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| Hudson goes 4-for-5 | Wednesday 7/2, 11:56 PM CT |
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Orlando Hudson went 4-for-5 in Wednesday's 4-3 loss to the Brewers. He hit one double and three singles, and also scored a run.
Our View: He raised his average to .297, and this was his third multi-hit game over his last seven. Keep him active as a middle infielder in NL-only leagues while he is hot. |
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| McClung pitches well, but no decision | Wednesday 7/2, 11:52 PM CT |
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Milwaukee RHP Seth McClung put a strong effort on the mound this evening, helping his Brewers to a hard-fought 4-3 win over Arizona. McClung pitched 5 1/3 innings to allow two runs (both earned) on eight hits with one walk and six strikeouts.
Our View: McClung walked off with no decision, his second consecutive no-decision since winning three of four in the month of June. More impressively, after a rough start, McClung has posted just nine walks versus 27 strikeouts since June 1st. |
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| Petit performs well in first start | Wednesday 7/2, 11:51 PM CT |
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Yusmeiro Petit performed well in his first start, as he only allowed one earned run on two hits over six innings in Wednesday's 4-3 loss to Milwaukee, with no walks and four strikeouts. He exited the game with a 2-1 lead, and ended his night with a no decision.
Our View: He made a spot start in place of the injured Micah Owings. Petit proved he can be effective as a starter, but his fantasy value will remain low as he will likely return to the bullpen. |
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| Cameron drives in two vs Zona | Wednesday 7/2, 11:46 PM CT |
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It's a running theme of the night as teams across the major leagues are finding more runs on fewer hits to earn the win, and such was the case for the Milwaukee Brewers this evening in their 4-3 win over Arizona. Outfielder Mike Cameron led the way, going 2-for-4 with ninth double of the season to post two RBIs for the game.
Our View: Cameron hit a hot streak in the middle of June but has since cooled, going 5-for-24 with no homers since June 23rd (tonight's RBIs being the only runs driven in during that span). |
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| Easley generates three RBI in loss | Wednesday 7/2, 11:44 PM CT |
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Damion Easley went 3-for-4 with three RBI in Wednesday's 8-7 loss to the Cardinals. He hit two singles and one double.
Our View: Easley has registered a hit in four-straight games and has recorded an RBI in each of his last two. He made another start at second base tonight, and is worth picking up in NL-only leagues if Luis Castillo lands on the DL. |
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| Pedro handed no decision | Wednesday 7/2, 11:39 PM CT |
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Pedro Martinez surrendered five earned runs on seven hits over five innings in Wednesday's 8-7 loss to the Cardinals in St. Louis, with one walk and four strikeouts. He allowed two home runs in the game, both to slugger Troy Glaus.
Our View: Martinez ended his night with a no decision, and his ERA has risen to 7.39. He is 0-2 over his last three starts, and has allowed 17 earned runs over the span. |
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| Ankiel keeps the bat hot vs New York | Wednesday 7/2, 11:39 PM CT |
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The Cards posted eight runs in an offensive marathon with the New York Mets this evening, pulling the victory by one run (that run posted in the bottom of the ninth). Outfielder Rick Ankiel did his part to support the push, going 2-for-5 with his 17th homer of the season, finishing with two RBIs and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Ankiel stepped up in the power categories last month, touting seven homers for 13 RBIs through June. He would like to get his batting average up, but driving in runs has become his weapon of choice. |
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| Glaus takes Mets deep, twice | Wednesday 7/2, 11:33 PM CT |
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The Cardinals had to fight and find efficiency on offense, but they pulled the 8-7 win over the Mets with a strong performance from veteran third baseman Troy Glaus . Glaus hit 2-for-4 with one walk and two homers (his 11th and 12th of the season) to total four RBIs and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Glaus has been belting homer with regularity but hopes to get his average up, hitting just .276 for the month of June. With that said, he posted eight homers with 17 RBIs along the way, a nice bit of statistical nourishment for the fantasy owner in need of such numbers. |
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| Furcal to undergo back surgery | Wednesday 7/2, 11:13 PM CT |
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It has been decided that Rafael Furcal will undergo surgery on Thursday to relieve pressure on a disk in his lower back, and he could be out at least eight weeks, according to the AP. He has not been able to recover from a lower back strain and skipper Joe Torre said, "It’s a blow, but it’s reality. He went out there, played a game and that was that. It’s frustrating. He was, from what I understand, ready to just do this and get it done and get it over with. They anticipate this will solve everything."
Our View: Torre will feature Angel Berroa at shortstop, and will also consider Nomar Garciaparra for the spot, when he comes off the DL, possibly before the All-Star break. |
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| Contreras shows well versus Cleveland | Wednesday 7/2, 11:11 PM CT |
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Chicago RHP Jose Contreras wasn't terribly dominating on the mound against Cleveland this evening, but he got the job done to help his White Sox earn the 6-5 win over the Indians. Contreras pitched six innings to allow four runs (three earned) on six hits with four walks and six strikeouts.
