|
| Isringhausen may be done for the season | Tuesday 8/19, 11:52 PM CT |
|
St. Louis Cardinals RP Jason Isringhausen (elbow) could be done for the rest of the season, according to MLB.com.
Our View: An MRI and exam revealed right elbow tendinitis and a partial tendon tear in his flexor group. The Cardinals announced Isringhausen's test results following Tuesday's game against Pittsburgh. Manager Tony La Russa anticipates that Isringhausen will miss the remainder of the season. No ligament damage was found during Isringhausen's exam. |
|
|
| Hernandez hit on ankle | Tuesday 8/19, 11:40 PM CT |
|
Felix Hernandez took a line drive off the left ankle on Tuesday night, but he is not worried about the injury. "It hit me on the wrong spot," he tells the Seattle Times. "I'm fine."
Our View: Fantasy owners can expect Felix to make his next start. |
|
|
| Carpenter working to return | Tuesday 8/19, 11:32 PM CT |
|
Cardinals RHP Chris Carpenter, nursing a strained shoulder, threw off flat ground on Tuesday and reported no problems, according to MLB.com. Carpenter plans to repeat the process on Wednesday.
Our View: Carpenter has been out since his August 10th start in Chicago when he experienced shoulder pain and had to leave the game. The Cardinals are hopeful of getting him back in the rotation for the stretch run, but want to make sure the righty is completely healthy before taking that step. |
|
|
| Helton improving | Tuesday 8/19, 11:21 PM CT |
|
Rockies trainer Keith Dugger was upbeat after getting back specialist Dr. Robert Watkins review of first baseman Todd Helton’s situation, according to the Rocky Mountain News. He said Watkins confirmed the problem with the L5 disk, and recommended continuation of the rehab program Dugger had in place. “The problem we have is we don’t have a time frame before us for stepping back into baseball activities,” said Dugger. “We have to move step by step. Todd felt really good (Tuesday).”
Our View: Not having a timetable is no good, but it sounds like Helton is improving and they have a target on the correct problem. We doubt he returns as quickly as hoped, but he could jump back in the fray late this season. Stay tuned. |
|
|
| Nats option Castro | Tuesday 8/19, 11:12 PM CT |
|
The Washington Nationals have optioned outfielder Kory Castro to Triple-A Columbus, making room on the roster for newly-acquired Anderson Hernandez, according to the Washington Post.
Our View: The Nats intend to use Castro as their utility wild card moving forward, but today, they need room to add the infielder coming from the Mets, the player to be named later in the deal that sent reliever Luis Ayala to New York. |
|
|
| Nationals acquire Hernandez from Mets | Tuesday 8/19, 11:09 PM CT |
|
Reports indicate the Washington Nationals acquired second baseman Anderson Hernandez from the New York Mets as the player to be named later in the deal that sent reliever Luis Ayala to the Mets, according to the Washington Post.
Our View: According to the Post, Hernandez will join the Nationals Wednesday, August 20th.
|
|
|
| Maddux to go on Friday | Tuesday 8/19, 11:07 PM CT |
|
Greg Maddux will resume his Dodgers career when he starts on Friday night in Philadelphia, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Manager Joe Torre prefers to hold Maddux over for the opener of a series against the Phillies to having him face the Rockies at Dodger Stadium. Maddux last pitched for San Diego on Friday night, when he lost to the Phillies, but he limited them to a Pat Burrell solo home run in seven innings with four strikeouts and no walks. He's 0-2 with a 2.70 ERA against the Phillies this year, and 2-0 with a 5.40 ERA against the Rockies. |
|
|
| Bradley has knee issue | Tuesday 8/19, 10:45 PM CT |
|
Milton Bradley left Tuesday's game in the seventh inning due to a sore left knee, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports. He is presumably day-to-day.
Our View: Another day, another ailment. We'll update Bradley's status when more is known. This dude can't pass go without stubbing a darn toe. |
|
|
| Looper rolls, but Cards fall short | Tuesday 8/19, 10:41 PM CT |
|
The Cardinals suffered the loss, 4-1 versus Pittsburgh, but the blame can't be put on starter Braden Looper, pitching seven innings to allow just one run on three hits with two walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: Looper has managed just two wins since June 29th, giving up multiple homers in five of those 10 games. Tonight he failed to surrender a single one, but his offense coudn't get runs on the board. |
|
|
| Snell dominates St. Louis | Tuesday 8/19, 10:38 PM CT |
|
The Pirates got just enough hits and more than enough runs to pull the 4-1 win over St. Louis, thanks in large part to the efforts of RHP Ian Snell. Snell pitched seven innings of shutout baseball, allowing just four hits and one walked powered by eight strikeouts.
