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| Ellis homers in losing effort | Tuesday 7/1, 11:56 PM CT |
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Mark Ellis went 2-for-4 with a solo homer in Tuesday's 5-3 loss to the Angels. He also chipped in a stolen base, his 10th of the season.
Our View: That was his second multi-hit game in a row, and his first homer since June 17, when he clubbed two against the Diamondbacks. |
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| Cain gets the win vs Chicago | Tuesday 7/1, 11:55 PM CT |
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The Giants and Cubs fought through a battle of pitching this evening with the Giants finding a way to win, taking the 2-1 win. RHP Matt Cain was the force of reckoning, pitching eight innings of shutout baseball to allow just two hits with three walks and 10 strikeouts.
Our View: Cain now sits at 5-6 on the season with an ERA of 4.13. He has pitched well, surrendering just one homer through five June starts with 32 strikeouts versus just nine walks. Give him some offense and he is likely to shine. |
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| Soto records lone RBI for Cubs | Tuesday 7/1, 11:51 PM CT |
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Geovany Soto went 1-for-4 and recorded the Cubs' lone RBI in a tough 2-1 loss to the Giants on Tuesday night.
Our View: Soto has 48 RBI over 77 games, and snapped a three-game skid in that department. |
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| Hart swipes two in win | Tuesday 7/1, 11:48 PM CT |
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Give due credit to outfielder Corey Hart for doing his part to support the 8-6 win over Arizona this evening, going 3-for-5 on the night with his 22nd double and two stolen bases on the evening, ending with one RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: Hart hadn't stolen a base since June 3rd but is getting off on the right foot for July. He hit eight home runs with 24 RBIs last month, topped by few on the MLB circuit. If he can approach those numbers again this month, it will be an amazing feat. |
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| Percival lands on DL | Tuesday 7/1, 11:45 PM CT |
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Troy Percival has landed on the 15-day DL due to a left hamstring strain, according to the St. Petersburg Times. The Rays recalled right-hander Mitch Talbot from Triple-A Durham, as a corresponding move.
Our View: The Rays will most likely use a closer-by-committee while Percival is on the shelf, with righties Dan Wheeler and Grant Balfour, and lefty J.P. Howell among the top candidates.
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| Hardy puts Brew Crew on track for the win | Tuesday 7/1, 11:43 PM CT |
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The Brewers put the ball in play this evening, using 10 combined hits to score eight runs and get the win by two over Arizona. The man of hour was shortstop J.J. Hardy , going 2-for-4 with one walk and two home runs, totaling three RBIs and three runs scored on the night.
Our View: Hardy also added his second stolen base of the season, coming off a strong month of June in which he hit .310 at the dish with four homers and 12 RBIs. He's getting hot. |
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| Jackson registers three RBI in loss | Tuesday 7/1, 11:39 PM CT |
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Conor Jackson went 3-for-4 with three RBI in Tuesday's 8-6 loss to the Brewers. He hit two singles and a two-run homer.
Our View: He raised his average to .315, and hit his first home run since June 10, snapping an 18-game drought. |
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| Johnson dealt seventh loss | Tuesday 7/1, 11:33 PM CT |
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Randy Johnson was lit up for seven earned runs on eight hits over a mere 3.2 innings in Tuesday's 8-6 defeat to Milwaukee, with three walks and six strikeouts. He surrendered three home runs before getting yanked from the game.
Our View: Johnson falls to 4-7 and his ERA climbs to 5.46. He has lost six straight starts, and has allowed seven earned runs in three of his last four. |
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| Holliday gets the Rockies on their way | Tuesday 7/1, 11:31 PM CT |
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The Rockies didn't light up the sky with the offense in getting the 4-0 victory over the Padres, but outfielder Matt Holliday was up to his usual tricks. Holliday went 2-for-2 with two walks, his 21st double and his 10th stolen base of the season.
Our View: Holliday has been a terror since returning from injury, finishing with a .360 average for June with 13 RBIs despite missing nearly two weeks of business. If he stays healthy through July, watch out. |
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| Cook throws complete-game winner | Tuesday 7/1, 11:23 PM CT |
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The Padres couldn't get any sign of offense going tonight against the Rockies, giving Colorado the 4-0 victory built on the arm of rising RHP Aaron Cook . Cook pitched a complete game, allowing no runs on five hits with no walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Cook picks up his first win after consecutive losses to end June. This is his second complete game this season and he has failed to reach at least the end of the seventh inning just six times through 18 starts this season. |
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| Quintero headed for DL | Tuesday 7/1, 11:20 PM CT |
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Updating a previous report, Humberto Quintero is headed for the 15-day DL after suffering a concussion in Tuesday night's battle against the Dodgers, according to the AP. JR Towles is also believed to be coming back to the team to replace him.
