Chris Sale: After just 11 career minor league appearances, the White Sox promoted Sale to the majors where he has more than held his own, 1.47 ERA and a perfect 3 for 3 in saves. His strike out/ground ball package

Brandon Allen: After a big power season in Triple-A, 25 HR in 371 AB, Allen is showing some pop during his September audition with the D’Backs, 1 HR and 3 doubles in 27 AB. His power and plate patience, 18%

Zack Greinke: Greinke traded some dominance for more ground balls, 2009/2010 K/9’s 9.5/7.3, BB/9’s 2.0/2.3, and GB%’s 40%/47%. While the 2009 skill set is preferable, Greinke can succeed with either set. Some of the blame for the rise in ERA

Carlos Beltran: Since returning to the Mets, Beltran has struggled, 3/20/.235 with 3 steals in 170 AB. With no real change in his approach at the plate, 2008/2009/2010 BB%’s 13%/13%/15% and Ct%’s 84%/86%/83%, the decline in his power and speed

Matt Lindstrom: It looks like Brandon Lyon will be the Astros’ closer for the rest of this year, but Lindstrom will have a chance next spring to reclaim the job. Although his walks are on the high side, 3.6 BB/9,

Brett Gardner: Gardner’s two above average skills are plate patience, 14% BB%, and speed, 39 steals in 46 attempts. However it is not enough for someone with so little power, 5 HR and 15 doubles in 402 AB. In the

Wade Davis: The 24-year-old Davis is healthy again and back in Rays’ rotation. Despite shaky skills, 5.8 K/9, 3.6 BB/9, and a 40% GB%, and having a better option in Jeremy Hellickson, the Rays seem determined to stick with Davis

JA Happ: It has been a difficult season for Happ, as he missed over 3 months with a forearm injury and was traded from a playoff caliber team to one in the cellar. On the positive side, in his 8

Tommy Hunter: Hunter is using smoke and mirrors to put up his good numbers, 9-2 with a 3.71 ERA, as his skills are below average, 4.9 K/9, 2.4 BB/9, and a 39% GB%. A 78% S% and a .220 BHIP%

Michael Young: Young’s growing GB%, 2008/2009/2010 #’s 47%/45%/49%, and inflated HR/FB%, 7%/15%/13%, leads one to believe that the pace of HR will slow down for the 33-year-old, 17 HR in 465 AB. That being said, he is still generating enough

Geovany Soto: Soto was placed on the 15-day DL with a mild shoulder sprain and should return when eligible on August 22nd. After an injury riddled, disappointing 2009 season, 11/47/.218 with 19 doubles in 331 AB, it has been a

Edwin Jackson: Considering that Jackson’s “breakout” season in 2009, 13-9 with a 3.62 ERA, was due partly to luck, 76% S% and a .272 BHIP%, it wasn’t surprising to see his numbers decline with the D’Backs, 6-10 with a 5.16

Kevin Slowey: Despite a 9-5 record, it has been a rough year for Slowey, 4.76 ERA in 111.2 innings. On the plus side, he has maintained his outstanding control, but a dip in his dominance is part of the problem,

Wade LeBlanc: LeBlanc has a solid 3.35 ERA in 104.2 innings, but his skills don’t match up to the ERA, 6.0 K/9, 3.4 BB/9, and a 37% GB%. A fortunate 82% S% and a .266 BHIP%, explains the discrepancy, which

Bruce Chen: Chen is putting up decent numbers, 5-4 with a 4.38 ERA, along with impressive dominance, 7.5 K/9. However, his is also sporting the deadly combination of poor control, 4.3 BB/9, and a high FB%, 52%. If his luck

Andy Oliver: Although the Orioles got to him in his 3rd start, 5 ER in just 1.2 innings, Oliver’s skills have been good, 7.2 K/9, 2.6 BB/9, and a 42% GB% in 13.2 innings. The dominance is just a continuation

Randy Wolf: Wolf has been a big disappointment, 5-7 with a 4.92 ERA, and his declining skill set is the reason, 2009.2010 K/9’s 6.7/5.3, BB/9’s 2.4/4.6, and GB%’s 40%/41%. He has been getting killed by the HR ball, 18 allowed

AJ Burnett: Besides being wildly inconsistent, there is also a noticeable drop in Burnett’s skills, 2007/2008/2009/2010 K/9’s 9.6/9.4/8.5/6.6, BB/9’s 3.6/3.5/4.2/3.5, and GB%’s 55%/49%/43%/47%. In the past, he was able to compensate for his shaky control with dominance and the ability

Brett Cecil: Although there is some luck behind Cecil’s good surface numbers, 7-3, 3.58 ERA, 7% HR/FB%, and a depressed .194 BHIP%, there are also good skills, 6.5 K/9, 2.3 BB/9, and a 44% GB%. Cecil turns 24 years of

John Maine: Maine, who has been out since May 20th with a shoulder injury, is scheduled to make his final rehab start today and if all goes well he should be back in the Mets starting rotation next week. In

Nick Blackburn: Even with a good control/ground ball package, 1.9 BB/9 and a 47% GB%, Blackburn’s complete lack of dominance, 2.3 K/9, is leading to a 5.21 ERA. His previous work, 2008/2009 K/9’s 4.5/4.3, offers some of hope of better

Jayson Nix: With Mark Teahen out for at least a month, Nix should pick up starts at 3B. When first called up last year he hit with power, but over the 2nd half of the season it was just league

Brad Penny: Penny, who has been out with a strained lat muscle, is about two weeks away from returning. Prior to the injury, Penny was putting up good numbers, 3.23 ERA in 9 starts, with solid skills support, 5.7 K/9,

Elvis Andrus: At just 21 years of age, Andrus is already showing skills, 13% BB% and a 56% GB%, that will maximize his biggest asset, speed. The final piece to the puzzle is making better contact, 81% Ct, but there

Mike Aviles: Aviles has been on fire since rejoining the Royals, 2/3/.375 in 64 AB. Don’t count on it lasting, as he is enjoying an inflated .358 BHIP%, is hitting with below average power, and he has yet to take

Hisanori Takahashi: With his kind of numbers out of the bullpen, 3.12 ERA and an 11.4 K/9 in 26 innings, it was only a matter of time before Takahashi got a shot at starting a game, this Friday at home

Dustin Pedroia: Pedroia turns 27 years of age in August and has increased his power. 2008/2009/2010 AB’s 653/626/144, HR’s 17/15/7, and Doubles’ 54/48/13, with just some minor erosion is his plate skills, 2009/2010 BB%’s 10%/8% and Ct%’s 93%/87%. The tradeoff

Dustin Pedroia: Pedroia turns 27 years of age in August and has increased his power. 2008/2009/2010 AB’s 653/626/144, HR’s 17/15/7, and Doubles’ 54/48/13, with just some minor erosion is his plate skills, 2009/2010 BB%’s 10%/8% and Ct%’s 93%/87%. The tradeoff

