|
| Maddux extends losing streak | Monday 7/7, 11:58 PM CT |
|
Greg Maddux, in a 3-1 loss to the Marlins, has not recorded a victory since mid-May. A stretch of nine straight starts. The right-handed future Hall of Famer is 0-4 with seven no-decisions despite the fact he has allowed two or fewer earned runs eight times in during that span.
Our View: Maddux did his job on Monday night, but Ricky Nolasco for the Fish was just better. |
|
|
| Nolasco continues to dominate | Monday 7/7, 11:55 PM CT |
|
Ricky Nolasco won his fifth consecutive, and impressive decision, handcuffing San Diego to one run and five hits in eight innings of work. The right-hander allowed five hits, walked none and struck out seven in his 10th win of the season.
Our View: Nolasco has been fabulous over the last two months, and in the performance the Florida ace lowered his ERA to 3.74. He has struck out 82 hitters and walked 29 in 110.2 innings this year. |
|
|
| Garciaparra hits second HR | Monday 7/7, 11:51 PM CT |
|
Nomar Garciaparra went 1-for-3, but his one hit was a big one. The Dodgers first baseman hit his second home run of the season to help the Dodgers defeat the Atlanta Braves 3-0 on Monday night.
Our View: If Garciaparra can stay healthy, he will assist his fantasy owners in the second half of the season. But managers have a better chance of being struck by lightening than watching Nomar play in 60-70 games the rest of the way. |
|
|
| Campillo not as good as Kuroda | Monday 7/7, 11:48 PM CT |
|
Jorge Campillo didn't perform to the level Hiroki Kuroda but the Braves right-hander took a one-hitter into the fifth before Nomar Garciaparra hit a two run home run that was enough for the Dodgers to defeat Atlanta 3-0 on Monday night.
Our View: Campillo has been solid as a rock for the Braves and his fantasy owners. The Mexican league refugee had his ERA raise above 3.00 for the first time this season, and after his 24 appearance and 10th start. |
|
|
| Kuroda perfect through seven | Monday 7/7, 11:32 PM CT |
|
Hiroki Kuroda took a perfect game into the eighth inning, but settled for a one-hitter helping the Dodgers to a 3-0 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Monday night.
The win moved the NL West Dodgers into a tie for first with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Our View: Kuroda was perfect with the Braves first 21 batters before Mark Teixeira hit a double leading off the eighth inning. |
|
|
| Ranger rookie hits fourth HR | Monday 7/7, 11:29 PM CT |
|
Chris Davis hit his fourth home run of the season off Angels starter Ervin Santana in Texas' five-run fifth inning.
Our View: Davis continues to make a case to remain with the team for the remainder of the season. The rookie is scuffling with his average (.206) but his four home runs, nine RBI and six runs scored in 11 games makes him a valuable fantasy option in all formats. |
|
|
| Santana earns 10th win | Monday 7/7, 11:24 PM CT |
|
Ervin Santana allowed six runs on 10 hits, walked two and struck out six, and the Angels scored a 9-6 victory over the Texas Rangers on Monday night.
Our View: Santana wasn't at his best for the second straight outing and concerns remain that his split nail is affecting his command. He was, however, good enough to earn his 10th win of the season against three losses. |
|
|
| Murphy records three RBI | Monday 7/7, 11:18 PM CT |
|
David Murphy hit his 12th home run of the season in Texas' five-run fifth inning, but it wasn't enough as the Rangers fell 9-6 to the LA Angels on Monday night.
Our View: Murphy continues to be a solid supporting cast member for the highest scoring team in the majors. His .269 average, impressive 58 RBI and 47 runs scored in 85 games makes him arguably the biggest surprise in the first half of the season. |
|
|
| Kinsler records 4-hit game | Monday 7/7, 11:13 PM CT |
|
Ian Kinsler went 4-for-5 to extend his hitting streak to a career-high 19 games, but the Rangers fell to the LA Angels 9-6 on Monday night.
Our View: Kinsler leads the majors with 125 hits in 87 games. |
|
|
| Hunter homers twice | Monday 7/7, 11:11 PM CT |
|
Torii Hunter homered twice, and the Los Angeles Angels scored a 9-6 victory over the Texas Rangers on Monday night.
Our View: Hunter hit is 11th and 12th home runs of the season and raised his RBI total to 41 on the season. |
|
|
| Wright records 4-RBI game | Monday 7/7, 11:04 PM CT |
|
David Wright homered and drove in four runs as the Mets defeated the Phillies 10-9 on Monday night at Citizen Bank Park.
Our View: Wright has 17 home runs, 70 RBI, 56 runs scored and nine stolen bases on the season. |
|
|
| Wagner earns 20th save | Monday 7/7, 11:02 PM CT |
|
It wasn't pretty but the Mets' closer, Billy Wagner, saved his 20th game of the season in a 10-9 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday night.
