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Eliezer Alfonzo drove in the Padres only run on Wednesday, as the Friars got beat 7-1 by Houston.
Our View: It was Alfonzo's first RBI of the season. Even as the Padres starting catcher, he has no fantasy value. |
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Walter Silva was ineffective again on Wednesday, allowing six runs (only three earned) in just four innings of work as San Diego lost 7-1 to Houston.
Our View: Silva's awful start actually lowered his ERA to 8.82. Needless to say, he won't be given many more starts at this rate. |
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Josh Hamilton went 1-for-7 with a single and two strikeouts as a DH with Triple-A Oklahoma City in a rehab start tonight, according to the Associated Press. He is recovering from right abdominal surgery.
Our View: He will likely see action in the outfield with Oklahoma City Thursday, and potentially Friday as well. He remains hopeful of returning to the Rangers' lineup Saturday against the Rays. |
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Brian Moehler had his best outing since May 28 on Wednesday, striking out eight in six innings to earn his fifth win as Houston decked San Diego 7-1.
Our View: Moehler has very little fantasy value, and is an emergency spot starter at best. |
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The Orioles may not deal George Sherrill, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.
Our View: The Orioles are in last place in the AL East at 35-42, but may not want to deal their closer - even though the 32-year-old could be used to help the team fill another need. The O's lack a long-term starter at shortstop and third base, and are believed to be interested in Marlins' rookie Chris Coghlan. There is belief that Florida is not interested in letting Coghlan go for Sherrill though. |
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Nelson Cruz exited tonight's game against the Angels in the sixth inning with a stiff lower back, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Julio Borbon replaced him in the outfield. The extent of Cruz's ailment is yet to be determined. |
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Alexei Ramirez will receive X-rays after injuring his right middle finger in tonight's battle at Cleveland, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Our View: He is dealing with swelling, and is likely to miss Thursday's game. We will keep you posted when his status is updated. |
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Juan Rivera was productive in tonight's 9-7 loss at Texas, as he went 2-for-5 with three RBI. He hit a single and a three-run homer off Frank Francisco which tied the game at 7-7 in the top of the ninth inning.
Our View: Rivera hit his 14th home run, and should continue to generate solid power for fantasy owners. He launched a homer in three of his last four games. |
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Jered Weaver was lit up for seven earned runs on eight hits over 5.1 innings in Wednesday's 9-7 loss at Texas. He had one walk and three strikeouts.
Our View: Weaver had a nightmarish outing, and should be happy he ends the night with a no-decision rather than a loss. He is still tied for the team lead with eight wins, and was also leading with a 2.65 ERA heading into tonight's game. Weaver should bounce back fine. |
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Hank Blalock went 3-for-5 with three RBI and three runs scored in tonight's 9-7 win over the Angels at Rangers Ballpark. He hit a double and two homers, the second a game-winner off reliever Justin Speier.
Our View: Blalock now has 16 homers, and should remain a solid source for power if fantasy owners can deal with his poor .245 batting average. |
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Kevin Millwood gave up four earned runs on eight hits over 6.1 innings in Wednesday's 9-7 win over the Angels at Rangers Ballpark. He issued three walks with four strikeouts.
Our View: Millwood takes a no-decision as the Angels rallied to tie the game at 7-7 on a three-run homer by Juan Rivera in the top of the ninth inning. Millwood really did not pitch well enough to deserve a win anyway. He remains at 8-5 with a solid 2.80 ERA. |
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Bengie Molina drove in a run for the fourth straight game, but it was the Giants only run, as the Cardinals won 2-1 in ten innings.
Our View: Molina is a premier fantasy catcher, and a potential All Star this season. |
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Matt Cain was solid as usual on Wednesday night, going seven innings and allowing just one run, but the Giants again scored only one run for him, and the Cy Young candidate was forced to take a no decision in the Giants 2-1, ten inning loss.
Our View: Expect to see Cain in two weeks at the All-Star game in St. Louis and as a candidate for many year end awards. |
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Adam Wainwright had one of the best starts of his career on Wednesday, pitching nine innings, striking out 12 and allowing just one run, but still didn't get the win as the Cardinals needed extra innings to beat the Giants 2-1.
Our View: It was Wainwirght's first complete game of the season. Through 114 innings, the tall righty is 8-5 with a 3.32 ERA and 101 strikeouts in 2009, and an upper tier fantasy starter. |
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Mariano Rivera earned his 20th save in tonight's 4-2 win over the Mariners at Yankee Stadium. He did not allow a hit or walk over one full inning of work.
Our View: He has only blown one save chance all season, and has 502 saves for his career. He did not allow a run over his last six appearances as well. |
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Colby Rasmus hit a walk-off home run for the Cardinals on Wednesday, as the Birds on Bat beat the Giants 2-1 in 10 innings.
Our View: It was Rasmus' first homer since June 10. Colby still isn't consistent enough, nor does he play enough, to warrant a roster add in many formats, but he should be at the forefront of your mind as the season progresses, as his numbers will likely get better and his playing time continue to increase. |
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Joe Nathan nailed down his 21st save in Wednesday's 5-1 win at Kansas City. He did not allow any walks or hits over one third of an inning.