Nate Schierholtz: Schierholtz’s improved approach at the plate, 2008/2009 BB%’s 5%/10% and Ct%’s 80%/87%, has led to playing time and success, 1/5/.362 in 69 AB. With a 48% GB%, it is not surprising that his good power is unevenly distributed,

Rajai Davis: Davis certainly knows how to steal a base, 11 swipes in 12 attempts, but without power, 1 home run in 103 AB and a 52% GB%, his approach at the plate, 5% BB% and an 81% Ct%, is

Seth Smith: Despite only hitting, .204 in 58 PA, Smith is showing outstanding power, 4 home runs and 2 doubles. Last year he proved not to be helpless against LHP, 3/10/.259 in 69 PA, so if his depressed .139 BHIP%

David Aardsma: Coming off of a breakout year in 2009, 38 saves in 42 opportunities, Aardsma has 8 saves in 9 chances this year. On the surface, those numbers would point to job security but consider that the combination of

Travis Snider: It looks like the Blue Jays are going to give Snider an extended chance to show that he can handle major league pitching. In the small sample size of 2010, 57 PA, his skills have been a mixed

Edison Volquez: Volquez tested positive for PED and was suspended for 50 games. He can only begin serving the suspension when he is eligible to come off of the 60-day-DL. Since he went on the DL before the season started,

Eric Chavez: It is looking like a platoon with Chavez and Jake Fox at DH for the A’s. Before the back problems surfaced in 2007, Chavez consistently displayed above average power and at just 32 years of age, the power

Brandon Wood: After a 0-12 with 5 K’s start, Wood was not in the starting lineup last night. In his third season in Triple-A Wood, showed some growth in his contact skills, 2007/2008/2009 Ct%’s 72%/74%/79%, but that has yet to

Franklin Morales: It is looking like Huston Street will be out for a least the entire month of April, which gives Morales a shot to rack up some saves. No matter how good his strike out/ground ball package looks, 9.2

New York Mets It is looking like Jose Reyes will be back for the 5th game of the season. Where should Reyes bat? A big question this spring has been whether Reyes should bat leadoff or third, especially while Carlos

Mets: With Carlos Beltran out for at least the first month of the season, Angel Pagan and Gary Matthews Jr. will battle for AB. Pagan has a decent power/speed package, 6/32/.306 with 22 doubles, 11 triples, and 14 steals in

New York Mets: The Mets improved their catcher situation from disaster to merely bad when they added veteran Rod Barajas. While he is clearly an upgrade over the offensively challenged duo of Omir Santos and Henry Blanco, Barajas had his

Garrett Atkins: The complete decline of a power hitter to a back up or minor leaguer has been completed for Atkins, 2007/2008/2009 AB’s 605/611/351, Doubles’ 35/32/12, Home Runs’ 25/21/9, and Averages’ .301/.286/.228. Without any real change in his approach at

Drew Stubbs: After hitting just 3 home runs in 411 Triple-A AB, it is surprising that Stubbs has blasted 8 home runs in 172 AB. With just 5 doubles, the power does seem fluky for the soon-to-be 25-year-old, but with

Brian Duensing: Duensing numbers’, 5-2 with a 3.66 ERA, look much better than the numbers that a rookie with his skills, 5.8 K/9, 3.4 BB/9, and a 46%GB, should be producing. A 75% Strand Rate and a depressed 7% HR/FB%

Placido Polanco: It has been a typical season for Polanco, moderate power in the form of 30 doubles and 10 home runs, a little bit of speed, 7 steals, poor plate patience, 5% BB%, and outstanding contact skills, 93%. The

Cliff Lee: The National League seems to agree with Lee, as he has pitched better since the mid-season trade, AL/NL splits of ERA 3.14/2.67, K/9’s 6.3/8.4, and BB/9’s 2.0/1.3. Given his track record, 2007/2008 K/9’s 6.1/6.9, the high strike out

Chris Young: With 6 home runs in 53 September AB, Young is reminding people why they were so high on him coming into this year. However with an historically low BHIP%, 2007/2008/2009 BHIP’s .192/.216/.147, Young is going to have to

Scott Feldman: It has been a breakout year for Feldman, 16-5 with a 3.65 ERA, but he has one of those skill sets, 5.3 K/9, 2.9 BB/9, and a 48% GB% that doesn’t exactly inspire confidence that he can come

Hank Blalock: It has been a mixed bag for Blalock this season. While he is displaying very good power, 23 home runs, his batting average is suffering, .237 in 414 AB. A depressed .195 BHIP% isn’t helping, although it is

Jimmy Rollins: While his .244 batting average is a disappointment, it is hard to argue with the power/speed package, 17 home runs and 25 steals that Rollins is providing from the middle infield slot. As Rollins is now on the

Carlos Quentin: After breaking out big-time last year, 36/100/.288 in 480 AB, it has been an injury-filled, disappointing year for Quentin, 15/35/.226 in .265 AB. With his approach at the plate remaining relatively stable, 2008/2009 BB%’s 12%/9% and Ct%’s 83%/84%,

Francisco Liriano: It looks like Liriano, who is on the DL with an elbow injury, is done for the year. Back in 2006, at the young age of 22, Liriano looked like the next great pitcher in baseball, 12-3 with

Pedro Martinez: Martinez gets a chance for revenge against the team who didn’t resign him when he faces the Mets today. In 8 innings with Phillies, Pedro has fanned 9 batters and walked just 1. While 8 innings is not

Chris Volstad: Despite having his surface numbers decline in his sophomore year, 6-2 with a 2.88 ERA in his rookie season vs. 9-9 with a 4.61 ERA this year, Volstad’s skills have improved, 2008/2009 K/9’s 5.6/6.2, BB/9’s 3.8/3.0, and GB%’s

Bill Hall: According to Manger Don Wakamatsu, the newly acquired Hall will see playing time all around the infield, which would boost his value if he qualifies for MI in your fantasy format. With the season that Hall was having

Shaun Marcum: There is still a chance that Marcum, who is rehabbing from Tommy John surgery, could pitch with the Blue Jays in September. Before getting injured last year, Marcum was putting up good numbers, 9-7 with a 3.39 ERA,

Todd Wellemeyer: Wellemeyer will rejoin the Cardinals rotation with a start on Tuesday against the Reds. His dominance, 2005/2006/2007 K/9’s of 8.9/6.2/6.8, always gave him potential, but control problems, BB/9’s of 6.1/5.7/4.5, always held him back, ERA’s of 6.12/4.14/4.54. However

Zach Duke: Considering the team he is on, Duke is having a very good season, 9-10 with a 3.45 ERA. However, be aware that he is doing it with a soft skill set, 4.5 K/9, 2.2 BB/9, and a 45%

Billy Wagner: Wagner is about 10 days away from beginning a rehab assignment which means he should see action this year. There is some talk that the Mets will try and trade him, but they will have to eat up

