Tuesday, May 31, 2011
MIKE NAPOLI, HES BACK!!!!!!!!!!
Mike Napoli – 3 for 6 with 2 home runs and 5 RBI on Monday. The Rangers are 11-4 when Mike Napoli starts behind the plate and 9-0 when he hits a home run. Now let’s hope that Ron Washington stops being a moron and starts giving Napoli everyday start.
Justin Upton – 5 for 5 with a home run, 3 RBI, 3 runs scored and a stolen base. Yup, Upton doing it all this year and it’s about time!
Jose Bautista – 2 for 3 with 2 RBI on Monday evening. Baustista has had multiple RBI games in 10 of the 46 games he has played in. Bautista still shocks me!
Jay Bruce – 3 for 4 with a home run and 3 RBI in a win over the Brewers. Bruce has just been stellar in the month of May posting a line of .346, 12 home runs and 32 RBI.
Bartolo Colon – Threw his first complete game shut out since 2006. I think were going to be seeing a lot more baseball players experimenting with the shoulder surgery Colon had in the offseason.
Brandon Webb – 3.1 IP 5 ER, 8 hits in his first rehab start with AA. Webb is not mixed league material, but if you are in an AL only league, he might be worth a look. Its not know yet if he will be a starter or a reliever.
Hanley Ramirez – Says his back pain is “the worst he has ever felt in his life”. Don’t be surprised if Hanley ends up on the DL.
Joakim Soria – The Royals have removed Soria from his closer duties. I believe this is just temporary while he works this out, don’t drop him just yet.
Aaron Crow – Crow becomes a must pick up while he has the closer duties. If your short on closers, go pick him up, but know that this is probably just a short term thing.
Chris Narveson – Drop this bum unless you’re in NL only leagues. Every time I pick this guy up for a spot start I get screwed.
Jake Arrieta – Expected t make his next start after getting hit in the leg by a comebacker. I am one of the few who still like Arrieta, and still feel he will get better as the season goes along. Monitor his situation closely.
Monday, May 30, 2011
SUMMER RENTALS!!!!
This article will provide you with a few hitters and pitchers that
pick up their games when they are able to pack away the long sleeves
for goods. These guys are not world beaters by any means but they are
all players who typically struggle in the early part of the season
that have a trade value currently well below where it will be as the
season drags on. This is just a sampling of players that pick it up
when the calendar hits June 1. Kick the tires on trades/waivers for
these guys and see what happens.
Dan Uggla - With career splits of 258/.343/.478, Uggla is a
notoriously slow starter. He has never been known for his batting
prowess in general but as the warm weather nears, Uggla picks up his
game. His career June splits are .261/.342/.514 - up from a dismal
.238/.311/.440 in April. He has been beyond awful this year and while
May is typically his best month, Uggs’ value CANNOT get any lower.
Buy super low with a pitcher who has been tossing well but might not K
a lot of guys…Humber, Collmenter, Jurrjens all come to mind. A good
manager won’t do that trade (maybe Jurrjens if he hates Uggla) but if
you have a manager that loves Yahoo! rankings over potential, you’re
golden.
Yovani Gallardo – Career ERA/WHIP/BAA of 3.75/1.33/.242 – Gallardo has
been much better in his last 4 starts, striking out 29 in the last 27
innings and lowering his ERA nearly 2 points. If you haven’t been
along for the ride, go get him now while his numbers look ugly on
their face. Gallardo’s June career numbers are 2.32/1.12 with a .190
BAA against.
Ted Lilly – Lilly has been as reliable as they come for the last few
years. His career numbers are that of a reliable starter capable of
flashes of brilliance and poor outings, but more than likely he will
give you a steady diet of quality starts throughout the year. He has
strung together 2 good performances in a row. June has been Ted’s
best month throughout his career. He sports a career ERA/WHIP/BAA of
4.19/1.27/.245 and in June his numbers are 3.78/1.25/.235. You might
look at those numbers and realize they aren’t going to be the key to
your path to a fantasy championship. However, consider Lilly’s 2010
June (2.57/0.95/.204), 2009 (3.12/1.19/.263 – OK, he got lucky here),
2008 (3.02/1.15/.201). In a what have you done for me lately
atmosphere like baseball, Lilly has been markedly better in June. He
shouldn’t cost much.
Gavin Floyd - If you’ve ever owned Floyd in April and May in his
career, chances are you’ve dropped him. He’s a terrible early season
pitcher. Its inexplicable really because he’s got the pitching
repertoire that warranted him once as an untouchable prospect with the
Phillies. Anyway, Floyd’s career ERA/WHIP/BAA in April/May is
5.43/1.43/.263. His June numbers are 2.95/1.11/2.21 and he doesn’t
fade off terribly in July. See what you can do, as he has been pretty
decent already this year.
Alexei Ramirez – I hate the White Sox with a passion, mostly because
of their GM/Manager combo’s inferiority complex, but I digress. As
much as it pains me to throw 2 of their players on here (and almost a
3rd, John Danks), Alexei is another guy who is a pain to own in the
early months and then picks it up just when you are ready to drop him
(though, similar to Floyd, he turned in a good May). Career .305
hitter in June and .331 in July, up from his .227 April and .287 May
numbers. He doesn’t walk a ton but he’s got pop in his bat and he’ll
score some runs if the Sox offense puts it together more consistently.
Delmon Young – Another guy I can’t stand even drafting because I know
he’ll drive me nuts until June. Career April numbers --
.244/.286/.340. Career May Number -- .311/.323/.376. In June, Delmon
hits .311/.323/.447. He OPS’s over .900 in July so he only gets
better with the weather. Delmon will rake this summer and it never
hurts to plug a guy into your UTIL spot that goes 2/5 every couple
days to anchor your lineup and you never have to worry about him.
Carlos Pena – Carlos has been coming along lately in Chicago. The
wind at Wrigley could be his best friend this summer. Carlos’ best
months are actually August and September but he sets his year in
motion in June. His April OPS is .742 and May’s is .767. In June,
Carlos’ OPS is .924, mostly because his batting average heats up.
Pick him up or buy very low. (Added bonus, Carlos’ career OPS is the
remaining months is over .800).
~~ Hoffs
pick up their games when they are able to pack away the long sleeves
for goods. These guys are not world beaters by any means but they are
all players who typically struggle in the early part of the season
that have a trade value currently well below where it will be as the
season drags on. This is just a sampling of players that pick it up
when the calendar hits June 1. Kick the tires on trades/waivers for
these guys and see what happens.
Dan Uggla - With career splits of 258/.343/.478, Uggla is a
notoriously slow starter. He has never been known for his batting
prowess in general but as the warm weather nears, Uggla picks up his
game. His career June splits are .261/.342/.514 - up from a dismal
.238/.311/.440 in April. He has been beyond awful this year and while
May is typically his best month, Uggs’ value CANNOT get any lower.
Buy super low with a pitcher who has been tossing well but might not K
a lot of guys…Humber, Collmenter, Jurrjens all come to mind. A good
manager won’t do that trade (maybe Jurrjens if he hates Uggla) but if
you have a manager that loves Yahoo! rankings over potential, you’re
golden.
Yovani Gallardo – Career ERA/WHIP/BAA of 3.75/1.33/.242 – Gallardo has
been much better in his last 4 starts, striking out 29 in the last 27
innings and lowering his ERA nearly 2 points. If you haven’t been
along for the ride, go get him now while his numbers look ugly on
their face. Gallardo’s June career numbers are 2.32/1.12 with a .190
BAA against.
Ted Lilly – Lilly has been as reliable as they come for the last few
years. His career numbers are that of a reliable starter capable of
flashes of brilliance and poor outings, but more than likely he will
give you a steady diet of quality starts throughout the year. He has
strung together 2 good performances in a row. June has been Ted’s
best month throughout his career. He sports a career ERA/WHIP/BAA of
4.19/1.27/.245 and in June his numbers are 3.78/1.25/.235. You might
look at those numbers and realize they aren’t going to be the key to
your path to a fantasy championship. However, consider Lilly’s 2010
June (2.57/0.95/.204), 2009 (3.12/1.19/.263 – OK, he got lucky here),
2008 (3.02/1.15/.201). In a what have you done for me lately
atmosphere like baseball, Lilly has been markedly better in June. He
shouldn’t cost much.
Gavin Floyd - If you’ve ever owned Floyd in April and May in his
career, chances are you’ve dropped him. He’s a terrible early season
pitcher. Its inexplicable really because he’s got the pitching
repertoire that warranted him once as an untouchable prospect with the
Phillies. Anyway, Floyd’s career ERA/WHIP/BAA in April/May is
5.43/1.43/.263. His June numbers are 2.95/1.11/2.21 and he doesn’t
fade off terribly in July. See what you can do, as he has been pretty
decent already this year.