Our View: Nathan currently ranks second in the majors in saves behind Brian Fuentes (22). Nathan has not allowed an earned run over his last 18 appearances. |
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Xavier Nady will undergo Tommy John surgery to repair a partial tear in a ligament in his right elbow, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: He is slated for surgery July 8, and will be headed for a lengthy recovery. This is unfortunate for Nady as he will become a free agent after the season. |
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The Seattle Mariners are interested in Kevin Kouzmanoff, according to FoxSports.com.
Our View: It's hard to tell what's more surprising: the fact that the Mariners want to be buyers, or that they are interested in buying Kevin Kouzmanoff. Stay tuned for updates on this unlikely turn of events. |
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Jon Garland was solid on Wednesday, allowing just one earned run in six innings, but the Diamondbacks and their anemic offense got shutout 1-0 by the Reds.
Our View: Garland atoned for a bad start last time out, but remains too inconsistent to be worth a permanent roster spot in any format. |
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Shin-Soo Choo went 1-for-4 with a double and an RBI in tonight's 6-2 loss to the White Sox at Progressive Field.
Our View: Choo has five RBI over his last seven games, and has 46 for the season. He should remain a productive fantasy outfielder as long as he stays intact. |
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Joey Votto singled in the game winning run in the sixth inning on Wednesday as the Reds beat Arizona 1-0 in Cincinnati.
Our View: Votto hasn't missed a beat since returning from the disabled list and is safe to start every night from here on out. |
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Jeremy Sowers was rocked for five earned runs on 11 hits over six innings in Wednesday's 6-2 loss to the division rival White Sox at Progressive Field. He had one walk and two strikeouts.
Our View: Sowers only has one win over his last seven starts, and allowed two or less earned runs four times over the span. His fantasy stock would likely be higher if he played for a better team than the Indians (31-49). |
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Johnny Cueto allowed just one hit in six innings on Wednesday as the Reds squeaked by the Diamondbacks 1-0.
Our View: Cueto has developed into a truly exceptional starter in 2009, and now has a 2.69 ERA and microscopic 1.12 WHIP through 103.2 innings. |
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Kosuke Fukudome homered for the first time since May 26 on Wednesday, and the Cubs beat the Pirates 4-1 in Pittsburgh.
Our View: Much like he did last season, Fukudome has cooled off majorly after a fast start. He isn't worth a roster spot in almost every format. |
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Virgil Vasquez was decent on Wednesday, giving up three earned runs in six innings of work, but it wasn't enough as the Pirates lost 4-1 at home to the Cubs.
Our View: Vasquez has now gone six innings in both of his starts, and surrendered just five total runs. If you are desperate for a spot starter the next time he is going, he could be worth a try. |
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Derrek Lee socked his 12th home run of the season and drove in two runs on Wednesday as the Cubs beat the Pirates in Pittsburgh 4-1.
Our View: Lee has provided most of the Cubs offense the last month, and is hitting .282 for the season after batting just .205 on May 1. |
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Paul Konerko went 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored in tonight's 6-2 win at Cleveland. He hit a single and a double.
Our View: Konerko now leads the Sox with 49 RBI, passing Jermaine Dye (48). He also leads the club with 17 doubles. |
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Andrew McCutchen went 2-for-4 for his first multi-hit night in six games on Wednesday, but the Pirates were handled 4-1 by the Cubs.
Our View: McCutchen has finally cooled off after his monster start. He's likely to get hot again at some point, but you might want to bench him for a little while. |
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Randy Wells won for the third straight start on Wednesday after going winless for his first seven of the season, and the Cubs outlasted the Pirates 4-1.
Our View: Wells has blossomed into a legitimate fantasy option over the last month, and is pitching better than any Cubs starter. If he is still available, snatch him up. |
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Jose Contreras only surrendered two earned runs on five hits over eight innings in Wednesday's 6-2 win at Cleveland. He issued one walk and racked up eight strikeouts.
Our View: This was a solid outing for Contreras, and he snapped a two-game losing streak. He has three wins over his last five starts, and is worth employing in AL-only leagues for his next turn in Chicago's rotation. |
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Jimmy Rollins went hitless for the seventh straight game on Wednesday as the Phillies got blown out 11-1 by Atlanta.
Our View: Rollins' miserable 2009 continues, as the former MVP is now batting just .205 through 70 starts. It is reasonable to believe he will turn it around at some point, but if you have an extra shortstop, you should bench Rollins until he proves he has shook his awful beginning. |
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Martin Prado stayed hot on Wednesday, going 2-for-4 with three runs and two RBIs as the Braves dispatched the Phillies with extreme prejudice, 11-1.
Our View: Braves manager Bobby Cox recently said Prado will be the team's starting second baseman for the foreseeable future, and he has earned it, raising his batting average 61 points since June 1. |
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Chipper Jones drove in three runs on Wednesday night, pacing the Braves to an 11-1 rout over the Phillies.
Our View: Chipper hasn't approached the batting title form he displayed last season, but is still having a solid 2009 season, driving in 36 runs while batting .292. He is a good option at third base in every format. |
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Ken Griffey Jr. was productive in tonight's 4-2 loss at the Yankees, as he went 2-for-4 with a solo homer off Andy Pettitte. His other hit was a single.