Our View: Snell improves to 5-10 on the season with a 5.60 ERA. He has registered just two wins since April 12th before this evening, though he has allowed just nine earned runs over his last four starts. |
|
|
| Doumit goes 3-for-4 vs Cards | Tuesday 8/19, 10:32 PM CT |
|
The Pirates found fewer hits but made much better use of the opportunities, scoring the 4-1 win over St. Louis off the bat of catcher Ryan Doumit. Doumit went 3-for-4 with a double to score one RBI and one run scored.
Our View: Doumit's average has fallen a bit, hitting .317 last month but slipping to .276 in August. He hasn't hit a home run since July 22nd and carries just seven RBIs this month. |
|
|
| Joyce homers twice | Tuesday 8/19, 10:21 PM CT |
|
Matt Joyce swatted two homers against the Rangers on Tuesday night and finished with four RBI. He hadn't gone deep since July 21.
Our View: Joyce rarely plays against southpaws, and his lack of an everyday job help explains (a bit) his homer drought. We're hoping that Jim Leyland gives this rookie every opportunity in September to show if he deserves a bigger role in 2009. |
|
|
| Moehler continues to find the way | Tuesday 8/19, 10:20 PM CT |
|
Houston RHP Brian Moehler wasn't especially dominant tonight, but he put the Brewers in a loss with an efficient outing off the mounth. Moehler pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs (only one earned) on nine hits with one walk and four strikeouts.
Our View: Moehler has been strong, now standing at 3-0 in four starts through August. The one walk surrendered tonight is his first since July 29th, also giving up just one homer along that same span. |
|
|
| Davis can't do it alone | Tuesday 8/19, 10:18 PM CT |
|
Chris Davis went 2-for-4 with a three-run homer against the Tigers on Tuesday night. Those three runs were all that the Rangers scored.
Our View: It was a rare quiet night for the most productive lineup in the majors. Davis's numbers have slumped over the past two weeks, and it's nice to see him have a big game like this. |
|
|
| Blum homers over Brewers | Tuesday 8/19, 10:16 PM CT |
|
The Astros pulled the 5-2 win over Ben Sheets and the Milwaukee Brewers this evening, an effort led by shortstop Geoff Blum. Blum went 1-for-3 at the dish, hitting his 12th home run of the season to total three RBIs and one runs scored on the night.
Our View: Blum hit just .196 last month but totaled four homers with 11 RBIs. Thus far in August he touts an improved average, .263, with three homers and 11 RBIs, and we still have a couple of weeks to go. |
|
|
| Galarraga notches 12th win | Tuesday 8/19, 10:15 PM CT |
|
Armando Galarraga picked up his 12th win with a solid outing in Texas on Tuesday night. He worked five scoreless before serving up three runs in the sixth frame and leaving before the seventh. Galarraga allowed six hits, walked three, and struck out five.
Our View: This 26-year-old rookie continues to impress and help fantasy teams. That's an excellent line consider how tough it is to keep down the potent Rangers lineup, especially in Texas. |
|
|
| Slowey strikes out 12 | Tuesday 8/19, 10:12 PM CT |
|
Kevin Slowey improved to 10-8 thanks to an excellent effort against the A's on Tuesday. He allowed five hits and two runs (one earned), walked none, and struck out a career-high 12 batters over seven innings.
Our View: Slowey is now 4-2 with a 2.77 ERA and 0.92 WHIP in six starts since the All-Star break. He had a few hiccups in July, but this 24-year-old appears to be the real deal. |
|
|
| Brewers fail to support Sheets | Tuesday 8/19, 10:12 PM CT |
|
The Brewers found troubles against the Astros this evening, falling 5-2 to leave Ben Sheets out in the cold. Sheets pitched six innings, allowing five runs (all earned) on five hits with one walk and seven strikeouts.
Our View: Sheets moves to 11-7 on the season with an ERA of 3.16. He has gone 1-3 in August thus far despite allowing just 10 earned runs over four starts with five walks and 21 strikeouts. |
|
|
| Gallagher splatters like watermelon | Tuesday 8/19, 10:08 PM CT |
|
Sean Gallagher didn't have his best stuff on Tuesday night. He served up 11 hits and 10 runs over five innings against the Twins.
Our View: Gallagher continued his pattern of pitching decently at home but poorly on the road. He held that trend with both the Cubs and the A's. Fantasy owners in AL-only leagues should be smart about using him. |
|
|
| Buscher collects five RBI | Tuesday 8/19, 10:05 PM CT |
|
Brian Buscher went 3-for-4 with a homer and five RBI in Tuesday's win over the A's. He also scored two runs.
Our View: That's the second time this season that Buscher has driven in five runs. He has been crushing right-handed pitching (.354 average) and should continue to start at third against righties. |
|
|
| Thome goes deep | Tuesday 8/19, 10:03 PM CT |
|
Jim Thome went 2-for-3 with a double, homer, and two runs in Tuesday's win over the Mariners. The DH owns six homers, 12 RBI, and 15 runs over 15 games in August, although he has hit just .224 this month.
