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| Blanton roughed up by M's | Wednesday 7/9, 11:59 PM CT |
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Joe Blanton allowed six runs on six hits, walked none and struck out two in a 6-4 loss to the Seattle Mariners on Wednesday night.
Our View: Blanton suffered his 12th loss of the season against five wins. Coming into the game Blanton was 2-1 over his last three starts, alloweding only one earned run in each of his two wins. |
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| Vazquez hit hard by Royal bats | Wednesday 7/9, 11:57 PM CT |
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Javier Vazquez allowed six runs on 11 hits, walked one and struck out three in a no-decision against Kansas City on Wednesday night.
Our View: Vazquez was actually the pitcher of record until late in the game when the White Sox offense pounded Royals' starter Brian Bannister and later the bullpen to take Vazquez off the hook. The White Sox starter hasn't been very good away from home this season, and that trend continued despite the 7-6 win over the Royals. |
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| Quentin hits two homers | Wednesday 7/9, 11:51 PM CT |
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Carlos Quentin hit his 20th and 21st home run helping the White Sox to a 7-6 come-from-behind victory. Both home runs came off of KC starter Brian Bannister.
Our View: Quentin had one of his worst games on Tuesday leaving a half a dozen runners in scoring position. Forgetting his Tuesday struggles the young outfielder comes back and keeps his team in the game recording two runs and four RBI in the 2-for-3 performance. |
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| Weaver goes six strong | Wednesday 7/9, 11:41 PM CT |
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Jered Weaver threw another strong effort to the wind on Wednesday night. The Angels right-hander allowed two runs (one earned) on seven hits, walked two and struck out five. Weaver was one out away from his ninth win of the season before Josh Hamilton hit a two-out walk-off home run off of the best closer in baseball.
Our View: Weaver was a tough luck no-hit loser in the last two weeks, and then tonight's rally by the Rangers cost him another chance at victory. Weaver has allowed two or fewer earned runs in four-straight starts, with 23 strikeouts over the span. |
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| Dodgers ride dominate arm of Lowe to win | Wednesday 7/9, 11:41 PM CT |
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The Dodgers needed a strong effort off the mound to insure a tight 2-1 win over the Braves this evening, and that's what ace Derek Lowe provided. Lowe pitched 7 2/3 innings, allowing just one run on two hits with one walk and four strikeouts.
Our View: This is the Derek Lowe the Dodger fans have been hoping to see, now sitting at 7-8 on the season with an ERA of 3.85. He had suffered three losses over his last four outings in June but is now 2-0 in July with just one combined walk allowed. |
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| Kinsler extends hitting streak | Wednesday 7/9, 11:37 PM CT |
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Ian Kinsler extended his hitting streak to 21 games with a leadoff single in the first inning of Wednesday's 5-4 win over the Los Angeles Angels.
Our View: Kinsler joins Josh Hamilton in next weeks All Star game, and is more than deserving of the honor. The Texas second baseman is arguably the best at his position in the American League and continue to challenge Chase Utley for top honors in the fantasy realm. |
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| Hamilton hits two-out walk-off | Wednesday 7/9, 11:34 PM CT |
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Josh Hamilton hit a two-run homer with two outs in the ninth inning, helping the Texas Rangers rally to defeat the Los Angeles Angels 5-4 on Wednesday night.
It was Hamilton's 20th homer of the season, and his first since June 17.
Our View: The home run wasn't a surprise, it was who he hit it off that came as a shock. Hamilton beat major league saves leader Francisco Rodriguez sending the right-handed All Star to only his only his second loss and third blown chance this year. |
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| Hudson takes the loss | Wednesday 7/9, 11:34 PM CT |
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Veteran hurler Tim Hudson suffered his seventh loss of the season as his Braves struggled to get the bats warm at the plate, falling 2-1 against the Dodgers. Hudson pitched seven innings, allowing just two runs (both earned) on four hits with two walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Hudson went just 1-3 through six June starts, allowing a total of 17 earned runs along the way. The hope was to find offensive support and get back on track in July, but tonight's loss shows that the hits are still an issue. |
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| Markakis' average clears .300 | Wednesday 7/9, 11:30 PM CT |
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Nick Markakis has been on a tear over the last month-plus. His Wednesday night performance in a loss to the Blue Jays saw his average climb above .300 for the first time this year. The right fielder went 3-for-5 with three runs scored and an RBI. Markakis' performance raised his batting average to .304 on the season.
Our View: Markakis' RBI came from a solo shot, his 14th of the season, off of closer B.J. Ryan. |
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| Kemp homers versus Braves | Wednesday 7/9, 11:28 PM CT |
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The Dodgers and Braves battled through a pitcher's duel this evening, but in the end it was the bat of Matt Kemp that pushed LA to the 2-1 win. Kemp went 2-for-4 with the game-tying, 2-out home run in the sixth.