Our View: Griffey has crushed a homer in four of his last eight games, and he is a nice source for power in deeper fantasy leagues if you can handle his anemic .219 batting average. Tonight's home run was No. 621 for his career. |
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Phillies ace Cole Hamels was roughed up for the second straight start on Wednesday night, lasting just four innings and giving up seven earned runs as the Phillies got pounded 11-1 by Atlanta.
Our View: Hamels' ERA is now nearly five, at 4.98 through 85 innings this season. He has yet to have his ERA below four in 2009, and has gone longer than six innings just three times in 15 starts. Despite all the struggles, now might be a good time to buy low on the Philadelphia ace. |
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Jair Jurrjens was masterful on Wednesday night, surrendering just one run, and one hit, in seven innings while striking out six in the Braves 11-1 pummeling of Philadelphia.
Our View: Jurrjens continues to show no sign off a drop-off after his fast start to 2009, and now has a sparkling 2.73 ERA and 1.24 WHIP through 102.1 innings pitched. You could still maybe sell high on him, but it doesn't appear likely he will suffer any significant regression in '09. |
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Jarrod Washburn was roughed up for four earned runs on eight hits over seven innings in Wednesday's 4-2 loss at the Yankees. He had one walk and six strikeouts, and was tagged for three homers.
Our View: Washburn was a disappointment tonight after only giving up two earned runs in each of his previous two starts. He only claimed one win over his last 12 outings, and should only be considered in AL-only leagues for his next turn in the Mariners' rotation. |
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Alex Rodriguez went 2-for-4 with a two-run homer off Jarrod Washburn in tonight's 4-2 win over the Mariners at Yankee Stadium. His other knock was a single.
Our View: Rodriguez swatted a homer in four of his last six games, and has 13 for the season. Tonight's dinger was No. 566 for his career. |
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Andy Pettitte only allowed two earned runs on six hits over seven innings in Wednesday's 4-2 win over the Mariners at Yankee Stadium. He issued one walk and fired five strikeouts.
Our View: Pettitte collected his team-leading eighth win of the season, and No. 223 for his career. He has two wins over his last three starts, and the veteran lefty shall remain active in fantasy leagues. |
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Adrian Gonzalez is in the lineup Wednesday night, one day after injuring his knee sliding into third base, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Our View: He doesn't appear to have any lingering effects from the slide, and there is no reason to hold him out of your lineup tonight. |
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Ervin Santana could return to the Angels' rotation Friday, according to MLB.com. Santana fired 45 pitches in a tune-up outing on Sunday against minor league hitters in Arizona to convince the Angels' brass that he's ready to return to action.
Our View: Santana has not started a game since June 11 while recovering from right triceps inflammation. If he returns Friday, Matt Palmer will start Saturday night. Sean O'Sullivan would move to a middle relief role as well, if he is not sent down to Triple-A. |
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Eric Stults has been activated from the DL following his recovery from a sprained left thumb, according to TSN.
Our View: He was optioned to Triple-A Albuquerque. He could rejoin the Dodgers' rotation if he fares well over a few starts in the minors, and shall remain stashed on fantasy rosters. |
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Yorvit Torrealba was reinstated from the restricted list on Wednesday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Phillips has been out for a month after the kidnapping of his son in his native Venezuela in early June. He will serve as Chris Iannetta's backup, and holds no fantasy value. |
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Paul Phillips has been designated for assignment by the Rockies, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The Rockies were forced to designate the .325 hitting Phillips because of the return of Yorvit Torrelba from the restricted list. Phillips is unlikely to clear waivers, and has probably played his last game for the Rockies. |
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Frank Francisco is back in the closer's role with Texas for tonight's home game against the Angels, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: He has been shut down with tendinitis twice this season, but noted that he is feeling good again, and skipper Ron Washington returned him to the closer's role. He was previously working as a setup man. His fantasy value obviously goes back up following this news. |
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Erik Bedard is expected to be activated from the DL to start Tuesday's game against the Orioles, according to the Seattle Times.
Our View: He was initially being considered to return Saturday against Boston, but the Mariners want him to throw a simulated game Friday instead. He will be on a pitch count, and will only work a handful of innings in his first game back following his recovery from shoulder inflammation. |
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Rafael Betancourt threw 35 pitches over two innings during a simulated game Wednesday, according to MLBblogs.com. He is recovering from a strained right groin.
Our View: He feels good and pain-free right now. He could start a minor league rehab assignment by the end of the week. His fantasy value will be limited as a middle reliever upon his return to Cleveland. |
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John Buck is nearing his return to the Royals and is expected to be activated from the DL by the end of this week or early next week, according to the Kansas City Star. He has been recovering from a herniated disk in his lower back.
Our View: Buck will share starts behind the plate with Miguel Olivo, who has been enjoying a power surge. So his fantasy value will be limited to AL-only leagues upon his return. |
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Brewers GM Doug Melvin said again on Wednesday that the team has no interest in trading Mat Gamel, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Our View: While Gamel has struggled in the bigs in 2009, and may be sent back down to Triple-A, the Brewers don't appear at all likely to ship away a blue chip prospect for temporary help for the second straight season. |
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A day after the team said they had interest in recently released pitcher Brandon Backe, Brewers GM Doug Melvin told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Wednesday that they are not interested.