Our View: Wagner allowed two runs on two hits, walked one and struck out one in what was an exciting finish after the Mets led 10-1 heading into the six inning. |
|
|
| Pedro earns third win vs. Phillies | Monday 7/7, 10:59 PM CT |
|
Pedro Martinez allowed two runs on five hits, walked three and struck out six and the Mets defeated the Phillies 10-9 on Monday night. Pedro pitched into the sixth inning then watched the New York Mets nearly blow a 10-1 lead before Bill Wagner recorded the third out in the ninth inning with the tying run on second base.
Our View: Martinez benefited from an early lead. His two runs were both home runs by the Philly sluggers. The Mets right-hander is not a recommended fantasy option outside of NL-only formats, and even then he's a reserve and spot starter depending on matchup. |
|
|
| McClung struggles with command | Monday 7/7, 10:49 PM CT |
|
Seth McClung couldn't make it through the fifth inning on Monday night after struggling with his command. The right-hander was pulled from the game against the Colorado two outs into the fifth after giving up two runs and five walks.
Our View: McClung suffered the loss, his fourth against five wins in 20 starts. |
|
|
| Ubaldo earns fourth win | Monday 7/7, 10:35 PM CT |
|
Ubaldo Jimenez pitched seven strong innings in a 4-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday night.
Jimenez allowed only three hits and has won three of his last four starts after beginning the season 1-7.
Our View: Jimenez walked five but struck out seven in his fourth win of the season. |
|
|
| Holliday hits 14 HR in win | Monday 7/7, 10:24 PM CT |
|
Matt Holliday hit his 14th home run - and fourth in as many games - and Colorado scored a 4-3 victory over Milwaukee on Monday night.
Our View: Holliday hasn't hit for as much power this year, as he did last season, but his batting average (.345) and stolen bases (11) still make him a top-tiered fantasy option in all formats. |
|
|
| Dumatrait hammered by Houston | Monday 7/7, 10:16 PM CT |
|
Phil Dumatrait, who returned from the disabled list due to bursitis in his left shoulder, allowed seven runs on nine hits, walked two and struck out one in 3.1 innings of work on Monday night.
Our View: Dumatrait wasn't involved in the decision because the Pirates offense pummeled Houston pitching for a 10-7 win. A very unimpressive return for the left-hander, and the Pirates are not only suffering injuries to their starting five, they can't get anyone as a group. |
|
|
| Nady continues his offensive tear | Monday 7/7, 10:10 PM CT |
|
Xavier Nady went 2-for-5 with two RBI and the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Houston Astros 10-7 on Monday night.
Our View: Nady is hitting .323 and has 55 RBI and 43 runs scored in 76 games. |
|
|
| Marte earns second save | Monday 7/7, 10:07 PM CT |
|
Damaso Marte recorded three outs in the ninth inning, allowing one walk, and earned his second save in a 10-7 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday night.
Our View: Marte will receive the majority of the ninth inning work while Matt Capps is out the next 4-6 weeks. |
|
|
| Runelvys commandeered by Pirates | Monday 7/7, 10:05 PM CT |
|
Runelvys Hernandez allowed 10 runs on 13 hits, walked four and struck out three in four innings of work on Monday night against the Pirates. The right-hander suffered his third loss of the season without a win.
Our View: Long before the season started most in the know, knew, the weak link of the Houston team would be starting pithing. As the Astros begin their fade in the NL Central the pitching has be, and will be, their continuing downfall. |
|
|
| Doumit hits 11th home run | Monday 7/7, 10:00 PM CT |
|
Ryan Doumit went 1-for-5 in Monday's 10-7 victory over the Houston Astros. Doumit's hit was a two-run home run, his 11th of the season.
Our View: Doumit has arguably been the hottest hitting catcher outside of Russell Martin of the Dodgers since returning from the disabled list. The backstop is hitting .326 with 27 RBI and 40 runs scored in only 50 games. |
|
|
| Lee hits 20th in Astros loss | Monday 7/7, 9:56 PM CT |
|
Carlos Lee hit his 20th home run and registered three RBI, but the Houston Astros came up short end of a 10-7 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday night.
Our View: Lee's 20th long ball gives the Astros' outfielder one home run in every 17 at-bats on the season. |
|
|
| LaRoche reaches base four times | Monday 7/7, 9:49 PM CT |
|
Adam LaRoche went 2-for-2, reached base four times, scored twice and recorded an RBI in the Pirates 10-7 win over the Astros on Monday night.
Our View: LaRoche is beginning to see the ball better. The first baseman hit his ninth home of season on Sunday and followed that with a two-hit performance on Monday night. LaRoche raised his average to .243 with the performance. |
|
|
| McLouth hits 16th HR | Monday 7/7, 9:43 PM CT |
|
Nate McLouth hit a solo home run helping the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 10-7 win over the Houston Astros on Monday night.