Joba Chamberlain: Despite picking up a win against the Red Sox last night, Chamberlain was less than impressive with 7 walks, but for year his numbers still look good, 8-2 with a 3.73 ERA. The 8.0 K/9 and 44% GB%

Josh Anderson: The Royals acquired Anderson from the Tigers for cash. He has outstanding speed, 13 steals in 15 attempts despite having only 175 PA. Without any power, Anderson’s contact skills, 87% Ct5, and ground ball approach, 58% GB%, are

Aaron Rowand: Rowand has missed some time after getting hit with a Tommy Hanson pitch earlier in the week, but he should avoid the DL. His skills are heading in the wrong direction, 2007/2008/2009 BB%’s of 7%/7%/7% and Ct%’s of

Chris Duncan: The Red Sox sent the newly acquired Duncan to Triple-A. Prior to the deal, Duncan had been mired in a horrible slump, just 1 hit in his last 31 AB, so a stint in Triple-A to regain his

Ted Lilly: Lilly missed his start yesterday due to inflammation in his left knee, but may start tomorrow in Philadelphia. He always had the dominance to succeed, 2006/2007/2008/2009 K/9’s of 7.9/7.6/8.1/7.6, but it was not until Lilly improved his control,

Jose Bautista: Bautista’s powerless .266 batting average, just 2 home runs in 143 AB, is even worse than it appears. With a 69% Ct%, an inflated .310 BHIP%, and a history of low BHIP%’s, 2006/2007/2008 BHIP%’s of .221/.217.227, expect Bautista’s

Livian Hernandez: After a poor outing on Thursday, 8 ER in 4 innings, Hernandez’s spot in the Mets starting rotation could be in jeopardy. With his skill set, 4.7 K/9, 3.4, and a 40% GB, Hernandez is lucky just to

Marco Scuturo: As the Jays starting shortstop, Scuturo is having a good season, 6/37/.283 with 62 runs scored in 410 PA. With a great approach at the plate, 14% BB and an 88% Ct%, Scuturo has no problem getting on

Fernando Martinez: Martinez is day-to-day with a sore knee. The 20-year-old is suffering from horrible luck, a .143 BHIP%, which is contributing to his poor numbers, 1/8/.176 in 91 AB. However, he is also not generating much power or plate

Vicente Padilla: Padilla’s next start has been pushed back to Tuesday because of some minor soreness in his shoulder. With below average skills, 4.9 K/9, 4.1 BB/9, and a 50% GB%, Padilla has been mediocre, 6-4 with a 4.75 ERA.

Chris Young: Young, who has been out with a shoulder injury, is not expected back until after the All-Star break. Before hitting the DL, Young was struggling, 4-6 with a 5.21 ERA, and the drop in his skills, 2008/2009 K/9’s

Yuniesky Betancourt: Betancourt will likely land on the DL with a hamstring injury. Despite having great contact skills, 92% Ct%, Betancourt is a hacker, 4% BB%, with little power, 2 home runs in 224 AB, or speed, 3 steals. Even

Manny Corpas: Corpas has bone chips in his elbow, which will likely lead to a stint on the DL. His 5.40 ERA is misleading as he is showing good skills, 6.5 K/9, 1.7 BB/9, and a 49% GB%. A low

Roy Halladay: Halladay was placed on the 15-Day DL retroactive to June 13th with a groin strain. He should return as soon as he is eligible on June 28th. Considering that he probably has the best skill set of any

Wesley Wright: The Astros recalled Wright from Triple-A to work in middle relief. His dominance shows some nice potential, 2008/2009 K/9’s of 9.2/9.9, but until he gets the walks in check, BB/9’s of 5.0/4.0, you will see a high ERA,

Jed Lowrie: Lowrie is close to starting a minor league rehab assignment which could put him on target for a late June to early July return to the Red Sox lineup. In his debut last year, Lowrie showed some interesting

Aaron Miles: Miles started his rehab assignment yesterday and should be back with the Cubs on Wednesday. With injuries and inconsistent play in the Cubs infield, Miles should see plenty of playing time. He doesn’t hit for power, 0 home

Gordon Beckham: After just 25 trips to the plate in Triple-A, the White Sox promoted Beckham to the major leagues. Given his hot prospect status, the Sox are not calling him up to sit on the bench. He was handling

Will Ohman: The Dodgers placed Ohman on the 15-day-DL with a sore left shoulder. After having a solid season with the Braves last year, 3.68 ERA, 8.1 K/9, and a 3.4 BB/9, Ohman has been a disaster this year, 5.84

Jorge Posada: Posada, who has been on the DL with a hamstring injury, could return as early as today. His nagging injuries will prevent him from catching on a regular basis, but his bat is still strong enough, 5/20/.312 in

Nick Masset: The Reds placed Masset on the 15-day DL on May 19th because of a strain on his side, but it is retroactive to May 11th and he should be able to return as soon as he is eligible.

Rafael Betancourt: Betancourt earned a rare save yesterday, giving him 17 for his career against an astounding 23 blown saves. For the season, his 4.57 ERA and 4.6 BB/9 are on the high side, but his 9.7 K/9 is impressive.

Brian Bannister: Bannister pulled himself from Wednesday game after 5.2 innings due to shoulder discomfort, although he expects to make his next start. He has been very effective, 3-1 with a 1.80 ERA in 5 starts, despite having very average

Jeff Weaver: Based on his recent history, 6.07 ERA with the Indians Triple-A team and a 6.22 ERA with the Brewers Triple-A team last year, it is hard to believe that Weaver will last very long in the Dodgers starting

Brian Bruney: Bruney, who is out with a sore elbow is not expected to return until June. He has been very productive in the 8th inning role, 1.83 ERA in 34.1 innings in 2008 and 12 K’s in just 8

Hanley Ramirez: Ramirez, who has been nursing a bruised wrist, returned to the starting lineup yesterday against the Cubs, which is very good news for the Marlins and his fantasy owners. At 25 years of age, he has still not

Josh Hamilton: The Rangers will decide this weekend if Hamilton’s injured ribs will require a DL stint, but are hopeful that he can rejoin the lineup early next week. You can count him out for this weekend. Hamilton had a

Burke Badenhop: Badenhop, who was part of the bounty for Miguel Cabrera in 2007, was recalled from Triple-A to start today against the Phillies. From a skills perspective, Badenhop showed some good potential with Marlins last year, 6.7 K/9 and

Mike Sweeney: Sweeney left Wednesday’s game with back spasms, which is should keep him out a couple of games. Back problems are nothing new for Sweeney who has missed huge chunks of the last three seasons with back issues. Even

Jordan Schafer: Schafer is mired in a 1 for 21 slump. The rookie is making the jump from Double-A, where he showed great plate patience, 14% BB%, moderate power, 10 home runs in 297 AB, and poor contact skills, 70%

