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 not played since May 11th because of a strained hamstring, is expected back in the lineup today. Ellis has not quite picked up on the power that he displayed last year, 19 home runs and 33 doubles in 533 AB in 2007 vs. 3 home runs and 8 doubles in 153 AB, but if healthy, it worth speculating that he can pick up the pace with his power.
Kevin Millwood: Millwood, who has been out with a groin problem, is expected back on May 30th. Starting pitchers in tiny Ameriquest Field are always risky propositions, ones with his current profile; 5.4 K/9, 3.6 BB/9, and a 39% GB%, are not worth using at all.
Ben Francisco: Franscisco’s hot hitting, 1/6/.340 in 50 AB, has translated into a starting role in right field. It is hard to believe that someone who was hitting for a low average in Triple-A this year, .228 in 92 AB, with very little power, 1 home and 3 doubles, will be able to maintain a pace of someone deserving full-time play.
Franklin Gutierrez: Ben Francisco’s hot bat has pushed Gutierrez into the bad half of a platoon role with David Dellucci. Gutierrez is struggling across the board; .230 batting average, 4.5% BB%, 77% Ct%, and just 2 home runs in .182 AB. Limiting his AB, will certainly not help him break out of this slow start.
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