Our View: Contreras was a worry last month, going 2-3 with a 6.83 ERA. This ranks as one of the best outings he's seen this season and, we hope, serves as a sign of things to come. |
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| Carroll delivers two RBI in loss | Wednesday 7/2, 11:06 PM CT |
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Jamey Carroll went 1-for-5 with two RBI in Wednesday's tough 6-5 loss to the division rival White Sox. His hit went for a triple, his fourth of the season.
Our View: The Indians' second baseman is hitting .285, and recorded an RBI in four of his last six games. He would be a good guy to consider if you could use some depth to your fantasy infield. |
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| Pierzynski homers twice vs Cleveland | Wednesday 7/2, 11:06 PM CT |
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It was a hard-fought battle, but the White Sox emerged 6-5 over the Cleveland Indians this evening with eight hits spread through six hitters. Catcher A.J. Pierzynski was weapon of choice, going 2-for-5 with two homers on the night, good for two RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Pierzynski quietly hit .326 last month though his run production is lacking (just 11 RBIs through June). Getting off the hump and driving runs in should be priority #1 to improve his offerings moving forward. |
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| Sizemore hits pair of homers in loss | Wednesday 7/2, 10:57 PM CT |
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Grady Sizemore went 3-for-4 with two RBI in Wednesday's 6-5 loss to the White Sox. Two of his hits went for solo homers. He also stole a base and scored four runs in the game, which took 10 innings to decide.
Our View: He has 21 homers for the season, with four coming over his last seven games. His stolen base was also his 20th, and he is on pace for his first career 30/30 campaign. |
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| Jimenez gets much-needed win | Wednesday 7/2, 10:52 PM CT |
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Colorado RHP Ubaldo Jimenez picked up his third win of the season as the Rockies posted an 8-1 victory over the Padres this evening. Jimenez pitched 6 1/3 innings to give up just one earned run on five hits with one walk and four strikeouts.
Our View: This brings Jimenez to 3-8 on the season, an obvious sign that starts like these are few and far between for the young hurler. |
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| Atkins pulls Rockies on offense | Wednesday 7/2, 10:48 PM CT |
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Colorado brought the offense to the park and got the 8-1 win over the Padres this evening, led by the stick of third baseman Garrett Atkins . Atkins went 3-for-4 at the plate with his 16th double and 11th home run of of the season, totaling four RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Atkins has carried the power fantasy owners hoped to see this season, touting just two homers for 12 RBIs last month. He needs to get his bat going if the Rockies hope to improve and make some kind of effort for the division. |
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| Headley registers only RBI for Padres | Wednesday 7/2, 10:44 PM CT |
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Chase Headley went 1-for-3 with a solo home run, and registered the Padres' lone RBI in Wednesday's 8-1 loss to Colorado.
Our View: That was his second homer over his last six contests, and he extended his hitting streak to eight games. He is worth targeting if still dangling on the waiver wire. |
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| Wolf suffers fourth-straight loss | Wednesday 7/2, 10:38 PM CT |
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Randy Wolf was lit up for seven earned runs on six hits over four innings in Wednesday's 8-1 loss to Colorado, with four walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Wolf falls to 5-8 for the season, and has lost four-straight starts. His seven earned runs allowed tied his season-worst. |
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| Kazmir struggles versus Boston | Wednesday 7/2, 10:37 PM CT |
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Tampa Bay LHP Scott Kazmir wasn't as dominating as we might have expected, though the Rays still pulled the 7-6 win over Boston. Kazmir pitched just five innings, allowing four runs (all earned) on seven hits with four walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: After going 5-1 with an ERA of 1.22 through May, Kazmir went just 2-2 with an ERA of 3.60 through June, just a small fact to ponder as you consider Kazmir's potential for the month ahead. |
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| Crawford helps Rays over Sox | Wednesday 7/2, 10:32 PM CT |
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As is normally the case, the Tampa Bay effort versus the Boston Red Sox tonight, winning 7-6, was helped along by outfielder Carl Crawford , going 3-for-4 at the dish with three singles, his 21st stolen base of the season, and one walk, also adding one run scored to the stat line.
Our View: Crawford has struggled to get his offensive numbers to the tall expectations many fantasy owners harbored, hitting .267 with four homers for 14 RBIs through June. Nights like this are not coming often enough, but the potential for a surge is clearly on hand. |
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| Drew goes 2-for-4 with RBI | Wednesday 7/2, 10:30 PM CT |
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J.D. Drew went 2-for-4 with an RBI in Wednesday's 7-6 loss to Tampa Bay.