Ervin Santana: Santana, who is rehabbing from an elbow injury, threw his first bullpen session on Wednesday and reported no problems. The Angels are targeting an early May return for Santana. He made big strides across the board last year,

Doug Brocail: After a disastrous performance in which he allowed a home run and 3 walks in one inning, Brocail had his shoulder examined by team doctors. He said he couldn’t find an arm slot to throw from which he

Felipe Lopez: The D’Backs have installed Lopez at second base and the top of the order. Leaving Washington will help his power, but the 23 home runs he hit in 2005 looks to be a fluke, 2006/2007/2008 home run of

Manny Corpas: Manager Clint Hurdle will name his closer sometime this weekend or early next week. It is between Corpas and Huston Street. Corpas’ 1.29 spring training ERA is misleading as he has only pitched 7 innings and has a

Eric Chavez: Chavez has been fielding ground balls and should be ready to start hitting in 4 to 5 days. There was a time when Chavez was a consistent, legitimate power source at the hot corner, 2002/2003/2004/2005 home runs of

Cha Baek: Baek appears to be the No. 3 starter for the Padres this year. He could be the poster child for average skills; 5.9 K/9, 2.7 BB/9, and a 41% GB% in 2008. Pitching his home games in Petco

Jason Jennings: Jennings, who is recovering from surgery to repair a torn flexor tendon, has a chance to earn a spot in the Rangers starting rotation this year. You can throw out last season’s disaster, 0-5 with an 8.56 ERA,

AMERICAN LEAGUE SB PROSPECTS FOR 2009 Adam Jones: If not for a mid-season injury, Jones may already have been established as a major speed threat. He hit 7 triples in 128 games, which is evidence of amazing foot speed, and

Derek Jeter: Jeter can celebrate for getting the unbreakable record of most hits in Yankee Stadium history, but his skills appear to be declining. His approach at the plate has remained consistent, 2006/2007/2008 BB%’s of 10%/8%/8% and Ct%’s of 84%/84%/85%,

Unfavorable Matchups, American League Dioner Navarro, Tampa Bay (25 for 67 .373 CS%): 4 against Baltimore (Brian Roberts, Nick Markakis, Adam Jones, Jay Payton), 4 against Detroit (Carlos Guillen, Curtis Granderson, Placido Polanco, Gary Sheffield) Joe Mauer, Minnesota (27 for

Cameron Maybin: The Marlins called up Maybin from Double-A where he had a good, but not great, season, 13/49/.277 with 21 steals in 390 AB. He showed a nice ability to work counts, 13% BB%, but is swinging and missing

Jeremy Guthrie: The Orioles may shut down Guthrie for the rest of the season due to an ailing shoulder. Guthrie had a solid season, 3.57 ERA in 29 starts, but with a pretty average skill set; 5.7 K/9, 2.8 BB/9,

Unfavorable Matchups, American League Dioner Navarro, Tampa Bay (23 for 63 .365 CS%): 3 against Boston (Jacoby Ellsbury, Coco Crisp, Dustin Pedroia, Jason Bay), 3 against Minnesota (Carlos Gomez, Denard Span, Delmon Young, Nick Punto, Alexi Casilla) Joe Mauer, Minnesota

Manny Burriss: Burriss could be done for the year with a strained oblique. Considering that he had just 14 games above Single-A ball before coming to the Giants, Burriss did a good job, 1/18.283 with 13 steals in 240 AB.

Jered Weaver: Weaver will have his next start pushed back 3 days after injuring his hand while trying to get up off the bench in the Coamerica Park dugout. After bursting onto the scene in 2006, 11-2 with a 2.56

Dallas McPherson: The Marlins called up McPherson from Triple-A, where he had a monster season, 42/98/.275. He has legitimate power but consider that his home park in Albuquerque gave his power a boost and his 66% Ct% will get worse

Howie Kendrick: Kendrick left the game on Wednesday night with a strained hamstring, the same hamstring that forced him to miss 42 games earlier in the season. He says the injury is not as bad as the first one, but

Unfavorable Matchups, American League Dioner Navarro, Tampa Bay (20 for 54 .370 CS%): 3 against NYY (Johnny Damon, Alex Rodriguez, Bobby Abreu, Derek Jeter), 3 against Toronto (Alex Rios, Marco Scuturo, Joe Inglett) Kurt Suzuki, Oakland (27 for 75, .360

Brandon Lyon: Despite allowing 10 runs in his last 5.1 innings, Manager Doug Melvin said that Lyon’s job as the closer is safe unless he begins to struggle in save situations. Although he has converted 25 of 30 saves and

Garrett Olson: The Orioles send Olson to the minors, but he should be back when the rosters expand in September. He has struggled, 6.38 ERA, but a 63% strand rate and a .314 BHIP% can take part of the blame.

Ray Durham: Rickie Weeks says he will play through his finger injury, but if he is unable to go, Durham would become the full-time second baseman. The 36-year-old still has some power (4 home runs but 29 doubles in 311

Anthony Reyes: Supposedly there were such major philosophical differences on the art of pitching between Reyes and former pitching coach Dave Duncan that a change of scenery for Reyes was absolutely needed. At first glance, it looks like it is

Stolen Base Report for the week of August 18th to August 24th Unfavorable Matchups, American League Kurt Suzuki, Oakland (24 for 69, .348 CS%): 3 against Minnesota (Carlos Gomez, Delmon Young, Nick Punto, Denard Span), 4 against Seattle (Ichiro Suzuki,

Chad Tracy: Tracy could wind up being the big loser in playing time with the acquisition of Adam Dunn. For the time being he is safe, but once Justin Upton returns, it would take the longshot move of putting Mark

Eddie Guardado: Although his numbers look good, 3.02 ERA and a perfect 3 for 3 in saves, Guardado is a disaster waiting to happen as the new Rangers closer. He has a pedestrian 5.2 K/9; plus his 55% FB% is

Yoslan Herrera: After posting a 9.82 ERA in five starts, the Pirates mercifully sent Herrera back to the minors. Considering that he was not exactly blowing Double-A hitters away; 5.2 K/9 and a 3.1 BB/9, his lack of success in

Zack Greinke: After spending a good part of 2007 as a reliever, Greinke has pitched exclusively as a starter this year with good results, 8-7 with a 3.98 ERA. He is still just 24 years of age and with his

Stolen Base Report for the week of August 4th to August 10th Unfavorable Matchups, American League Dioner Navarro Tampa (17 for 45 .378 CS%): 3 against Cleveland (Grady Sizemore, Jamey Carroll, Franklin Gutierrez), 4 against Seattle (Ichiro Suzuki, Adrian Beltre,

Mark Teixeira: If Teixeira is traded; Arizona would be the best place for the switch-hitter to land for fantasy purposes. Turner Field, his current home stadium decreases left-handed batting power by 17% and is neutral for right-handed batting power where