Our View: Quintero was taken to a hospital where tests were negative, but the Astros said he would be kept there overnight. He was struck on the top of his catching helmet by Luis Maza's backswing in the second inning. |
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| Saito gets the save | Tuesday 7/1, 11:15 PM CT |
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Dodger reliever Takashi Saito earned his 13th save of the season this evening, closing the 11th inning to give his Dodgers the 7-6 win over Houston. Saito threw just 12 pitches over that final inning, striking out one with one fly out and one ground out to finish the job.
Our View: Saito posted four saves through June and has not allowed a home run since April 14th. He posted 20 strikeouts versus just three walks last month and looks to be getting July starte off on the right foot as well. |
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| Lee goes 4-for-5 in loss | Tuesday 7/1, 11:13 PM CT |
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Carlos Lee went 4-for-5 with two RBI in Tuesday's 7-6 loss to the Dodgers.
Our View: Lee has generated nine hits, one homer, and five RBI over his last four games. |
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| Martin keeps Dodgers on point | Tuesday 7/1, 11:10 PM CT |
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The Dodgers and Astros engaged in extra innings this evening to decide the winner of their matchup, and it was LA that emerged victorous, 7-6, thanks to the work of catcher Russell Martin. Martin went 3-for-5 at the plate with one walk, his 15th double and his ninth homer of the season to total three RBIs and three runs scord on the night.
Our View: Martin posted a lackluster .267 average through June and was especially cold coming out, going 3-for-15 over the final five games of the month. He's hitting the month of July with an early surge of offense. Let's see if he can keep it going. |
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| Wigginton crushes three-run homer | Tuesday 7/1, 11:10 PM CT |
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Ty Wigginton went 1-for-5 with a three-run homer in Tuesdays 7-6 loss to the Dodgers. The game took 11 innings to decide.
Our View: That was his second homer over his last four games, but only his sixth homer over 171 at-bats. |
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| Wagner gets save #19 | Tuesday 7/1, 11:03 PM CT |
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Veteran reliever Billy Wagner pulled his 19th save of the season this evening, closing the 7-4 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals. Wagner closed the 9th inning with 13 pitches (eight for strikes), striking out two and getting the additional out via fly ball.
Our View: Wagner has been a rock of late, touting seven saves through 10 total inningsn June. He hasn't surrendered a run since June 12th. |
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| Wright gets Mets on top of Cards | Tuesday 7/1, 10:59 PM CT |
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The Mets found the offense needed to post the 7-4 win over the St. Louis Cardinals this evening, an effort led by the illustious third baseman David Wright . Wright went 3-for-4 with a walk, his 20th double and his 16th home run of the season to total one RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: Wright is now hitting .288 on the season, and while his power numbers fell in June (just four homers compared to seven in May), his run production is up (24 RBIs in June versus 17 in May). |
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| Banks drops to 2-3 | Tuesday 7/1, 10:57 PM CT |
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Josh Banks surrendered four earned runs on six hits over five innings in Tuesday's 4-0 loss to Colorado, with three walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Banks falls to 2-3, with his losses coming in three straight starts. He has allowed four runs in each of his last two, and is best left on your bench until he proves to be an effective starter again. |
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| E. Gonzalez has tough night at plate | Tuesday 7/1, 10:52 PM CT |
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Edgar Gonzalez had a tough night at the plate in Tuesday's 4-0 loss to the Rockies, as he went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts.
Our View: His three-game hitting streak was snapped, in which he racked up eight hits, with two homers, and four RBI. He should bounce back fine, and should remain active if he is part of your mix at second base. |
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| Danks is strong but gets no decision | Tuesday 7/1, 10:51 PM CT |
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Chicago LHP John Danks was a force on the mound in support of the extra-innings win over Cleveland tonight, but walked off with no decision. Danks pitched eight innings to allow just one run on four hits with one walk and eight strikeouts.
Our View: Danks may not have factored in the decision but he has lowered his season ERA to 2.50. This was his fifth no-decision over his last six starts. |
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| Ramirez pulls Chicago through | Tuesday 7/1, 10:47 PM CT |
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The White Sox and Indians battled through ten innings this evening with the Sox finding a way to win, 3-2. The offense lacked but second baseman Alexei Ramirez got the job done, going 1-for-3 with his sixth double of the season to total two RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Ramirez hit a surprising .355 with thee homers and 17 RBIs las month, and now he's getting off to a strong start in July. |
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| Ankiel records 16th homer | Tuesday 7/1, 10:45 PM CT |
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Rick Ankiel went 1-for-4 with a two-run homer in Tuesday's 7-4 loss to the Mets.