Our View: Kemp has been a reasonable source of power, hitting four homers with 14 RBIs through June. This is his first dinger this month making his .235 batting average a little more concerning. |
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| Olson suffers fourth loss | Wednesday 7/9, 11:27 PM CT |
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Garrett Olson allowed seven runs on seven hits, walked four and struck out two, and suffered his fourth loss of the season.
Our View: This is the kind of start that happens to a pitcher that carries a 5.81 K rate in combination with a 3.36 BB rate. Olson never commanded his arsenal or the strike zone on Wednesday night and lasted only 3.2 innings in the loss. |
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| Burnett earns ninth win | Wednesday 7/9, 11:23 PM CT |
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A.J. Burnett improved to 6-1 in eight career starts against the Orioles, and did it without much success against the batting order. The right-hander allowed seven runs on seven hits, walked three and struck out seven and the Jays defeated the Orioles 9-8 on Wednesday night.
Our View: Burnett underwent an emergency root canal less than 24 before his start. |
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| Rusch gets the win against Milwaukee | Wednesday 7/9, 11:17 PM CT |
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Colorado LHP Glendon Rusch pitched a gem of a game this evening, leading his Rockies to an 8-3 win over Milwaukee. Rusch pitched six innings, allowing just one earned run on five hits with no walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Rusch needed the win, having gone since April 26th without one. His use has been sporadic along the way but the Rockies need help in the rotation and feel Rusch can provide that arm. Tonight's showing gives a strong indication he might be up to the challenge. |
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| Atkins homers twice vs Brew Crew | Wednesday 7/9, 11:12 PM CT |
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The Rockies brought plenty of offense to the park this evening, pulling the 8-3 win over the Brewers. It was third baseman Garrett Atkins carrying the load, going 3-for-4 with two homers on the night, good for three RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Atkins is lighting the world on fire thus far in July, going 17-for-37 at the dish (.459) with four homers and 12 RBIs through nine games. |
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| Sheets pitches well but suffers the loss | Wednesday 7/9, 11:07 PM CT |
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Milwaukee RHP Ben Sheets suffered just his third loss of the season as the Brewers fell 8-3 to Colorado. Sheets pitched six innings, allowing three runs (all earned) on five hits with just two walks and 11 strikeouts.
Our View: Sheets now carries a record of 10-3 with an ERA of 2.85. He's pitching well and keeping mistakes to a minimum, boasting 28 walks versus 108 strikeouts. |
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| Bonine work 3.2 miserable innings | Wednesday 7/9, 11:03 PM CT |
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Eddie Bonine didn't have much working for him on Wednesday night. The Tigers right-hander didn't challenge hitters, couldn't find the strike zone, and when he did he was hit hard. The rookie allowed five runs on nine hits, walked one and struck out one.
Our View: The Tigers' bats saved him from his second loss of the season, and after the performance one has to wonder why he would get another, or many more, if the Tigers want to seriously challenge in the AL Central. |
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| Byrd goes six strong in no-decision | Wednesday 7/9, 11:00 PM CT |
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Paul Byrd pitched well enough to win on Wednesday night. The right-handed veteran exited the 8-6 loss to the Tigers in the bottom of the seventh inning with a 6-1 lead. Reliever Rafael Betancourt, who is having a miserable season, walked Clete Thomas to load the bases and allowed a double to Carlos Guillen to make it 6-3. Matt Joyce then tied the game with a two-run homer ending Betancourt's night and Byrd's chance at fourth win.
Our View: Byrd has always pitched the Tigers well. He scattered nine hits, allowed one run (charged with three) walked one (in the first inning) and struck out five in the no-decision. |
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| Hall shines despite loss | Wednesday 7/9, 10:59 PM CT |
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The Brewers suffered the the 8-3 loss this evening against Colorado, though third baseman Bill Hall tried his best to reverse their fortunes. Hall went 2-for-4 at the dish with his 16th double and 12th homer of the season, totaling one RBI and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Hall hit just .164 through 55 June at-bats, though his six homers with 15 RBIs was of great benefit for fantasy owners and the Brewers alike. Through 24 July at-bats, he's hitting .417 with two homers and nine RBIs, well on pace to exceed those numbers last month. |
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| Sizemore's average on the rise | Wednesday 7/9, 10:55 PM CT |
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Grady Sizemore hit two RBI singles in the second and fourth innings and finished the 10th straight loss by the Indians 3-for-5.
Our View: Sizemore has hit for power this year, but recently, he has raised his batting average as well. The center fielder is now hitting .272 on the season. |
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| Jones earns fourth victory | Wednesday 7/9, 10:53 PM CT |
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Todd Jones worked a scoreless top of the ninth innings to earn his fourth victory of the season on Wednesday night.