Our View: The Brewers believe the vet hurler has too many injury problems. With a career 5.23 ERA, Backe is not a great pitcher, but will still likely be signed by a team desperate pitching because of the thin market for starters this year. He will not be a good fantasy option should this happen. |
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The Denver Post reports that the Padres are expected to trade reliever Cla Meredith, and that the Rockies are interested.
Our View: Meredith has a 3.48 ERA in 31 innings this season, but an unsightly .317 BAA. He isn't a great fantasy option now, and won't be if he is traded, either. |
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Gerald Laird went 1-for-3 with a double, and recorded the Tigers' lone RBI in Wednesday's 5-1 loss at Oakland.
Our View: Laird notched Detroit's only RBI in Tuesday's 7-1 loss to Oakland as well. He should still only be considered for deeper fantasy leagues. |
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Justin Verlander was roughed up for four earned runs on six hits over six innings in Wednesday's 5-1 loss at Oakland. He had one walk and six strikeouts, and was tagged for two homers.
Our View: He is off to a poor start in July, after holding a 2-1 record and 2.91 ERA over five outings last month. He is still tied for the team lead with eight wins, and leads the AL with 130 strikeouts. |
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Craig Monroe has been released by the Pirates, according to Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: This comes as little surprise, as the team designated him for assignment two weeks ago. Monroe is a career .252 hitter with 115 home runs in 814 games. |
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Rodrigo Lopez will make the start for the Phillies on Friday, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: The 34-year-old Lopez hasn't pitched in the big leagues since 2007 with the Rockies. He is 5-4 with a 3.91 ERA at Triple-A Lehigh Valley this season. He is not a good spot starting option at this time. |
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Ramiro Pena has been optioned to Triple-A by the Yankees, according to the Associated Press. He was moved to make room for Eric Hinske on the roster.
Our View: The rookie infielder was only hitting .267 with no homers over 86 at-bats with New York, and shouldn't be missed in fantasy leagues while working on his skills in the minors. |
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Scott Eyre will start for Double-A Reading on Wednesday night as part of his rehab from a strained left calf, according to the Philadelphia Daily News.
Our View: Eyre has been out since June 12. In 14 innings in 2009, he has a 2.57 ERA and ten holds. He is a decent option in leagues with holds and middle relievers, though he collects few strikeouts. |
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Updating a previous report, Raul Ibanez will not begin a minor league rehab assignment for his injured groin on Wednesday night, according to the Philadelphia Daily News.
Our View: It is still unknown when Ibanez will begin a rehab assignment or return to the Phillies. Sometime around the All-Star break seems most likely. |
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Has been sent back down to Triple-A Memphis, just two days after getting called up, according to Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: Mortensen had a cup of coffee to forget in his one appearance with the Cardinals, getting shelled by the Giants on Monday night. Given the Cards knack for roster moves, he will surely get another big league chance sometime in 2009. |
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Jack Cust went 1-for-4 with a two-run homer off Justin Verlander in Wednesday's 5-1 win over the Tigers at McAfee Coliseum.
Our View: Cust has 14 homers, and is off to a nice start in July. He should remain a good source for power if fantasy owners can deal with his dismal .225 batting average. |
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Jarrett Hoffpauir has been recalled from Triple-A Memphis, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Bernie Miklasz.
Our View: Hoffpauir has no big league at-bats, and will help fill in for Mark DeRosa, who is day-to-day with a wrist injury. He was batting .276 in Memphis before the promotion. He is taking the roster spot of pitcher Clayton Mortensen. |
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Dallas Braden only surrendered one earned run on five hits over seven innings in Wednesday's 5-2 win over the Tigers at McAfee Coliseum. He issued one walk with three strikeouts.
Our View: This was a strong outing for Braden, and he lowers his ERA to 3.13. The young hurler was winless over his previous four starts, despite allowing two or less earned runs in each outing over the span. Keep him active in fantasy leagues while he is pitching well. |
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According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Bernie Miklasz, Mark DeRosa is day-to-day after leaving Tuesday night's game against the Giants with a wrist injury.
Our View: Things aren't getting any easier for the Cardinals. In desperate need of offense, they will now likely have to go a few games without their recent big acquisition. Still, his injury was termed a "best case scenario" by Miklasz, who says it is just a strained tendon. Expect him to be back in a few days, with next week likely being the latest possible return. |
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Jose Guillen went 1-for-4 with a single, and notched the Royals' lone RBI in Wednesday's 5-1 loss to the Twins at Kauffman Stadium.
Our View: The Royals had 12 hits in the game, and stranded 18 men on base. Guillen has a hit in five of his last six games, and ended a seven-game drought without an RBI. |
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Gil Meche allowed three runs (two earned) on six hits over six innings in Wednesday's 5-1 loss to the Twins at Kauffman Stadium. He issued five walks with five strikouts.
Our View: Meche had trouble with his command today, evidenced by the five free passes. He falls to 4-8, and his ERA climbs to 4.20. He has taken a loss in three straight starts. |
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Brad Hawpe had two of the Rockies three hits on Wednesday, as a gaggle of Dodgers pitchers suffocated their lineup in a 1-0 loss.