Our View: That was his 16th homer of the season, and his second over his last four games. He extended his hitting streak to eight games as well. Keep him active in your outfield while he's hot. |
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| Wellemeyer rocked for six runs | Tuesday 7/1, 10:41 PM CT |
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Todd Wellemeyer was rocked for six earned runs on 12 hits over five innings in Tuesday's 7-4 loss to the Mets, with two walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: He drops to 7-3, and has lost two of his last three starts. He allowed eight runs in his previous loss. |
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| Duke gets no decision | Tuesday 7/1, 10:35 PM CT |
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Pittsburgh LHP Zach Duke lasted just five innings in Pittsburgh's 11-inning win over the Cincinnati Reds, and while he failed to get a role in the decision, he certainly did what he could to keep his team in the mix. Duke pitched five innings to surrender one run over six hits with two walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Duke could have used the win, suffering two no-decisions and one loss over his last three starts coming into tonight. He hasn't allowed a home run since June 9th and has just five walks surrendered in his starts since. |
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| Phillips tallies four RBI in loss | Tuesday 7/1, 10:34 PM CT |
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Brandon Phillips went 3-for-5 with four RBI in Tuesday's 6-5 loss to Pittsburgh. He hit two singles and a two-run homer.
Our View: Phillips raised his average to .284, and had eight hits over his last three games. Tonight's homer was his first since June 14, snapping a 14-game drought. |
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| LaRoche supports the Pittsburgh win | Tuesday 7/1, 10:30 PM CT |
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It took 11 innings but the Pirates found the offense needed to earn the 6-5 win over Cincinnati, giving first baseman Adam LaRoche the star of the evening. LaRoche went 2-for-3 with two walks and his 15th double of the season to total one RBI and one run scored on the night.
Our View: LaRoche hit just .253 through June with two homer and 10 RBIs, a far cray from the five homers and 19 RBIs he totaled in May. The Pirates are hoping this gets him moving back towards more positive results. |
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| No decision for Volquez | Tuesday 7/1, 10:27 PM CT |
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Edinson Volquez surrendered three earned runs on seven hits over 5.1 innings in Tuesday's 6-5 loss to the Pirates, with three walks and three strikeouts. He ended his outing with a no decision, and the game took 11 innings to decide.
Our View: Volquez has allowed eight earned runs over his last two starts. Now is a good time to try and steal him away for a reduced price before he gets back on track and generates strong numbers again. |
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| Baker gets third consecutive win | Tuesday 7/1, 10:22 PM CT |
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Minnesota RHP Scott Baker showed well in support of the 6-4 win over the Tigers, pitching six innings to allow three runs on seven hits with no walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: Baker came out of June with consecutive wins and keeps the tide rolling this evening. He has allowed just seven total earned runs over 18 innings of work during that span, touting three walks versus 15 strikeouts. |
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| Blake has strong outing in loss | Tuesday 7/1, 10:20 PM CT |
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Casey Blake went 3-for-4 with an RBI in Tuesday's tough 3-2 loss to the White Sox. The Indians have now dropped four straight games.
Our View: Blake extended his hitting streak to eight games, with three multi-hit efforts. He raised his average a few more points to .287, and has emerged as a quality fantasy starter in mixed-leagues. |
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| Monroe homers for Twins | Tuesday 7/1, 10:15 PM CT |
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The Minnesota Twins had more than enought offense flowing tonight, but the Tigers gave chase and made it interesting with the Twins emerging 6-4. The charge was led by designated hitter Craig Monroe , going 2-for-3 with one walk and his eighth homer of the season to total three RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Monroe suffered through an injury-plagued and frustrating month of June, hitting just .125 with two home runs and five RBIs. The hope is to get back on track and tonight gets him moving in the right direction. |
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| Lee fares well in no decision | Tuesday 7/1, 10:14 PM CT |
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Cliff Lee only allowed one earned run on six hits over eight innings in Tuesday's close 3-2 loss to the division rival White Sox, with one walk and three strikeouts.
Our View: He had another strong outing, but was dealt a no decision due to a lack of run support. Lee is 5-0 over his last seven starts, and has only surrendered one earned run in three straight. |
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| Thames crushes two-run homer | Tuesday 7/1, 10:09 PM CT |
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Marcus Thames went 2-for-4 with a two-run homer in Tuesday's 6-4 loss to Minnesota. He started the game at first base.
Our View: Thames has homered in back-to-back games, and has eight hits over his last four outings. Keep him active in your lineups while he is hot. |
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| Robertson suffers seventh loss | Tuesday 7/1, 10:05 PM CT |
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Nate Robertson was rocked for six earned runs on 11 hits over a mere four innings of work in Tuesday's 6-4 loss to the Twins, with two walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Robertson drops to 6-7, with a 5.56 ERA. That ended a nice string of luck for him, as he was 3-0 over his previous four starts. He remains an erratic fantasy option. |
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| Dukes homers in win over Fins | Tuesday 7/1, 10:05 PM CT |
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The Nats didn't struggle with offense this evening, posting nine runs on 15 total hits to beat the Marlins, 9-6. Outfielder Elijah Dukes was a force for the cause, going 3-for-5 with his fifth homer as well as his ninth stolen base of the season, totaling one RBI and three runs scored on the night.