Our View: Drew raised his average to .302 and recorded an RBI in three-straight games. Drew shall remain penciled into your fantasy outfield. |
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| Longoria drives in three vs Boston | Wednesday 7/2, 10:27 PM CT |
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In what may be the best growing rivalry in the league this season, the Tampa Bay Rays drew blood against the Boston Red Sox in a hard-fought 7-6 win. Third baseman Evan Longoria was the leader of the parade, going 3-for-4 with his 21st double of the season, finishing with three RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Longoria hit .300 last month with eight homers and 19 RBIs, but he has been especially hot of late, going 16-for-35 with three homers and 11 RBIs since June 25th. |
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| Dice-K pitches well in no decision | Wednesday 7/2, 10:26 PM CT |
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Daisuke Matsuzaka only allowed one earned run on two hits over five innings in a tough 7-6 loss to the upstart Rays, with five walks and five strikeouts. Boston led 2-1 when he exited the game, but ultimately ended his night with a no decision.
Our View: Other than the five walks, he pitched great. He remains 9-1 for the season, and trimmed his ERA to 3.12, while only allowing one earned run over his last two starts. |
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| Kuroda gets win #4 | Wednesday 7/2, 10:20 PM CT |
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Los Angeles RHP Hiroki Kuroda picked up his fourth win of the season as his Dodgers put Houston to the loss column, 4-1. Kuroda pitched seven innings without allowing a single run, surrendering five hits, one walk, and earning one strikeout.
Our View: Kuroda now stands at 4-6 with an ERA of 3.73, going 1-2 in each of the completed months thus far. |
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| Barrett leaves games | Wednesday 7/2, 10:19 PM CT |
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Michael Barrett was forced out of Wednesday night’s game against the Rockies in the second inning after fouling a ball off his face, according to the AP. He remained on the ground near home plate for several minutes, and was attended to by team trainers before walking to the clubhouse under his own power.
Our View: Barrett was taken to a hospital for further evaluation for what was believed to be a fractured nose, according to the Padres. We will keep you posted on his status. |
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| Hernandez falls to 0-2 | Wednesday 7/2, 10:15 PM CT |
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Runelvys Hernandez allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits over five innings in Wednesday's 4-1 loss to the Dodgers, with two walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Hernandez is 0-2 as a starter, and gave up six earned runs over 10 innings of work. He should not be considered for your fantasy rotation. |
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| Ethier leads Dodgers to win over Houston | Wednesday 7/2, 10:13 PM CT |
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The Dodgers put the 4-1 win on the board versus Houston this evening, an effort built largely on the bat of outfielder Andre Ethier . Ethier went 3-for-5 at the plate with his 19th double and eighth homer of the season, totaling one RBI and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Ethier hit just .195 for the month of June with three homers and 12 RBIs. We believe he can do better, and this gets the month of July started in that direction. |
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| Lee records lone RBI for Astros | Wednesday 7/2, 10:09 PM CT |
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Carlos Lee went 2-for-4 with a solo home run, and recorded the Astros' only RBI in Wednesday's 4-1 loss to the Dodgers.
Our View: Lee is hot, as he racked up 11 hits, two homers, and six RBI over his last five games. |
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| A-Rod keeps the runs coming vs Texas | Wednesday 7/2, 10:04 PM CT |
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Alex Rodriguez seems to have found inspiration from his meeting earlier this week with Madonna, going 2-for-3 with two walks and his 17th homer of the season this evening as the Yanks put the Rangers to bed, 18-7. A-Rod totaled three RBIs and four runs scored on the night.
Our View: A-Rod was inspired before the Material Girl turned him on to the Kabala, hitting .366 through June with nine home runs and 23 RBIs. He's getting off to a strong start this month as well. Shocker. |
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| Giambi drives in six | Wednesday 7/2, 10:00 PM CT |
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The Yankees found more than a few reasons for happiness this evening, posting 18 runs on 16 hits to triumph in dominating fashion over the Texas Rangers, 18-7. The man of the hour: Designated hitter Jason Giambi , going 2-for-4 at the plate with his 13th double and 18th homer of the season, totaling a whopping six RBIs and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Giambi added the moustache and started hitting, touting six homers for 19 RBIs last month while hitting .305 through June. If he stays hot through July, he may become the most feared hitter in a lineup bloated with All Stars. |
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| Bradley blasts homer in loss | Wednesday 7/2, 9:58 PM CT |
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Milton Bradley went 1-for-4 with a two-run homer in Wednesday's 18-7 loss to the Yankees.
Our View: That was his 17th homer of the season, and his second over his last six games. |
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| Hamilton adds two more RBI | Wednesday 7/2, 9:54 PM CT |
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Josh Hamilton went 1-for-3 with two RBI in Wednesday's 18-7 loss to the Yankees in the Bronx. His hit went for a single.
Our View: Hamilton now has 82 RBI over 83 games, with six coming over his last six games. |
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| Rollins, Utley bring offense vs Atlanta | Wednesday 7/2, 9:53 PM CT |
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Philadelphia infielders Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley were up to their usual mischief tonight, helping their Phillies get the dominating 7-3 over Atlanta. Rollins went 3-for-4 at the plate with one walk and three singles, good for one RBI and two runs scored. Utley went 2-for-4 with this 24th double of the season, good for one RBI and one run scored.