Our View: Hawpe is now batting .333 on the season, and has a good shot at making his first All-Star roster. |
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Rafael Furcal's pinch-hit single in the eighth inning was the difference on Wednesday, as the Dodgers blanked Colorado 1-0 a day after the Rockies did the same to them.
Our View: Furcal is having a disastrous 2009 season, batting just .240 through 275 at-bats, 44 points below his career average. Unless you are in a deep league with very limited options, it could be time to start exploring other options at shortstop. |
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Joe Mauer went 3-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored in Wednesday's 5-1 win at Kansas City. He also drew two walks. All three of his knocks were singles.
Our View: Mauer ended a five-game skid without an RBI, and raised his batting average to .392. He continues to play up to high expectations as an elite catcher. |
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Jason Hammel surrendered only one run in an eight-inning complete game on Wednesday, but that tally proved insurmountable for the Rockies, as the Dodgers shut them out 1-0.
Our View: It was Hammel's first career complete game in 41 starts. The former Ray is now 5-4 on the season with a 3.91 ERA. If you don't find him worthy of a roster spot, he is a solid spot starting option, especially against right-handed heavy lineups. |
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A day after the Rockies beat the Dodgers 1-0, L.A. returned the favor on Wednesday, delivering their own 1-0 blanking of the Rox.
Our View: Broxton nailed down his 19th save and struck out two more batters in the process, giving him an amazing 62 strikeouts in 37.2 innings pitched in 2009. Look for him at the All-Star game in St. Louis in two weeks. |
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Nick Markakis had two RBIs for the second straight game on Wednesday, but the Orioles still lost 6-5 to the Red Sox in 11 innings.
Our View: Markakis is still driving in runs, but is in the midst of a profound power slump, homering only once since May 21. If you are an owner of his, just stay patient, as the power is likely to come roaring back sometime soon. |
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Glen Perkins only issued one earned run on 10 hits over seven innings in Wednesday's 5-1 win at Kansas City. He had no walks and one strikeout.
Our View: Perkins evens his record to 4-4, and has earned a win in back-to-back starts. He allowed two or less earned runs in three of his last four starts as well, and should be employed in fantasy lineups for his next trip to the hill. |
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Luke Scott homered for the first time since June 11 on Wednesday, but the Orioles fell 6-5 in 11 innings to the Red Sox.
Our View: Scott was gaining steam toward becoming a viable outfield fantasy option early last month, but has driven in just five runs in his last 15 games. He is at best a fringe option in deeper mixed and AL-only leagues. |
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Kevin Youkilis homered for the second straight game on Wednesday, as Boston dispatched the Orioles 6-5 in 11 innings.
Our View: Youk had been in a mini power drought before yesterday that had seen him homer just once in his previous 15 games. The Sox slugger is still having an All-Star caliber season at first base, however, and is likely to represent the American League in St. Louis later this month. |
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The beleaguered Julio Lugo drove in the game winning run in the 11th inning on Wednesday, as the Red Sox beat the Orioles 6-5 in Baltimore.
Our View: Rumors have abounded that Lugo will be released once Jed Lowrie returns, but the veteran shortstop is still having a decent '09 campaign, batting .301 in 103 at-bats. He is still not a viable fantasy option, though. |
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Brad Bergesen pitched eight effective innings on Wednesday, striking out six, walking none and surrendering only one run, but took a no-decision as the Orioles bullpen blew it, and Baltimore fell 6-5 to Boston in 11 innings.
Our View: Bergesen has been very effective for the Orioles this season, going 5-2 with a 3.53 ERA in 91.2 innings pitched. He is a solid option in almost every format. |
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Ben Zobrist went 2-for-2 with a pair of singles in Wednesday's 5-0 loss at Toronto.
Our View: The Rays only mustered four hits in the game, and stranded 13 men on base. Zobrist raised his season average to .297, and is off to a good start in July after only hitting .271 last month. |
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Jonathan Papelbon pitched a perfect 11th inning on Wednesday for his 20th save, as the Red Sox rallied to beat the Orioles 6-5.
Our View: Papelbon has been lights out as usual in 2009, and appears to be a safe bet to earn his fourth straight All-Star appearance. |
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Josh Beckett took his first no-decision since May 23 on Wednesday, giving up five earned runs in seven innings as the Red Sox rallied to beat Baltimore 6-5 in 11 innings.
Our View: Beckett had gone 5-1 since that last no-decision, lowering his ERA from 5.01 to 3.48 in the process. He is now 9-3 on the season, with a 3.67 ERA. |
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James Shields was rocked for five runs (four earned) on seven hits over 7.1 innings in Wednesday's 5-0 loss at Toronto. He had one walk and eight strikeouts, and was tagged for three homers.
Our View: Shields is an even 6-6, and should remain inconsistent as a fantasy hurler. He only has one win over his last five starts. |
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Ryan Church's sixth inning single on Wednesday drove in the game's only run, as the Mets avoided a sweep in Milwaukee, winning 1-0.
Our View: Despite increased playing time with the Mets lineup being decimated by injuries, Church isn't much of a fantasy option, as he has only two home runs and 19 RBIs in 2009. |
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Ryan Braun went 2-for-4 on Wednesday, but like every other Brewer, failed to drive in any runs as the Crew lost 1-0 to the Mets.