Carlos Quentin: Quentin took over the AL lead in home runs with 26 and is having an MVP type season. Based on his 2007 season, 5/31/.214 in 229 AB, and skills; 7% BB%, 76% Ct%, and 41% FB%, this season

Russell Branyan: In what could be a sign of things to come, Bill Hall got the start against a right-handed pitcher on Monday and responded by going 3 for 5 with a solo home run. After a great start, 11

Francisco Liriano: After 3 consecutive extremely effective outings. 3/24 BB/K in 20 scoreless innings, it should be only a matter of time before Liriano rejoins the Twins. There has been some talk about him working out of the bullpen, but

Clete Thomas: Although he has shown speed in the minors, 15 steals in 19 attempts in Triple-A this year, Thomas is not stealing bases at the major league level, 2 steals in 129 PA. He knows how to take a

Runelvys Hernandez: After two decent starts, 6 ER in 10 innings, Hernandez was shelled for 10 ER in 4 innings against, of all teams, Pittsburgh. Prior to those 3 appearances, the last time the 30-year-old Hernandez pitched in the major

Melvin Mora: At this point in his career the 36 year-old Mora offers about league average power, 10 home runs and 14 doubles in 294 AB, while his approach at the plate remains steady, 2006/2007/2008 BB%’s of 8%/9%/8% and Ct%’s

Unfavorable Matchups, American League Dioner Navarro Tampa (15 for 40 .385 CS%): 1 against Kansas City (Joey Gathright), 2 against NYY (Johnny Damon, Alex Rodriguez, Bobby Abreu, Melky Cabrera, Derek Jeter), 4 against Cleveland (Grady Sizemore, Jamey Carroll, Franklin Gutierrez)

Jon Rauch: With Chad Cordero officially out for the year, Rauch has better job security as the closer. Rauch has blown 5 saves in 21 tries, but has good skills; 8.3 K/9 and a 1.8 BB/9. Although he has cut

Craig Monroe: With a 70% Ct% it is not surprising to see Monroe hitting .214, although a .176 BHIP% is not helping. Monroe can still hit for power, 7 home runs and 7 doubles in 126 AB. However with a

R.A. Dickey: With Felix Hernandez missing at least one start and Miguel Batista not pitching well, Dickey has a shot to stick in the Mariners’ starting rotation. Prior to shutting out the Mets over 7 innings, the 33 year-old knuckleballer

Eric Byrnes: Byrnes is back and says he is healthy enough to steal bases again. Prior to his injury, Byrnes was not running at all, 4 for 7 in steals covering 46 games vs. 50 steals in 57 attempts in

Richie Sexson: There are rumors floating around that the Mariners are about to release Sexson. The 33 year-old Sexson is a player in decline, but he still has above average major league power, 9 home runs in 205 AB. The

Unfavorable Matchups, American League Kurt Suzuki Oakland (19 for 47, .404 CS%): 3 against Philadelphia (Shane Victorino, Jimmy Rollins, Jayson Werth, Chase Utley, Eric Bruntlett), 3 against San Francisco (Fred Lewis, Randy Winn, Ray Durham, Emmanuel Burriss) Ivan Rodriguez Detroit

Mike Gonzalez: Gonzalez could be activated from the DL as early as today and immediately enters into the mix for save opportunities. Although he has looked good in the minors, 8 K’s in 5 innings, it is hard to believe

Andy Sonnanstine: Sonnanstine has had some bad luck, 65% S% to go with his 4.89 ERA, but has also had good run support, 7-3 record. He possesses outstanding control, 1.5 BB/9, and it may only take a slight bump up

David Murphy: Considered the least of the three prospects acquired from the Red Sox for Eric Gagne, Murphy is putting together a breakout season, 10/46/.293 and 20 doubles in 263 AB. Since he has never shown this kind of power

Todd Wellemeyer: Wellemeyer, who missed a start with a sore elbow, should be fine to start this weekend. The dramatic improvement in his control, 2005/2006/2007/2008 BB/9’s of 6.1/5.7/4.5/2.8, while maintaining a good K/9, 8.9/6.2/6.8/7.0, is another example of the LaRussa/Duncan

Curtis Thigpen: With Rod Barajas day-to-day with lower back tightness, Thigpen could pick up a few starts. A look at his Triple-A numbers; 1/18/.228 with 6% BB% and a 79% Ct%, tells you all you need to know. He is

Stolen Base Report for the week of June 9th to June 15th Unfavorable Matchups, American League Kurt Suzuki Oakland (16 for 36, .444 CS%): 3 against NYY (Johnny Damon, Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter), 3 against San Francisco (Fred Lewis, Randy

Jason Schmidt: After getting hit in the leg with a line drive, Schmidt’s rehab assignment has been extended past the original June 10th date. Since he has not pitched that much since 2006 and is now 35 years of age,

Joakim Soria: Quietly Soria is developing into one of the top closers in the major leagues, a perfect 12 for 11 in saves with a stingy 0.84 ERA. His skill set; 10.6 K/9, 2.1 BB/9, and a 49% GB%, completely

Santiago Casilla: Casilla, who has been out with a strained elbow ligament, is on schedule for a return in the middle of June. If healthy, Casilla has shown the kind of skills; 10.2 K/9, 1.8 BB/9, and a 47% GB%,

Mark Reynolds: According to Manager Bob Melvin, Reynolds will remain the starting third baseman despite the return of Chad Tracy. Reynolds has legitimate major league power, 25 home runs and 26 doubles in 158 career games, and surprising speed, a

Brandon Wood: Brandon Wood was recalled from the minors. Considered a top prospect, Wood will not find consistent success until he improves his approach at the plate, 68% Ct% and a 4.8% BB% in Triple-A. Mark Ellis: Ellis, who has

Unfavorable Matchups, American League Ivan Rodriguez Detroit (11 for 27, .407 CS%): 3 against LAA (Chone Figgins, Macier Izturis), 3 against Seattle (Ichiro Suzuki, Willie Bloomquist) Kurt Suzuki Oakland (12 for 32, .375 CS%): 3 against Toronto (Alex Rios), 3

Jake Peavy: Peavy went on the DL with a strained muscle in his right elbow. Reports have him missing anywhere from two to six weeks. The Padres and fantasy owners are hoping for the former because his skills, 2006/2007/2008 K/9’s

Doug Mathis: Mathis will get a start on Tuesday in Minnesota. He was pitching decently in Triple-A; 3.55 ERA, 5.9 K/9, and a 2.0 BB/9. Without the high K’s, he will need to exhibit good control for success, but even

Big variances between a pitcher’s ERA and XERA can help identify buy low and sell high targets. A low XERA and a high ERA usually means good skills but some bad luck in the form of low strand rate and/or

Scott Olsen: Thanks to an 81% strand rate and a .171 BHIP%, it looks like Scott Olsen has turned a corner, 4-1 with a 2.63 ERA in 8 starts. However his underlying numbers tell the real story, 4.0 K/9, 3.5