Our View: Dukes surged last month, hitting .292 with four homers and 15 RBIs. He's looking to keep it hot in July and is off on the right foot. |
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| Belliard shows Washington the way | Tuesday 7/1, 10:00 PM CT |
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There was plenty of offense on hand, but in the end it was Washington emerging victorious over the Marlins, 9-6. The Nats were led by third baseman Ronnie Belliard , going 2-for-4 with one walk, his ninth double and his seventh homer of the season, totaling four RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Belliard hit just .236 for the month of June but posted four homers and 11 RBIs along the way. Tonight he got off hot once again and appears to be surging towards top results. |
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| Ramirez blasts 20th homer | Tuesday 7/1, 9:58 PM CT |
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Hanley Ramirez went 2-for-4 with five RBI in Tuesday's 9-6 loss to Washington. He hit a single and a three-run homer, his 20th of the season.
Our View: Ramirez has extended his homer streak to three games, and raised his average a few more points to .298. |
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| Hendrickson drops to 7-7 | Tuesday 7/1, 9:54 PM CT |
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Mark Hendrickson was lit up for six earned runs on 10 hits over six innings in Tuesday's 9-6 loss to the Nationals, with no walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Hendrickson is now 7-7 with a 6.12 ERA. He has allowed 11 earned runs over his last two starts, and is 0-5 over his last seven. |
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| Millwood gets no decision vs Yanks | Tuesday 7/1, 9:53 PM CT |
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Texas sent veteran RHP Kevin Millwood to the mound against the hated New York Yankees this evening, and while he failed to get a decision, he served his team well, going five innings to allow one run on five hits with one walk and six strikeouts.
Our View: Millwood totaled 84 pitches over that short span but made it count, though the relief pitching nearly blew it. This is his third no-decision in his last five stars. |
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| Cano has solid outing in loss | Tuesday 7/1, 9:49 PM CT |
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Robinson Cano went 2-for-4 with an RBI in Tuesday's tough 3-2 loss to the Rangers. The Yankees have now dropped three straight games.
Our View: He has racked up multiple hits in four of his last seven outings, with eight RBI over the span. |
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| Kinsler steals three bases vs Yanks | Tuesday 7/1, 9:48 PM CT |
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The Rangers put the 3-2 win over the Yankees tonight led by the offensive gifts of second baseman Ian Kinsler . As the leadoff man, Kinsler went 2-for-3 at the dish with two walks, also posting three stolen bases on the night, posting one run scored.
Our View: Kinsler now carries 23 stolen bases on the season but posted just five of 'em through June. He nearly matched that number in one day. |
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| Joba dealt no decision | Tuesday 7/1, 9:45 PM CT |
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Joba Chamberlain allowed two earned runs on five hits over four innings in Tuesday's close 3-2 loss to Texas, with four walks and six strikeouts. He ended the night with a no decision.
Our View: He still hasn't taken a loss over his last five starts, and he has allowed two or less earned runs in each outing over the span. |
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| Kendrick gets win #8 | Tuesday 7/1, 9:39 PM CT |
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Philadelphia RHP Kyle Kendrick earned his eighth win of the season, leading his Phillies to a strong 8-3 win over Atlanta. Kendrick pitched six innings to allow three runs (all earned) on seven hits with two walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: This gives Kendrick consecutive wins and a strong start to the month of July, coming off a 3-1 record through June and a 5-1 record over May and June. |
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| Kotsay goes 0-for-4 | Tuesday 7/1, 9:39 PM CT |
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Mark Kotsay went 0-for-4 with a strikeout, while leaving four men on base, in Tuesday's 8-3 loss to the Phillies.
Our View: This was his first game back from the DL, and he started in center field. Fantasy owners should wait until he gets back on track before considering him for starting duty again. |
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| Jones goes 1-for-3 in return | Tuesday 7/1, 9:35 PM CT |
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Chipper Jones went 1-for-3 with two walks and one strikeout in Tuesday's 8-3 loss to the Phillies.
Our View: That was a favorable return for him, and he looks to be a safe play for the remainder of the fantasy week. |
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| Burrell homers in win | Tuesday 7/1, 9:33 PM CT |
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Philadelphia outfielder Pat Burrell continues to enjoy work at the plate, tonight helping his team earn the dominating 8-3 win over Atlanta. Burrell went 2-for-3 with one walk and his 20th homer of the season to total two RBIs and one run scored on the night.
