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 times he was caught. Since he doesn't possess much power, 5 home runs in 462 AB, and the rest of his skill set is just average, 85% Ct% and an 8.5% BB%, if he is not running, then he doesn't have much fantasy value.
Joaquin Benoit: Benoit has converted the last two save opportunities for Rangers and could be the favorite as the closer the rest of the way. He certainly has the skills to get the job done, 9.7 K/9 and 2.6 BB/9, plus a three-year downtrend in his FB%, 48%/44%/40%, has helped minimize the damage that can be done in homer-happy Ameriquest Field. If he is somehow still available in mixed leagues and you need saves, do not hesitate to pick him up.
Bobby Jenks: Although his strike outs are declining, 2005/2006/2007 K/9's of 11.4/10/3/8.1, Jenks has turned his biggest weakness, 2005/2006 BB/9's of 3.4/4.0, into a strength, 1.9 BB/9. The newly found control, combined with a high GB% of 51% has allowed Jenks to convert 37 of 43 save chances with a respectable 2.95 ERA. Jenks can succeed as a closer with this skill set, especially when pitching at home in homer-happy Cellular Field, but anymore erosion from his K/9 could spell trouble.
Joey Gathright: Just when it seems like Gathright has all the skills necessary to take advantage of his speed; 67% GB%, 85% Ct%, and a .59 BB/K, the ability to steal bases eludes him, 7 caught steals in 16 tries. What makes it even more puzzling is that he has proven that he can steal bases at the major-league level, 20 for 25 in 2005 and 22 for 31 in 2006. Completely devoid of power, 1 career home run in 826 AB, Gathright is worthless in fantasy leagues if he is not stealing bases.
Alex Gordon: After a slow start, 6/22/.237 with 14 doubles in the first-half, Gordon has picked it up in the second-half, 8/35/.283 with 20 doubles. He still needs to work on making better contact, 75% Ct%, and exercising better plate patience, 6.9% BB%. The plate patience should come, 12.9% BB% in Double-A last year, and the contact rate may not be as important if his power continues to develop. With a 43% FB%, some of the 34 doubles that Gordon has this year should turn into home runs as his 23-year old body matures. He should be a top power/speed, 14 steals in 18 tries, fantasy stud for years to come.
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