Alexei Ramirez – I hate the White Sox with a passion, mostly because
of their GM/Manager combo’s inferiority complex, but I digress. As
much as it pains me to throw 2 of their players on here (and almost a
3rd, John Danks), Alexei is another guy who is a pain to own in the
early months and then picks it up just when you are ready to drop him
(though, similar to Floyd, he turned in a good May). Career .305
hitter in June and .331 in July, up from his .227 April and .287 May
numbers. He doesn’t walk a ton but he’s got pop in his bat and he’ll
score some runs if the Sox offense puts it together more consistently.
Delmon Young – Another guy I can’t stand even drafting because I know
he’ll drive me nuts until June. Career April numbers --
.244/.286/.340. Career May Number -- .311/.323/.376. In June, Delmon
hits .311/.323/.447. He OPS’s over .900 in July so he only gets
better with the weather. Delmon will rake this summer and it never
hurts to plug a guy into your UTIL spot that goes 2/5 every couple
days to anchor your lineup and you never have to worry about him.
Carlos Pena – Carlos has been coming along lately in Chicago. The
wind at Wrigley could be his best friend this summer. Carlos’ best
months are actually August and September but he sets his year in
motion in June. His April OPS is .742 and May’s is .767. In June,
Carlos’ OPS is .924, mostly because his batting average heats up.
Pick him up or buy very low. (Added bonus, Carlos’ career OPS is the
remaining months is over .800).
~~ Hoffs
Thursday, May 26, 2011
THURSDAY'S ROUNDUP
Buster Posey – Will undergo an MRI on his left ankle after a collision at home plate with Scott Cousins. Expect Posey to be placed on the DL.
Frank Francisco – The Blue Jays could start sharing save opportunities based off of match ups. While I still believe that Francisco will get the majority of saves, Dotel, Frasor and Rauch could vulture some saves from him.
Mike Stanton – 4 for 6 with 4 RBI Wednesday night. Stanton has been smoking hot the month of May hitting .306 with 9 home runs and 19 RBIs.
Logan Morrison – 3 for 5 with 2 run scored as he just continues to mash the ball. One of my favorite sleepers heading into the year is off to a great start.
Jake Arrieta – 6 IP, 2 ER, 7 K’s picking up his 6th win on the year. After getting roughed up in his last start, its nice to see him bounce back strong.
Jose Tabata – 8 hits in his last 5 games bringing his average all the up to .252 on the year. After starting the year on fire, Tabata has been pretty lifeless the last month or so. Hopefully this is the start of a tear for Tabata, also one of my favorite sleepers coming into the year.
Erik Bedard – 6 IP 0 ER, 4 K’s with his 3rd win on the year. Bedard has no pitched 19 innings giving up 1 ER while striking out 22. Bedard, when healthy, has always been productive. If by some chance hes available in your league, pick him up immediately.
James McDonald – 6 IP 2 ER, 6 K’s while picking up a no decision. McDonald has now had a quality start in 5 of his last 6 starts. Yes, its time to pick him up if you haven’t already.
Mike Morse – 1 for 4 with 3 RBIs and a home run. This is now the 3rd straight game with a home run for Morse. Mike is an intriguing player and should be monitored closely, but if you need a cheap source of power he should be picked up now while hes hot.
Carl Crawford – 4 for 4 with 3 run and 2 RBIs while also hitting a home run. Looks like Crawford is finally starting to heat up.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
ELBOW, HE GAWN!
Jorge De La Rosa – Exited Tuesdays game in the 3rd inning with elbow tightness, later to be confirmed that he will need Tommy John surgery.
Carlos Quentin – 3 home runs with 5 RBIs on the night. Quentins power numbers have been down the last few weeks so it’s nice to see some power out of him.
Johan Santana – Threw 25 pitches off the mound for the first time since September. I still don’t have much hope for Santana, I would let someone else pick him up unless you lack pitching.
Alex Avila – 2 for 4 with two home runs and 3 RBI. Avilas two home runs today were his first since May 7th. Avila has been consistent all year and continues to be a top option at the catcher position.
Jason Bay – left Tuesday’s game with a calf strain, I don’t know about you but I’m sick of Bay. If you are tired of carrying dead weight around, you have my approval to drop him.
Matt Garza – To the DL retroactive to May 17th. Garza was unhappy with the DL stint and is expected to only miss one start.
Mike Minor – recalled from AAA to replace injured started Tim Hudson. Minor wont start until next week, but could be a worth while add in the short term.
Rafael Soriano – Going to see Dr. James Andrews. Yup, that’s not good at all! Drop in ALL leagues.
Adam LaRoche – Has tears in his labrum and rotator cuff. The Nationals have not provided a time table for LaRoche. My guess, his seasons done!
Grant Balfour – Will be the new fill in closer until Bailey is ready. Balfour is a must add in all leagues until he relinquishes the role.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
ATTA BOY, ALBERT!
Albert Pujols – After 106 at bats, Pujols finally breaks the Home run drought. Let’s hope he gets hot and goes on a massive home run streak.
Matt Holliday – Might be out until Friday now, don’t be surprised if you hear a “hes now going on the DL” sometime soon.
Jered Weaver – after 4 straight pedestrian starts, he finally has a great start. He only K’d 5 on the night, so its not exactly what fantasy owners wanted, but they’ll take this start from him.
Corey Hart – hit his first three home runs of the season on Monday night with 7 RBI’s. Hart has been hitting well the month of May, hopefully this is the start of many more home runs for Hart.
Edinson Volquez – Sent to the minors. If you were still starting this guy in mixed leagues, I feel bad for your team.
Alexi Ogando – 9 IP, 0 ER, 6 K’s while picking a win for the Rangers. Ogando has his best start of the year against a hot Sox team. This guy just continues to impress, but with really only one plus pitch, we cant keep expecting this type of success.
Nelson Cruz – 1 for 4 with a 2 run home run. Way to announce your return with a bang!
Josh Hamilton – Also returns from the DL and hits a home run in his first at bat!
Michael Cuddyer – 2 for 3 with a double and a walk. Cuddyers average is all the way up to .267 after being at .235 on May 13th. Cuddyers has great value this year as he now has 2B eligibility. The time to buy low on him might be expiring, test the waters.
Dustin Pedroia – Left in the 8th inning with a left leg injury. There has been no update as to how long he will be out. Fantasy owners need to monitor this situation closely.
Jose Bautista – Hit his 19th home run Monday. Home run machine!
Chase Utley – 0 for 5 in his season debut with the Phillies. Don’t sweat it, it’s going to take him some time to get his timing in the Majors.
Monday, May 23, 2011
MONDAY ROUNDUP!!!
Marlon Byrd – Hit in the eye with a pitch and now has multiple fractures with some blurry vision. Byrd was placed on the 15 day DL.
Felix Hernandez – 8 IP, 1 ER, 13 K’s with his 5th win of the season. King Felix, doing straight work!
Fernando Salas – converted his 4 saves last week as it looks like the Cardinals have finally found their closer! Salas has gotten the job done very well thus far, but he just doesn’t have that dominating stuff closers have. I don’t expect his save opportunities to go this easy all year.
Jason Heyward – Placed on the DL due to the same bum shoulder that was bothering him 2 weeks ago. Hopefully this stint isn’t any longer than 15 days. The injury doesn’t sound too serious.
Chase Utley – Will be activated from the DL on Monday. The day ALL Utley owners have been waiting for has finally arrived! He’s a must start immediately!
Edinson Volquez – 2.2 IP, 6 ER and 11 baser runners. That first inning continues to kill Volquez, he should not be owned in any mixed leagues and shouldn’t be started in NL only until he figures his stuff out.
Andre Ethier – Left with injuries to his right elbow and left big toe. He is listed as day to day.
James Shields – dominant in yet another start, with 13 K’s and is now 2nd in the league in strikeouts. He didn’t start this well last year, but be weary of the wheels coming off at some point this year.
Matt Holliday – Hurt his quad over the weekend and is not expected to play Monday like originally expected. The Cards continue to say this is a day to day thing, but don’t be surprised if Holliday goes on the DL at some point this week.
Nelson Cruz and Josh Hamilton – Both are expected to be activated from the DL Monday, and both are must starts immediately!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
WEEKEND NEWS!!!!!!!!
Everyone,
This will be the last blog post for the week, the next post will be on Monday morning. I will be attending the Cubs/Red Sox game in Boston and will be heading out tomorrow morning. I will continue to try to answer as many twitter comments as possible, please dont be offended if one of your questions does not get answered.
New Segment
I would like to add a new weekly column called "The Mailbag". I know, how clever of me! What I would like is for you guys to start emailing me random fantasy questions, whether it be about fantasy players or strategies. I will most likely not be able to answer all your questions, but will do my best to answer over half of them. Once again, please do not be offended if your question is not answered, simply try again next week.