Our View: Once again it wasn't anything pretty, but Jones got defensive help from Carlos Guillen at third base and the Tigers scored in the bottom of the ninth on Miguel Cabrera's home run handing Jones a victory. |
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| Zambrano dominates Cincy | Wednesday 7/9, 10:50 PM CT |
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Chicago ace Carlos Zambrano made the job of working as the catalyst for success look easy this evening, putting the Cincinnati reds to bed with ease. Zambrano pitched eight innings of dominating baseball, allowing just one run on one hit with no walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: The win is Zambrano's 10th on the season, touting an ERA of 2.84. His only mistake: a 2nd-inning homer to Adam Dunn. After going 1-2 through four starts in June, Zambrano is now 2-0 in July with one earned run allowed through 14 innings of work. |
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| Polanco becomes US Citizen | Wednesday 7/9, 10:50 PM CT |
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Placido Polanco didn't start after being sworn in as a U.S. citizen before the game, this according to the AP. The native of the Dominican Republic entered in the seventh inning after Edgar Renteria strained a hamstring running out a ground ball.
Our View: Polanco never made it to the plate, but it didn't spoil his special day or prevent the Tigers from winning. |
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| Cabrera goes deep again | Wednesday 7/9, 10:47 PM CT |
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Miguel Cabrera homered again on Wednesday, his third in two days, this time in the bottom of the ninth to give Detroit an 8-6 win over Cleveland.
Our View: Cabrera went 2-for-5 with a run scored and three RBI in Wednesday's win. |
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| Ramirez leads the way in Cubby win | Wednesday 7/9, 10:44 PM CT |
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The Cubbies earned the 5-1 win this evening against the Reds on pitching, but third baseman Aramis Ramirez made the offense work to insure the job got done. Ramirez went 2-for-3 with one walk, his 22nd double and 16th home run on the season to total two RBIs and one runs scored on the night.
Our View: Ramirez hit just .265 through June and thus far is on track for similar numbers in July, though he has already earned eight RBIs and is well on pace to eclipse the 17 he posted last month. |
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| Cueto performs but Reds fall | Wednesday 7/9, 10:38 PM CT |
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The Cincinnati Reds managed to find just two hits in their 5-1 loss to the Cubs, leaving RHP Johnny Cueto out to dry despite a strong overall performance on the mound. Cueto pitched 6 2/3 innings to allowed five runs (four earned) on eight hits with two walks and six strikeouts.
Our View: The only big mistake was to third baseman Aramis Ramirez, hitting a homer in the sixth with no runners on base. Unfortunately the Reds failed to get the offensive support in line, giving him his first loss in three starts. |
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| Happ pitches well but gets no decision | Wednesday 7/9, 10:24 PM CT |
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Philadelphia LHP J.A. Happ put forth a strong effort on the mound this evening but left with no decision despite his team's 4-2 win over St. Louis. Happ pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on five hits with four walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: This was an impressive outing in just his second start of the season. He's allowed just two earned runs in both, though the Phillies hope he can get the walks under control. |
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| Howard homers versus Cards | Wednesday 7/9, 10:19 PM CT |
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Philadelphia first baseman Ryan Howard continues to get back on track, leading his Phillies to a 4-2 win over the Cardinals this evening. Howard went 2-for-3 at the dish with one walk and his 25th homer of the season, totaling two RBIs and one run scored on the night.
Our View: Howard appears to be ready to reward those fantasy owners that held steady, hitting .333 through the early games of July heading into tonight's strong outing. He now has five homers with 12 RBIs and six runs scored through nine games this month. |
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| Ankiel falls versus Philly | Wednesday 7/9, 10:13 PM CT |
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The teams had to fight through rain delays to reach the end, but the Cardinals found a loss at the end, falling 4-2 to the Phillies. The Cards posted just six total hits on the evening with outfielder Rick Ankiel suffering the worst, going 0-for-4 with one walk and three strikeouts on the night.
Our View: Fantasy owners hope this is a minor bump in an otherwise successful road through July, hitting .333 on the month coming into this evening with four homers and eight RBIs through seven July games. |
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| Santana gets win #8 | Wednesday 7/9, 10:04 PM CT |
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Mets LHP Johan Santana enjoyed a strong evening on the mound, earning his eighth win of the season by pitching five innings to surrender no runs on just three hits with three walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: Santana is hoping to bounce back from a worrisome June, going 1-4 despite posting a 2.27 ERA. Thus far it's going well, allowing just two total earned runs over two starts with three walks and 11 strikeouts. |
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| Delgado keeps it hot at the plate | Wednesday 7/9, 10:00 PM CT |
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The Mets put the 5-0 whooping on the Giants this evening, though the top of the batting order failed to support the cause as hitters one through five posted a combined total of two hits. Instead, it was first baseman Carlos Delgado getting the job done, going 3-for-4 with two doubles to total two runs scored on the evening.
Our View: Delgado is on fire, going 15-for-35 thus far through July with two homers, five RBIs, and 10 runs scored. |
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| Giants fail to support Sanchez | Wednesday 7/9, 9:55 PM CT |
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The Giants failed to wake up for tonight's game against the Mets, falling 5-0 with a total of three hits as a team on the evening. As a result, LHP Jonathan Sanchez suffered his fifth loss of the season, pitching four innings to allow three runs (all earned) on three hits with three walks and six strikeouts.