Our View: Burrell hit just .256 last month but totaled six homers and 14 RBIs on the month, matching 25 strikeouts with 20 walks. He's enjoying one of his best seasons to date and has gotten right back on track for the month of July. |
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| Victorino drives in four | Tuesday 7/1, 9:29 PM CT |
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The Phillies enjoyed a plethora of offense this evening, putting 14 total hits on the board to pull the 8-3 win over the Atlanta Braves. The bulk of that offense came from outfielder Shane Victorino , going 2-for-5 at the plate with his third homer of the season, posting four RBIs and one runs scored on the night.
Our View: Victorino hit just .235 through June without a single home run and just four RBIs. This is the start of a new month and could be the beginning of a reversal of fortunes for the young outfielder. |
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| Drew records lone RBI for Sox | Tuesday 7/1, 9:27 PM CT |
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J.D. Drew went 0-for-3 but recorded Boston's lone RBI on a sacrifice fly in Tuesday's 3-1 loss to the upstart Rays. Jacoby Ellsbury stole his 35th base tonight as well.
Our View: That was Drew's 50th RBI of the season, with six coming over his last seven contests. |
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| Wakefield pitches well in loss | Tuesday 7/1, 9:22 PM CT |
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Tim Wakefield only allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits over seven innings in Tuesday's 3-1 loss to the Rays, with three walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: He pitched well enough to win, but his team-mates could not muster enough run support. He has allowed three or less earned runs in seven straight starts, yet he is 2-3 over the span. |
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| Garza powers Tampa over Boston | Tuesday 7/1, 9:16 PM CT |
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Tampa RHP Matt Garza was the strength of the effort in the Rays 3-1 victory over Boston this evening, pitching seven innings to allow just one unearned run on five hits with no walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Garza is now touting a record of 7-4 on the season with an ERA of 3.47, collecting his third win in four starts. |
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| Navarro puts Rays in another win | Tuesday 7/1, 9:12 PM CT |
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The Rays continue to stay hot, tonight pushing through a pitcher's duel to emerge 3-1 over the Boston Red Sox. Catcher Dioner Navarro led the way, going 2-for-4 at the dish with two RBIs on the night.
Our View: Navarro is now hitting .316 on the season but has fallen over the last month, hitting just .253 through June after hitting .333 in May. However, he's showcasing power along the way, hitting three homers with 13 RBIs through June. |
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| Gordon hits homer in loss | Tuesday 7/1, 9:12 PM CT |
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Alex Gordon went 2-for-5 with a solo homer in Tuesday's 7-5 loss to the Orioles.
Our View: That was his third homer over his last seven games, while collecting nine RBI over the span. He is worth penciling into your fantasy lineups while he is hot. |
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| Hochevar falls to 5-6 | Tuesday 7/1, 9:08 PM CT |
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Luke Hochevar was rocked for six earned runs on six hits over six innings in Tuesday's 7-5 loss to Baltimore, with three walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: He falls to 5-6 for the season, with a 4.91 ERA. This ended a fairly solid run for Hochevar, as he was 2-0 over his previous five starts, while only allowing two earned runs in three of those outings. |
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| Roberts homers in win over KC | Tuesday 7/1, 9:08 PM CT |
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Baltimore second baseman Brian Roberts continues to swing a hot bat for the Orioles, serving his team well in a 7-5 win over the Royals this evening. Roberts went 1-for-3 with a walk and his sixth home run of the season, also adding his 22nd stolen base of the year to total one RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: Roberts hit a whopping .342 through June with seven stolen bases and 12 RBIs. He's starting July with a bang as well and could be on track to another strong month. |
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| Hernandez leads Baltimore | Tuesday 7/1, 9:03 PM CT |
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The Orioles failed to match their opponent, the Kansas City Royals, in the hits column, yet the few hits they earned were good enough to earn the 7-5 win over the Royals. The charge was led by Ramon Hernandez , going 2-for-4 with two RBIs and one run scored on the night.
Our View: Hernandez improved to a batting average of .273 through June with three home runs and nine RBIs. He hopes to keep the upswing going and got off to a good star tonight. |
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| Hammock recalled | Tuesday 7/1, 8:56 PM CT |
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Catcher Robby Hammock has been recalled from Triple-A Tucson, according to the AP. The team placed catcher Chris Synder on the 15-day DL as an adjoining move.
Our View: Hammock only went 4-for-22 (.182) in his previous stint with the Diamondbacks this season, but he should see some action as Miguel Montero's backup, namely against left-handed pitchers. |
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| Stansberry optioned | Tuesday 7/1, 8:29 PM CT |
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Craig Stansberry has been optioned to Triple-A Portland, according to the AP. The team recalled pitcher Clay Hensley as an adjoining move.
Our View: Stansberry went 6-for-16 (.375) during his brief stint with the Padres. He will have to wait for another chance to prove his worth to the team. |
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| Quintero struck with bat | Tuesday 7/1, 8:25 PM CT |
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Houston catcher Humberto Quintero has left tonight's game versus the Dodgers after being struck in the head with a bat, according to the Sports Network.