Our View: Both players stole bases and both players continue to give fantasy owners reason to smile. |
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| Howard homers in win over ATL | Wednesday 7/2, 9:43 PM CT |
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The Phillies piled on the hits as they took the wood to Atlanta this evening, winning 7-3. Much to the delight of the fans in Philly, it was first baseman Ryan Howard serving as the offensive catalyst, going 1-for-4 at the dish with one walk and his 21st home run of the season, totaling three RBIs and one run scored on the night.
Our View: Howard's average is still horrendous (.219), but he failed to garner a single strikeout on the evening and is showing signs of improvement. He hit five homers for 26 RBIs last month and has hits in each of his last five games. |
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| Chipper collects 17th homer | Wednesday 7/2, 9:41 PM CT |
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Chipper Jones went 1-for-4 with a solo home run in Wednesday's 7-3 loss to the Phillies.
Our View: That was his 17th homer of the season, and his first since June 18. |
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| Van Benschoten suffers despite Pitt win | Wednesday 7/2, 9:35 PM CT |
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Newly-promoted RHP John Van Benschoten found rough times in his start for the Pirates this evening, yet Pitt got the win, 9-5, over the Reds. Van Benschoten lasted jut 2 1/3 innings, allowing five runs (all earned) on five hits with no walks, no strikeouts, and three home runs surrendered.
Our View: Van Benschoten has been used in spot action, and now you know why. He's struggled with inconsistency thus far, including six earned runs allowed in a four-inning start in May. We doubt he becomes a rotation regular, but you have to start somewhere. |
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| Campillo drops to 3-3 | Wednesday 7/2, 9:35 PM CT |
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Jorge Campillo was not in control in Wednesday's 7-3 loss to the Phillies, as he surrendered five earned runs on eight hits over five innings, with two walks and no strikeouts. He gave up home runs to Ryan Howard and Pat Burrell.
Our View: Campillo held a solid 2.54 ERA and 1.02 WHIP heading into tonight's game, but his loss drops his record to 3-3. He is 1-3 over his last four starts, and should be placed on your bench until he gets back on track. |
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| Nady homers twice in win over Cincy | Wednesday 7/2, 9:27 PM CT |
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The Pirates brought plenty of offense to the park this evening, beating up on the Cincinnati Reds 9-5. Outfielder Xavier Nady was the force of reckoning at the plate, going 3-for-5 with not one but two home runs (his 11th and 12th of the year) to total three RBIs and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Nady has been strong for Pitt this season, hitting .278 last month despite injury struggles. If he can get his run production back on track, he could make fantasy owners very happy. |
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| Bruce blasts two homers in loss | Wednesday 7/2, 9:26 PM CT |
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Jay Bruce went 2-for-4 with four RBI in Wednesday's 9-5 loss to the Pirates. Both of his hits went for home runs.
Our View: Bruce stumbled a bit as of late, but is now back on track, as he racked up two hits in three of his last four games, and snapped a 14-game drought in the home run department. He should be penciled back into your starting lineups. |
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| Thompson rocked for seven runs | Wednesday 7/2, 9:21 PM CT |
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Daryl Thompson was rocked for seven earned runs on eight hits over 4.1 innings in Wednesday's 9-5 loss to the Pirates, with one walk and two strikeouts. He gave up two home runs, both to Xavier Nady.
Our View: Thompson made a strong 2008 debut as he hurled five scoreless innings against the Yankees in the Bronx, but he has now lost his last two starts, with tonight being his worst outing. He should be kept on your bench until he proves to be worthy of your roto-rotation. |
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| Byrnes could be done for season? | Wednesday 7/2, 9:13 PM CT |
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Eric Byrnes may need to undergo surgery on his torn left hamstring, which would ultimately end his 2008 campaign, according to MLB.com. Byrnes will receive a second opinion on his hamstring and skipper Bob Melvin commented that the team will probably know within the week if surgery is Byrnes' best option. Melvin added, "Whether or not he has to have surgery will probably be the telltale. Right now, we're still trying to figure out how severe it is in there and how far the tendon is off the bone. We will decide if surgery is the way to go or if it's not the way to go."
Our View: Byrnes has been blessed with a solid combination of speed and power, but he has been plagued by leg ailments for most of the season, that limited him to only six homers and four stolen bases over 52 games. |
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| Castillo could land on DL? | Wednesday 7/2, 9:06 PM CT |
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Updating a previous report, Luis Castillo could land on the DL due to his sore left quad, according to MLB.com. Castillo said, "I have to make a decision if I'm going to go to the DL, because I don't want to get rest, man. I want to be playing most every day."
Our View: Castillo missed his second-straight game on Wednesday, and he will attempt to play again in the coming days. If his ailment doesn't improve, then he'll head to the DL in the hope that an extended rest will cure this problem for good. Damion Easley should continue to roam second base while he is out.