Gavin Floyd: Despite flirting with two no-hitters this year, there is not much to get excited about when looking at Floyd’s skill set, 4.3 K/9 and a 4.1 BB/9. His high FB% of 53% is going to lead to big

Unfavorable Matchups, American League Joe Mauer Minnesota (6 for 15, .400 CS%): 4 against Texas (Ian Kinsler, David Murphy), 3 against Detroit (Carlos Guillen, Curtis Granderson) Kurt Suzuki Oakland (7 for 20, .350 CS%): 3 against Tampa (Carl Crawford, BJ

Doug Davis: Less than a month removed from surgery to remove a cancerous thyroid, Davis threw a simulated game on Monday and is expected to make the first of two rehab starts on Saturday. The two rehab starts will give

Joe Saunders: Fantasy owners of Saunders are enjoying some good numbers, 5-0 record and a 2.55 ERA. Just be aware, that his skills are just average; 4.6 K/9, 2.1 BB/9, and a 50% GB%, and he is enjoying some good

Macier Izturis: Izturis was placed on the DL with back spasms. Even if he didn’t go on the DL, with Howie Kendrick coming back very soon, he would have been heading for the bench. Izturis’ poor start, 0/10/.197, is due

Eddie Guardado: Guardado is expected to return from the DL on Friday. Elbow surgery knocked out most of last season, but it has been shoulder soreness that has kept him out this year. Before he went down with the elbow

AL Favorable Matchups: John Buck KC (.111 CS%, 1/9): 3 games against Texas (Ian Kinsler, David Murphy), 3 games against Cleveland (Grady Sizemore) AJ Pierzynski CHW (.222 CS%, 2/9): 1 game against Baltimore (Brian Roberts, Nick Markakis), 2 games against

Manny Parra: In 2007 Parra put up impressive numbers in Double-A, 9.0 K/9 and a 2.9 BB/9, and in Triple-A, 8.7 K/9 and a 2.4 BB/9, before coming up to the big leagues where he put up big K’s, 8.9

Sean Rodriguez: The Angels called up Sean Rodriguez to replace the injured Howie Kendrick on the roster. The 22 year-old Rodriguez showed some nice pop in Double-A last year, 17 home runs and 31 doubles in 508 AB. However, he

Julio Lugo: Lugo is off to a better start this year, .271 average in 59 AB, than the first half of last season, 4/34/.190. Unlike last year, he is not stealing bases, just 1 for 3. Unless his back is

Favorable matchups for the week of 4/21 to 4/27: John Buck KC (.143 CS%, 1/7): 3 games against Cleveland (Grady Sizemore), 3 games against Toronto (Alex Rios, Marco Scuturo) AJ Pierzynski CHW (.167 CS%, 1/6): 3 games against NYY (Johnny

Jeff Weaver: The Brewers signed Jeff Weaver to a contract. He will need some time in the minor leagues to get into shape. Depending on how some of the younger Brewer pitchers and Weaver perform will determine if he goes

According to research by Fantistics.com only 10% of batters have a favorable control of balls hit into play. Such a low number means that many of the leaders in BHIP% (and thus batting average) are there only due to good

Miguel Olivo: When Olivo was starting for the Marlins, his low batting average, .237 last year, was tolerable in NL-only leagues because he brought some power to the table, 16 home runs in 452 AB in 2007. Now that he

Week of 4/14 to 4/20 Favorable Matchups, teams facing: Josh Bard San Diego (7% Caught Stealing in 2006): 3 games against Colorado (Willy Taveras, Scott Podsednik, Jayson Nix), 3 games against Arizona (Chris Burke, Eric Byrnes, Chris Young) Greg Zaun

Mike Gonzalez: Gonzalez, who has been out since the middle of last season after undergoing elbow surgery, could be ready to rejoin the Braves’ pen by the first week of June. His K/9, 2005/2006 #’s of 10.4/10.7, is worthy of

John Danks: Danks allowed an ER in 6.2 innings in a no decision against Cleveland yesterday. On the negative side he had just 2 strike outs while also walking a pair. In his rookie season last year, Danks pitched better

John Danks: Danks allowed an ER in 6.2 innings in a no decision against Cleveland yesterday. On the negative side he had just 2 strike outs while also walking a pair. In his rookie season last year, Danks pitched better

Favorable matchups for the week of April 7th to April 13th: San Diego: Josh Bard and Michael Barrett were ranked 33rd and 29th in catching runners, so anyone playing San Diego should have a field day. This is great news

Joel Pineiro: Pineiro, who has been out of action with an inflamed left shoulder, could pitch in a minor league game by the end of this week. If that happens it would put him on schedule for a major league

Johan Santana: As if he already wasn’t the best pitcher in baseball, Santana’s move to the Mets gives him two big advantages. The first is that historically lefthanders moving from the American League to the National League tend to have

Oliver Perez: After struggling in his first two outings, Perez looked good against the Nationals on Monday, 5 innings with 1 ER while striking out 5 and walking none. Perez has loads of talents, as evidenced by his 2003/2004/2005/2006/2007 K/9’s

Matt Morris: Morris is assured of a spot in the Pirates rotation. Barring a complete disaster, it will be his big contract, not his skills that will keep him there. Morris’ K/9 has now declined in the last five seasons,

Brad Lidge: There is a chance that Lidge, who had surgery on his knee, could be ready by opening day. He certainly has the skill set to be a successful closer, 11.8 K/9, but there also some warning flags. He

Jeremy Bonderman: Fantasy owners of Bonderman in keeper leagues will have a whole winter to ponder whether his complete second-half collapse, 3-8 record with a 6.19 ERA was the product of a tender elbow or just bad skills. At the

Aaron Hill: It has been an excellent growth season for Hill's power, 17 home runs and 46 doubles vs. 6 home runs and 28 doubles in 2006, fully supported by a rising FB%, 39% vs. 35% in 2006. He has

Nyjer Morgan: Over the last 11 games, Morgan has shown nice speed, 7 steals in 9 attempts. He is already 27 years of age and with no power, 1 home run in 86 AB with the Pirates and 0 home

Justin Verlander: Verlander's second full-season, 17-6 with a 3.70 ERA in 30 starts, is almost a replica of last year, 17-9 with a 3.63 ERA in 30 starts. However, beneath the surface, Verlander has greatly improved his strike outs, 2006/2007

Ryan Spilborghs: After a hot stretch, 7 home runs in 108 AB, Spilborghs power has gone MIA, 1 home runs in his last 86 AB. Outside of the mid-season surge, Spilborghs had never shown that kind of power in his

Daric Barton: Since being called up, Barton is doing his best to show the A's that he deserves to start at first base in 2008, 9 for 26 with a home run and 3 doubles. He had a fine season

Jason Bartlett: Whether it is the strained hamstring that he suffered in late August or the sore knee that has been bothering him recently, something is keeping Bartlett from running, just 2 steals attempts since August 25th, in which both