I think the Mailbag will be very helpful for a lot of my followers, and can always go back and reference the mailbag questions.
Please start emailing questions today and everyday to diamonddocexperts@gmail.com
Player Analysis
Eventually I will be adding in depth player analysis on players whose stats might not be as obvious to some. I am not sure as to when this will start, it could be middle of the season, it could be the end of it. The blog is a little over a month old and still getting its stuff together.
BUY/SELL
As most of you saw last Friday, I started a new buy/sell column that will become a weekly staple as well every Thursday or Friday. I will give you the players you should buy and players you should sell with a small explanation as to why you should sell or buy.
This will be the last blog post for the week, the next post will be on Monday morning. I will be attending the Cubs/Red Sox game in Boston and will be heading out tomorrow morning. I will continue to try to answer as many twitter comments as possible, please dont be offended if one of your questions does not get answered.
New Segment
I would like to add a new weekly column called "The Mailbag". I know, how clever of me! What I would like is for you guys to start emailing me random fantasy questions, whether it be about fantasy players or strategies. I will most likely not be able to answer all your questions, but will do my best to answer over half of them. Once again, please do not be offended if your question is not answered, simply try again next week.
I think the Mailbag will be very helpful for a lot of my followers, and can always go back and reference the mailbag questions.
Please start emailing questions today and everyday to diamonddocexperts@gmail.com
Player Analysis
Eventually I will be adding in depth player analysis on players whose stats might not be as obvious to some. I am not sure as to when this will start, it could be middle of the season, it could be the end of it. The blog is a little over a month old and still getting its stuff together.
BUY/SELL
As most of you saw last Friday, I started a new buy/sell column that will become a weekly staple as well every Thursday or Friday. I will give you the players you should buy and players you should sell with a small explanation as to why you should sell or buy.
WEDNESDAY A-BOMBS!!!!!!
Alex Rodriguez – 2 for 4 with 2 home runs on Tuesday. Arod hasn’t exactly put up the numbers fantasy owners were looking for but hes been far from a disappointment. I think its safe to say that Arod is now over his oblique injury.
Dice K – Place on the disable list with a sprained right elbow. The results of the MRI have not been made public yet. Alfredo Aceves will take Dice K’s spot in the rotation.
David Wright – Placed on the DL retroactive to May 16th with a stress fracture in his lower back. The Mets seem to be downplaying Wrights injury, expecting him to not miss much time. I think Wright is going to be out longer than expected.
Andrew Cashner – Out past the all-star break as he tweaked his problematic shoulder again. The good news is there was no structural damage and no surgery is needed.
Julio Teheran –Teheran will take the place of injured starter Brandon Beachy and start on Wednesday. I don’t believe Teheran is worth an add in mixed leagues. Teheran is expected to be demoted back to AAA after his start.
Colby Rasmus – After being cleared to return on Monday, Rasmus was sitting out for the third straight say. St. Louis says this was just precautionary and wanted to give him an extra days rest.
Randy Wells – Could rejoin the Cubs rotation during the team’s next home stand. Wells should be added immediately upon his return.
Peter Bourjos – 0 for his last 17 and hasn’t stolen a base since May 2nd. You have the all clear to cut Bourjos from all mixed league rosters. Bourjos value is tied be his speed, until he starts stealing bases he has no value.
Carlos Pena – hit a 3 run home run on his 33rd birthday. That is now his 5th home run in the month of May. Pena is a must start in all leagues until he cools off.
Ryan Braun – 1 for 3 with a walk and stolen bases. The stolen base was Brauns 8th of the season, braun is well on his way to putting him his superstar numbers of 2009 (.320/32/114/20)
Ubaldo Jimenez – 7 IP, 3 ER, 7 K’s. It’s nice to see Ubaldo pitch well, even if it was against a weaker offense. Ubaldos biggest problems this year has been walks and he only walked one on the day. If Ubaldo can keep his walks down, he will start seeing some success.
Josh Johnson – MRI came back negative and his hoping to make his next start.
Dice K – Place on the disable list with a sprained right elbow. The results of the MRI have not been made public yet. Alfredo Aceves will take Dice K’s spot in the rotation.
David Wright – Placed on the DL retroactive to May 16th with a stress fracture in his lower back. The Mets seem to be downplaying Wrights injury, expecting him to not miss much time. I think Wright is going to be out longer than expected.
Andrew Cashner – Out past the all-star break as he tweaked his problematic shoulder again. The good news is there was no structural damage and no surgery is needed.
Julio Teheran –Teheran will take the place of injured starter Brandon Beachy and start on Wednesday. I don’t believe Teheran is worth an add in mixed leagues. Teheran is expected to be demoted back to AAA after his start.
Colby Rasmus – After being cleared to return on Monday, Rasmus was sitting out for the third straight say. St. Louis says this was just precautionary and wanted to give him an extra days rest.
Randy Wells – Could rejoin the Cubs rotation during the team’s next home stand. Wells should be added immediately upon his return.
Peter Bourjos – 0 for his last 17 and hasn’t stolen a base since May 2nd. You have the all clear to cut Bourjos from all mixed league rosters. Bourjos value is tied be his speed, until he starts stealing bases he has no value.
Carlos Pena – hit a 3 run home run on his 33rd birthday. That is now his 5th home run in the month of May. Pena is a must start in all leagues until he cools off.
Ryan Braun – 1 for 3 with a walk and stolen bases. The stolen base was Brauns 8th of the season, braun is well on his way to putting him his superstar numbers of 2009 (.320/32/114/20)
Ubaldo Jimenez – 7 IP, 3 ER, 7 K’s. It’s nice to see Ubaldo pitch well, even if it was against a weaker offense. Ubaldos biggest problems this year has been walks and he only walked one on the day. If Ubaldo can keep his walks down, he will start seeing some success.
Josh Johnson – MRI came back negative and his hoping to make his next start.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
TUESDAY ROUNDUP!!!
Albert Pujols – started at 3b yesterday and now has 2 games played at 3b. Come one Larussa, play him at 3b more often, fantasy owners would LOVE 3b eligibility from him.
Andrew Cashner – Felt shoulder tightness right before he was going to pitch his extended spring training game. My guess is we don’t see Cashner until September if at all this season.
Derrek Lee – Diagnosed with a strain oblique. No word on if he will hit the DL or not.
John Lackey – placed on 15 day DL with elbow problems. If you still had him on your team in mixed leagues, your team must really be bad. On a side note, Red Sox fans rejoice!
Curtis Granderson – Yup, you guessed it he hit another home run, his 14th of the year. Granderson has been a real nice surprise for fantasy owners this year.
Adam Lind – Goes on the DL after all, stash him on the DL hoping for a quick return. This injury is retroactive and will allow him to be eligible to come off next week.
Josh Johnson – left his start after taking a line drive off the forearm. Lets hope, for fantasy owners sakes, that he just misses a start and doesn’t need a DL stint.
Jhonny Peralta – hit his 6th home run of the season. Peralta is slowly becoming a very valuable fantasy player this year at the SS position.
Chase Utley – Went 1 for 4 in his rehab start and played the complete game. Ruben Amaro Jr said that Utleys return is not imminent. Sorry for the bad news fantasy owners.
David Wright – Has a stress fracture in his back, but won’t go on the disable list until he gets a second opinion. Jeff Goldstein (back doctor) says this could become a chronic condition.
Max Scherzer – 7 IP 0 ER with 2 K’s as he takes a no decision. Scherzer has been pitching well lately, but hasn’t been getting the K’s fantasy owners want his last 2 outings. Continue to roll him out there with confidence.
Carlos Pena – 2 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBI. Pena continues to heat up in a big way and has now hit 4 home runs in the month of May in 42 at bats.
Carlos Gonzalez – Hit a 3 run home run off of Lincecum in a Rockies 7-4 win Monday. The home run was CarGos fourth home run of the month. Hopefully he continues to improve.
Michael Brantley – 2 for 4 with a home run and 4 RBI as he fills in for the newly disabled Grady Sizemore. Brantley is worth a look while Sizemore is out.
Edwin Jackson – 5.1 IP 11 H 4 ER 6 K in a White Sox loss. Jackson is extremely inconsistent, and is borderline droppable in deep leagues.
Colby Lewis – Threw his first career shutout against a struggling White Sox team. Lewis has been superb lately, lowering his 6.95 WRA all the way down to 3.81
Andrew Cashner – Felt shoulder tightness right before he was going to pitch his extended spring training game. My guess is we don’t see Cashner until September if at all this season.
Derrek Lee – Diagnosed with a strain oblique. No word on if he will hit the DL or not.
John Lackey – placed on 15 day DL with elbow problems. If you still had him on your team in mixed leagues, your team must really be bad. On a side note, Red Sox fans rejoice!