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| Cabrera throws complete game | Wednesday 7/2, 8:52 PM CT |
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Baltimore RHP Daniel Cabrera enjoyed a strong performance on the mound tonight, leading the way for the Orioles' 5-2 win over the Kansas City Royals. Cabrera pitched a complete game, allowing just two earned runs on seven hits with no walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: Cabrera needed this win, going 3-1 through May only to fall in June, going 0-3 with 23 total earned runs allowed over five starts (7.06 ERA through the month). Tonight could signal a return to the joys of May where Cabrera registered a much more tasty 3.14 ERA. |
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| Hernandez heating up for O's | Wednesday 7/2, 8:47 PM CT |
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The Orioles found the offense needed to give a strong pitching performance the support needed to garner the 5-2 win over the Royals, an effort largely pushed by catcher Ramon Hernandez . Hernandez went 3-for-4 at the plate with three singles and one RBI to show for the effort.
Our View: Hernandez showed signs of life with an improved batting average of .273 through June, and after going 2-for-4 last night with tonight's performance bolstering the streak, Hernandez now has hits in each of his last five games, including two home runs and six RBIs over that span. |
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| Chavez officially placed on DL | Wednesday 7/2, 8:46 PM CT |
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Eric Chavez has officially been placed on the 15-day DL due to his sore right shoulder, according to the AP. The team recalled infielder Wes Bankston from Triple-A Sacramento as an adjoining move.
Our View: This is his second trip to the DL this season, and he only played in 23 games so far, with a .247 batting average. |
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| Meche drops to 6-9 | Wednesday 7/2, 8:30 PM CT |
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Gil Meche allowed five runs (four earned) on nine hits over six innings in Wednesday's 5-2 loss to Baltimore, with two walks and no strikeouts.
Our View: Tonight's loss snaps a three-game winning streak for him. He only allowed one earned run in each of his last two wins heading into tonight. |
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| Young leaves game | Wednesday 7/2, 8:08 PM CT |
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Michael Young left Wednesday night's game against the Yankees due to an apparent left groin strain, according to the AP.
Our View: We will keep you posted when more details regarding the injury are determined. He was replaced at shortstop by Ramon Vazquez. |
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| Taveras held out with sore quad | Wednesday 7/2, 7:55 PM CT |
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Willy Taveras was held out of tonight's starting lineup against the Padres due to a sore left quad, according to MLB.com. Taveras did not guarantee he will return Thursday, and said, "We'll see. I'm going to ride the exercise bike today, get some treatment, but I'm not going to push it. I want to take care of this, so it doesn't get worse."
Our View: Ryan Spilborghs replaced Taveras in the lineup. Taveras holds his most value with 38-steals, but his speed is being compromised due to the leg ailment. |
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| Escobar back in action | Wednesday 7/2, 7:45 PM CT |
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Yunel Escobar returned to the Braves' lineup on Wednesday, according to MLB.com. He was battling a strained left shoulder, but showed the team enough in batting practice to justify his return.
Our View: Escobar was hitting .296 with six homers, 30 RBI and 44 runs scored over 75 games, and fantasy owners should get the green light to return him to active duty if gets through tonight's game against the Phillies without any issues. |
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| Redman recalled | Wednesday 7/2, 7:34 PM CT |
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Right-handed pitcher Mark Redman has been recalled from Triple-A Colorado Springs, according to the AP. He will fill the roster spot for Jeff Francis, who landed on the 15-day DL.
Our View: Redman lost his job in the rotation earlier in the season, as he went 2-3 with a 7.84 ERA and 1.71 WHIP over six starts. He is not worth fantasy consideration. |
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| Francis placed on DL | Wednesday 7/2, 7:29 PM CT |
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Jeff Francis has been placed on the 15-day DL due to inflammation in his pitching shoulder, according to the AP. As a corresponding move, the club recalled righty Mark Redman from Triple-A Colorado Springs.
Our View: Francis has allowed 11 earned runs and five walks over his last two starts, and is only 3-7 for the season. He held very little fantasy value prior to landing on the DL. |
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| Quintero placed on DL | Wednesday 7/2, 7:16 PM CT |
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Humberto Quintero has been placed on the 15-day DL due to a concussion, according to the AP. The team recalled catcher J.R. Towles from Triple-A Round Rock to take his place on the roster.
Our View: J.R. Towles will likely see most of the action at catcher over Brad Ausmus while Quintero is on the shelf. If Towles performs well, Quintero may become expendable. Quintero only hit .244 over 41 at-bats with the club this season, with no homers and one RBI. |
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| Towles recalled | Wednesday 7/2, 7:10 PM CT |
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As expected, J.R. Towles has been recalled from Triple-A Round Rock, according to the AP. The team placed catcher Humberto Quintero on the 15-day DL as a corresponding move.