Orlando Hernandez: Last night's debacle against the Braves, 8 ER in 3 innings, was long overdue for Hernandez. Coming into the game, a ridiculously low .144 BHIP% was depressing his 3.32 ERA, which shot up to 3.75. His 7.8 K/9

Grady Sizemore: In his third full major league season, Sizemore has taken a step back. His power is down; 28 home runs, 11 triples, and 53 doubles in 2006 vs. 23 home runs, 3 triples, and 29 doubles in 2007,

Jason Isringhausen: On paper it has been a fine season for Isringhausen, 1.77 ERA and 26 saves in 28 opportunities. However, there is some trouble lurking beneath the surface. A depressed .164 BHIP% and a ridiculously low HR/FB% of 3.6%

Alexi Casilla: Given his lack of power, 0 home runs in 148 AB, Casilla will need to make better contact, 86% Ct%, and draw more walks, 5.1 BB%, to be effective. It is surprising that he has swiped 9 bases

Jose Lopez: It is looking like another second-half collapse for Lopez, 1/8/.237 in 177 AB vs. 7/44/.280 in the first-half. The same thing happened last year, 9/58/.280 in the first-half vs. 1/21//285 in the second-half. Although he is still only

Brian Schneider: Schneider provides very little power, 6 home runs and 17 doubles in 352 AB, and no speed. However, he does have a good approach at the plate, 86% Ct% and a .94 BB/K, and with a few more

Zack Greinke: The Royals are moving Greinke back into the starting rotation. His numbers as a reliever; 9.3 K/9, 2.5 BB/9, and a 3.54 ERA, have been much better than when he was a starter earlier this year; 5.2 K/9,

Seth McClung: The Brewers called up the recently acquired Seth McClung from Triple-A to work in middle relief. His high minor league K/9's, 10.5 in Triple-A this year, makes him intriguing, but he should be nowhere near a fantasy roster

Cameron Maybin: In his second major league game, the 20-year-old Maybin connected for his first major league home run off of Roger Clemens yesterday. Maybin has outstanding potential as a five-tool player, but prior to being called up, he had

Clay Buchholz: Buchholz is scheduled to be called up today to start game 1 of today's doubleheader and then go back to the minors. Regardless of what happens, he seems to be next-in-line for a spot in the rotation if

Greg Maddux: At 41 years of age, Maddux is no longer among the elite starting pitchers in baseball, but he is still serviceable, 8-9 record with a 4.00 ERA. He is using pinpoint control, 1.3 BB/9, and a ground ball

Hanley Ramirez: Despite an average Ct% of 84% and a BB% of 7.3%, Ramirez is batting a sizzling .341. A slightly inflated .297 BHIP% is helping, but the real reason behind the high average is the awesome power/speed package that

Franklin Gutierrez: After a hot start, 7 home runs and 4 doubles in his first 103 AB, Gutierrez has gone into a power slump, 1 extra-base hit in his last 34 AB. He is still showing a nice power/speed package,

Mike Fontenot: After a hot start, 3 home runs and a .400 batting average in his first 80 AB, Fontenot has come back to earth, .213 batting average and zero home runs in his last 84 AB. A comparison of

Robinson Cano: Now in his third season, it is looking like Cano can thrive as a bad ball hitter, 2005/2006/2007 batting average's of .297/.342/.311 and BB%'s of 3%/4%/5%. He used good contact skills, Ct%'s of 87%/89%/86%, and power, 11 home

C.J. Wilson: Since the trade of Eric Gagne, Wilson has picked up two saves, although neither was a typical save situation for a closer. For the first one he pitched 1.2 innings and for the other he came into to

Octavio Dotel: There is a chance that the newly acquired Dotel could take over the closing duties from Bob Wickman. A look at Dotel's skill set, 11.4 K/9, 4.3 BB/9, and a 45% FB% against Wickman's skill set, 7.2 K/9,

Luis Castillo: Castillo's constantly sore legs prevent him from being a force on the basepaths, 9 steals in 13 attempts. Without the steals and with a .299 BHIP%, there is plenty of downside with his powerless .306 batting average. Josh

Jarrod Saltalamacchia: In his first 137 career AB, Saltalamacchia is off to a nice start, 4/12/.285. At just 22 years of age, there are a few warning signs that suggest some rough spots in the near future. An inflated .290%

Jhonny Peralta: After an off-year, it may appear that Peralta's power is back to 2005 levels, 2005/2006/2006 home run totals of 24/13/14 and doubles of 35/28/17, but Peralta will have trouble maintaining this pace with his GB% trending in the

Jermaine Dye: With 5 home runs in his last 33 AB, Dye is showing signs of breaking out his season-long slumber. He battled a quad strain in the first-half and could finally be healthy. The lingering quad problem could have

Russell Martin: While the 11 home runs and 21 doubles is impressive, it is hard to believe that Martin can keep up that kind of power with a 49% GB rate. Add in the rigors of catching as the season

Reed Johnson: Johnson returned to the active roster after a two-month stint on the DL with a back problem. His 2006 career year, 12/49/.319, was more the product of good fortune, .298 BHIP%, than an improvement his average skill set,

Billy Butler: With Mike Sweeney out for at least six weeks, Butler will get a chance to show that he is ready to hit in the major leagues. In his first go around with the Royals earlier this season, he

Chad Gaudin: Gaudin turned in another good performance last night, 2 ER in 7.2 innings, to improve his record to 8-3 with a stingy 2.88 ERA. His high GB% of 53% compensates for an average 5.6 K/9. At some point

Alex Gonzalez: Gonzalez is putting on a nice power display for the Reds this year, 13 home runs and 18 doubles in 288 AB. He is just 30 years old and has showed power before, 18 home runs in 2003

Jason Bartlett: Bartlett has quietly gone a perfect 15 for 15 in the steals department this year. He is not hitting for power, but is making good contact, 87% Ct%, and exercising plate patience, .79 BB/K, to get him on

Chuck James: There could be some trouble looming for James. In two seasons, he has been at the league average with his HR/FB%, 10.3% last year and 10.6% this year. His fly ball pitching ways, 49% in 2007, means that

Fernando Rodney: Despite Todd Jones' problems, 5.46 ERA, the Tigers are more likely to stick with him as the closer or look outside the organization rather than turning to Rodney. Rodney has struggled also, 5.40 ERA, but has also been

Julio Lugo: The Red Sox have dropped the struggling Lugo, .201 batting average in 264 AB, to the bottom of the order. There doesn't seem to be much wrong with Lugo's skill set, 86% Ct% and .67 BB/K. A low

So Taguchi: Taguchi should be the regular center fielder while Jim Edmonds is out. He has been on fire, going 18 for his last 40, raising his average to .310. The soon to be 38 year old is making the