Our View: Thome has responded well after his awful, awful May, and fantasy owners who can put up with his low average have to love the power. |
|
|
| King Felix whiffs zero | Tuesday 8/19, 9:59 PM CT |
|
Felix Hernandez allowed 11 hits and five runs over five innings against the White Sox on Tuesday night. The really bad news? He struck out zero. The only other time that Hernandez failed to record a strikeout was April 18, 2007, when he left a game after 0.1 innings due to a sore elbow.
Our View: We've been wondering if the season could get any lower for the Mariners. The answer is "yes." We hope there's nothing physically wrong with the ace. |
|
|
| Richard picks up first major league win | Tuesday 8/19, 9:55 PM CT |
|
Clayton Richard tossed six scoreless innings against the Mariners on Tuesday and earned his first major league win. He allowed five hits, walked one, and struck out two.
Our View: Does it still count if you beat the Mariners? Richard probably needed an ego boost after a rough start to his big league career, and he likely earned at least one more trip through the rotation. |
|
|
| Izturis undergoes surgery | Tuesday 8/19, 9:52 PM CT |
|
Maicer Izturis underwent season-ending surgery on Tuesday to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb, the AP reports. He is expected to be ready for spring training in 2009.
Our View: Izturis is eligible for arbitration again this offseason, and it's possible he could end in trade rumors. The Angels may want to find major league spots for both Brandon Wood and Sean Rodriguez in 2009. |
|
|
| Downs ready to go | Tuesday 8/19, 9:46 PM CT |
|
Scott Downs is available to pitch again after missing nearly a week due to a sprained right ankle, the AP reports.
Our View: Downs is in the middle of his second straight excellent season. He has turned into one of the best lefty setup men in the business, not that anyone pays attention to those guys. |
|
|
| Harden puts Cincy in the corner | Tuesday 8/19, 9:45 PM CT |
|
The Cubbies put the hurt on the Cincinnati Reds this evening, thanks to the arm of ace Rich Harden. Harden went seven innings of shutout baseball, allowing just two hits with no walks and 10 strikeouts.
Our View: One of the more dominating performances of Harden's season, the hurler can count it as another in a string of strong starts. Since July 21, Harden has pitched 36 2/3 innings, allowing a combined total of seven earned runs with 11 walks and 49 strikeouts. |
|
|
| Chamberlain playing catch | Tuesday 8/19, 9:44 PM CT |
|
Joba Chamberlain played catch on Tuesday, just as he did on Friday, Saturday and Monday. He will take the day off on Wednesday and play catch again on Thursday, the AP reports. Chamberlain is scheduled for a bullpen session on Saturday. He is on the DL due to rotator cuff tendinitis.
Our View: The Yankees will likely wait and see how that bullpen session goes before deciding the next move. Fantasy owners will need to be patient with the young ace. |
|
|
| Delgado drives in two vs Braves | Tuesday 8/19, 9:41 PM CT |
|
In the Mets 8-3 trouncing of the Atlanta Braves this evening, it was first baseman Carlos Delgado serving as the voice of power, going 1-for-4 with a double to score two RBIs and one run scored on the night.
Our View: After hitting .357 in July, Delgado has slipped to .222 in August, though his three homers with 12 RBIs helps ease the pain just a bit. |
|
|
| Hochevar is day-to-day | Tuesday 8/19, 9:41 PM CT |
|
Luke Hochevar is considered day-to-day with tightness in his right ribcage, the AP reports.
Our View: The former first overall pick hopefully won't need to miss a start. Hochevar hasn't helped fantasy owners this season, but we're hoping he is learning his lessons while taking his lumps and can help in 2009. |
|
|
| Another nice night for Youk | Tuesday 8/19, 9:38 PM CT |
|
Kevin Youkilis went 3-for-5 with a homer and three RBI in Tuesday's win over the Orioles.
Our View: The dream season continues for Youk. He has already set career-best marks in homers and RBI, and he is in the thick of the AL batting average race. Oh, and his fantasy value has rocketed up this year. |
|
|
| Sizemore finds power stroke | Tuesday 8/19, 9:36 PM CT |
|
Grady Sizemore went 2-for-5 with a homer, two runs, and three RBI in Tuesday's win over the Royals. It was his first homer of August (16 games).
Our View: Grady has tied his career high with 28 homers this season, so we can hardly complain about his recent drought. With two more long balls, Sizemore will become a first-time member of the 30-30 club. He remains a fantasy star, even though his runs are down due to a lack of support. |
|
|
| Braves fail to support Jo-Jo vs Mets | Tuesday 8/19, 9:33 PM CT |
|
Atlanta LHP Jo-Jo Reyes watched a strong performance go down the tubes this evening as his offense failed to support the cause, falling 8-3 to the Mets. Reyes pitched six innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on four hits with three walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: Reyes gets no decision, stuck at 0-3 over his last five starts running through July and August. He's allowed more than a few earned runs along the way, 17 to be exact (two more than he surrendered through six June starts combined). |
|
|
| Dice-K improves to 15-2 | Tuesday 8/19, 9:33 PM CT |
|
Daisuke Matsuzaka needed 105 pitches to get through 5.0 innings on Tuesday, but the laboring effort didn't stop him from improving to 15-2. He allowed six hits and two runs against the Orioles. Matsuzaka walked five, struck out six, and mixed in a wild pitch.