Our View: Sanchez was a stud through June, going 5-1 with 14 total earned runs allowed through six starts (a total of 40.2 innings). July has not started as nicely, suffering a no-decision after five innings in his first start followed by tonight's performance, tainted by a total lack of offensive support. |
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| Van Benschoten continues to struggle | Wednesday 7/9, 9:46 PM CT |
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Pittsburgh RHP John Van Benschoten suffered through a volatile evening on the mound as his Pirates fell 64 versus Houston. Van Benschoten pitched just 4 2/3 innings, allowing four runs (all earned) on seven hits with six walks and six strikeouts.
Our View: Van Benschoten walked off with no decision and now touts a troublesome ERA of 9.77. Unfortunately, this also ranks as his longest start of the season thus far. |
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| McLouth shines despite loss to Houston | Wednesday 7/9, 9:42 PM CT |
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Pittsburgh outfielder Nate McLouth continues to enjoy strong performances at the plate despite suffering the 6-4 loss versus Houston. McLouth went 3-for-4 at the plate with three doubles, failing to get a single RBI but posting two runs scored on the night.
Our View: McLouth now touts 32 doubles on the season and is well on his way to improving on the .214 batting average posted last month, going 11-for-32 thus far in July with two homers and eight RBIs. |
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| Blum homers in win over Pitt | Wednesday 7/9, 9:37 PM CT |
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The Astros used the bat to get the 6-4 win against the Pirates this evening with shortstop Geoff Blum serving as the leader of the cause. Blum went just 1-for-5 at the dish, but the one hit was his sixth homer of the season, good for three RBIs.
Our View: Blum is being used in spot action, though his offensive numbers have failed to impress. Tonight is one of few blips on his fantasy resume this season. |
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| Harden to start this weekend | Wednesday 7/9, 9:29 PM CT |
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The Cubs have announced newly-acquired ace Rich Harden will make his first start as a Cub this weekend, though they have not specified if it will be on Friday or Saturday, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: Chicago manager Lou Piniella said Wednesday that since the Cubs do have six starters they have the luxury of giving someone an extra day of rest, and at this point, it is believed that Harden will be the lucky recipient of the day off. We will update when the Cubs specify which day he'll hit the mound, but for now, we know his NL debut will come against the Giants. |
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| Lannan gets much-needed shutout win | Wednesday 7/9, 9:06 PM CT |
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Washington LHP John Lannan enjoyed a strong evening on the mound tonight, bringing his Nationals to a 5-0 win over Arizona. Lannan pitched six innings of shutout baseball, allowing just two hits with three walks and no strikeouts.
Our View: Lannan now sits at 5-9 on the season with an ERA of 3.40. This is Lannan's first win since May 18th, going 0-5 through eight starts before tonight, though he allowed just 20 combined earned runs through those starts. |
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| Castro leads Nats | Wednesday 7/9, 9:01 PM CT |
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Washington wasn't an offensive juggernaut tonight, but they found the hits needed to get the 5-0 win over Arizona with first outfielder Kory Castro leading the way. Castro went 2-for-3 at the plate with one walk and his fourth double of the season to total two RBIs and one run scored on the night.
Our View: There's no reason to launch Castro into your starting lineup, boasting this as just his second multi-hit game this season. |
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| Owings falls again | Wednesday 7/9, 8:54 PM CT |
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Arizona RHP Micah Owings did what he could to get his team on track for a better night at the park, but the Diamondbacks failed to produce any semblence of offensive support, falling 5-0 to the Washington Nationals. Owings pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing three runs (all earned) on just one hit with five walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: The runs came of a homer in the 5th by pinch hitter Jesus Flores, his fifth homer of the season and the 12th homer allowed this season by Owings. He had struggled with surrendering the long ball over the first two months of the season but had allowed just three homers through five starts in June. Owings hasn't recorded a win since May 25th, going 0-6 over eight starts since. |
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| Tallet to replace McGowan | Wednesday 7/9, 8:54 PM CT |
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Rototimes sources report that Brian Tallet will replace Dustin McGowan in the Blue Jays starting rotation. Tallet will start Sunday versus the New York Yankees.
Our View: Tallet has made 32 appearances this year. In 35 innings of work the left-hander has allowed 11 earned runs on 32 hits, walked 15 and struck out 30. All of his work has been in relief. |
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| Renteria exits with ham-strain | Wednesday 7/9, 8:43 PM CT |
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Edgar Renteria left Wednesday night's game against the Indians with a mild left hamstring strain. Renteria pulled up after crossing first base and was replaced by Placido Polanco who came into play second base and Roman Santiago moved from second base to shortstop.