Our View: After his pseudo inside-the-park grand slam on Tuesday, Brewers fans can cut their star some slack for failing to drive anyone in. |
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Mike Pelfrey won for only the second time since May 7 on Wednesday, as the Mets shutout the Brewers 1-0.
Our View: After coming on strong in the second half of 2008, Pelfrey has been a huge disappointment in '09. Wednesday was only his second start since June 1 in which he gave up fewer than four runs. He has a not awful 4.26 ERA, but there are currently better fantasy options out there in most formats. |
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Adam Lind helped lead the Jays in Wednesday's 5-0 win over the Rays at the Rogers Centre, as he went 2-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored. He hit a double and a solo homer off James Shields.
Our View: Lind raises his season average to .315, and leads the Jays with 25 doubles. He has two hits in three straight games, and ended an eight-game skid without an RBI. |
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Yovani Gallardo struck out 12 Mets in seven sterling innings of work on Wednesday, but the Brewers still fell to the Amazins 1-0.
Our View: After three shaky outings by his standards, Gallardo has now pitched two straight gems. His 2.75 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 114 strikeouts are all among the National League leaders. |
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Ricky Romero was in control from the hill in Wednesday's 5-0 win over the Rays at the Rogers Centre, as he only allowed four hits over eight scoreless innings. He issued four walks with seven strikeouts.
Our View: It was a great outing for Romero despite the four free passes. The rookie has won three straight starts and trimmed his ERA to 2.85. He shall remain active in fantasy leagues. |
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Ryan Zimmerman went 0-for-5 on Wednesday in the Nationals 5-3 loss to the Marlins to snap an eight game hitting streak.
Our View: After a mini June slump that caused his average to dip below .300 for the first time since April, Zim has again been hitting consistently, and his 0-for-5 day on Wednesday isn't cause for alarm. |
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Hanley Ramirez drove in two more runs on Wednesday as the Marlins finished off their third straight sweep of the Nationals this season, winning 5-3 in Miami.
Our View: Outside of Albert Pujols, no one is hitting as good as Hanley Ramirez right now. The Marlins shortstop now has 26 RBIs to go along with five home runs in his last ten games, and has seen his average rise from .328 to .345 in the process. If he wasn't already, he is now the premier fantasy shortstop in all of baseball. |
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After picking up his first win since April the last time out, Jordan Zimmermann couldn't make it two in a row, as he took a no-decision in the Nationals 5-3 loss to the Marlins on Wednesday.
Our View: Zim pitched well, striking out six in six innings while surrendering only two runs, but that is rarely enough when you are on the Nationals. He is now 3-3 with a 4.52 ERA on the season. |
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Sean Burnett blew a save on Wednesday in his first outing for the Nationals since being acquired from the Pirates, as the Nats fell 5-3 to the Marlins.
Our View: Burnett was acquired to help shore up a disastrous bullpen, but he only compounded its problems on Wednesday, giving up a game tying home run to Cody Ross in the seventh inning. Playing for the Nationals, he doesn't hold much value in leagues with holds or middle relievers. |
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Justin Morneau exited Wednesday's game against the Royals with tightness in his left groin, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: The Twins did not speculate if Morneau may need to miss any games, and his status is yet to be updated. |
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Nick Punto left Wednesday's game against Kansas City in the seventh inning due to tightness in his lower back, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: The severity of the ailment is yet to be disclosed. We will keep you posted when Punto's status is updated. |
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Josh Johnson had hit shortest outing of the year on Wednesday, lasting just 3.1 innings, but the Marlins still reeled off their seventh straight come-from-behind victory, and ninth overall, against the Nationals.
Our View: Johnson has been one of the best pitchers in the National League this season, belied by the fact that Wednesday was the first time he had failed to go seven innings since May 19. Despite his rough outing, he is obviously a safe bet to start his next time out. |
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Mike Redmond exited Wednesday's game against the Royals in the fifth inning after getting hit with a foul tip, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: He was struck in the right forearm, and X-rays came back negative. He is considered day-to-day. |
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First, Cody Ross homered in the seventh inning of the Marlins game against the Nationals on Wednesday to tie it, then he singled in another run in the eighth to complete the Marlins come-from-behind 5-3 victory.
Our View: The Marlins are now 9-0 against the Nationals in 2009, and have come from behind to win an astonishing seven straight times against their hapless division rivals. |
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According to the Dallas Morning News, the Astros have claimed German Duran off waivers.
Our View: Duran was waived by the Rangers last week to make room for Willie Eyre. He struggled mightily in Triple-A this season, with a .149 average and will be shipped directly to Round Rock (the Astros Triple-A affiliate). |
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According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, slugger Adrian Gonzalez does not plan to have an MRI on his knee and may get into the lineup for Wednesday's game.
Our View: A-Gon injured his knee in Tuesday's game sliding into third base and was removed immediately after. He was sore today, but doesn't feel it's bad enough to keep him out of the lineup. We'll stay on top of his status, as right now it looks like he'll be a game-time decision. |
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According to FOX Sports, the injury-plagued Reds have decided to call up infielder Drew Sutton.
