doug Davis and the Arizona Diamondbacks in a losing effort.
Our View: This is not a typical Gonzalez performance, so we'll just chalk it up to a dominant outing by Davis. |
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