Curtis Granderson – Yup, you guessed it he hit another home run, his 14th of the year. Granderson has been a real nice surprise for fantasy owners this year.
Adam Lind – Goes on the DL after all, stash him on the DL hoping for a quick return. This injury is retroactive and will allow him to be eligible to come off next week.
Josh Johnson – left his start after taking a line drive off the forearm. Lets hope, for fantasy owners sakes, that he just misses a start and doesn’t need a DL stint.
Jhonny Peralta – hit his 6th home run of the season. Peralta is slowly becoming a very valuable fantasy player this year at the SS position.
Chase Utley – Went 1 for 4 in his rehab start and played the complete game. Ruben Amaro Jr said that Utleys return is not imminent. Sorry for the bad news fantasy owners.
David Wright – Has a stress fracture in his back, but won’t go on the disable list until he gets a second opinion. Jeff Goldstein (back doctor) says this could become a chronic condition.
Max Scherzer – 7 IP 0 ER with 2 K’s as he takes a no decision. Scherzer has been pitching well lately, but hasn’t been getting the K’s fantasy owners want his last 2 outings. Continue to roll him out there with confidence.
Carlos Pena – 2 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBI. Pena continues to heat up in a big way and has now hit 4 home runs in the month of May in 42 at bats.
Carlos Gonzalez – Hit a 3 run home run off of Lincecum in a Rockies 7-4 win Monday. The home run was CarGos fourth home run of the month. Hopefully he continues to improve.
Michael Brantley – 2 for 4 with a home run and 4 RBI as he fills in for the newly disabled Grady Sizemore. Brantley is worth a look while Sizemore is out.
Edwin Jackson – 5.1 IP 11 H 4 ER 6 K in a White Sox loss. Jackson is extremely inconsistent, and is borderline droppable in deep leagues.
Colby Lewis – Threw his first career shutout against a struggling White Sox team. Lewis has been superb lately, lowering his 6.95 WRA all the way down to 3.81
Monday, May 16, 2011
BAUTISTA, BOY WONDER!
Jose Bautista – Hit 5 home runs over the weekend. I said early on in the year I thought this guy was a one year wonder. Guess I was wrong! Bautista continues to hit home runs and get on base at an absurd rate.
Brandon League – Has now blown his 3rd straight save. League was backed by his manager Eric Wednesday on Saturday and will remain the closer for the foreseeable future.
Julio Borbon – Borbon was placed on the 15 day DL with left hamstring inflammation. Texas OF’s are dropping like flies!
Eduardo Sanchez – Blows his first save of the season and loses his closing role! Duncan states ineffectiveness and decline in velocity as reasons for his demotion.
Josh Collmenter – another scoreless outing for Collmenter, I suggest keeping an eye on him but our expectations should be kept in check, he had a career 3.50 ERA in the minors.
Chipper Jones – Has a small miniscus tear and will miss a few games. Yup, thats the Chipper we all expected to see this season.
Javier Vazquez - Don’t even need to go over this guys stats, just dump him.
Mat Latos – 5.2 IP 2 R 1 ER 5 K’s with a win breaking his 10 game losing streak. Even though Latos got the win Sunday, he was still uninspiring. I still wouldn’t touch this guy unless he was on your waiver wire.
Nelson Cruz – Rain the bases on Sunday and said his strained quad felt good. He is expected to get 20 at bats and then be activated on Friday.
Mike Stanton – 2 doubles while picking up his 18th RBI on Sunday raising his average to .246 on the year. Stanton is starting to heat up. If there are any disgruntled fantasy owners with Stanton, I would swoop in with an offer.
Chris Carpenter – 6.1 9 H 7 ER 5 K in a loss. Carpenter is really struggling as of late, Don t look too much into this, just don’t expect a pitcher with a sub 3 ERA.
Colby Rasmus – Has a pain in his right rib cage and will be examined on Monday in St. Louis.
Jason Heyward – Expected to return on Tuesday now.
Dominic Brown – Still cannot swing a bat and will now undergo an MRI on his thumb. Brown just simply cannot stay healthy.
Roy Oswalt – Oswalt will be activated on Tuesday and draw the start against St. Louis. I might wait a game or 2 before starting him.
Brandon League – Has now blown his 3rd straight save. League was backed by his manager Eric Wednesday on Saturday and will remain the closer for the foreseeable future.
Julio Borbon – Borbon was placed on the 15 day DL with left hamstring inflammation. Texas OF’s are dropping like flies!
Eduardo Sanchez – Blows his first save of the season and loses his closing role! Duncan states ineffectiveness and decline in velocity as reasons for his demotion.
Josh Collmenter – another scoreless outing for Collmenter, I suggest keeping an eye on him but our expectations should be kept in check, he had a career 3.50 ERA in the minors.
Chipper Jones – Has a small miniscus tear and will miss a few games. Yup, thats the Chipper we all expected to see this season.
Javier Vazquez - Don’t even need to go over this guys stats, just dump him.
Mat Latos – 5.2 IP 2 R 1 ER 5 K’s with a win breaking his 10 game losing streak. Even though Latos got the win Sunday, he was still uninspiring. I still wouldn’t touch this guy unless he was on your waiver wire.
Nelson Cruz – Rain the bases on Sunday and said his strained quad felt good. He is expected to get 20 at bats and then be activated on Friday.
Mike Stanton – 2 doubles while picking up his 18th RBI on Sunday raising his average to .246 on the year. Stanton is starting to heat up. If there are any disgruntled fantasy owners with Stanton, I would swoop in with an offer.
Chris Carpenter – 6.1 9 H 7 ER 5 K in a loss. Carpenter is really struggling as of late, Don t look too much into this, just don’t expect a pitcher with a sub 3 ERA.
Colby Rasmus – Has a pain in his right rib cage and will be examined on Monday in St. Louis.
Jason Heyward – Expected to return on Tuesday now.
Dominic Brown – Still cannot swing a bat and will now undergo an MRI on his thumb. Brown just simply cannot stay healthy.
Roy Oswalt – Oswalt will be activated on Tuesday and draw the start against St. Louis. I might wait a game or 2 before starting him.
Friday, May 13, 2011
BUY/SELL
Sell High
Matt Joyce - Hit BABIP is through the roof, he should come back down to earth soon. I would try to pawn him off for whatever valuable piece you can get.
Alex Gordon - Really struggling lately, but still providing decent stats at the 3B position. Gordon isnt going to finish the season hitting .300 but .280 isnt outta the question. He will be a solid fantasy 3B option all year but his value is at an all time high.
Lance Berkman - The slide appears to be beginning, dont sell him for pennis on the dollar but try to get something of real value. Trust me, someone will buy on Berkmans hot start.
James Shields - Last year he started hot as well. This year, hes SMOAKING hot. Last year, he dropped off hard in the 2nd half of the season. My prediction: He falls off, just not as hard.
Buy Low
Starlin Castro - Was struggling, seems to be coming along lately, could find some unhappy owners. hes clearly not as bad as hes playing.
Yovani Gallardo - Coming off a great start, but still struggling on the year. There are a lot of upset owners out there who own him.
Adam Dunn - Everyday I get questions asking if Dunn should be dropped. Instead of dropping him, you should be trying to trade for him. He's still going to hit 40 Home Runs
Hanley Ramirez - The only season Ramirez didnt hit .300 was his first full season, wanna know what he hit that season? .292!
Matt Garza - his xFIP is 2.03, hes been very unlucky thus far and still one of the league leaders in K's. Jump all over him if you can.
Matt Joyce - Hit BABIP is through the roof, he should come back down to earth soon. I would try to pawn him off for whatever valuable piece you can get.
Alex Gordon - Really struggling lately, but still providing decent stats at the 3B position. Gordon isnt going to finish the season hitting .300 but .280 isnt outta the question. He will be a solid fantasy 3B option all year but his value is at an all time high.
Lance Berkman - The slide appears to be beginning, dont sell him for pennis on the dollar but try to get something of real value. Trust me, someone will buy on Berkmans hot start.
James Shields - Last year he started hot as well. This year, hes SMOAKING hot. Last year, he dropped off hard in the 2nd half of the season. My prediction: He falls off, just not as hard.
Buy Low
Starlin Castro - Was struggling, seems to be coming along lately, could find some unhappy owners. hes clearly not as bad as hes playing.
Yovani Gallardo - Coming off a great start, but still struggling on the year. There are a lot of upset owners out there who own him.
Adam Dunn - Everyday I get questions asking if Dunn should be dropped. Instead of dropping him, you should be trying to trade for him. He's still going to hit 40 Home Runs
Hanley Ramirez - The only season Ramirez didnt hit .300 was his first full season, wanna know what he hit that season? .292!
Matt Garza - his xFIP is 2.03, hes been very unlucky thus far and still one of the league leaders in K's. Jump all over him if you can.