Our View: Towles only hit .145 over 42-games with the Astros earlier in the season, but worked hard on his swing in the minors, as he hit .288 with five homers and 11 RBI over 18 games with Round Rock. Towles is in tonight's lineup against the Dodgers. |
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| Castillo misses another game | Wednesday 7/2, 7:03 PM CT |
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Luis Castillo missed his second straight game on Wednesday due to his quad injury, according to the AP. Manager Jerry Manuel said he would consider using Castillo in a part-time capacity until he feels better. Manuel said he doesn’t think a stint on the 15-day DL will be needed.
Our View: Damion Easley made another start at second base in his place. Castillo made his sixth fielding error in his last appearance on Monday, which surpassed his total number from 2007. |
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| Albers opts for rehab over surgery | Wednesday 7/2, 6:57 PM CT |
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Matt Albers has opted to try rehab instead of undergoing surgery on his torn labrum of his right shoulder, according to the AP. Albers said, "I’m still optimistic I’ll be able to pitch this year. I don’t really want to have surgery. I don’t think anyone really wants to."
Our View: His rehab will likely keep him out of action for two months, meaning he isn't worth holding onto as a fantasy prospect.
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| Kuroda activated from DL | Wednesday 7/2, 6:37 PM CT |
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Hiroki Kuroda has been activated from the DL following his bout with right shoulder tendinitis, according to the AP.
Our View: Kuroda is back in the rotation tonight against the Astros. |
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| Kershaw optioned | Wednesday 7/2, 6:34 PM CT |
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Clayton Kershaw was given a taste of life in the big leagues, but the team decided to send him back to the minors (Double-A Jacksonville) following eight starts, according to the AP. The team activated Hiroki Kuroda from the DL, and moved Kershaw to make room on the roster.
Our View: Kershaw is a future star, but didn't set the league on fire during his first stint with the Dodgers, as he went 0-2 with a 4.42 ERA and 1.63 WHIP over 38.2 innings. |
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| Ellis chips in two RBI in losing effort | Wednesday 7/2, 6:25 PM CT |
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Mark Ellis went 2-for-4 with two RBI in Wednesday's 7-4 loss to the Angels.
Our View: Ellis is quietly on a hot streak, as he registered two hits in three straight games, with four RBI over the span. He hit his ninth homer of the season last night as well. |
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| Young rakes two doubles vs Detroit | Wednesday 7/2, 6:24 PM CT |
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Minnesota Delmon Young Delmon Young was doing his part in today's 7-0 win over the Tigers, going 3-for-4 at the dish with two doubles on the day, finishing with one RBI and one runs scored.
Our View: Young hit .321 last month with two homers and 13 RBIs and hopes to keep the good vibes going with more performances like this. |
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| Mauer leads Twins over Tigers | Wednesday 7/2, 6:21 PM CT |
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The Twins put the 7-0 whooping on the Tigers today, led by the bat of catcher Joe Mauer , going 2-for-4 at the plate with one walk, two RBIs, and one run scored on the day.
Our View: Mauer has been as hot at the plate as expected, coming off a June performance hitting .341 on the month with 14 walks versus just seven strikeouts.
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| Outfielder Pearce recalled | Wednesday 7/2, 6:20 PM CT |
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Outfielder Steve Pearce has been recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis, according to the AP. He will cover the roster spot for closer Matt Capps, who landed on the 15-day DL.
Our View: The Pirates have a deep and solid outfield, and Pearce won't see much action during his stint with the club, and does not merit fantasy consideration. |
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| Capps officially placed on DL | Wednesday 7/2, 6:15 PM CT |
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Updating a previous report, Matt Capps has been placed on the 15-day DL due to right shoulder bursitis and an internal rotational deficit, according to the AP. The team recalled outfielder Steve Pearce from Triple-A Indianapolis as an adjoining move.
Our View: Capps is expected to miss around two months of action, but he will not need to undergo surgery. Tyler Yates and Damaso Marte are the top candidates to handle the closer role while Capps is out. |
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| Eveland ends up with no decision | Wednesday 7/2, 6:11 PM CT |
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Dana Eveland allowed three earned runs on four hits over 5.2 innings in Wednesday's 7-4 loss to the Angels, with one walk and four strikeouts.
Our View: Eveland is 2-0 over his last four starts, and allowed two or fewer earned runs in three of those outings. |
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| Rivera chips in three RBI | Wednesday 7/2, 6:06 PM CT |
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Juan Rivera went 1-for-3 with three RBI in Wednesday's 7-4 win over Oakland. Most of his damage was done on a two-run homer.
Our View: That was Rivera's first homer of the season, on 65 at-bats. He also doubled his season RBI total at six. |
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| Saunders claims 12th win | Wednesday 7/2, 5:55 PM CT |
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Joe Saunders allowed four runs (only two earned) on six hits over 6.1 innings in Wednesday's 7-4 win over the Athletics, with two walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: Saunders claimed his 12th win of the season tonight. He is 3-1 over his last four starts. |
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| De La Cruz optioned | Wednesday 7/2, 5:50 PM CT |
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Eulogio De La Cruz has been optioned to Triple-A Albuquerque, according to the AP. The team did not announce a corresponding move.