Our View: Quintero left in the top of the second after a Luis Maza backswing caught the backstop square on top of his catching helmet. The 28-year-old Quintero lay motionless at first and Astros trainers had to help him off the field after several minutes of deliberation. |
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| B. Jones optioned to Triple-A | Tuesday 7/1, 8:22 PM CT |
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Brandon Jones has been optioned to Triple-A Richmond, according to the Miami Herald. The team activated Mark Kotsay from the DL as a corresponding move.
Our View: Jones fared well during his stint with the Braves, as he hit .278 with one homer, five doubles, one triple, and four RBI over 54 at-bats, but he will have to wait for another chance to play with the big league club. |
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| Manuel pushing Pedro to improve | Tuesday 7/1, 8:19 PM CT |
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Mets manager Pedro Martinez is keeping veteran RHP Pedro Martinez on regular rest while giving the young Mike Pelfrey an extra day of rest, according to SLAM Sports.
Our View: Martinez and Pelfrey both pitched in a doubleheader on Friday against the Yankees, and Manuel said he hoped consistent action would help Martinez. He's 2-2 with a 7.12 ERA in six starts and Pelfrey, who'll pitch Thursday in the final game of a four-game series against the Cardinals, is 5-6 with a 4.47 ERA. Manuel also noted tipping pitches has been one of the reasons for the three-time Cy Young Award winner's woes since returning from a strained left hamstring sustained in his first start of the year but indicates pitching coach Dan Warthen discussed the matter with Martinez and that the pitcher is focused on improving. |
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| Marcum may return on July 21 | Tuesday 7/1, 8:12 PM CT |
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The Toronto Blue Jays are indicating pitcher Shaun Marcum could be activated from the disabled list as early as July 21st, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Should Marcum experience no setbacks in his recovery from a strained right elbow, Toronto pitching coach Brad Arnsberg said the starter could be activated by July 21 at the earliest. Even then, Arnsberg added that Marcum likely would be limited to around 60-70 pitches in his first outing. The 26-year-old Marcum began a throwing program on Saturday at Toronto's complex in Dunedin, Fla., where he's playing catch on flat ground for the time being. Arnsberg noted that it will probably be at least another week before Marcum can pitch off a mound again. Marcum has been sidelined since June 19 with strained ligaments around his elbow and forearm in his throwing arm. On June 23, the pitcher was examined by renowned arm specialist Dr. James Andrews, who determined that Marcum's injury didn't require surgery. |
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| Rays making push for Fuentes | Tuesday 7/1, 8:08 PM CT |
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The Colorado Rockies are reporting the Tampa Bay Rays are making a serious push to trade for reliever Brian Fuentes , according to the Rocky Mountain News.
Our View: Tampa Bay’s interest in Fuentes picked up Tuesday in light of the expectation that closer Troy Percival will return to the disabled list after aggravating the left hamstring that forced him on the disabled list. The Rays are looking for a lefty to work late innings, and to provide late-inning protection for Percival in their bid to claim a postseason bid for the first time ever. |
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| Quintero leaves games | Tuesday 7/1, 8:07 PM CT |
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Humberto Quintero left Tuesday's game against the Dodgers after being hit on the top of his head during an at-bat in the second inning, according to the AP. Quintero laid still behind home plate for some time as the Astros' trainer attended to him. He eventually was able to leave the field mostly under his own power with some help from the training staff.
Our View: He was replaced by Brad Ausmus. We will keep you posted on Quintero's status. |
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| Holm sent down | Tuesday 7/1, 8:04 PM CT |
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Catcher Steve Holm has been sent down to Triple-A Fresno, according to the AP. The team recalled catcher Eliezer Alfonzo as an adjoining move.
Our View: Holm did not fare well as Bengie Molina's backup, as he held a .214 average over 70 at-bats. He held no fantasy value prior to his demotion. |
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| Escobar suffers setback in rehab | Tuesday 7/1, 7:59 PM CT |
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Earlier today we reported Angels pitcher Kelvim Escobar was struggling with discomfort but had pitched well in three scoreless innings for Single-A Rancho Cucamonga. Now reports comes from Orange County claiming Escobar may have in fact reaggravated the torn right labrum and could be looking at an extended rehab assignment, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The Angels report Escobar is expressing pain in the shoulder and that he could tell during warm-ups that something was wrong with his shoulder, yet he still decided to pitch and on Tuesday he admitted that it wasn't the right decision. Escobar said he is scheduled to meet with Dr. Lewis Yocum during the Angels' game against the A's on Tuesday night. He said he'll figure out his options once he meets with Yocum, but his return will definitely be delayed. |
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| Alfonzo recalled | Tuesday 7/1, 7:58 PM CT |
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The Giants have recalled catcher Eliezer Alfonzo from Triple-A Fresno, according to the AP. The Giants optioned catcher Steve Holm to Triple-A, as an adjoining move.