HOSMER TEES OFF!
Eric Hosmer – 3 for 5 with a homer as the 21 year old is starting to pick it up. Hes worth owning while hot, but you need to limit your expectations for Hosmer this year, I wouldn’t expect more than 15-17 homers from him.
Dallas Braden – has a torn capsule in his shoulder that will be repaired next Monday. Braden is most likely done for the season, but a clear time table wont be set until the surgery is complete.
Carlos Beltran – Hit 3 two run homers Thursday afternoon is a Mets 9-5 win. Now would be an excellent time to sell high on him.
Jason Heyward – Heywards MRI only should right shoulder inflammation. Heyward was given a cortisone shot and will sit the next few games.
Rafael Furcal – Expected to begin a AAA rehab assignment Saturday. To give his broken left thumb some more time to heal, he will only bat left handed.
Ubaldo Jimenez – 3.2 IP 5 R 6 BB in yet another miserable outing. One has to think Ubaldo is hurting and not saying anything, he was not even close to the strike zone today. If you own him, I truly believe you have to start him.
Roy Oswalt – Pitched 7 innings of 3 run ball in his first rehab stint. After his start catcher Carlos Ruiz told reporters that Oswalt had no life on his fastball. Reports said that Oswalts fastball was 4 MPH under his normal velocity. Continue to monitor this situation closely, I wouldn’t expect him activated for his start Tuesday.
Jordan Zimmerman – 6.1 IP 5 H 3 ER 11 K as his bullpen blows him a win. The 11K’s were a career high for Zimmerman. It was really nice to see Zimmerman starting K’ing some guys, without his K’s he becomes less valuable.
There are some posts missing and I am trying to figure out why they are missing. I am very sorry for this as Blogger is having issues.
Dallas Braden – has a torn capsule in his shoulder that will be repaired next Monday. Braden is most likely done for the season, but a clear time table wont be set until the surgery is complete.
Carlos Beltran – Hit 3 two run homers Thursday afternoon is a Mets 9-5 win. Now would be an excellent time to sell high on him.
Jason Heyward – Heywards MRI only should right shoulder inflammation. Heyward was given a cortisone shot and will sit the next few games.
Rafael Furcal – Expected to begin a AAA rehab assignment Saturday. To give his broken left thumb some more time to heal, he will only bat left handed.
Ubaldo Jimenez – 3.2 IP 5 R 6 BB in yet another miserable outing. One has to think Ubaldo is hurting and not saying anything, he was not even close to the strike zone today. If you own him, I truly believe you have to start him.
Roy Oswalt – Pitched 7 innings of 3 run ball in his first rehab stint. After his start catcher Carlos Ruiz told reporters that Oswalt had no life on his fastball. Reports said that Oswalts fastball was 4 MPH under his normal velocity. Continue to monitor this situation closely, I wouldn’t expect him activated for his start Tuesday.
Jordan Zimmerman – 6.1 IP 5 H 3 ER 11 K as his bullpen blows him a win. The 11K’s were a career high for Zimmerman. It was really nice to see Zimmerman starting K’ing some guys, without his K’s he becomes less valuable.
There are some posts missing and I am trying to figure out why they are missing. I am very sorry for this as Blogger is having issues.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Welcome Back, Starlin!
Starlin Castro – 4 for 4 Wednesday night with a triple and 3 RBIs. Castro has been struggling mightily as of late, hopefully this is a step to getting back on track.
Eric Hosmer – Hit his first career major league home run Wednesday. If the Royals decide to keep him in the 3 hole, he could provide some added value for fantasy owners.
Curtis Granderson – hit his Major League leading 12th home run last night. Yup, as I said last week, bounce back year!
Kendrys Morales – Will have more surgery on his left ankle and will miss the remainder of the 2011 season. A few weeks ago I asked if anyone actually thought he was going to come back this year. Remember my answer? Yup! I said nope!
Logan Morrison – Coming off the DL Friday, big fan of Morrison, insert back into lineups immediately.
Hanley Ramirez – 2 for 4 with his second home run of the season. I know Hanley owners are going crazy with him, but continue to be patient, he will come around.
John Lackey – 6.2 IP 9 R as he continues to pitch horribly. Hes not worth owning in any leagues, abandon ship.
Grady Sizemore – Had an MRI on his knee Wednesday, results of the MRI came back negative. Consider him day to day.
Adam Lind – Apparently Lind will not be heading to the DL and will return Friday.
Jason Heyward – Fredi Gonzalez hopes to have him back by the weekend. Fredi better have him back by the weekend for fantasy squads!
Jorge Posada – 2 for 3 Wednesday as he raises his average to .162 on the year. This is Posadas 3rd multi hit game in his last 9, could be the start of something.
Adam Dunn – 4 for 5 with home run and double raising his average to .215 on the year. I don’t understand why I’m getting so many messages asking if Dunn should be dropped. Trust me, Dunn should not be dropped.
Jake Peavy – 6 IP 4 ER in his season debut against the Angels. Rather pedestrian start against a weak Angels offense. I wouldn’t start him in his next start, let him work the rust off (if he’s not hurt before then).
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
INJURY PLAGUED WEDNESDAY ROUNDUP!
Geovany Soto – Left Mondays game in the first inning with a sore groin. Groin injuries are one of the worst injuries a catcher can get. Wellington Castillo was pulled from his minor league game early, cant be a good sign. Castillo becomes a must add for Soto owners if he hits the DL
David Aardsma – 2nd degree sprain of his UCL. See ya next year, Aardsma
Carlos Pena – 2 for 3 with an RBI and a walk. Its nice to see Pena heating up, lets hope the home runs start coming in bunches.
Francisco Liriano – Left his start Tuesday after 3 innings due to illness. Liriano was supposed to start yesterday but had it pushed back due to a sore throat. Don’t look too much into this, I’m sure it’s not an injury.
Ike Davis – Left in the 4th innings after straining his calf in the 3rd. Davis had a 2 run single before exiting the game.
Travis Snider – Will not be called up when Lind goes on the DL. Its probably a good idea as Snider was simply horrible in his first go around this season.
Drew Storen – recorded his 8th save on the year. I think its safe to say that he is the Nationals primary closer now.
Jason Heyward – Heyward will have an MRI on his right shoulder Wednesday. Heyward said that it has been bothering him since spring training and it got worse Tuesday. This could be the reason for his struggles early on.
Ted Lilly – Picked up his 3rd win of the season after pitching 6 innings of 2 run ball. Lilly has been up and down this year, but when it’s all said and done, he should be a very solid fantasy starter this year.
Matt Joyce - 2 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBI. The dude just keeps hitting, ride him while he's hot.
Homer Bailey - Another solid start from Bailey last night pitching 7 shut out innings. I wish all my fantasy pitchers could face the Astros every time out. Bailey is not this good.
David Aardsma – 2nd degree sprain of his UCL. See ya next year, Aardsma
Carlos Pena – 2 for 3 with an RBI and a walk. Its nice to see Pena heating up, lets hope the home runs start coming in bunches.
Francisco Liriano – Left his start Tuesday after 3 innings due to illness. Liriano was supposed to start yesterday but had it pushed back due to a sore throat. Don’t look too much into this, I’m sure it’s not an injury.
Ike Davis – Left in the 4th innings after straining his calf in the 3rd. Davis had a 2 run single before exiting the game.
Travis Snider – Will not be called up when Lind goes on the DL. Its probably a good idea as Snider was simply horrible in his first go around this season.
Drew Storen – recorded his 8th save on the year. I think its safe to say that he is the Nationals primary closer now.
Jason Heyward – Heyward will have an MRI on his right shoulder Wednesday. Heyward said that it has been bothering him since spring training and it got worse Tuesday. This could be the reason for his struggles early on.
Ted Lilly – Picked up his 3rd win of the season after pitching 6 innings of 2 run ball. Lilly has been up and down this year, but when it’s all said and done, he should be a very solid fantasy starter this year.
Matt Joyce - 2 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBI. The dude just keeps hitting, ride him while he's hot.
Homer Bailey - Another solid start from Bailey last night pitching 7 shut out innings. I wish all my fantasy pitchers could face the Astros every time out. Bailey is not this good.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
TUESDAY ROUNDUP
Chris Young – Has torn capsule in his shoulder, most likely done for the year.
Roy Oswalt – Expected to make a rehab start Thursday and then be ready to start next Tuesday against the Cardinlas
Pedro Alvarez – 0 for 3 with a walk in his return to the lineup. I guess the time off didn’t do much for him. I would continue to sit him until he comes around…. I still believe he comes around.
Luke Scott – Has a torn labrum in his right shoulder. This shouldn’t affect his hitting, I only view Scott as a player that should be owned while hot. He is a very streaky player who hits home runs in bunches.