Our View: De La Cruz held no fantasy value prior to his demotion, as he allowed eight earned runs over 4.1 innings of action with the Marlins this season. |
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| Gonzalez will undergo surgery | Wednesday 7/2, 5:17 PM CT |
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Alex Gonzalez will undergo surgery on Monday to correct the compression fracture in his left knee, and is expected to miss the remainder of the season, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Our View: Alex Gonzalez did not make an appearance with the Reds in 2008, and the club is fine at shortstop with Jeff Keppinger and Jerry Hairston Jr. |
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| Capps out two months | Wednesday 7/2, 5:07 PM CT |
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Matt Capps will be out of action for around eight weeks due to a shoulder injury (bursitis and tightness), according to the AP. GM Neal Huntington said the 24-year-old closer will go on a rehab program for around four weeks, then take another four weeks to get back into pitching shape, and he added, "We’re going through a tough stretch right now. Matt’s a gamer. We know he’s going to be back."
Our View: Capps converted his first 15 save opportunities before blowing one on June 20. That started a rough stretch for the closer, who blew five of his last seven save opportunities. Tyler Yates and Damaso Marte are the top candidates to handle the closer role while Capps is out. |
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| Borkowski recalled | Wednesday 7/2, 4:51 PM CT |
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Dave Borkowski has been recalled from Triple-A Round Rock, according to the Houston Chronicle. The team designated Oscar Villarreal for assignment, as a corresponding move.
Our View: He allowed 33 hits and 16 earned runs over 21 innings with the Astros this season, and will hold no fantasy value as a middle-reliever. |
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| Villarreal designated for assignment | Wednesday 7/2, 4:42 PM CT |
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Reliever Oscar Villarreal has been designated for assignment, according to the Houston Chronicle. The team recalled reliever Dave Borkowski as a corresponding move.
Our View: Villarreal allowed 21 earned runs, 42 hits, and 17 walks over 37.2 innings of relief for Houston, and held no fantasy value prior to his designation. |
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| Drew named AL Player of Month | Wednesday 7/2, 4:26 PM CT |
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J.D. Drew has been named the AL Player of the Month for June, according to the AP. Drew hit .337 (31-for-92) with 12 homers and tied for the major league lead with 29 RBI over 28 games in the month. Drew also scored 27 runs and had a ML-best .848 slugging percentage.
Our View: It marked the first monthly award for Drew, who raised his season average to .299 with 16 homers and 50 RBI over 72 games. |
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| Haren earns Pitcher of Month honor | Wednesday 7/2, 4:21 PM CT |
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Dan Haren has been named the NL Pitcher of the Month for June, according to the AP. who went 3-0 with a 1.32 ERA over 41 innings in the month, with 36 strikeouts.
Our View: Haren is 8-4 overall, with a 2.85 ERA and 0.97 WHIP, and will remain a must-start in all leagues. |
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| Lackey named AL Pitcher of Month | Wednesday 7/2, 4:15 PM CT |
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John Lackey has been named the AL Pitcher of the Month for June, according to the AP. Lackey went 5-0 with a 1.16 ERA in the month (38.2 innings), with 34 strikeouts.
Our View: Lackey was worth the wait this season, as he is 6-1 with a 1.44 ERA and 0.89 WHIP over nine starts. |
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| Amezaga the difference | Wednesday 7/2, 4:13 PM CT |
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Amezaga's only hit, a two-run home run in the seventh inning, lifted the Marlins past the Nationals on Wednesday.
Our View: In addition to the home run, Amezaga finished the day 1-for-3, with a run scored, and two RBI. |
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| Ramirez named Player of Month | Wednesday 7/2, 4:08 PM CT |
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Hanley Ramirez has been named the NL Player of the Month for June, according to the AP. Ramirez hit .298 (34-of-114) with 10 homers and 13 RBI. He also had six doubles, a triple and seven stolen bases.
Our View: He was the first Marlin since Jeff Conine to win the honor since Jeff Conine in 1995. |
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| Gregg earns his 15th save | Wednesday 7/2, 4:05 PM CT |
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Kevin Gregg earned his 15th save in Wednesday's 4-2 win over the Washington Nationals. The veteran right-hander pitched a perfect ninth striking out one in the process.
Our View: Gregg has been solid when asked to pitch the ninth inning this year. He has six wins to go along with his 15 saves. |
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| Lo Duca drives in two | Wednesday 7/2, 4:00 PM CT |
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Paul Lo Duca, playing his third different position in as many games accounted for all of the Nationals' offense. The veteran catcher hit a two-run single in the second inning giving Washington a 2-0 lead.