Our View: It wasn't the prettiest outing, but Dice-K got good run support and avoided the big inning. We'll take it. |
|
|
| Reyes picks up second win | Tuesday 8/19, 9:30 PM CT |
|
Anthony Reyes continues to like life in AL. He improved to 2-1 with a decent effort against the Royals on Tuesday. Reyes allowed six hits and two runs over 5.0 innings.
Our View: Reyes is only three starts into his AL career, so we're not getting too excited. He's worth using in AL-only leagues and maybe in large mixed leagues if the matchup looks promising. |
|
|
| Chipper swings well, but Braves fall | Tuesday 8/19, 9:29 PM CT |
|
The Braves and Mets locked it up on offense tonight with third baseman Chipper Jones doing the damage for Atlanta. Jones went 2-for-3 with an RBI and one run scored on the night. It wasn't nearly enough as the Braves fell, 8-3.
Our View: Jones missed a bit of time at the beginning of the month but is right back on track, hitting .303 since with seven RBI and eight runs scored. |
|
|
| Casilla to return on Wednesday | Tuesday 8/19, 9:28 PM CT |
|
The Twins plan to bring Alexi Casilla back to the team on Wednesday, MLB.com confirms. Casilla has been out since July 29 due to a torn ligament in his right thumb. The Twins being a 14-game road trip on Thursday.
Our View: Casilla might not be officially activated until Thursday, although that point seems to be a bit hazy. The second baseman was helping fantasy teams before this injury, but we're not as confident he'll hit so well if he's playing through some pain. |
|
|
| Crede returns to rehab | Tuesday 8/19, 9:24 PM CT |
|
Joe Crede played five innings for Triple-A Charlotte on Tuesday night and went 0-for-2 at the plate, MLB.com reports. It was his first game since he was scratched from the Charlotte lineup on August 2. Crede is on the DL due to lower back inflammation.
Our View: The White Sox don't have a timetable for Crede, which is wise. His back issues make even bending over to pick up the remote control potentially dangerous. |
|
|
| Bergmann gets no decision but pitches well | Tuesday 8/19, 9:11 PM CT |
|
The pitching in Washington has been nothing short of suspect this season, but RHP Jason Bergmann provided a bit of optimism this evening though his team fell 5-4 to Philadelphia. Bergmann pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing four runs (three earned) on six hits with no walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: While his control has been all over the map, Bergmann is starting to show a bit of promise. His team failed to get the offense going to secure the win, but two strong outings in his last three starts could be the start of better returns. |
|
|
| Ray moving up to A ball | Tuesday 8/19, 9:11 PM CT |
|
Chris Ray is ready to step up his minor league rehab work. The closer will pitch one inning for High-A Frederick on Friday and one inning for Low-A Aberdeen on Monday, MLB.com reports. Ray underwent Tommy John surgery in mid-August of 2007. The Orioles don't have a timeline for Ray returning to the majors.
Our View: Fantasy owners shouldn't get too excited. Even if Ray moves to the majors at some point, we doubt he'll return to the closer's role. The Orioles just want to get him ready for 2009, when he should be the stopper again. |
|
|
| Victorino leads Phillies to win over Nats | Tuesday 8/19, 9:07 PM CT |
|
Outfielder Shane Victorino was the main source of power for the Phillies' offense in the 5-4 win over Washington this evening, going 2-for-3 with a double and a triple to total two runs scored.
Our View: All five RBIs were spread through different hitters for the Phillies this evening. For Victorino, there have been struggles. After hitting .333 last month with seven homers and 20 RBIs, he has fallen to .236 in August with two home runs and eight RBIs.
|
|
|
| Martinez drives in two at Buffalo | Tuesday 8/19, 9:05 PM CT |
|
Victor Martinez went 1-for-2 with a run, two RBI, and a walk in Tuesday's rehab game at Triple-A Buffalo. He played catcher. Martinez previously played two games at Double-A Akron, where he served as DH. He is recovering from right elbow surgery.
Our View: Martinez is inching closer to his major league return. We imagine that the Indians might want him to test out the elbow behind the plate a couple more times before he moves up. |
|
|
| Harris homers vs Phillies | Tuesday 8/19, 9:04 PM CT |
|
The Nats and Phillies brought their sticks to the yard this evening as the hometown heroes, Philadelphia, emerged victorious, 5-4. The top fantasy man for Washington was outfielder Willie Harris, going 2-for-5 with his 10th homer of the season to total one RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: After hitting .291 last month with four homers and 15 RBIs, Harris has hit just .275 in August with three homers and eight RBIs. He still has time to improve, but we had hoped to see a significant level of progress. |
|
|
| Matsui goes 0-for-3 | Tuesday 8/19, 8:58 PM CT |
|
Hideki Matsui went 0-for-3 with a strikeout in his first game back off the DL on Tuesday night.