Our View: More on Renteria when the information becomes available. |
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| Rockies recall Smith | Wednesday 7/9, 8:42 PM CT |
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The Rockies have recalled outfielder Seth Smith from Triple-A Colorado Springs, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Smith will be in uniform for Wednesday night's game against the Brewers, originally sent down when the Rockies called up infielder Jayson Nix on Tuesday, but he didn't even board a plane before Colorado called on him again due to the injury suffered by Ryan Spilborghs. |
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| Marlins option Kensing to minors | Wednesday 7/9, 8:35 PM CT |
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Following Wednesday's 5-2 win over the Padres, the Marlins announced that the RHP Logan Kensing has been optioned to Triple-A Albuquerque, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The Marlins needed to make a roster move so that Josh Johnson can be reinstated from the 60-day disabled list on Thursday. The right-handed Johnson is recovered from Tommy John ligament replacement surgery and will start against Los Angeles at Dodger Stadium. In 34 relief appearances, Kensing is 3-1 with a 4.19 ERA. He's thrown 43 innings in roles ranging from long relief to eighth-inning setup duties. |
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| Wells exits with hamstring injury | Wednesday 7/9, 8:33 PM CT |
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Vernon Wells left Wednesday night's game against Baltimore with a hamstring injury.
Our View: Wells suffered the injury during an attempted steal of third base. More on Wells when the information is available. |
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| Madrigal starts for Rangers | Wednesday 7/9, 8:30 PM CT |
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Warner Madrigal started for the Rangers on Wednesday night against the Angels. Earlier in the day the report was that Mike Ballard would get the start for the injured Eric Hurley.
Our View: The 24-year old is making debut as a starter after making three appearances for the Rangers this year. In 3.1 innings of work Madrigal has allowed six runs on five hits, walked two and struck out one. |
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| Soriano progressing | Wednesday 7/9, 8:11 PM CT |
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According to the Cubs team website manager Lou Piniella said Alfonso Soriano will not be ready in time for next week's game at Yankee Stadium.
Our View: Soriano and teammate Kosuke Fukudome were named to the National League All-Star outfield, and while Fukudome will play, Soriano will be a spectator. |
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| Zimmerman swings without pain | Wednesday 7/9, 8:06 PM CT |
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The Nationas watched injured third baseman Ryan Zimmerman take batting practice with the team this evening, his second consecutive day doing so, and he reports there is no pain or discomfort, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Zimmerman has been on the disabled list since early June because of a small tear in his left labrum. The Nationals are hoping that he returns to action by late July or sometime in August. The team also reports Zimmerman will most likely will get the day off on Thursday and have another batting practice session on Friday. During the Friday session, Zimmerman is expected to hit breaking balls for the first time. |
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| Renteria records RBI; finally | Wednesday 7/9, 7:59 PM CT |
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Edgar Renteria hit a run scoring single in the bottom of the sixth inning on Wednesday night. The RBI was his first since June 15th.
Our View: Renteria started the season on fire, but his home (.307) and road (.208) splits and his lack of production the last month have turned him from pleasant surprise to fantasy reserve. |
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| Mulder leaves start after 16 pitches | Wednesday 7/9, 7:52 PM CT |
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Mark Mulder left his return start against the Philadelphia Phillies due to pain in his left shoulder. The southpaw exited after throwing only 16 pitches and recording one out.
Our View: According to Rototimes sources Mulder couldn't pitch without pain in his throwing shoulder and decided it best to err on the side of caution. More on Mulder when information becomes available. |
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| Matsui returns from DL; starts | Wednesday 7/9, 7:47 PM CT |
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Kazuo Matsui was activated from the 15-day disabled list and was back in the starting lineup Wednesday night against the Pirates. Pitcher Chad Reineke was optioned to triple-A Round Rock to make room on the 25-man roster for Matsui. The Astros second baseman is hitting second in the batting order.
Our View: Matsui has been out since June 22 because of a strained right hamstring. |
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| Carmona nearing rehab assignment | Wednesday 7/9, 7:29 PM CT |
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Fausto Carmona is scheduled to throw a 50-pitch simulated session Thursday, this according to the Indians' team website. The right-handed sinkerballer is expected to make a minimum of two Minor League starts before he's ready to rejoin the rotation.
Our View: Carmona has missed approximately nine starts to a left hip strain. |
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| Upton scratched for Arizona | Wednesday 7/9, 7:27 PM CT |
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Arizona outfielder Justin Upton is out of the lineup this evening, replaced by Chad Tracy.
Our View: Upton is nursing a strained ribcage and is going to get a rest. The injury is not believed to be a concern, but the D'backs are proceeding with caution. |
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| Ginter could replace C.C Saturday | Wednesday 7/9, 7:22 PM CT |
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The Indians team website suggests that manager Eric Wedge wouldn't confirm it, but it is "most likely" that Matt Ginter will be the replacement starter for C.C. Sabathia on Saturday game against the Rays.
Our View: Ginter was removed from his start in Buffalo after three innings on Tuesday giving the impression the Tigers will go with the ex-Red Sox right-hander. |
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| D'Backs not interested in Bonds; seeking an arm | Wednesday 7/9, 7:20 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report, it now appears the Arizona Diamondbacks are not considering the addition of outfielder Barry Bonds , according to MLB.com.
