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 magic. Of course, the improvement has only been over 13 starts, so it will more believable if he can hold onto the gains as we move deeper into the season.
Michael Bourn: Bourn will no longer hit at the top of the order for the Astros. With a low 7% BB% and a poor 77% Ct%, he is just not getting on base enough to justify being in the leadoff spot. Hitting near the bottom of the order should cut down on his steal attempts.
Russell Martin: Martin is displaying an excellent approach at the plate, 16% BB% and an 85% Ct%, but without much power, 5 home runs in 210 AB, or speed, 4 caught steals in 9 attempts, and with an inflated .317 BHIP%, his current .314 batting average is vulnerable to some downside risk.
Kaz Matsui: Matsui is running well, 13 steals in 16 attempts, working counts, 10.3% BB%, and putting the ball in play, 86% Ct%. He won’t provide any power, 1 home run in 182 AB, but should remain a good source for speed, who also will most likely not do any damage to your team batting average.
Blake Dewitt: In his rookie season, Dewitt is showing good plate patience, 10% BB% and a decent 83% Ct%. However his power has been below league average, 5 home runs and 7 doubles in 181 AB. With Andy LaRoche being called up, Dewitt at best will find himself in a platoon, but if LaRoche gets hot and hits for some power, Dewitt will lose more playing time.
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