Our View: Fantasy owners shouldn't read anything into the hitless night. Most of the Yankees were flummoxed by A.J. Burnett, who tossed a gem. |
|
|
| Hochevar leaves early | Tuesday 8/19, 8:56 PM CT |
|
Luke Hochevar left his start on Tuesday after five innings due to an undisclosed injury, the AP reports. Assistant trainer Frank Kyte visited the mound while Hochevar was warming up for the sixth innings.
Our View: We anticipate an update before the night is out, and we'll provide more details when available. |
|
|
| Santana excellent in no-decision | Tuesday 8/19, 8:52 PM CT |
|
Ervin Santana was brilliant again on Tuesday, but the bullpen blew his lead. The right-hander held the Rays to four hits and one run over seven innings. He also struck out nine batters.
Our View: Fantasy owners would have liked the win, but we'll take the ERA, WHIP, and strikeouts. |
|
|
| Shields picks up 11th win | Tuesday 8/19, 8:51 PM CT |
|
James Shields improved to 11-6 with a win over the Angels on Tuesday night. He allowed a solo homer in the first inning and an RBI double in the fourth, but the right-hander finished with only those two runs against over eight innings. Shields gave up nine hits and struck out seven.
Our View: Shields has been brilliant against the vaunted Angels this year, posting a 2.88 ERA, 0.84 WHIP, 24 strikeouts, and 21 hits allowed over 25.0 innings. The Rays will need him to stay strong if they hope to close out the AL East and beat the Angels this postseason. |
|
|
| Rasner pitches well | Tuesday 8/19, 8:46 PM CT |
|
Darrell Rasner pitched well against the Blue Jays on Tuesday night. He worked 6.1 scoreless innings before allowing a solo homer and departing one out later. Rasner served up only three hits, but he settled for a no-decision.
Our View: That's two straight pretty good outings for Rasner, which means he has probably earned himself one more start. |
|
|
| Burnett strikes out 13 | Tuesday 8/19, 8:43 PM CT |
|
A.J. Burnett allowed a first-inning run to the Yankees on Tuesday and then proceeded to shut the door. He worked eight innings and surrendered just five hits and one run. Burnett also struck out a season-high 13 batters.
Our View: Burnett is now 3-0 against the Yankees this season. Do you think this potential free agent was wondering if Brian Cashman was watching? A.J. was rough over three August starts before this, but we guess the Yankees bring out the best in him. |
|
|
| Dodgers send Stults down | Tuesday 8/19, 8:43 PM CT |
|
The Dodgers optioned lefty Eric Stults to Triple-A Las Vegas to make room for the recently-acquired (again) Greg Maddux, according to the Los Angeles Daily News.
Our View: Stults had been recalled on Thursday and hadn't made a single appearance in between. |
|
|
| Wainwright set to return, but as what? | Tuesday 8/19, 8:35 PM CT |
|
Adam Wainwright is ready to face big league hitters, though whether he will come back as a reliever or as a starter is not yet resolved, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Wainwright said he would prefer to make his return as a starter, but will embrace whatever role the Cardinals decide he should take. There has been talk that Wainwright's role for the stretch run is tied to the status of right-hander Chris Carpenter -- out with a shoulder strain -- who came through a toss session in good shape on Tuesday. But manager Tony La Russa made the point that the Carpenter-Wainwright scenario isn't necessarily a package deal. Because of a schedule that includes two off-days this week and two more next week, the Cardinals have some flexibility in how they assemble their rotation for the near future. Wainwright just hopes to know soon which way the Cardinals want to go with him. |
|
|
| Hudson rejoins team for moral support | Tuesday 8/19, 8:19 PM CT |
|
Arizona second baseman Orlando Hudson was back in the clubhouse Tuesday, rejoining his team after undergoing two surgeries on his left wrist, according to MLB.com.
Our View: An injury to his left wrist, which has required two surgeries, will keep the Gold Glove second baseman out of action for the rest of the season. Last year, he tore ligaments in his thumb and was forced to miss the final three-plus weeks of the season. During batting practice he walked around with a fungo bat and stood out at his second base position talking with Chris Burke while Burke took grounders. |
|
|
| Morgan gets starting spot | Tuesday 8/19, 7:57 PM CT |
|
Nyjer Morgan was called up by the team following Monday's game to take Doug Mientkiewicz's spot on the 25-man roster as he spends time on the bereavement list, but he has been inserted into tonight's starting lineup as outfielder Nate McLouth battles flu-like symptoms, according to MLB.com.