Milton Bradley – Designated for free agency, and all I have to say is it’s about time. Milton has not been fantasy relevant for at least the last 3 years.
Vicente Padilla – Mattingley said that Padilla could remain the closer after Broxton returns from the DL. I don’t expect Padilla to excel in his newly appointed closers role, take this news lightly.
Jake Peavy – Will be activated to start Wednesday game against the Angels. If he’s out there on your FA wire, I would pick him up in hopes you catch lightning in a bottle but I wouldn’t expect much from him.
Javier Vazquez – Vazquez was shelled yet again Monday night allowing 6 runs, 5 earned. Vazquez is no longer an option in any league, feel free to cut bait.
Zack Greinke – 6 IP 5 H 2 ER 9 K in a victory over the Padres. His weak debut shouldn’t have been a concern for fantasy owners, he was just shaking off some rust!
Vernon Wells – Goes to the DL with a right groin strain. While Wells has heated up as of late, he still wasn’t much of a fantasy option, however he is worth stashing on the DL.
Roy Oswalt – Expected to make a rehab start Thursday and then be ready to start next Tuesday against the Cardinlas
Pedro Alvarez – 0 for 3 with a walk in his return to the lineup. I guess the time off didn’t do much for him. I would continue to sit him until he comes around…. I still believe he comes around.
Luke Scott – Has a torn labrum in his right shoulder. This shouldn’t affect his hitting, I only view Scott as a player that should be owned while hot. He is a very streaky player who hits home runs in bunches.
Milton Bradley – Designated for free agency, and all I have to say is it’s about time. Milton has not been fantasy relevant for at least the last 3 years.
Vicente Padilla – Mattingley said that Padilla could remain the closer after Broxton returns from the DL. I don’t expect Padilla to excel in his newly appointed closers role, take this news lightly.
Jake Peavy – Will be activated to start Wednesday game against the Angels. If he’s out there on your FA wire, I would pick him up in hopes you catch lightning in a bottle but I wouldn’t expect much from him.
Javier Vazquez – Vazquez was shelled yet again Monday night allowing 6 runs, 5 earned. Vazquez is no longer an option in any league, feel free to cut bait.
Zack Greinke – 6 IP 5 H 2 ER 9 K in a victory over the Padres. His weak debut shouldn’t have been a concern for fantasy owners, he was just shaking off some rust!
Vernon Wells – Goes to the DL with a right groin strain. While Wells has heated up as of late, he still wasn’t much of a fantasy option, however he is worth stashing on the DL.
Monday, May 9, 2011
MONDAY ROUNDUP
Chris Young – Hits the disabled list for the second time this year. I would expect a lot more of these in the future. If you have room to store him, store him if not cut him loose.
Pedro Alvarez – Will not need a trip to the DL. I’m not sure if this is good or bad news for fantasy owners. Look for him to be back somewhere by the middle of the week.
Chase Utley – 5 for 7 with 2 homer runs in an extended spring training game. A step in the right direction for Chase.
Jared Weaver – Suffered his second straight loss over the weekend by going 6 innings, giving up 4 runs and striking out NONE. Weaver was due a few bad starts, don’t worry.
Daniel Hudson – 7 IP 0 ER 6 K’s as he picks up his third win of the year. Hudson was brilliant on the night giving up 5 hits and walking none and has now had 3 straight quality starts. Hudson should be inserted back into fantasy lineups.
Chris Davis – With Nelson Cruz now on the DL, Davis should see increased playing time. He is worth a look in very shallow leagues.
Anibal Sanchez – 7 IP 2 H 0 ER and 11 K and carried a no hitter into the 7th inning. Anibal is a great SP 3, but don’t start thinking hes anything more than that.
Johnny Cueto – 6 IP 0 ER 4 K in his 2011 debut. I couldn’t tell if Cuteo was just that good Sunday or the Cubs offense was just that bad.
Derek Jeter – 4 for 6 2 homers and 3 RBI on Sunday. A fine day for the old man, I am still not buying that he is back.
Eric Hosmer – Collected his first double and RBI in a loss to the A’s on Sunday. Hosmer isn’t worth owning right now in 5x5 leagues, he has shown patience thus far making him valuable in base on ball leagues.
BJ Upton – 7 for 14 with 8 RBI in a 3 game series against Baltimore. Upton has been a disappointment for the better part of 2 years but continues to show us the potential he has.
Erik Bedard – 5 IP 2 R 1 ER 9 K’s. If Bedard is a FA in your league, pick him up now!
Pedro Alvarez – Will not need a trip to the DL. I’m not sure if this is good or bad news for fantasy owners. Look for him to be back somewhere by the middle of the week.
Chase Utley – 5 for 7 with 2 homer runs in an extended spring training game. A step in the right direction for Chase.
Jared Weaver – Suffered his second straight loss over the weekend by going 6 innings, giving up 4 runs and striking out NONE. Weaver was due a few bad starts, don’t worry.
Daniel Hudson – 7 IP 0 ER 6 K’s as he picks up his third win of the year. Hudson was brilliant on the night giving up 5 hits and walking none and has now had 3 straight quality starts. Hudson should be inserted back into fantasy lineups.
Chris Davis – With Nelson Cruz now on the DL, Davis should see increased playing time. He is worth a look in very shallow leagues.
Anibal Sanchez – 7 IP 2 H 0 ER and 11 K and carried a no hitter into the 7th inning. Anibal is a great SP 3, but don’t start thinking hes anything more than that.
Johnny Cueto – 6 IP 0 ER 4 K in his 2011 debut. I couldn’t tell if Cuteo was just that good Sunday or the Cubs offense was just that bad.
Derek Jeter – 4 for 6 2 homers and 3 RBI on Sunday. A fine day for the old man, I am still not buying that he is back.
Eric Hosmer – Collected his first double and RBI in a loss to the A’s on Sunday. Hosmer isn’t worth owning right now in 5x5 leagues, he has shown patience thus far making him valuable in base on ball leagues.
BJ Upton – 7 for 14 with 8 RBI in a 3 game series against Baltimore. Upton has been a disappointment for the better part of 2 years but continues to show us the potential he has.
Erik Bedard – 5 IP 2 R 1 ER 9 K’s. If Bedard is a FA in your league, pick him up now!
Friday, May 6, 2011
FRIDAY ROUNDUP
Homer Bailey – 6 IP 4 H 1 ER 7 K’s in his first start of the season. Bailey was lucky he was facing Houston, anyone else and I don’t think his first start would have gone so well.
Eric Hosmer – Promoted by the Royals Thursday night. He’s worth a pickup in deep and keeper leagues.
Mark Melancon – New Astros closer with Lyon going down with a torn rotator cuff. If you need a closer, he’s worth a pickup in all leagues.
Eric Chavez – Broke his foot while filling in for Alex Rodriguez. He is expected to be out over a month, If you had him on your team to begin with you were in big trouble.
Albert Pujols – 3 for 3 on the day as he raises his batting average to .252. I know this isn’t what you expect out of Pujols so far, but be patient he will come through in the end.
Peter Bourjous – 3 for 4 on the day with no stolen bases. I love Bourjous, but where have the stolen bases been?
Eduardo Sanchez – Got his 3rd save on the year, and appears to be the Cards new closer. Must add in all leagues.
Chase Utley – Utley owners are now about to get some good news, Chase is heading to extended spring training. The bad news, there’s no real time table for his return; they are aiming for end of May.
Jake Peavy – Allowed 5 runs in 7 innings for AAA Charlotte. I wouldn’t touch his guy in anything but EXTREMELY deep leagues. He is expected to be activated next week.
Nyjer Morgan – Breaks finger on an attempted bunt. I thought Nyjer was supposed to be good at these types of things? Anyway, he’s out 2 to 4 weeks and is not worth stashing on your DL.
Eric Hosmer – Promoted by the Royals Thursday night. He’s worth a pickup in deep and keeper leagues.
Mark Melancon – New Astros closer with Lyon going down with a torn rotator cuff. If you need a closer, he’s worth a pickup in all leagues.
Eric Chavez – Broke his foot while filling in for Alex Rodriguez. He is expected to be out over a month, If you had him on your team to begin with you were in big trouble.
Albert Pujols – 3 for 3 on the day as he raises his batting average to .252. I know this isn’t what you expect out of Pujols so far, but be patient he will come through in the end.
Peter Bourjous – 3 for 4 on the day with no stolen bases. I love Bourjous, but where have the stolen bases been?
Eduardo Sanchez – Got his 3rd save on the year, and appears to be the Cards new closer. Must add in all leagues.
Chase Utley – Utley owners are now about to get some good news, Chase is heading to extended spring training. The bad news, there’s no real time table for his return; they are aiming for end of May.
Jake Peavy – Allowed 5 runs in 7 innings for AAA Charlotte. I wouldn’t touch his guy in anything but EXTREMELY deep leagues. He is expected to be activated next week.