Our View: According to sources for MLB.com, the D'backs had internal discussions about signing Bonds, who remains unsigned after the Giants elected not to re-sign him following the 2007 season, as it had about several potential free agents and possible trade acquisitions, but decided to move forward. GM Josh Byrnes had issued comments that led many to believe that Arizona was interested, but now he has proclaimed those talks are dead. Bonds aside, Byrnes continues to work the phones to try and get some help for his team before the trade deadline. While the team has struggled offensively, Byrnes didn't rule out also seeking a pitcher. |
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| Cards experimenting with relief roles | Wednesday 7/9, 7:15 PM CT |
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The Cardinals report Ryan Franklin will continue as the primary closer, but the team has desires to slowly reintroduce Jason Isringhausen into that mix as well, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The entire relief strategy is a work in progress as the Cardinals attempt to solidify the best mix. Franklin entered the eighth inning of a tie game at home on Saturday, indicating that perhaps Jason Isringhausen would have been the pitcher with a lead in the ninth. Isringhausen did not appear in Tuesday night's game, however, with Kyle McClellan handling setup duties for Franklin. Isringhausen was placed on the disabled list after a lengthy and deep slump, but since his return to active duty he's pitched very well. It's still considered a matter of time before he is reinstated to his former job. La Russa said Wednesday that while Franklin is the primary ninth-inning pitcher for now, it's not quite as certain as it was a couple of weeks ago. |
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| Rockies send Spilborghs to DL | Wednesday 7/9, 7:11 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report, the Rockies have in fact placed outfielder Ryan Spilborghs on the 15-day disabled list after leaving last night's game with an oblique strain, according to MLB.com.
Our View: To take his place on the roster, outfielder Seth Smith was recalled from Triple-A Colorado Springs. Smith will be in uniform for tonight's game against the Milwaukee Brewers. |
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| Inge close to return | Wednesday 7/9, 7:11 PM CT |
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The Detroit Tigers team website suggests that Brandon Inge could be back with the team as soon as Thursday.
Our View: Inge was scheduled to catch for four innings and play third base at Triple-A Toledo tonight, and the team will see how he comes out of game. |
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| Issringhausen to close soon | Wednesday 7/9, 7:03 PM CT |
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While Ryan Franklin is still considered the Cardinals' primary closer, skipper Tony La Russa said it is no longer automatic that Franklin will be the ninth inning option, this according to the team website.
When Franklin pitched the eighth inning of a tie game at home on Saturday, it indicated that Jason Isringhausen will begin to see some ninth inning opportunities.
"You just keep pitching [Isringhausen], and he's going to pitch in critical situations," La Russa said. "And you keep evaluating on a game-to-game basis who's available and who should pitch when. What's a timetable for? What's the need for a timetable?"
Our View: Since returning from the disabled list, Isringhausen has been effective. The report noted that it's just a matter of time before Izzy is reinstated to his former role. |
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| Bourn losing at-bats to Erstad | Wednesday 7/9, 6:53 PM CT |
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Michael Bourn continues to struggle so Darin Erstad and Hunter Pence have been filling the leadoff role for the Astros. In fact, Erstad has been finding the starting lineup more recently. Bourn was held out of Monday's game for the third time over the Independence Day weekend and Erstad got most of his at-bats.
Our View: Bourn offers stolen bases, while Erstad offers more stability, including power. The veteran has 11 doubles and two home runs in 127 at-bats, while Bourn has six doubles and four home runs in 317 plate appearances. |
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| Cano warming with the weather | Wednesday 7/9, 6:43 PM CT |
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Is it too late to make a move on Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano? Cano collected his sixth multi-hit performance in the last nine games with his 2-for-4 effort in Tuesday's win over Scott Kazmir. Cano is batting .348 (15-for-43) in his last 11 games and has raised his batting average from .227 on June 22 to .255.
Our View: Cano hit into his share of bad luck in the first half of the season and it won't be a surprise to see the .303 career hitter return to that level before the end of the 2008 campaign. |
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| Marte to inherit closer role | Wednesday 7/9, 6:42 PM CT |
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With Matt Capps out until September, if not the rest of the season, Damaso Marte has inherited the Pirates closer role. Marte has the peripherals to be a solid ninth inning option. Over the last four seasons the left-hander has recorded K rates of 9.5 to 10.7. Couple that with his current 2.7 BB rate and he offers fantasy managers cheap saves for the next two months.
Our View: It's worth mentioning that Marte is a candidate to be moved before the July 31 trade deadline, and if the Pirates barter off Marte, Tyler Yates is in line to take over the team's closer duties. Yates isn't nearly as efficient as Marte. His 6.1 K rate, 6.7 BB rate and low ground ball to fly ball ratio could be more damaging long-term than what the right-hander offers in short-term saves. |
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| Harrison could stick | Wednesday 7/9, 6:40 PM CT |
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It looks like Rangers' rookie left-hander Matt Harrison will remain in the rotation. Before Harrison headed to the mound for his major league debut on Tuesday night, Texas placed Eric Hurley, another 22-year-old rookie, on the disabled list with a strained left hamstring.
