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 suited for his speed, but he really needs to exercise better plate patience, 5% BB%. He is still just 26 years of age, so the plate patience could still come. If it develops, he could be a leadoff/speed type regular.
Gabe Kapler: Despite having limited playing time, Kapler is showing some nice pop, 4 home runs and 14 doubles in 130 AB, with good skills at the plate, 12% BB%, and an 85% Ct%. His .246 batting average is being held down by a very unlucky .141 BHIP%. The lack of playing time limits his value to AL-only leagues, but there is some nice batting average upside to go with the power.
Jim Johnson: With George Sherrill’s trade to the Dodgers, Johnson figures to become the new Orioles closer. Johnson’s strike out/ground ball package, 6.5 K/9 and a 53% GB%, gives him the skills to get the job done. However he will need to prove that he can handle the pressure of closing games, 3 blown saves in 5 attempts this season.
Randy Choate: Since he has not picked up a save since June 29th, it looks like Choate’s days of closing games for the Rays is over which limits his value to AL-only leagues. His strike out/ground ball package, 7.9 K/9 and a 63% GB%, mitigates the damage from his borderline control, 3.2 BB/9. He should still help AL-only league players with K’s, ERA, and holds.
Alexi Casilla: Despite his poor numbers, 0/8/.171 in 152 AB, the Twins continue to give Casilla playing time. He has good speed, a perfect 7 for 7 in steals, and plate patience, 10% BB%, but will need to make better contact, 82% Ct%, considering his complete lack of power, 0 home runs and 4 doubles. With better contact skills, which he has shown before, 88% Ct% in 2008, and better luck, .175 BHIP%, the 25 year-old could become a productive regular.
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