Our View: With this latest callup, Morgan has been with the Pirates now three separate times this season. However, Tuesday marked just Morgan's fifth start in the 41 games with the Major League club. Morgan had six hits in 42 at-bats with the Pirates this year. After a rough start to the season -- one that started with minimal playing time at the Major League level -- Morgan has rediscovered his swing in recent weeks. Since the start of July, Morgan has hit .340 with 13 extra-base hits, 19 RBIs and 36 runs scored. He also has 25 stolen bases during that seven-week span. |
|
|
| Varitek reaches 10 homers, again | Tuesday 8/19, 7:52 PM CT |
|
Jason Varitek socked his 10th homer of the season on Tuesday night. The shot is remarkable because Varitek has become the first Red Sox catcher to reach double-digit home runs in nine seasons, the Boston Globe reports.
Our View: We also have to believe that Varitek holds the Red Sox record for catcher homers on Thursdays when there is a full moon. |
|
|
| Paulino diagnosed with bursitis | Tuesday 8/19, 7:41 PM CT |
|
Astros right-hander Felipe Paulino was diagnosed with bursitis in his throwing shoulder after being examined by team medical director David Lintner on Tuesday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Paulino, who made only one rehab appearance before coming down with shoulder soreness, will begin a throwing program on flat ground, and his timetable for a return to the mound will be determined by how quickly he progresses. The club hasn't ruled out Paulino pitching in September, but winter ball appears to be a more realistic goal. |
|
|
| Harang suffering from neck spasms | Tuesday 8/19, 7:36 PM CT |
|
It's been a difficult season for Aaron Harang, becoming more complicated after the right-hander's scheduled start on Thursday was pushed back because of neck spasms, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Instead of facing the Cubs, Harang will now start Friday's series opener vs. the Rockies at Coors Field. Josh Fogg, originally scheduled on Friday, will take Harang's place and start on Thursday. |
|
|
| Tejada sitting versus Sheets | Tuesday 8/19, 7:33 PM CT |
|
Astros manager Cecil Cooper went heavy on the left-handed hitters to face Brewers co-ace Ben Sheets and found that to be a perfect opportunity to give his shortstop Miguel Tejada a rest, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Cooper played Darin Erstad in left, Michael Bourn in center and Geoff Blum at shortstop. David Newhan started at second, while the red-hot Ty Wigginton moved back to his normal position at third after playing more than a week in left field. |
|
|
| Duchscherer could miss start | Tuesday 8/19, 7:22 PM CT |
|
Justin Duchscherer returned to the Bay Area on Tuesday to have his sore right hip examined, MLB.com reports. He is in danger of missing his next start. "I'm just hoping [the A's athletic trainers] are right and it's just a little inflammation that we can shoot up and work through," Duchscherer explains. He underwent season-ending right hip surgery last June.
Our View: The A's don't have much reason to push Duchscherer to return for his next start. They'll likely be cautious and find a replacement for this weekend. We'll let you know when they make such a decision, though. |
|
|
| Polanco dealing with sore knee | Tuesday 8/19, 7:18 PM CT |
|
Placido Polanco was unable to start on Tuesday due to a sore right knee, the Ticker confirms.
Our View: We'll continue to dig for more information. You should consider Polanco day-to-day until we know better. |
|
|
| Everett sitting on Tuesday, Wednesday | Tuesday 8/19, 7:16 PM CT |
|
Adam Everett is out on Tuesday and will also sit on Wednesday due to a bruised right hand, the AP reports.
Our View: Everett is about to see a reduction in playing time, too. Alexi Casilla could be back as soon as Wednesday, and the Twins will find time for Nick Punto at short. |
|
|
| Young sits on Tuesday | Tuesday 8/19, 7:14 PM CT |
|
Delmon Young is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Royals. He turned an ankle on Monday, the Minneapolis Star Tribune notes. Jason Kubel got the call in left field.
Our View: Young is day-to-day and could be back as soon as Wednesday night. |
|
|
| Votto returns | Tuesday 8/19, 7:10 PM CT |
|
Joey Votto will start on Tuesday for the first time since returning to the Reds from the bereavement list following the sudden passing of his father, according to MLB.com. "Obviously, the last week was hard," Votto said at his locker on Tuesday before the Reds played the Cubs. "Being around the guys is a real good distraction. It's helped take my mind off everything. I love what I do. It's a good opportunity to do what my dad would have wanted me to do."
Our View: After Votto's bereavement reached the seven-day limit, he came back from Canada and rejoined the roster by rule. But he was given more time to ease his way back by manager Dusty Baker. In both games on Saturday and Sunday against the Cardinals, Votto appeared once as a pinch-hitter. He notched an RBI single on Sunday. The 25-year-old entered Tuesday batting .281 with 14 home runs and 54 RBIs. He was hitting .375 (12-for-40) over his previous 12 games, and was slotted in the fifth spot in the lineup against the Reds on Tuesday. |
|
|
| Rolen's return date unknown | Tuesday 8/19, 7:04 PM CT |
|
Scott Rolen is currently rehabbing his sore left shoulder in Florida. The trainers are trying to "break up" the tissue in his shoulder to provide the third baseman with more flexibility, manager Cito Gaston informs MLB.com. Gaston is not sure if Rolen will be able to return to the lineup by next Tuesday, August 26.