Our View: Sutton was acquired in the Jeff Keppinger deal and is hitting .255 with five homers and 19 RBI in Triple-A. Sutton is likely getting the call because he's started games at every infield position this season. No word yet on a corresponding move, but someone is getting bumped. |
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According to MLB.com, Brandon Webb has decided against shoulder surgery.
Our View: Webb visited three doctors and they all came to the same conclusion: at this time surgery doesn't seem necessary. The D-Backs' ace is hoping that rest and exercise will land him back on the Major League roster by September. Fantasy owners, don't hold your breath. |
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According to FOX Sports, Miguel Olivo has been suspended for one game due to a heated argument with an umpire in Pittsburgh last Saturday.
Our View: Olivo was also fined an undisclosed amount for his expletive-laced rant. Olivo chose to serve the suspension today, leaving the Royals without an experienced catcher. John Buck is currently out with a back injury. |
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According to the Kansas City Star, Mike Aviles will undergo Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.
Our View: Aviles looks to be out for nine to 12 months, so don't count him into your fantasy plans until around this time next year. He originally felt pain in his elbow and forearm in spring training, but battled through it until May 23rd when he landed on the DL. That may not have been the best decision though as he hit just .183 while in the lineup this season. |
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According to the Miami Herald, Alfredo Amezaga, out with a bone bruise on his left knee since May 16th, will travel to Colorado to get a second opinion.
Our View: The injury is not improving and it has been about six weeks, so Amezaga will visit Dr. Richard Steadman (of A-Rod fame) and find out if he will require microfracture knee surgery. |
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According to the Boston Globe, Jed Lowrie is heading back to Boston to have his sore left knee examined by team doctors.
Our View: Lowrie was beaned right on his sore knee last week and it has slowed his rehab considerably. The swelling has yet to subside and he hasn't been able to get back in the lineup. Nick Green will continue to get starts at shortstop in Lowrie's absence. |
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According to the Toronto Star, Vernon Wells has been given the day off on Wednesday to "clear his head a bit".
Our View: Wells is just two for his last 16 and has been hampered by nagging hamstring woes since spring training. He's hitting just .248 on the season, more than 30 points below his career average. Let's just call this what it is: a slumping player getting benched because fo poor production. |
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According to the Kansas City Star, Alex Gordon is headed to Triple-A to continue his rehab assignment. He is recovering from hip surgery that he underwent in April.
Our View: This is good news as he appears to be getting better. He'll also be playing in front of his home town fans in Omaha, Nebraska. He also finally played defense on Monday, after spending most of his rehab as a DH, and could return to the Royals as early as next week. |
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Updating a previous report, Koji Uehara's arthrogram on his right elbow revealed a partially torn tendon, according to the Baltimore Sun. He is expected to miss up to eight weeks.
Our View: Uehara will have to rest for three to five weeks, and it could be twice that long before he gets back into a game. He was thought to be suffering from tendinitis, but the arthrogram revealed much worse. He is scheduled to get a second opinion, but the team is confident that the original diagnosis is correct. He will be replaced indefinitely by Triple-A call-up David Hernandez. |
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According to the New York Daily News David Wright will be in Wednesday's starting lineup despite prior reports to the contrary.
Our View: With the team mired in a five-game losing streak and Johan Santana on the mound, Manager Jerry Manuel changed his mind about Wright's off day to try and give the team every possible chance to earn a much needed victory. |
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MLive.com reports that Carlos Guillen hit off a tee on Monday and has been throwing from 90 feet in an attempt to return from shoulder woes.
Our View: Guillen is currently working with a physical therapist, but he is slated to move on from that and continue rehabilitation with the Tigers on July 6th. The team reports he is "doing much better" but he will not return to action until several weeks after the All Star break. |
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According to MLive.com, Jeremy Bonderman is expected to begin a throwing program early next week to try and recover from his thoracic outlet surgery.
Our View: It sounds like Bonderman is still a ways off from rejoining the Tigers and he will like have a glut of rehab starts once he is able to return to a mound. |
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According to MASN.com, Adam Jones is out of that starting lineup on Wednesday due to lingering effects from crashing into the fence in Tuesday night's game.
Our View: The collision left Jones sore and with a nasty headache, but the budding young outfielder swears he could play if needed. Consider him day-to-day, but this seems precautionary and he should be in the lineup no Thursday. |
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According to the Arizona Republic, Yusmeiro Petit is the likely candidate to fill in for the recently demoted Billy Buckner in the Diamondback's rotation.
Our View: Petit went on the DL in May with a shoulder injury, but is finishing up he rehab and the team apparently feels he's ready to pitch. He was yanked from his rehab start after three innings possibly to save his arm for a call-up. Still, he hasn't pitched well enough to warrant any fantasy consideration. |
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According to the Tacoma News Tribune, Yuniesky Betancourt could return as early as next week from his hamstring injury and become the Mariners' everyday second baseman.
Our View: Contrary to previous reports, he is closer to returning than expected. Normally a shortstop, Betancourt could play second while Ronnie Cedeno (who is doing a fine job filling in) remains at short and regular second sacker Jose Lopez could slide across the diamond and fill in at third for the injured Adrian Beltre. |
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According to the Washington Post, the Nationals have optioned troubled outfielder Elijah Dukes to Triple-A.