Nyjer Morgan – Breaks finger on an attempted bunt. I thought Nyjer was supposed to be good at these types of things? Anyway, he’s out 2 to 4 weeks and is not worth stashing on your DL.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
THURSDAY ROUNDUP!
Max Scherzer – 8 IP 4 H 0 ER with 9 K’s and a win as he mows down a tough Yankees lineup. Yup, Scherzer has the potential to be this good.
Brandon Lyon – Blew yet another save on Wednesday and did not even record an out doing it. I think this is the end of the road for Lyon as closer. Look for Melancon or Fulchino to take over those duties.
Brandon Morrow – 6.1 IP 5 H 1 ER 7 K and earned the win on Wednesday. Morrow did end up walking 4 as well; until those walks diminish he will never be an SP 1 or have an ERA under 3.5
Ricky Romero – Strained his left oblique and will not start on Thursday. They’re calling this minor and are expecting him to return to the mound on Saturday.
Aaron Hill – On track to return this Sunday, don’t expect much upon his return.
Danny Espinosa – 1 for 4 with a 3 run home run and 2 runs. Espinosa has been slumping recently, but this could be the start of a good streak for him. Espinosa isn’t going to give you a great average, but will give you good power and a good amount of stolen bases, he should be owned in all deep leagues.
Aubrey Huff – 3 for 4 with a double in a victory over the Mets. The 3 hit games raised his average from .190 to .211 on the year. Let’s all pray this is the start of something.
Kevin Correia – 6 IP 2 ER 3 K’s with his 5th win of the year. Correia just gets it done so far, he should be owned in all deep leagues.
Evan Longoria – 1 for 2 yesterday and now 2 for 6 since returning. Don’t jump off the deep end fantasy baseball managers, lets him brush off some rust.
David Aardsma – Doesn’t expect to have his closers job back right away upon return. I don’t think he should ever expect it back. Its Leagues to lose.
Neftali Felix – Struck out 3 of the 4 batters he faced in a rehab appearance Wednesday. Feliz looks to return from the DL on Friday.
Jose Bautista – Jays are hopeful he will be back Sunday.
Michael Pineda – 7 IP 4 ER 9 K’s and his second loss of the year. You didn’t think it was going to be smooth sailing all year did you? I sure hope not.
Brandon Lyon – Blew yet another save on Wednesday and did not even record an out doing it. I think this is the end of the road for Lyon as closer. Look for Melancon or Fulchino to take over those duties.
Brandon Morrow – 6.1 IP 5 H 1 ER 7 K and earned the win on Wednesday. Morrow did end up walking 4 as well; until those walks diminish he will never be an SP 1 or have an ERA under 3.5
Ricky Romero – Strained his left oblique and will not start on Thursday. They’re calling this minor and are expecting him to return to the mound on Saturday.
Aaron Hill – On track to return this Sunday, don’t expect much upon his return.
Danny Espinosa – 1 for 4 with a 3 run home run and 2 runs. Espinosa has been slumping recently, but this could be the start of a good streak for him. Espinosa isn’t going to give you a great average, but will give you good power and a good amount of stolen bases, he should be owned in all deep leagues.
Aubrey Huff – 3 for 4 with a double in a victory over the Mets. The 3 hit games raised his average from .190 to .211 on the year. Let’s all pray this is the start of something.
Kevin Correia – 6 IP 2 ER 3 K’s with his 5th win of the year. Correia just gets it done so far, he should be owned in all deep leagues.
Evan Longoria – 1 for 2 yesterday and now 2 for 6 since returning. Don’t jump off the deep end fantasy baseball managers, lets him brush off some rust.
David Aardsma – Doesn’t expect to have his closers job back right away upon return. I don’t think he should ever expect it back. Its Leagues to lose.
Neftali Felix – Struck out 3 of the 4 batters he faced in a rehab appearance Wednesday. Feliz looks to return from the DL on Friday.
Jose Bautista – Jays are hopeful he will be back Sunday.
Michael Pineda – 7 IP 4 ER 9 K’s and his second loss of the year. You didn’t think it was going to be smooth sailing all year did you? I sure hope not.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
WEDNESDAY ROUNDUP
Brett Wallace – 2 for 5 with a home run and an RBI. The home run is his second of the year and he just continues to put multi-hit games together and bats .383 on the year.
Wade Davis – 6 IP 2 ER 2 K’s as his team bails him out from a loss by scoring 2 in the ninth. This is now 4 straight quality starts for Davis. Continue to play him with confidence.
Dan Haren – 7 IP 4 ER 8K as he takes his 2nd loss of the season. Scratch this one up to just good hitting by Boston.
John Lester – 7 IP 1 ER 11K and picks up the win. John Lester was straight dealing Tuesday and was nearly unhittable, can’t ask for a much better start.
Carl Crawford – 2 for 4 with a stolen base. Someone needs to tell Crawford to start getting it going because he’s killing most fantasy owners teams.
Adam Lind – 2 for 3 with an RBI. If Lind is on waivers, what are you waiting for? Pick him up!
Sam Fuld – 0 for 4 and his average plummets all the way down to .274 on the year. Poor Sam, but we all knew this day was coming. It’s time to say so long to Sam Fuld.
Jose Reyes – 3 for 3 with a stolen base as rumors swirl that he could be traded to the Giants. Since Reyes is a leadoff hitter, this shouldn’t affect his value much. If I had to see him lose value in a category, I’d say its runs.
Adrian Gonzalez – 2 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBI. The home run was only Gonzalez second of the year. Hopefully this will start a nice home run streak for the new Sawx player.
Jimmy Rollins – 2 for 4 with a triple, RBI and stolen base. If Rollins can stay healthy, we could see a nice bounce back season from him. That is a very big IF though.
Wilson Betemit – 2 for 4 on the day and is now batting .342 on the year. Betemit has a hit in almost every game this year. Pick him up and start him immediately.
Francisco Liriano – Lirianos first complete game of his career just happened to be a no hitter. Lirano wasn’t particularly sharp on the day issuing 6 walks. Any way you look at this, it’s a step in the right direction.
Matt Holliday – 2 for 3 with a home run and 2 RBI. Yup, definitely glad I drafted Nelson Cruz over Holliday.
Gaby Sanchez – 4 for 5 on Tuesday night and continues to get over looked by everyone including me. Gaby just silently produces for fantasy squads.
Hanley Ramirez – 1 for 4 with a stolen base on the night as he continues to struggle. Hang tight fantasy owners, he will come around.
David Aardsma – Shut down with forearm stiffness, I sure hope you didn’t get rid of League. Like I stated a few days ago, he will be the Mariners closer at the end of the year.
Scott Sizemore – 3 for 4 with a double on his first day back in the majors. As I said in my last post, think Placido Polanco with a little more power. Should be owned in all leagues due to the lack of 2B depth.
Wade Davis – 6 IP 2 ER 2 K’s as his team bails him out from a loss by scoring 2 in the ninth. This is now 4 straight quality starts for Davis. Continue to play him with confidence.
Dan Haren – 7 IP 4 ER 8K as he takes his 2nd loss of the season. Scratch this one up to just good hitting by Boston.
John Lester – 7 IP 1 ER 11K and picks up the win. John Lester was straight dealing Tuesday and was nearly unhittable, can’t ask for a much better start.
Carl Crawford – 2 for 4 with a stolen base. Someone needs to tell Crawford to start getting it going because he’s killing most fantasy owners teams.
Adam Lind – 2 for 3 with an RBI. If Lind is on waivers, what are you waiting for? Pick him up!
Sam Fuld – 0 for 4 and his average plummets all the way down to .274 on the year. Poor Sam, but we all knew this day was coming. It’s time to say so long to Sam Fuld.
Jose Reyes – 3 for 3 with a stolen base as rumors swirl that he could be traded to the Giants. Since Reyes is a leadoff hitter, this shouldn’t affect his value much. If I had to see him lose value in a category, I’d say its runs.
Adrian Gonzalez – 2 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBI. The home run was only Gonzalez second of the year. Hopefully this will start a nice home run streak for the new Sawx player.
Jimmy Rollins – 2 for 4 with a triple, RBI and stolen base. If Rollins can stay healthy, we could see a nice bounce back season from him. That is a very big IF though.
Wilson Betemit – 2 for 4 on the day and is now batting .342 on the year. Betemit has a hit in almost every game this year. Pick him up and start him immediately.
Francisco Liriano – Lirianos first complete game of his career just happened to be a no hitter. Lirano wasn’t particularly sharp on the day issuing 6 walks. Any way you look at this, it’s a step in the right direction.
Matt Holliday – 2 for 3 with a home run and 2 RBI. Yup, definitely glad I drafted Nelson Cruz over Holliday.