Our View: McLouth's home run, his 16th of the season, was his only hit in the 10 run parade by the Pirates. |
|
|
| Papelbon records 26th save | Monday 7/7, 9:38 PM CT |
|
Jonathan Papelbon recorded the final three outs in Monday's 1-0 win over Minnesota for his 26th save of the season.
Our View: Papelbon pitched a perfect ninth striking out one. Paps has a 2.33 ERA and a 0.92 WHIP just past the midway point of the season. |
|
|
| Casilla extends hitting streak to 14 | Monday 7/7, 9:32 PM CT |
|
Alexi Casilla extended his hitting streak to a career-best 14 games with an eighth-inning bunt single.
Our View: Casilla's .320 batting average dropped a couple points (.318) in his one-hit effort of a one-run loss to the Red Sox on Monday night. |
|
|
| Dice-K throws 7-plus shutout innings | Monday 7/7, 9:29 PM CT |
|
Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched 7.1 shutout innings, allowing six hits, walking three and striking out five and the Red Sox defeated the Minnesota Twins 1-0 on Monday night. Hideki Okajima escaped a bases-loaded jam in the eighth to receive his second win of the season.
Our View: Dice-K has now strung two strong performances together in his third start since returning from the disabled list. |
|
|
| ManRam hits game winning single | Monday 7/7, 9:26 PM CT |
|
Manny Ramirez hit the game winning single in Monday's 1-0 win over the Minnesota Twins. The eight inning base hit came off of Brian Bass, who was the losing pitcher in the contest.
Our View: Manny went 2-for-4 with one strikeout. Ramirez is hitting .281 on the season with 54 RBI and 16 home runs in 85 games. |
|
|
| Pedroia extends hitting streak | Monday 7/7, 9:20 PM CT |
|
Dustin Pedroia extended his hitting streak to 15 games with a double in the eighth inning of Monday's 1-0 win over the Minnesota Twins.
Our View: Pedroia is second in the American League in hits to Ian Kinsler. The second baseman has 116 hits in 90 games after Monday's double. |
|
|
| Gonzo works back-to-back games | Monday 7/7, 8:38 PM CT |
|
NL-only owners or mixed league managers looking for cheap saves might consider making a move on Atlanta's Mike Gonzalez. The Braves closer worked back-to-back games for the first time this season clearing the way for the left-hander to be the fulltime ninth inning option in the Braves' bullpen.
Our View: Gonzalez's last four innings have been perfect and he's struck out seven and walked none in the process. In fact, Gonzalez has yet to walk a batter in his eight innings of work since returning from 2007 elbow surgery. |
|
|
| Hawpe gradually coming around | Monday 7/7, 8:34 PM CT |
|
Brad Hawpe has been good since returning from a stint on the disabled list, but he's started July on the slow side. The Roks outfielder has only three hits in 21 July at-bats. Hawpe has 10 home runs and 22 RBI since June 6, the day he was activated from the DL.
Our View: Two of the three July hits have been home runs which eases the pain of his .250 average. |
|
|
| Peralta registers 13 first half HR | Monday 7/7, 8:31 PM CT |
|
Jhonny Peralta is never going to win the Silver Bat, but his home run on Sunday gave him two last week and 13 on the season.
Our View: Peralta is hitting .250 on the season, an average that will likely stay steady for most of the second half. |
|
|
| Taveras returns to Roks lineup | Monday 7/7, 8:22 PM CT |
|
Willy Taveras was back in the starting lineup for Monday night's series opener against the Brewers after missing the last few games to a quad injury.
Our View: The sore left quadriceps muscle wasn't considered serious but it kept the Roks center fielder out of action for longer than expected. Taveras struck out leading off the first inning and flied out to right field in his second at bat. |
|
|
| Mendoza crushed by Angels | Monday 7/7, 8:14 PM CT |
|
Luis Mendoza exited Monday night's game against the Angels after allowing eight runs on nine hits, walking two and striking out none over 1.1 innings of work.
Our View: Call this Mendoza's last start. Even with all of the injuries the Rangers rotation is currently suffering from the team cannot let the right-hander take the mound after his last two performances. |
|
|
| Saunders could miss Tuesday start | Monday 7/7, 7:40 PM CT |
|
Joe Saunders could miss his Tuesday start against the Rangers due to the upcoming birth of he and his wife Shanel's first child, this according to MLB.com.
Our View: It's obvious by the report that Saunders is distracted by the pregnancy. The lefty is anticipating boarding a plane back to Orange County at any time. The baby was due today [Monday]. |
|
|
| Harrison to make debut vs Angels | Monday 7/7, 7:31 PM CT |
|
The Star Telegram reports that Matt Harrison, one of the players that came to Texas in the Mark Teixeira trade, will make his major-league debut against the Angels in place of the injured Eric Hurley on Tuesday.