Our View: The move comes nine days after he completed a 50-game suspension for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance. He will see little action behind starter Bengie Molina, and does not merit fantasy consideration.
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| Snyder to DL | Tuesday 7/1, 7:54 PM CT |
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Arizona has placed catcher Chris Snyder on the 15-day disabled list, according to the East Valley Tribune.
Our View: Snyder, who had an MRI earlier Tuesday, suffered a left testicular fracture Monday when he was hit by a foul ball. To fill his roster spot, the Diamondbacks have recalled Robby Hammock from Triple-A Tucson. |
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| Jones returns to starting lineup | Tuesday 7/1, 7:51 PM CT |
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Chipper Jones has returned to the Braves' starting lineup tonight, according to the AP.
Our View: Jones made a miraculous recovery from his strained quad ailment within the last 48 hours, as he was in jeopardy of landing on the DL. Fantasy owners have the green light to return him to their lineups. |
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| Oswalt progressing towards health | Tuesday 7/1, 7:46 PM CT |
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Houston is reporting the hip of RHP Roy Oswalt is doing well and, in fact, is progressing much quicker than anticipated, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Oswalt suffered a hip abductor strain in the last pitch of the sixth inning Monday against the Dodgers, and he was worried about the seriousness of the injury. But Oswalt told reporters Tuesday afternoon that he woke up in a little less pain after icing the hip Monday night. He also received treatment in the clubhouse Tuesday. Oswalt will be reexamined in two days to see how he is healing, and said he expects his next start to be pushed back by a day or two, at most. |
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| Baez transferred to 60-day DL | Tuesday 7/1, 7:46 PM CT |
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Danys Baez has been transferred to the 60-day DL, according to the Baltimore Sun. The team made the move to make room for infielder Freddie Bynum on the 40-man roster.
Our View: Baez is likely out for the remainder of the 2008 season while he slowly recovers from Tommy John surgery. |
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| Rockies demote Speier | Tuesday 7/1, 7:40 PM CT |
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The Colorado Rockies optioned pitcher Ryan Speier to Triple-A Colorado Springs on Tuesday, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View: To replace him on the roster, the Rockies purchased the contract of lefty Cedrick Bowers. |
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| Robertson called up | Tuesday 7/1, 7:37 PM CT |
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Right-handed reliever Connor Robertson has been called up from Triple-A Tucson, according to the AP. The team placed Eric Byrnes on the 15-day DL, as a corresponding move.
Our View: Robertson allowed four earned runs, two walks, and six hits over two innings of work with the Athletics in 2007. He is not going to make a fantasy impact while fighting for innings out of the D-Backs' bullpen. |
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| Furcal may have suffered setback | Tuesday 7/1, 7:37 PM CT |
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Beat writer Tony Jackson is reporting the Dodger shortstop Rafael Furcal awoke with more pain and discomfort in his back today, according to the LA Daily News.
Our View: The Dodgers have brought their prized infielder back to LA for further medical testing and Jackson is hoping to hear additinal news tomorrow. Make sure you check in with RotoTimes and Fanball to get those updates as they become available. |
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| Byrnes placed on DL | Tuesday 7/1, 7:32 PM CT |
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As expected, Eric Byrnes has been placed on the 15-day DL due to a strained left hamstring, according to the AP. The team recalled right-handed pitcher Connor Robertson from Triple-A Tucson to fill his spot on the roster.
Our View: Byrnes has been plagued by his leg ailments for most of the season, and has disappointed fantasy owners with a .209 average over 52 games played. |
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| Maine says arm is fine | Tuesday 7/1, 7:30 PM CT |
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Mets RHP John Maine is reporting his throwing arm is doing just fine after telling the team his arm felt "dead" and "tired" on Monday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Maine proceeded with his normal running workout on Tuesday, a day after complaining of a tired arm, and told manager Jerry Manuel that he was primed for his normal bullpen session Wednesday. Maine said his schedule had been a bit rushed following his previous start, with Friday's Subway Series doubleheader skewing everyone's schedules. And perhaps that was the reason why Maine lasted only four innings Monday, pitching without his usual zip. |
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| Jeter getting a rest | Tuesday 7/1, 7:26 PM CT |
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Yankee legend Derek Jeter has been given the night off as the Yanks face the Rangers this evening, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Nothing to stress as Jeter is doing just fine. The team wants to give him a bit of rest. |
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| Fielder out | Tuesday 7/1, 7:23 PM CT |
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Reports from Milwaukee indicate first baseman Prince Fielder is not in the starting lineup this evening.