Nick Markakis: After a strong second-half to finish off his rookie campaign, it has been a mixed bag for Markakis in his sophomore season, 9/39/.267. There has been some nice growth in his power, 28 extra base hits in 257

Christian Guzman: After missing all of all of 2006 with an injury and being slowed by a hamstring injury early this year, Guzman has been red-hot, 1/8/.336 in 134 AB.. Although he is not stealing bases, just 2 in 2

Frank Catalanotto: Catalanotto, who has missed some time with a shoulder injury, is having a tough time at the plate, 4/14/.181 in 94 AB. Over the last four seasons, he has been a consistent high batting average contributor, 2003/2004/2005/2006 averages

Kevin Millwood: What has happened to Millwood? This is not the same pitcher that had a stingy 2.86 ERA with Cleveland and who won 16 games last year while pitching his home games in a hitter-friendly home park. He was

Kevin Gregg: If Manager Fredi Gonzalez is going strictly from skill sets, Gregg, 9.4 K/9, 3.6 BB/9, and a 40% GB%, is a much better choice than the recently acquired Armando Benitez, 8.4 K/9, 4.6 BB/9, and a 38% GB%,

David DeJesus: Besides runs, DeJesus is not contributing much in any fantasy category, 4/12/.258, with no steals. For a player with his speed, 3 triples this year, it is surprising that he has attempted only one steal. His career success

Yorvit Torrealba: Last night, Torrealba picked a good time to hit a grand slam, as he had sat the previous two games in favor of equally unproductive Chris Iannetta. It is not hard to see why the Rockies at some

Richie Sexson: Sexson's .172 batting average is being held down by a .102 BHIP%. He is still showing a good walk rate, 12%, and his usual contact rate, 78%. What is more worrisome is that the 46% GB% could keep

Willie Harris: If you picked up Harris, be grateful that you enjoyed some nice stats, 0/5/.362 with 4 stolen bases in 58 AB and then cut bait. He is benefiting from a .390 BHIP% and a 38% LD%, neither of

Jeremy Sowers: Sowers was hit hard again last night, 7 ER in 6 innings and for the year his record is now 0-4 with a 7.13 ERA. Sowers had success last year, 7-4 with a 3.57 ERA, despite having a

Scott Elarton: Elarton picked up a win yesterday against Oakland in an unspectacular fashion, allowing 4 ER in 5.1 innings, while striking out just 1 batter. Elarton's 2006 numbers; 4-9, 5.34, 3.6 K/9, 4.1 BB/9, and a 52% FB%, hardly

Fred Lewis: In his first 19 AB, Lewis has 9 hits, 3 for extra-bases, and 7 RBI. Lewis went 4/15/.263 with 7 SB in 114 AB for Fresno in Triple-A. He has the potential to steal bases and hit for

Corey Patterson: When Patterson swiped 45 bases in 2006, he ran roughly half the time that he was on first base. In 33 games this year, he has only attempted 8 steals. Fantasy owners of Patterson cannot be happy with

Andy LaRoche: Nice debut for the 23-year old rookie, 3 for 8 with 2 RBI and a stolen base after his first 3 games. The problem is that Laroche was not exactly tearing it up in Triple-A, .245 average, 3

Kei Igawa: Igawa has been awful this year, 7.63 ERA in 30.2 innings. He was an effective pitcher in Japan, but one thing he did struggle with was the longball. Unfortunately that has carried over across the Pacific Ocean, as

Al Reyes: Reyes notched his 10th save in 10 opportunities last night against the Twins. He has shown nice skills in the past, but he has never put up these numbers, 11.6 K/9 and a 1.29 ERA. While he has

Tom Gordon: All the calls for Brett Myers to take over the Phillies' closer job seem premature, as Gordon converted a save last night against the Braves by pitching a perfect ninth inning, impressively fanning 2 batters. Gordon's K/9 of

Gerald Laird: Prior to his last two games in which he has gone 3 for 6 with 2 walks, Laird had been mired in a 1 for 34 slump. Laird's breakout 2006 season of 7/22/.296 was partially luck driven, .269

Anthony Reyes: Reyes continues to struggle, after 3 starts, his record stands at 0-3, with a 5.63 ERA. A 57% strand rate is not helping, but his K/9 of 5.6 is below the levels that he has put up in

Michael Young: There is no reason to panic about Young's .171 batting average after his first 70 AB. Players with a 3-year BHIP% of .291, who currently have a BHIP% are .143, will normally bounce back. Ignore the .15 batting

Howie Kendrick: The injury-depleted Angels suffered another blow when it was learned that Kendrick suffered a broken bone in his finger. He is expected to miss anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. Kendrick was off to a good start, going

Juan Encarnacion: Encarnacion is scheduled to play in a few extended spring training games this week and if pain free, he should begin a minor league rehab assignment next week. At 31 years of age, Encarnacion has average power for

Joakim Soria: It didn't take Buddy Bell long to figure out that David Riske is not a closer. It looks like he is leaning towards using Soria, the rookie, Rule 5 pick, as the closer. It doesn't make much sense

Andre Ethier: Manager Grady Little said that Ethier and Matt Kemp are in competition for the starting right field position. That comment is surprising because so far he has played them in a strict platoon. With Kemp going on the

Sammy Sosa: Sosa hit his first homer of the year yesterday and has started in all five of the Rangers' games this year. Before he took a year sabbatical from baseball, Sosa's power was in a steep decline, 2002/2003/2004/2005 home

Elijah Dukes: Rocco Baldelli sat last night with the cold weather in New York. It looks like if the weather is cold or if the field is wet, the Rays will not let Baldelli play the field. That will help

Matt Kemp/Andre Ethier/Luis Gonzalez: Kemp started on Tuesday facing left-hander Chris Capuano and should play in the bad half of a platoon going forward. Andre Ethier was the one who sat, but that doesn't make much sense. Although the sample

Tom Gordon: All that talk about Brett Myers becoming the closer was all just smoke. Despite being 39 years old, Gordon's 2006 numbers of a 10.4 K/9 and a 3.4 BB/9 are still in the upper tier of closers. His

Reds Bullpen: There have been some rumblings that Dustin Hermanson could take over the closer role from David Weathers. Back problems caused him to miss virtually the entire 2006 season, but in 2005 he saved 34 games in 39 tries,

Devil Rays Closer: It is no shock that alleged closer Seth McClung has struggled this spring with 7 ER in 4 innings. With a 2006 BB/9 of 5.9, his skills are not even major-league worthy. If the Rays break

Marlins Closer: The Fish still have not named a closer. There are some rumblings about importing Jorge Julio from Arizona, but as of now, it is a battle between four in-house candidates, Kevin Gregg, Taylor Tankersley, Matt Lindstrom, and Henry

Travis Hafner: Took the step up from a fantasy superstar (FPI: .82) to the elite (FPI: .91). The move up in class was fully supported by the growth in his underlying stats. His batting eye rose to .90 in 2006