Our View: The Nats have been reportedly trying to deal Dukes as of late, and with the onslaught of recent trades there was no room on the 25 man roster for him. Don't be surprised if he is shipped out soon. |
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According to the St. Petersburg Times, Evan Longoria is back in the lineup and playing third base for Wednesday's series finale against the Blue Jays.
Our View: Longoria sat out yesterday's game to rest his sore left hamstring that has bothered him off and on this season. He made a pinch hit appearance last night, but appears ready for full time work today as the Rays go for the sweep. |
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According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Josh Hamilton took batting practice and shagged balls before Tuesday's game and is close to returning.
Our View: Hamilton hopes to man the outfield in Wednesday's rehab game, and could rejoin the team as soon as Saturday. The Rangers will obviously play it safe with him, but barring a setback he should be in the Rangers' lineup this weekend. |
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The Houston Chronicle reports that Wandy Rodriguez thinks his recent struggles could be a result of him tipping his pitches.
Our View: After starting the season on an ace-like tear, Rodriguez has struggled mightily since late May. His ERA jumped from 1.83 to 3.35 and his record went from 5-2 to 6-6. The tipping pitches theory seems like a cop out. Rodriguez is clearly struggling with something though. |
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According to the Chicago Tribune, Angel Guzman (triceps) pitched a scoreless inning for Class-A Peoria on Tuesday.
Our View: Guzman will head to Iowa to continue his rehab before rejoining the Cubs next Tuesday. He'll go back to the bullpen upon his return. |
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According to the Plain Dealer, struggling starter Fausto Carmona looked very good in Tuesday's outing for Double-A Akron.
Our View: Carmona allowed just one run over seven innings. He gave up four hits, but did not walk a batter and struck out five. His last start in Single-A was impressive as well, and if he keeps progressing the struggling Indians could bring him back to the big leagues sooner than expected. |
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According to the St. Louis Post Dispatch, injured third baseman Troy Glaus will head to the Cardinals' spring training facility in Jupiter, Florida on Thursday.
Our View: Team officials are reporting that Glaus could go on a rehab assignment as soon as two weeks from now, which would be a huge boost for an anemic Cardinal offense. Glaus has apparently been making big strides in his rehab from a torn muscle in his shoulder. He's spend seven to ten days in Florida before being reevaluated. |
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According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Phillies acquired left-hander Brian Mazone from the Dodgers for future considerations.
Our View: Mazone will head straight to Triple-A and fill in for whoever gets called up to the big club. He is not likely to see any Major League action this season and is fantasy irrelevant. |
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Updating a previous report, Antonio Bastardo will be shut down from baseball related activities for a couple weeks before beginning his shoulder rehabilitation, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Our View: Bastardo looks to be out until after the All Star break and may lose his spot in the rotation upon his return. He has been ineffective in his five starts with a 6.75 ERA and if one of the replacement candidates shine in their new role Bastardo could be out of a job. |
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According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Raul Ibanez is set to begin a Double-A rehab assignment on Wednesday.
Our View: The team is playing it safe with the surprising slugger. They want to make sure he's 100 percent before bringing him back, so he'll play three or four games in Double-A before returning just to test out his ailing groin. Still, expect him back before the All Star break. |
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According to the Los Angeles Daily News, Orlando Hudson will be back in the lineup Wednesday after getting Tuesday night off.
Our View: The O-Dog is an unimpressive 1-for-18 in his last four games, but the team thinks that he should return to form after some much needed time off. The surprisingly productive second sacker is still having a breakthrough season despite his recent skid. Be sure to get him back in your lineup. |
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According to the New York Daily News, Jose Reyes has been relocated to Port St. Lucie and should be running the bases within a few days.
Our View: Reyes still won't be activated until the All Star break, but it looks like he's making significant progress. His speed is his biggest weapon, so once he can run full throttle he should be good to go. |
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According to the New York Daily News, Gary Sheffield will be given the day off Wednesday.
Our View: Sheff is fine, the Mets just want his to get some rest in with a righty on the mound. He will face Paul Maholm on Thursday and crushes left-handed pitching, so expect him to get a start then. |
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The New York Daily News reports that David Wright will be given a day off on Wednesday.
Our View: This is just a move to give Wright some extra rest as the team has noticed his swing "getting longer", which is a sign of fatigue. Fernando Tatis will get the start at third in his place, but Wright should be ready for the next game. Adjust your lineups accordingly. |
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According to the Los Angeles Daily News, Russell Martin's offensive struggles have caused the Dodgers to sit him for the next three days.
Our View: The team is calling it a mental break. Martin is hitting just .192 in June and has struggled all season with a .247 average and hit for very little power. He now joins A-Rod and Jimmy Rollins on the list of high profile fantasy players that have been benched due to poor performance. At least the Dodgers aren't calling it anxiety. Martin is set to return to the lineup on Friday. |
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Bengie Molina was productive in tonight's 6-3 win at St. Louis, as he went 2-for-4 with two RBI. He hit a single and a double.
Our View: Molina has an RBI in three straight games, and has 13 in June. He leads the Giants with 45 RBI, and should remain a solid option among fantasy catchers heading into the new month. |
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