Our View: Fantasy owners shouldn't be waiting on Rolen, who has a long history of left shoulder injuries. |
|
|
| Pavano dealing with sore neck | Tuesday 8/19, 6:35 PM CT |
|
Carl Pavano was unable to work his bullpen session on Tuesday due to a stiff neck, the New York Post reports. He suffered the injury during a minor league start on Sunday. Pavano is in the mix to start on Saturday against the Orioles.
Our View: Pavano has had a flurry of injuries since joining the Yankees in December of 2004, and it only seems fitting that he is dealing with another ailment now. We should know his Saturday start status by Thursday. |
|
|
| Gordon out due to sore back | Tuesday 8/19, 6:04 PM CT |
|
Alex Gordon will not play on Tuesday night due to a sore back, MLB.com reports. "Yesterday it was bothering him a little bit and it didn't get any better overnight," manager Trey Hillman says. "We'll just give him a day to treat it and we're hopeful he's ready to go tomorrow." Esteban German will start at third base.
Our View: This comes at a bad time for Gordon, as he is hitting pretty well this August. He is day-to-day. |
|
|
| Polanco a late scratch | Tuesday 8/19, 6:02 PM CT |
|
The Tigers have scratched Placido Polanco from the lineup on Tuesday night and replaced him with Ramon Santiago, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Our View: We don't know the reason for the move, and we'll have an update as soon as more information is available. |
|
|
| LaPorta escapes serious injury | Tuesday 8/19, 5:55 PM CT |
|
Matt LaPorta appears to be fine after he was beaned in the head during Monday's game against Team China. "He had no symptoms of post-concussion syndrome when he woke up Tuesday morning," Indians head athletic trainer Lonnie Soloff informs the Cleveland Plain Dealer. LaPorta does have some soreness on the left side of his head and neck.
Our View: It sounds like LaPorta could come back during the Olympics, which is an excellent sign. The top-notch prospect could be up in the majors come September. |
|
|
| Wagner out indefinitely | Tuesday 8/19, 5:52 PM CT |
|
Billy Wagner's latest MRI showed more swelling in his left elbow, and he remains out indefinitely. The closer tells the New York Post that he does intend to pitch again this season. "They told me that I'd take some time, let the inflammation get out of the elbow, and when it starts feeling better, to start doing more baseball-type activities," Wagner says. "Right now, I'm going to take some time. I can do some light throwing, continue to rehab and see how it progresses."
Our View: The Mets will need to continue using Aaron Heilman (and friends), and it sounds like they have no intention of rushing Wagner. Fantasy owners are in a tough spot, as there are only five weeks to go and we don't know when Billy will be back. |
|
|
| Boggs batting leadoff | Tuesday 8/19, 5:46 PM CT |
|
Brandon Boggs will bat leadoff when the Rangers host the Tigers on Tuesday night. It will be his second straight game in the top spot, which is typically occupied by Ian Kinsler.
Our View: Heading into Monday, Kinsler owned 514 of the team's 540 at-bats out of the leadoff spot. Boggs doesn't hit as well as Kinsler, but he does a decent job of drawing walks. The outfielder could be in a good spot to help fantasy teams for at least the next two weeks. |
|
|
| Upton starting on Tuesday | Tuesday 8/19, 5:40 PM CT |
|
B.J. Upton is in the lineup and hitting second for Tuesday's game against the Angels.
Our View: We're just making sure fantasy owners know he is playing, as Upton has earned some bench time with his recent lack of hustle. |
|
|
| Davis getting ready for 3B | Tuesday 8/19, 5:38 PM CT |
|
Chris Davis has been working at third base, and he will move across the diamond on Friday when Hank Blalock returns to the lineup, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Our View: They haven't cut Blalock yet? Seriously, the club keeps moving people around to accommodate for Hank, who can't stay healthy. Enough of that rant, though. Davis has played twice at third and should gain fantasy eligibility in the near future. |
|
|
| Sherrill placed on DL | Tuesday 8/19, 5:34 PM CT |
|
The Orioles have placed closer George Sherrill on the 15-day DL due to inflammation in his left shoulder, the Baltimore Sun reports.
Our View: The Sun points to Jim Johnson as the best candidate for saves, although the Orioles could use a committee. Sherrill could be back by September 1. |
|
|
| Flores back in the lineup | Tuesday 8/19, 5:32 PM CT |
|
Jesus Flores is back in the lineup on Tuesday, the Washington Post notes. He sprained his right knee during a collision on Saturday.