Gaby Sanchez – 4 for 5 on Tuesday night and continues to get over looked by everyone including me. Gaby just silently produces for fantasy squads.
Hanley Ramirez – 1 for 4 with a stolen base on the night as he continues to struggle. Hang tight fantasy owners, he will come around.
David Aardsma – Shut down with forearm stiffness, I sure hope you didn’t get rid of League. Like I stated a few days ago, he will be the Mariners closer at the end of the year.
Scott Sizemore – 3 for 4 with a double on his first day back in the majors. As I said in my last post, think Placido Polanco with a little more power. Should be owned in all leagues due to the lack of 2B depth.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
TUESDAY ROUNDUP
Jacoby Ellsbury – Left Monday’s game with a left knee contusion. Red Sox are calling him day to day.
Bartolo Colon – 7 IP, 3 ER 7 H. There’s no arguing Colon has been pitching well, the question is can he sustain it? Doubtful, but there’s no reason you can’t enjoy the ride while you can.
David Freese – expected to miss 9-12 weeks with his broken hand. It is now safe to drop him unless you have the room to store him on the DL.
Yovani Gallardo – 5 IP 9 H 5 ER and 7 K as he continues to pitch horribly. Gallardo struggled with his command issuing 4 walks on the night. I hate to say this, but it might be time to bench Gallardo until he gets his stuff figured out.
Brandon McCarthy – 6 IP 6 H 4 R 0 ER and caused issues for himself with 2 bad throws that lead to 4 unearned runs. Not a bad outing versus a very good hitting team, continue to roll McCarthy out there.
Mike Stanton – 3-5 with a triple and home run and now batting .263 on the year. Hopefully this is the spark Stanton needed to get going.
Kyle Lohse – 6 IP 5 ER 2 K’s raising his ERA to 2.44 on the year. We all knew his luck was bound to end at some point. Continue to pitch him until he proves otherwise.
Scott Sizemore – Recalled from AAA Toledo and will be the everyday starting second baseman for the Tigers. He should be owned in all league formats, think Placido Polanco with a little more pop when owning Sizemore.
Madison Bumgardner – 7 IP 0ER 7 K and has now turned in 3 straight quality starts. Bumgardner has pitched better than his 0-5 record suggests. I would still play matchups with Bumgardner until he strings together a few more quality starts.
Dallas Braden – Had a setback Monday while playing catch. Billy Beane described the throwing as “so-so to be kind” and that Braden is heading back to the doctor. I would cut bait on Braden, it doesn’t look like he is returning anytime soon.
Bartolo Colon – 7 IP, 3 ER 7 H. There’s no arguing Colon has been pitching well, the question is can he sustain it? Doubtful, but there’s no reason you can’t enjoy the ride while you can.
David Freese – expected to miss 9-12 weeks with his broken hand. It is now safe to drop him unless you have the room to store him on the DL.
Yovani Gallardo – 5 IP 9 H 5 ER and 7 K as he continues to pitch horribly. Gallardo struggled with his command issuing 4 walks on the night. I hate to say this, but it might be time to bench Gallardo until he gets his stuff figured out.
Brandon McCarthy – 6 IP 6 H 4 R 0 ER and caused issues for himself with 2 bad throws that lead to 4 unearned runs. Not a bad outing versus a very good hitting team, continue to roll McCarthy out there.
Mike Stanton – 3-5 with a triple and home run and now batting .263 on the year. Hopefully this is the spark Stanton needed to get going.
Kyle Lohse – 6 IP 5 ER 2 K’s raising his ERA to 2.44 on the year. We all knew his luck was bound to end at some point. Continue to pitch him until he proves otherwise.
Scott Sizemore – Recalled from AAA Toledo and will be the everyday starting second baseman for the Tigers. He should be owned in all league formats, think Placido Polanco with a little more pop when owning Sizemore.
Madison Bumgardner – 7 IP 0ER 7 K and has now turned in 3 straight quality starts. Bumgardner has pitched better than his 0-5 record suggests. I would still play matchups with Bumgardner until he strings together a few more quality starts.
Dallas Braden – Had a setback Monday while playing catch. Billy Beane described the throwing as “so-so to be kind” and that Braden is heading back to the doctor. I would cut bait on Braden, it doesn’t look like he is returning anytime soon.
Monday, May 2, 2011
MONDAYS ROUND UP!
Jose Tabata – Left Saturday’s game with a hamstring injury. Officials say he is day to day but may require a DL stint.
Carlos Pena – Mike Quade rested him the last 2 days for a “mental breather”, hopefully this gets him jump started. I still believe his lack of power is due to this thumb injury.
Brandon League – 7 for 7 in save opportunities this season, I foresee him staying as the closer, even when Aardsma comes back.
Kevin Youkilis – Left Saturdays game with a left hip injury. He’s going to give you solid numbers this year, but he will also give you nagging injuries all year.
Zack Greinke – Makes his debut Wednesday, should be installed into all lineups.
James Shields – 8 IP, 6H, 1ER and 12 K’s with a 2.14 ERA on the season. There’s no arguing Shields has been great to start the season but he was off to a quick start last year too. He Posted an April ERA of 3.38 and a May ERA of 3.80 before blowing up in July. Expectations should be limited.
Ryan Zimmerman – Abdomen surgery, out about 6 weeks. Thanks again, Ryan.
Pablo Sandoval – Fractured hamate bone in his hand, said to be out 4-6 weeks. I’d expect him out closer to 6.
Tsuyoshi Nishioka – Could become the Twins starting SS upon his return. His value would instantly rise as soon as he gets SS eligibility.
Jake McGee – Sent to AAA after struggling mightily early on in the year.
Carlos Gonzalez – Being dropped in the order because of his early season struggles. I hate to tell people I saw this type of season coming, but I’m going to anyway. I saw this season coming.
Brad Lidge – Says he’s hoping to come back in June. Will he be effective upon his return? Probably not!
Jon Rauch – John Farrell says there will be Dual closers but considers Rauch his main closer. We all know what this means… Its Rauchs job to lose!
Robinson Cano – Leaves game with a bruised hand. X-Rays have come back negative, he is listed as day to day.
Davis Freese – Broke a bone in his left hand on a pitch from Scott Linebrink. No word on how long he will be out.
Carlos Lee- 2-3, HR, 3 RBI before being carted off the field. Lee took some knees to the rib cage from shortstop Angel Sanchez. My guess is Lee ends up on the DL and is out a month. He shouldn’t have been rostered anyway, but if you still do, it’s safe to drop him now.
Hanley Ramirez – 1-5 with his first home run of the season. This is definitely a big step for Hanley in terms of confidence, hopefully this will carry over.
Carlos Pena – Mike Quade rested him the last 2 days for a “mental breather”, hopefully this gets him jump started. I still believe his lack of power is due to this thumb injury.
Brandon League – 7 for 7 in save opportunities this season, I foresee him staying as the closer, even when Aardsma comes back.
Kevin Youkilis – Left Saturdays game with a left hip injury. He’s going to give you solid numbers this year, but he will also give you nagging injuries all year.
Zack Greinke – Makes his debut Wednesday, should be installed into all lineups.
James Shields – 8 IP, 6H, 1ER and 12 K’s with a 2.14 ERA on the season. There’s no arguing Shields has been great to start the season but he was off to a quick start last year too. He Posted an April ERA of 3.38 and a May ERA of 3.80 before blowing up in July. Expectations should be limited.
Ryan Zimmerman – Abdomen surgery, out about 6 weeks. Thanks again, Ryan.
Pablo Sandoval – Fractured hamate bone in his hand, said to be out 4-6 weeks. I’d expect him out closer to 6.
Tsuyoshi Nishioka – Could become the Twins starting SS upon his return. His value would instantly rise as soon as he gets SS eligibility.
Jake McGee – Sent to AAA after struggling mightily early on in the year.
Carlos Gonzalez – Being dropped in the order because of his early season struggles. I hate to tell people I saw this type of season coming, but I’m going to anyway. I saw this season coming.
Brad Lidge – Says he’s hoping to come back in June. Will he be effective upon his return? Probably not!
Jon Rauch – John Farrell says there will be Dual closers but considers Rauch his main closer. We all know what this means… Its Rauchs job to lose!
Robinson Cano – Leaves game with a bruised hand. X-Rays have come back negative, he is listed as day to day.
Davis Freese – Broke a bone in his left hand on a pitch from Scott Linebrink. No word on how long he will be out.
Carlos Lee- 2-3, HR, 3 RBI before being carted off the field. Lee took some knees to the rib cage from shortstop Angel Sanchez. My guess is Lee ends up on the DL and is out a month. He shouldn’t have been rostered anyway, but if you still do, it’s safe to drop him now.
Hanley Ramirez – 1-5 with his first home run of the season. This is definitely a big step for Hanley in terms of confidence, hopefully this will carry over.
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