Hurley is suffering from a hamstring injury.
Our View: The Rangers still have to make a roster move before Tuesday's game to clear a spot for Harrison, and that move could be the placement of Hurley on the disabled list. |
|
|
| Eaton exits allowing 10 hits | Monday 7/7, 7:19 PM CT |
|
Adam Eaton left Monday night's game against the Mets after allowing eight runs (six earned) on 10 hits in 2.2 innings of work. Eaton was replaced by reliever Clay Condrey.
Our View: Eaton wasn't hit hard, received a bad first inning call from the second base umpire Dan Iassogna, and didn't get much help from his defense. The balls just kept finding holes and Eaton was gone before the Phillies could even score a run. |
|
|
| Danks throws fifth straight QS | Monday 7/7, 7:01 PM CT |
|
John Danks threw his fifth consecutive quality start on Sunday against Rich Harden and the A's. In 15 of Danks's 18 starts this year the left-hander has given up two earned runs or less.
Our View: He improved to 6-4 with his win over Oakland and at the midway point in the season Danks has a 2.52 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, he's struck out 86 in 1007 innings and walked 31. |
|
|
| Cano heating up | Monday 7/7, 6:57 PM CT |
|
Robinson Cano is warming with the weather. Since June 22, Cano has raised his average from .227 to .252. The Yankees second baseman has back-to-back .300 seasons so there is little reason to believe that Cano won't continue to progress during the second half.
Our View: Cano remains a buy low candidate. |
|
|
| Oswalt to start Friday vs. Nats | Monday 7/7, 6:46 PM CT |
|
The Houston Chronicle reports that Roy Oswalt will start Friday against the Washington Nationals.
Oswalt hasn't pitched since June 30 when he suffered a strained left hip abductor muscle.
Our View: Oswalt received a pain-killing shot in his vertebrae on Saturday and said he felt great. He threw off flat ground today and will throw a bullpen session Tuesday. |
|
|
| Johnson to make season debut | Monday 7/7, 6:37 PM CT |
|
According to MLB.com, Josh Johnson will make his 2008 debut on Thursday against the Dodgers and Chan Ho Park. Johnson pitched eight scoreless innings in his final rehab start for Double-A Carolina on Friday.
Our View: The 24-year-old had Tommy John surgery last August and has made only five Minor League starts rehab starts. |
|
|
| Loewen expected to land on DL | Monday 7/7, 6:31 PM CT |
|
The Baltimore Sun suggests that Adam Loewen is a "slam dunk" to go on the disabled list. The left-hander underwent a CT scan on Monday but no information is yet available.
Our View: Roch Kubatko reports he believes that left-hander Alberto Castillo, signed as a free agent in February, will replace Loewen on the active roster. Kubatko is 3-1 with a 2.05 ERA and 0.84 WHIP in 19 games, with 16 hits allowed, six walks and 26 strikeouts in 26 1/3 innings. |
|
|
| Mathis to gain at-bats | Monday 7/7, 6:13 PM CT |
|
AL-only owners might want to take a flier on Angels catcher Jeff Mathis. With Mike Napoli heading to the disabled list Mathis figures to see the majority of the work behind the plate.
Our View: Mathis recorded three RBI on Sunday against the Blue Jays and only has to compete with recently promoted Ryan Budde for at-bats. |
|
|
| Bedard likely out until All Star break | Monday 7/7, 6:11 PM CT |
|
Tightness in Erik Bedard's throwing shoulder will result in the southpaw missing his next start. Originally scheduled to take the hill on Wednesday, it now looks like the Mariners will hold him out until after the All Star break.
Our View: Don't count on Bedard simply being pushed back; expect the left-hander to miss the next two weeks offering his shoulder some much needed rest and relaxation. |
|
|
| Marshall to remain in Cubs rotation | Monday 7/7, 6:10 PM CT |
|
Sean Marshall will remain in the Cubs' rotation and receive another starting chance when he faces the San Francisco Giants on Saturday. This isn't a surprise considering skipper Lou Pineilla would love to have three regular lefty's in his rotation.
Our View: Marshall (1-2) won for the first time in five starts dating to last season, allowing one run on six hits in six innings. Besides Ryan Ludwick's homer with one out in the sixth, the Cardinals had only two other runners in scoring position against the left-hander and only seven total base runners. Marshall is now the No. 5 in the rotation and rookie Sean Gallagher is out... for now. |
|
|
| Perez gaining momentum | Monday 7/7, 6:09 PM CT |
|
Oliver Perez, who posted his second consecutive quality start, put a strangle-hold on the Phillies allowing just six base-runners in seven shutout innings Sunday. Perez struck out six and has now allowed just one earned run and nine base runners in the last two starts (14 innings).