Our View: Did you realize that Flores leads the Nats with 52 RBI? That is (A) a positive statement about this young catcher's campaign and (b) a very sad statement about this lineup. |
|
|
| Lugo showing improvement | Tuesday 8/19, 5:28 PM CT |
|
Julio Lugo continues to make positive progress as he returns from a tear in his left quad. Manager Terry Francona informs the Providence Journal that the optimistic timetable has Lugo beginning a minor league rehab assignment within the next week.
Our View: With Jed Lowrie hitting well, there's no guarantee that Lugo will get his job back when he is healthy. It sounds like September 1 would be roughly the earliest we might see Julio back in the bigs. |
|
|
| McCarthy to start on Saturday | Tuesday 8/19, 5:26 PM CT |
|
Brandon McCarthy will come off the DL and start for the Rangers on Saturday, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports. The right-hander has been out all season due to inflammation in his right forearm. He has gone 1-1 with a 3.41 ERA over seven minor league rehab outings.
Our View: McCarty made his big league debut in 2005, and we have to remind ourselves that he is still only 25. We're not expecting much down the stretch, but it would be nice if he showed us some hope for 2009. |
|
|
| Drew out again | Tuesday 8/19, 5:22 PM CT |
|
Outfielder J.D. Drew is out again on Tuesday due to back stiffness, the Providence Journal reports. He suffered the injury on Sunday and also sat on Monday. Manager Terry Francona says that Drew is improving.
Our View: We're shocked, shocked, shocked to see such a rock like Drew missing time. He remains day-to-day. |
|
|
| Kinsler delays surgery | Tuesday 8/19, 5:20 PM CT |
|
Ian Kinsler has delayed his surgery on a sports hernia for weeks, the Dallas Morning News reports. The second baseman admits he's not even sure if it is a sports hernia. A doctor did confirm that there are no torn muscles or ligaments in his groin area.
Our View: Fantasy owners who can place Kinsler in a DL spot or have enough bench room should be patient with the infielder. If you're strapped for roster space in a mixed league, though, you might still send Kinsler packing. There are only five weeks left in the season. |
|
|
| Christian optioned to Triple-A | Tuesday 8/19, 5:11 PM CT |
|
The Yankees optioned outfielder Justin Christian back to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Tuesday.
Our View: The 28-year-old outfielder has shown some versatility and speed during his two stints with the Yankees this year. He could come back up when the rosters expand in September, but he won't have any fantasy value. |
|
|
| Matsui activated | Tuesday 8/19, 5:08 PM CT |
|
The Yankees have activated Hideki Matsui from the 15-day DL, MLB.com reports. The outfielder had been sidelined since June 22 due to a sore left knee.
Our View: We expect Matsui to be limited to DH duties, which means Johnny Damon will need to go back into the outfield. Fantasy owners can feel free to use Matsui, although we're worried about his balky knee holding up. |
|
|
| Braun out on Tuesday | Tuesday 8/19, 4:44 PM CT |
|
Ryan Braun will not start on Tuesday, one night after aggravating his strained lower back/ribcage, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports. "It's just one of those nagging injuries that's probably not going to go away completely while I'm playing," Braun admits. "I'll have to deal with it. I hope it goes away completely. But, realistically, the way this game is, it probably won't." The outfielder recently missed six days due to the ailment.
Our View: The fantasy stud remains day-to-day, and it sounds like he might need to bite down and play with this injury the rest of the way. That could create some headaches for fantasy owners. |
|
|
| Tomko activated | Tuesday 8/19, 4:22 PM CT |
|
The Padres have activated pitcher Brett Tomko from the 15-day DL, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports. Tomko had been out since June 30 due to a strained right elbow.
Our View: Tomko can work either as a starter or a reliever, and he may need to join the rotation in place of Greg Maddux. Regardless, fantasy owners shouldn't count on this veteran. |
|
|
| Beckett's start pushed back | Tuesday 8/19, 3:58 PM CT |
|
Boston has pushed back the next start for pitcher Josh Beckett, according to the Boston Globe. Instead of pitching on Saturday, he will throw again on Tuesday.
Our View: Beckett has reportedly been experiencing numbness and tingling in his right arm, so the club decided to give him some extra time. Adjust your fantasy lineups accordingly. |
|
|
| Upton apologizes | Tuesday 8/19, 3:51 PM CT |
|
B.J. Upton has apologized for his latest episode of failing to hustle, according to the Tampa Tribune. His leisurely gait from home to second base resulted in him being thrown out on Monday. It was one of four recent incidents where he failed to hustle. "It can’t happen, especially in the middle of a pennant race. Every run matters, every out matters. I want to apologize for it. It’s just something that can’t happen," Upton said.
Our View: Apologizing is a good first step, but he needs to prove it out on the field. Manager Joe Maddon laid the issue in the hands of the players, and teammate Cliff Floyd responded, saying how much it bothered him. Maybe Upton finally got the message. |
|
|
| Abreu hits Burnett well | Tuesday 8/19, 3:35 PM CT |
| |