Our View: Left-hander Michael Ballard will take the ball for the disabled Hurley tonight against the Angels. Ballard will be the 12th starter used by the Rangers this season, the most by any team in the majors. |
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| Carrasco replaces Jenks | Wednesday 7/9, 6:15 PM CT |
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The Chicago Tribune reports that the White Sox have purchased the contract of pitcher D.J. Carrasco from Triple-A Charlotte.
Our View: Carrasco will take the roster spot of the disabled Bobby Jenks. |
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| Longoria leads AL Monster voting | Wednesday 7/9, 6:04 PM CT |
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With one day remaining to vote in the final member of the American League All Star squad, the Rays' team website reports that Evan Longoria continues to lead all candidates.
"It's going to be exciting to see how it turns out," Longoria said. "If I make it, I'll be here [at Yankee Stadium]. If not, I've got plans for the break anyway."
Our View: Longoria was just voted June's Rookie of the Month, so his timing, just as it has been the first three months of his rookie season, is perfect. |
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| Gregg earns 17th save | Wednesday 7/9, 5:46 PM CT |
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Kevin Gregg, who blew two saves on the fourth of July weekend, tossed seven pitches to record two-outs in the ninth inning of Wednesday's 5-2 victory over the Padres for his 17th save.
Our View: When Gregg has stuggled this year it's been because of his command. His Achilles has been his 5.75 BB rate. |
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| Hairston hits his 14th HR | Wednesday 7/9, 5:40 PM CT |
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Scott Hairston hit his 14 home run of the season, but it wasn't enough as the Padres fell 5-2 to the Florida Marlins on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Hairston has an impressive home run in ever 17.4 at-bats. |
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| Jacobs hits 19th HR | Wednesday 7/9, 5:38 PM CT |
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Mike Jacobs hit his 19th home run of the season helping the Florida Marlins defeat the San Diego Padres 5-2 on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Jacobs, who missed time this season to a quad strain, has 52 RBI and 39 runs scored in 77 games. |
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| Baek suffers fifth loss | Wednesday 7/9, 5:32 PM CT |
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Cha Seung Baek allowed three runs on six hits, walked one and struck out three in Wednesday's 5-2 loss to the Florida Marlins.
Our View: Baek has been a pleasant surprise while filling in for the injured Chris Young. The right-hander has only won two games to his five losses, but he has kept the Padres in more of his eight starts than not. However, he's not a fantasy option outside of deep NL-only formats. |
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| HanRam hits his 22nd HR | Wednesday 7/9, 5:29 PM CT |
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Hanley Ramirez his a solo shot to left field off of Padres starter Cha Seung Baek and the Marlins defeated the Padres 5-2 on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: The home run was HanRam's 22nd of the season. The shortstop was caught stealing for the seventh time this season in the win. |
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| Olsen goes eight strong in win | Wednesday 7/9, 5:26 PM CT |
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Scott Olsen allowed one run on four hits, walked two and struck out three, and the Florida Marlins defeated the San Diego Padres 5-2 on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Olsen earned his fifth victory against four losses in his eight inning quality start. |
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| Hill riding stationary bike | Wednesday 7/9, 5:05 PM CT |
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The Toronto Star reports that second baseman Aaron Hill is slowly recovering from a concussion he suffered May 29.
Our View: Hill has now begun riding a stationary bike, but is still not been cleared to take part in baseball related activities. |
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| Tavarez is terrible in Braves debut | Wednesday 7/9, 4:48 PM CT |
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Julian Tavarez was erratic yet again in his Braves debut on Tuesday. He managed just one out while giving up two hits, two walks, and one earned run.
Our View: By all accounts, it looks like Julian has effectively lost it. He may not stick with the Braves once they get some of their injured relievers back. |
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| Lugo steals 12th | Wednesday 7/9, 4:41 PM CT |
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Julio Lugo went 2-for-4 and stole his 12th base of the season in the Red Sox rout of the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Lugo has 12 steals in 16 attempts and is slowly beginning to warm up at the plate. His batting average has climbed to .267 for the season. |
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| Cash goes deep for second time | Wednesday 7/9, 4:39 PM CT |
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Kevin Cash hit his second home run of the season helping the Boston Red Sox to a 18-5 Fenway Park win over the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Cash only received one at-bat on the day because All Star Jason Varitek played battery mate to Josh Beckett. Varitek went 0-for-4 and his now hitting a lowly .220 on the season. |
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| Youkilis has three-RBI game | Wednesday 7/9, 4:34 PM CT |
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Kevin Youkilis recorded four RBI and went 3-for-5, and the Red Sox collected 18 hits to go along with their 18-5 win over Minnesota.