Our View: Do we credit a maturing Perez, or the new staff of the Mets, particularly Dan Warthen, the pitching coach? Warthen has been a pitching coach for the Tigers, Padres and Mariners, and most recently filled the same role for Triple-A New Orleans. |
|
|
| Koshansky starting at first | Monday 7/7, 5:52 PM CT |
|
Joe Koshansky is starting at first base on Monday night as the Rockies begin a road trip in Milwaukee. Koshansky is starting for the injured Todd Helton. The left-handed hitter is sixth in the batting order as he and the Roks square off against Brew Crew starter Seth McClung.
Our View: Jeff Baker, who has played some first base is starting at second base and hitting seventh in the batting order. |
|
|
| Erstad starting in CF; hitting leadoff | Monday 7/7, 5:40 PM CT |
|
Darin Erstad is starting in center field and leading off for the Astros on Monday night as the team begins a series against the Pirates at PNC Park.
Our View: Michael Bourn is out of the starting lineup and Hunter Pence is hitting sixth in the batting order. |
|
|
| Dobbs starting at third base | Monday 7/7, 5:37 PM CT |
|
Greg Dobbs is starting at third base on Monday night in place of regular Pedro Felix. The Mets and Phillies are playing the final game of a four-games series at Citizen Bank Ballpark.
Our View: Dobbs has played in 71 games this year, but has only 111 at-bats. The utilityman is hitting .324 with two home runs and 18 RBI on the season. |
|
|
| Tatis starting in left | Monday 7/7, 5:34 PM CT |
|
While Fernando Tatis has been assisting in the latest run by the Mets, the team doesn't appear to threatening with Endy Chavez hitting second and Damion Easley hitting fifth. Tatis is starting in left field and hitting seventh on Monday as the Mets play the finale of a four-game series against the Phillies.
Our View: With Ryan Church's health in question and Luis Castillo on the disabled list, the Mets offense looks average at best. |
|
|
| Ortiz takes BP | Monday 7/7, 4:49 PM CT |
|
David Ortiz was taking batting practice on the field for the first time since being placed on the disabled list with a torn tendon sheath in his left wrist, this according to the Providence Journal.
The report noted that on his fifth swing Big Papi crushed a home run just over the Red Sox bullpen.
Our View: Ortiz reportedly left the cage after his seven swings in the first round with a smile on his face. Ortiz has progressed from swinging off a tee -- to soft tossing and a BP session in a cage -- when in New York on Sunday. Ortiz hopes to return to active duty sometime after the All Star break. |
|
|
| Helton to undergo epidural | Monday 7/7, 4:44 PM CT |
|
Todd Helton will undergo an epidural on Tuesday, this according to the Rocky Mountain News. The procedure should offer the veteran some relief for his aching back and leg pain that sent him to the disabled list last week. The report notes that Helton had been suffering leg pain since mid-June after straining a hamstring while the Rockies were playing the White Sox in Chicago.
Our View: Helton recently disputed a report that he has numbness in his leg. He said the hamstring and current leg problem are not related.
|
|
|
| Suppan disabled; Sabathia added | Monday 7/7, 4:36 PM CT |
|
Jeff Suppan was placed on the 15-day disabled list Monday due to a joint irritation of the right elbow, this according to The Indy Channel. The move is more likely a maneuver to make room on the roster for newly acquired southpaw C.C. Sabathia.
Our View: Suppan appears to be the odd man out of the Brewers rotation. The right-handed veteran allowed six runs in just three innings in a no-decision against the Pirates on Sunday. Suppan sports a 5-6 record with a 4.71 earned run average in 18 starts this season. |
|
|
| Buchholz to start Friday vs O's | Monday 7/7, 4:31 PM CT |
|
The Providence Journal reports that the Red Sox will recall pitcher Clay Buchholz to start Friday against the Orioles at Fenway Park. When Buchholz was sent to Pawtucket earlier this season with a blister, the team decided to give him extended time on the farm to work on his fastball.
Our View: The club started the transaction process by optioning pitcher Justin Masterson to Pawtucket on Monday. Until Friday the team will utilize infielder/outfielder Jeff Bailey, who was promoted to take the roster spot of Masterson. |
|
|
| Masterson optioned to PawSox | Monday 7/7, 4:26 PM CT |
|
The Providence Journal reports that the Red Sox have optioned pitcher Justin Masterson to Pawtucket and have recalled utilityman Jeff Bailey. The transaction will allow the Red Sox to recall pitcher Clay Buchholz to take the mound on Friday against the Orioles.
