Javier Vazquez- FLA- Hot- Vazquez shut out the Mets In his 7 IP last night, allowing just 3 hits. He exhibited the traits that have led to his resurgence, striking out 6 and walking only 1. Vazquez looks solid for the rest of the season.
Michael Stanton- FLA- Hot- There has been no sophomore slump for Stanton. Last night he hit the first opposite field upper deck homer by a right hander at Citi Field. His August average of .291 has been helped by a BABIP of .360, but his Batting EYE of .72 for the month has also had an impact. If he continues to exhibit patience at the plate the rest of the way, Stanton's value for 2012 will increase.
Ruben Tejada- NYM- FYI- Manager Terry Collins is making noises about Jose Reyes needing periodic rest over the last few weeks of the season. This would give Tejada more chances at playing time. The main question about Tejada, though, is what role he will have in 2012. Collins said that he thought Tejada is ready for a full time position in the majors. With Reyes a free agent, that was about as clear a signal as could be given. Collins also said that he would like to see Tejada steal more. He did swipe 19 bases at AA in 2009 so there is some potential there.
Ryan Howard- PHI- Hot- Howard slugged 2 homers last night and now has 8 for the month. He only has 12 other hits in August and a .238 average for the month. Howard has had some bad luck, with a .286 BABIP, but his main problem is his K% has soared to 36.2%. He has been an all or nothing hitter this month. If he continues to exhibit those tendencies over the last few weeks of the season his 2012 value will be negatively impacted.
Livan Hernandez- WAS- Drop value- The good Livan was in the park last night, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks while striking out 1 in 7 IP. Hernandez has been consistently inconsistent this season, mixing quality start with blowouts on a regular basis. He will be a free agent aft her the season but wants to stay in Washington and become a long reliever, as there won't be room for him in the rotation. That will limit his already iffy fantasy value.
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