Our View: The team is essentially auditioning the veteran backstop for the upcoming trade deadline. The maturation of young Jesus Flores makes Lo Duca disposable at this point in the Nats hopeless season. |
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| Perez strong in second start | Wednesday 7/2, 3:56 PM CT |
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Odalis Perez was strong in his second start off the disabled list. The Nationals southpaw, who spent three weeks on the DL due to tendinitis in his left shoulder, allowed one run and five hits in 6.2 innings of Wednesday's 4-2 loss to the Marlins. Perez was not involved in the decision.
Our View: The lefty threw 53 of 77 pitches for strikes, including 23 of his first 26 pitches. Perez knew he was on a pitch count and challenged the Fish bats right out of the box. |
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| Nolasco earns eighth win | Wednesday 7/2, 3:42 PM CT |
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Ricky Nolasco earned his ninth victory of the season on Wednesday afternoon in a 4-2 victory over the Washington Nationals. The Marlins right-hander allowed two runs on three hits, walked none and struck out eight.
Our View: Nolasco's two runs both came in the first inning when he hit Aaron Boone with a lazy breaking ball, followed by a Ronnie Belliard bloop double off the end of the bat, and then a ground ball single up the middle by Paul Lo Duca. After the first inning the 25-year old dominated the Nats lineup. |
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| Cabrera expected to play Thursday | Wednesday 7/2, 3:36 PM CT |
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Miguel Cabrera was out of the lineup on Wednesday for the second straight game after hurting his left hip flexor muscle in Monday's game against the Twins. Manager Jim Leyland said after the game he was available to pinch hit in the game but wasn't needed.
Our View: Leyland also said he expects him to return to the lineup on Thursday in Seattle. |
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| Bonine chased after 2.2 innings | Wednesday 7/2, 3:28 PM CT |
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Eddie Bonine exited Wednesday's 7-0 loss to the Minnesota Twins after 2.2 innings of work. The outing was the shortest of his four major league starts. The right-hander gave up five runs (two earned) on seven hits, walked two and struck out one.
Our View: The loss is Bonine's first of the season, and his ERA climbed from 3.98 to 4.30 even with two of the runs being unearned. |
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| Blackburn goes seven strong | Wednesday 7/2, 3:24 PM CT |
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Nick Blackburn combined with two Twins' relievers to complete a five-hit shutout as the Minnesota Twins defeated the Detroit Tigers 7-0 on Wednesday.
Blackburn allowed three hits, walked one and struck out four in seven innings. Jesse Crain allowed two hits in the eighth, and Boof Bonser pitched a 1-2-3 ninth.
Our View: Blackburn was bombed in his last start and has been increasingly generous with flyballs in his last few starts. This was a nice bounce back effort over a good hitting Tigers lineup. |
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| Pedroia in the zone | Wednesday 7/2, 2:08 PM CT |
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Dustin Pedroia is in the middle of a 9-game hitting streak. He's posted nine runs, two home runs, and two stolen bases over this stretch.
Our View: Pedroia keeps delivering out of the 2 hole for the Sox. Look for him to continue producing with ManRam and the superhot Drew hitting behind him. |
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| Angels interested in Holliday | Wednesday 7/2, 2:07 PM CT |
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Fox Sports reports that the Angels are showing interest in Rockies outfielder Matt Holliday. The report notes that after failing in attempts to secure free agents Mark Teixeira and Miguel Cabrera in the past year, the team is chasing Holliday in an effort to bolster their offense.
Our View: The first place Angels are tied for next-to-last in the American League in runs per game. |
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| Bankston called up | Wednesday 7/2, 2:02 PM CT |
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Wes Bankston was called up from Triple-A Sacramento on Wednesday and he'll be making his big-league debut at first base this afternoon, this according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
Our View: Bankston is replacing the injured Eric Chavez (shoulder) on the 25-man roster. |
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| Chavez lands on DL | Wednesday 7/2, 12:51 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports, Eric Chavez will be placed on the 15-day disable list due to his sore right shoulder. Frustrated by his latest injury Chavez said, "I just want to get to the point where I can get out there and know I can be a productive player, and right now I'm not."
Our View: Chavez had surgery on the shoulder in October to remove bone spurs and missed most of the first two months this year. We will keep an eye on this situation as the six-time gold glove winner can't seem to stay healthy. |
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| Granderson heats up | Wednesday 7/2, 12:41 PM CT |
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Curtis Granderson has been heating up over the last couple weeks, he raised his BA over 40 points in the month of June, while also tallying 22 runs and four stolen bases.
Our View: Grandrson is the catalyst of the Tigers, one of the hottest teams in baseball right now. Look for him to remain hot as Detroit is finally starting to perform at the level everyone thought they could. Until he slows down, Granderson is a must start in all formats. |
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| Cuddyer to return after the All-Star break | Wednesday 7/2, 12:08 PM CT |
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The Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune reports that an MRI on Michael Cuddyer's left hand revealed a sprained knuckle on his index finger.
Our View: This appears to be good news and the Twins expect to activate him over the All-Star break. |
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| Francisco earns the setup role | Wednesday 7/2, 12:03 PM CT |
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| Assumi | |