Our View: Masterson wasn't demoted on the basis of his performance, but rather the team was concerned about the number of innings he would accumulate with the parent club. Skipper Terry Francona told Projo that Masterson will be moved to the bullpen for the PawSox in order to eventually help Boston as a reliever very soon. |
|
|
| Buck leads rally with three-run homer | Monday 7/7, 3:53 PM CT |
|
John Buck went 2-for-5 with a three-run homer in Monday's exciting 7-4 victory over the Rays in Tampa Bay. The game was tied 3-3 at the end of regulation, until Buck blasted his homer in the top of the 10th inning (off Dan Wheeler) to lead the Royals' rally.
Our View: That was his first home run since June 14, snapping a 13-game drought. |
|
|
| Pena collects 13th homer | Monday 7/7, 3:46 PM CT |
|
Carlos Pena went 1-for-5 with a solo home run in Monday's wild 7-4 loss to the Royals at Tropicana Field. His ninth inning shot tied the contest at 3-3, until the Royals rallied with four runs in the 10th inning to win 7-4, hence snapping the Rays seven-game winning streak.
Our View: That was Pena's 13th homer of the season, and his second over his last four games. He has 10 RBI over his last seven outings as well. |
|
|
| Meche pitches well in no decision | Monday 7/7, 3:41 PM CT |
|
Gil Meche pitched well despite being handed a no decision in Monday's 7-4 win over the Rays. He only allowed two earned runs on seven hits over 5.1 innings, with four walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: Meche is 3-2 over his last seven starts, and has allowed two or less earned runs four times over the span. |
|
|
| No decision for Garza | Monday 7/7, 3:36 PM CT |
|
Matt Garza allowed three earned runs on nine hits over 6.2 innings in Monday's 7-4 loss to the Royals at Tropicana Field, with two walks and five strikeouts. He left the game down 3-2, and ended with a no decision as the Royals rallied back to score four runs in the top of the 10th inning to win the game.
Our View: He didn't lose, but still had a two-game winning streak snapped, in which he only allowed one earned run over 16 innings. |
|
|
| Buscher looks to extend streak | Monday 7/7, 3:18 PM CT |
|
Brian Buscher is penciled in to make another start for the Twins at third base tonight, and will be looking to extend his hitting streak to five games, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: He is hitting .333 over 66 at-bats for the season, and has also recorded an RBI in each of his last two games. He is worth starting in AL-only leagues while he is hot. |
|
|
| Huff earns weekly honor | Monday 7/7, 2:30 PM CT |
|
Aubrey Huff has been chosen as the AL Player of the Week, according to the AP. Huff claimed the honor by batting .345 with three home runs and nine RBI, with a .759 slugging percentage and .333 on-base percentage.
Our View: This marks the second weekly honor for the 31-year-old Huff in his career. He has 17 home runs for the season, and could challenge his career-best total of 34, which he set with the Rays in 2003. |
|
|
| Hardy named NL Player of Week | Monday 7/7, 2:21 PM CT |
|
J.J. Hardy has been named the NL Player of the Week, according to the AP. He earned the honor by impressively batting .600 (18-for-30) with six home runs and 12 RBI, with five doubles and eight runs scored. He had six multi-hit games and two multi-homer outings.
Our View: Hardy is now flirting with a .300 average at .295, to go along with 12 homers and 38 RBI. |
|
|
| Willis to have knee examined | Monday 7/7, 2:13 PM CT |
|
Dontrelle Willis will fly to Detroit within the next day or two to have his right knee examined by team doctor Stephen Lemos, according to MLB.com.
Our View: It is the same knee he hyperextended back in April. He hasn't pitched since June 29 (with Single-A Lakeland), and it is unclear how long the knee has been bothering him. The Tigers did not place a timetable on his return. Armando Galarraga has notably posted a 7-2 record since filling Willis' spot in the rotation. |
|
|
| Crawford reaches 300 stolen bases | Monday 7/7, 1:47 PM CT |
|
Carl Crawford notched the 300th stolen base of his career in the first inning against the Royals on Monday, according to the Tampa Tribune.
Our View: Crawford is the ninth player since 1900 to reach the 300 milestone before the age of 27, joining Rickey Henderson, Ty Cobb, Tim Raines, Vince Coleman, Cesar Cedeno, Clyde Milan, Sherry Magee and Eddie Collins.
|
|
|
| Hopper scheduled for surgery | Monday 7/7, 1:28 PM CT |
|
Norris Hopper is scheduled to undergo Tommy John surgery on Tuesday to repair the torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, according to the AP.
Our View: Hopper was limited to only 50 at-bats this season due to elbow problems, and held no fantasy value. |
|
|
| Gonzalez undergoes surgery | Monday 7/7, 1:25 PM CT |
|
Alex Gonzalez underwent surgery on Monday to repair torn cartilage in his left knee, according to the AP. The one-hour operation was performed by Reds medical director Dr. Timothy Kremchek, and the club is hopeful that Gonzalez will be ready for the start of training camp in 2009.