Our View: We have no official sources giving us reason why Fielder is not on the field, but he's not in the lineup. We will update as news comes forth. |
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| Ross gets start vs Pitt | Tuesday 7/1, 7:11 PM CT |
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Cincinnati catcher David Ross normally does not sit behind the plate when Edinson Volquez is on the mound, but that will change tonight as the Reds face Pittsburgh and LHP Zach Duke, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The right-handed-hitting Ross was favored over lefty Paul Bako, as left-handed hitters are batting just .218 against Duke this season. Righties, meanwhile, are hitting .313. Ross' bat has also come alive as of late. He's hit safely in five of his last six games, including a ninth-inning double on Monday that set up Ken Griffey Jr.'s walk-off home run. Ross has raised his average from .224 to .244 since June 17. |
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| Uggla targets Thursday for return | Tuesday 7/1, 7:04 PM CT |
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Florida second baseman Dan Uggla is targeting Thursday as a potential point of return from injury, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Beginning Thursday the Marlins open a four-game series with the Rockies at Coors Field. Uggla hopes to be playing in at least one of those games as he feels his sprained left ankle is up to the challenge. Uggla was to have an MRI today to insure there are no further problems, but we have yet to receive official word on those results. Instead, the MLB is reporting that he wants to get back in action later this week. |
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| Van Benschoten to start on Wed | Tuesday 7/1, 7:00 PM CT |
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The Pirates will send recently promoted RHP John Van Benschoten to the mound for his first start of the season on Wednesday against Cincinnati, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Van Benschoten had been the obvious fill-in choice, manager John Russell wanted to insure that Van Benschoten would be available out of the bullpen if needed in a long-relief situation either Sunday or Monday. However, a six-inning start by Tom Gorzelanny on Sunday and seven innings from Paul Maholm on Monday erased that need. Van Benschoten will be the third different spot starter for the Pirates in a six-game period. Triple-A righties Jimmy Barthmaier and Ty Taubenheim each made starts during the team's recent three-game set against the Rays. |
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| Kotsay returns from Braves | Tuesday 7/1, 6:57 PM CT |
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Atlanta outfielder Mark Kotsay has been activated from the 15-day disabled list and will be in the starting lineup this evening as the Braves face the Phillies, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The veteran center fielder had been sidelined since May 25th with a lower back strain. During a five-game minor league rehab assignment with Double-A Mississippi, Kotsay recorded six hits in 18 at-bats. However, he was able to swing and field his position without any trouble or discomfort and is ready to get back into action. |
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| Feldman, Guardado getting rest | Tuesday 7/1, 6:52 PM CT |
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The Rangers report pitchers Scott Feldman and Eddie Guardado are going to be given extra rest by the team, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Feldman is fine physically but is starting to pile up innings in his first year as a starter. The Rangers are going to use Thursday's day off to give him extra rest. Feldman's turn comes up on Sunday against the Orioles, but he's being pushed back to Tuesday against the Angels. Guardado was unavailable to pitch on Tuesday night, one day after having to come out of Monday's game with inflammation in his left shoulder. Guardado came in and warmed up to pitch the eighth inning, but he had to come out when he felt the shoulder act up. |
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| Detroit without Cabrera vs Twins | Tuesday 7/1, 6:41 PM CT |
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Detroit first baseman Miguel Cabrera has been scratched from the starting lineup for tonight’s game against the Minnesota Twins due to a left hip flexor injury, according to the Sports Ticker.
Our View: Cabrera is listed as day-to-day after leaving Monday’s contest in the second inning. He was replaced at first base by Marcus Thames. |
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| Hensley gets the call from San Diego | Tuesday 7/1, 6:38 PM CT |
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The San Diego Padres recalled righthander Clay Hensley from Class AAA Portland prior to their game against the Colorado Rockies on Tuesday, according to the Sports Ticker.
Our View: Hensley began the season on the 15-day disabled list with a right shoulder strain before being activated and optioned to Portland on June 6. The 28-year-old has made 14 appearances - eight starts - for the Beavers, going 1-1 with a 3.25 ERA. To make room on the roster, the Padres infielder Craig Stansberry to Portland. |
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| Mauer to sit tonight | Tuesday 7/1, 5:22 PM CT |
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Joe Mauer will sit in favor of Mike Redmond at catcher against the Tigers tonight, according to the Star Tribune. Redmond is penciled in to bat third in the order.
Our View: Mauer went 2-for-4 with two RBI on Monday against Detroit, but manager Ron Gardenhire felt he could use a game off. Adjust your lineups accordingly. |
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| Bynum back in Baltimore | Tuesday 7/1, 5:04 PM CT |
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The Orioles have purchased Freddie Bynum's contract from Triple-A Norfolk, according to the AP. He will fill the roster spot for Alex Cintron, who landed on the 15-day DL due to a strained left hamstring.
Our View: Bynum is back with the Orioles, but is not worth targeting as he was only hitting .192 over 99 at-bats, and will be fighting for playing time at shortstop with Brandon Fahey while Cintron is on the shelf. |
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| Orr optioned back to Columbu |
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