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 rate of 49%, tells the story, that despite his speed, his technique will prevent him from being a contributor in that category. The only above average skill he has is a good batting eye, .68, but combined with an average 85% Ct% and little power, it doesn't add up to much.
Craig Monroe: Monroe continues to be a power asset, 8 home runs and 13 doubles, but an average liability, .239 in 176 AB. In 2006, Monroe began to open up his swing, taking less walks and striking out more. The results were good for his power, a career-high 28 home runs, but not good for his average, .255 last year down from .277 in 2005. So far this year, he is making even less contact, 72% vs. 77% in 2006. If you own Monroe, enjoy the power, but know that it will come with batting average downside.
Shawn Riggans: Riggans could be a threat to the unproductive Dioner Navarro's playing time behind the plate. Riggans was hitting well in Triple-A, .295 average in 105 AB, and showed some power, 4 home runs and 9 doubles. On the negative side, his contact skills , 74% Ct%, and plate patience, .15 batting eye, were poor. Expect some struggles against tougher major league pitching.
Dustin Pedroia: Pedroia is getting more playing time over the cooling off and not very productive Alex Cora. There are not many players in the league who sport a better combination of contact skills, 93% Ct%, and plate patience, 2.00 batting eye, than Pedroia. After a slow start, his numbers are beginning to reflect his skills, 2/11/.308. He will not offer speed or power, but will help in batting average and should score plenty of runs playing in the powerful Red Sox lineup. It shouldn't be long before Cora is relegated to an occasional start and Pedroia is the undisputed regular second basemen.
Jose Vidro: Vidro is hitting an empty .298, with just 3 home runs and 18 RBI in 208 AB. His strong contact skills, 92% Ct% and excellent plate patience, 1.13, show that he is a legitimate .300 hitter. Don't expect any sort of a power surge. His power has been declining for several years and he hits too many ground balls, 53% GB%.
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