Our View: Youkilis hit his 14th home run of the season now has 57 RBI in 85 games played. |
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| Manny has third straight big game at the plate | Wednesday 7/9, 4:31 PM CT |
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Since his July 6 scratch, Manny Ramirez has come up huge for the Red Sox. Following his clutch hitting of the previous two nights, Ramirez went 3-for-5 on Wednesday with three RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: Manny has six RBI in his last three games. Consider the slump busted. |
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| Ellsbury records four-hit game | Wednesday 7/9, 4:31 PM CT |
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Jacoby Ellsbury went 4-for-6 in the 18-5 rout of the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday afternoon. Ellsbury had a double and three singles in the third game of a series sweep of Minnesota.
Our View: The center fielder raised his average seven points to .278 and his runs scored are now at 60 on the season. Surprisingly, the Boston speedster didn't attempt a stolen base, even early on with the game was relatively close. |
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| Youkilis excels in another day game | Wednesday 7/9, 4:28 PM CT |
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After a 3-for-4 game on Tuesday night, Kevin Youkilis went 3-for-5 on Wednesday. He had a home run, four RBI, and scored three runs.
Our View: Youkilis continues to see the ball exceptionally during day games. In 25 such games this season, he is hitting .398 with 25 RBI and six of his 14 home runs. |
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| Pedroia scores and drives in three | Wednesday 7/9, 4:25 PM CT |
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Dustin Pedroia hit a three-run double in a seven run, seventh innings, to beat the Minnesota Twins 18-5 on Wednesday afternoon. The Red Sox second baseman was 2-for-6 scoring three times while also driving in three.
Our View: It was the second straight multihit game for Pedroia and he continues to challenge Ian Kinsler (126 hits) of the Rangers for the most hits (120) in the league. |
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| Mauer goes 2-for-3 in loss | Wednesday 7/9, 4:21 PM CT |
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Joe Mauer went 2-for-3 raising his batting average to .328 with the performance. The Twins, who jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the top of the first innings with a Justin Morneau home run, lost their edge for good in the third inning when starter Livan Hernandez gave up four runs to the Sox in the bottom of the inning.
Our View: Mauer scored and drove in a run raising his season totals to 38 RBI and 56 runs scored. |
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| Muniz is recalled...again | Wednesday 7/9, 4:19 PM CT |
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Carlos Muniz has been recalled yet again from Triple-A New Orleans. This time he will replace Tony Armas, who was placed on the DL.
Our View: Muniz has been ineffective in 11.2 innings in big leagues this year, posting a 6.17 ERA. He is 2-4 at Triple-A, with eight saves and a 3.86 ERA. |
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| Young has three-hit game | Wednesday 7/9, 4:18 PM CT |
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Delmon Young went 3-for-5 with a run scored in the Twins 18-5 loss to the Red Sox on Wednesday afternoon. The Twins right fielder is warming up, just as he predicted, raising his average (.293) above .290 for the first time this season.
Our View: Young's average continues to climb, but his power numbers downright stink. The five-tool talent has only three home runs in 324 at-bats since coming up from Florida. |
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| Armas placed on the DL | Wednesday 7/9, 4:15 PM CT |
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Tony Armas was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday according to metsblog.com. Armas has a pulled abdominal muscle.
Our View: Carlos Muniz has been recalled and will take Armas' spot on the roster. |
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| Hernandez rocked by Red Sox | Wednesday 7/9, 4:15 PM CT |
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Livan Hernandez allowed six runs on eleven hits, walked none and struck out two in an 18-5 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Hernandez was typical in the loss. The right-hander gave up 11 hits in 4.1 innings of work and with 173 hits in just over 100 innings, the right-handed veteran is on pace to allow 300 hits on the season. |
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| Morneau goes deep in loss | Wednesday 7/9, 4:12 PM CT |
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Justin Morneau went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run in Wednesday afternoon's 18-5 loss to the Boston Red Sox. Morneau's two-run shot to right field off starter Josh Beckett was his 13th of the season.
Our View: Morneau continues to hit well, and while his home run total is short of what most projected for the Twins first baseman, his 66 RBI in 90 games are impressive. |
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| Pudge to get the night off | Wednesday 7/9, 4:10 PM CT |
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Ivan Rodriguez is receiving the night off on Wednesday. Dane Sardinha will start in his place.
Our View: Pudge is simply getting some rest and should be back in the lineup tomorrow. Look for him to hit well when he returns, continuing a trend he has developed this season. |
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| Beckett earns ninth win | Wednesday 7/9, 4:08 PM CT |
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Josh Beckett allowed five runs on eight hits, walked two and struck out two, and the Red Sox defeated the Minnesota Twins 18-5 on Wednesday afternoon.
Our View: Beckett gave up three first-inning runs and then settled down before offering up his final two offerings in the sixth inning. The right-hander wasn't sharp, but he received the run support to battle through five innings of work and earn his ninth win of the season. |
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