Our View: Alex Gonzalez did not make an appearance with the Reds in 2008, and the club will be fine at shortstop with Jeff Keppinger and Jerry Hairston Jr. |
|
|
| Lillibridge recalled | Monday 7/7, 1:14 PM CT |
|
Infielder Brent Lillibridge has been recalled from Triple-A Richmond, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: This is his third stint with the club this season, and holds no fantasy value as he only hit .154 over 26 at-bats, with nine strikeouts. |
|
|
| Francoeur called back up | Monday 7/7, 1:05 PM CT |
|
Jeff Francoeur has been called back up for tonight's game in Los Angeles, and his minor league stint in Double-A lasted only three days, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: He went 7-for-13 (.538) in three games with Double-A Mississippi, with a triple and two RBI. He was expected to remain there longer, but the Braves need him back following the injury to Omar Infante. |
|
|
| Budde called up | Monday 7/7, 12:53 PM CT |
|
Catcher Ryan Budde has been called up from Triple-A, according to the LA Times. He will replace Mike Napoli on the roster, who was placed on the 15-day DL with his shoulder ailment.
Our View: Budde will serve as the backup to Jeff Mathis, and won't see enough action to consider for your fantasy roster. |
|
|
| Napoli placed on DL | Monday 7/7, 12:49 PM CT |
|
As expected, Mike Napoli has been placed on the 15-day DL due to right shoulder inflammation, according to the LA Times. Ryan Budde has been recalled from Triple-A to fill his spot on the roster. The pain in Napoli's shoulder became unbearable and he said, "Something doesn't feel right in there. I've had good days and bad days. Some days, it hurts every time I throw back to the pitcher."
Our View: Jeff Mathis will now be the primary catcher until Napoli returns. |
|
|
| Schilling started rehab | Monday 7/7, 12:00 PM CT |
|
Curt Schilling has started to rehabilitate his right shoulder after surgery, but hasn't decided whether to try to play again, according to the Star Tribune. He said on Monday it will be at least five weeks before he must decide whether to make a run at returning for 2009, and added, "the shoulder is sorer than I expected it to be."
Our View: Hopefully he will return to the diamond and leave the game on his own terms, and not due to injury. |
|
|
| LaPorta dealt to Cleveland | Monday 7/7, 11:33 AM CT |
|
Top outfield prospect Matt LaPorta was the headliner of the Brewers' package in the CC Sabathia trade, according to the AP.
Our View: The Indians coveted a power-hitting outfielder, and LaPorta should fill their need. He hit .288 with 20 homers and 66 RBIs over 84 games for Double-A Huntsville.
|
|
|
| Sabathia trade official | Monday 7/7, 11:25 AM CT |
|
The C.C. Sabathia trade has been made official, according to the AP. It has been announced that Sabathia was traded to the Brewers in exchange for left fielder Matt LaPorta, pitchers Rob Bryson and Zach Jackson, as well as a player to be named.
Our View: Sabathia was 3-0 in his final five starts with Cleveland, with two scoreless outings over the span. He will provide a tremendous 1-2 punch alongside ace Ben Sheets, and remains a must-start as a fantasy hurler. Sabathia should also receive much better run support from his new club. |
|
|
| Santiago expected to be activated | Monday 7/7, 11:17 AM CT |
|
Ramon Santiago is expected to be activated from the DL prior to Tuesday's game against Cleveland, according to the AP. Santiago was shelved due to a separated shoulder. Infielder Michael Hollimon has already been optioned to Triple-A Toledo to make room on the roster.
Our View: Santiano hit .361 over 36 at-bats with four doubles, one triple, and one homer with the Tigers this season, but won't see enough action to merit a spot on your fantasy roster. |
|
|
| Harden on Cubs' radar? | Monday 7/7, 10:39 AM CT |
|
The Cubs have reportedly been talking with Athletics' GM Billy Beane with interest in acquiring Rich Harden, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Our View: CC Sabathia went to the second-place Brewers, who only trail the Cubs by 3.5 games in the NL Central. The Cubs are now feeling more pressure to land a front-line starter and would like to counter Milwaukee with Harden, who is 5-1 with a 2.34 ERA and 1.14 WHIP over 13 starts. The A's may not want to deal him right now however, as they are in a tight race of their own (only six games back in the AL West). |
|
|
| Hollimon optioned to Toledo | Monday 7/7, 10:30 AM CT |
|
Michael Hollimon has been optioned to Triple-A Toledo, according to the AP. The team is expected to activate Ramon Santiago from the DL prior to Tuesday's game.
Our View: Holliman went 6-for-23 (.261) with one homer and two RBI over his brief stint with the Tigers this season, and will now have to wait for another chance to prove his worth to the club. |
|
|
| Maine expected to start Thursday | Monday 7/7, 9:45 AM CT |
|
John Maine, who is recovering from a left forearm cramp, expects to start for the Mets on Thursday, according to the NY Daily News. He indicated the ailment is just a stinger and he said he'll be fine.
Our View: This is the second time he has been bothered by cramps this season, and commented that he'll eat more bananas to avoid this from happening again. |
|
|
| Church to undergo more tests | Monday 7/7, 9:40 AM CT |
|
Ryan Church is going to undergo more tests on his head Monday, according to the NY Post. He was recently activated from the DL after suffering from post-concussion syndrome, and Church said, "The next day or two feels like I've been in a car accident or something, my head hurts when I'm barely moving and I'm nauseated. I'd rather have a concussion than a migraine."
Our View: The Mets don't plan to place Church back on the DL, although skipper Jerry Manuel said he did not know the exact date Church would make his next start in the outfield. |
|
|
| Matsui making progress | Monday 7/7, 9:34 AM CT |
|
Team trainers noted that Hideki Matsui is making some progress in his recovery from a swollen left knee, but GM Brian Cashman suggested that playing the outfield would not be part of Matsui's rehab work, according to the NY Daily News.
Our View: Although Matsui is improving, there remains no timetable for his return. When he does return, it sounds like he could be limited to DH duty. |
|
|
| Zambrano on Yankees' radar? | Monday 7/7, 9:29 AM CT |
|
The Yankees are reportedly going to send a scout to watch free agent hurler Victor Zambrano this week, according to the NY Daily News.
Our View: Zambrano went 1-2 with the Mets in 2006 and 0-3 in 2007 with time spent between Toronto and Baltimore. Zambrano didn't make the Rockies roster this season, and won't be worth targeting if the Yankees ultimately pick him up. |
|
|
| Sweeney set for rehab | Monday 7/7, 8:58 AM CT |
|
Mark Sweeney, who was placed on the DL with a strained right hamstring last week, will begin a minor league rehab assignment with triple-A Las Vegas this week, according to the LA Times.
Our View: Sweeney holds no fantasy value as he maintained a .094 average over 64 at-bats prior to going on the shelf. He has not recorded a hit since June 5. |
|
|
| Pierre making progress | Monday 7/7, 8:53 AM CT |
|
Juan Pierre, who is recovering from a sprained ligament in his left knee, has started walking without crutches, according to the LA Times.
Our View: Pierre is making favorable progress, but is not expected back before the end of July. |
|
|
| Walker gets MRI results | Monday 7/7, 8:45 AM CT |
|
Tyler Walker's MRI results on his right knee revealed inflammation and no structural damage, according to the SF Chronicle. He said, "I feel a lot better about things."
Our View: Walker hopes to be available when the Giants open a three-game set against the Mets on Tuesday.
|
|
|
| Lincecum to get extra start | Monday 7/7, 8:42 AM CT |
|
Manager Bruce Bochy plans to use today's off day to shuffle his rotation to get Tim Lincecum an additional start before the All-Star break, according to the SF Chronicle. Instead of facing the Mets on Wednesday, Lincecum will pitch in New York on Tuesday and again in Chicago on Sunday, two days before the All-Star Game.
Our View: Bochy also said he thinks Lincecum could pitch one inning at Yankee Stadium in the All-Star Game because that will be his normal between-starts throwing day.
|
|
|
| Edmonds to have thumb examined | Monday 7/7, 8:35 AM CT |
|
Jim Edmonds will receive an X-ray on his thumb after jamming it while sliding into home plate on Saturday, according to the Daily Herald.
Our View: The team is optimistic he will be fine. He was hot in June, but is only 1-for-10 in his last three games in July. |
|
|
| Wagner comments on blown save | Monday 7/7, 8:29 AM CT |
|
Billy Wagner commented on his blown save against the Phillies on Sunday, according to MetsBlog.com. Wagner gave up a two-run shot to Jayson Werth in the bottom of the ninth inning, but the Mets came back to win the game in the 12th. Wagner commented, "That’s going to happen. I’d like to have bounced that slider, but I hung it and Jayson hit it. But, we came back and won it, the guys did great, they picked me up and we won and that’s fantastic."
Our View: Those two runs allowed snapped a seven-inning scoreless streak for him, and was his first blown save since June 12. |
|
|
| Manuel praises Perez | Monday 7/7, 8:22 AM CT |
|
Skipper Jerry Manuel praised Oliver Perez after hurling seven shutout innings against the Phillies on Sunday, according to MetsBlog.com. Manuel said, "Perez was awesome. He pitched extremely well. His last inning might have been one of his better innings of the night. So, that tells you he may have the endurance to even go further."
Our View: Over his last two starts, since making an adjustment to his delivery, Perez has pitched 14 innings, while allowing just one run and two walks while fanning 14.
|
|
