David Murphy -- With Elvis Andrus being moved down to the eighth spot in Texas' order, the primary beneficiary appears to be Murphy, who will replace him in the second spot. I've always loved Murphy as an undervalued fantasy asset, and this move only cements that. Murphy is batting a mere .224 this year, but he has been better of late and will only get better. He has solid power and a little speed, and with the new spot in the order, I'm comfortable recommending him in non-shallow mixed leagues.
Kyle Gibson -- Gibson was roughed up in his second MLB start last night, allowing 8 runs in 5.1 innings on 2 K and 1 BB. Growing pains are normal for young players, and I expect Gibson to be better than this. The Twins' top pitching prospect is relatively low-risk--if there is such a thing--given his plus command, good pitchability, and groundball tendencies. He also has three pitches that border on plus, so there's really very little to dislike here. He doesn't have superstar upside, but he can be good MLB pitcher right away.
Austin Jackson -- A-Jax had a huge game yesterday, going for 4-for-5 with a home run, walk, 3 RBI, and 4 runs scored. After batting .249 in 2011, Jackson altered his hitting mechanics last season and batted .300. If it wasn't already, it's become clear that these changes are responsible for the new Jackson that is a legitimate batting average threat. His strikeout has fallen from 27% in 2011 to 22% in 2012 to 18% this year; 20% seems to be where his true talent lies. Throw in solid power, good speed, and a spot batting leadoff, and Jackson is one of the more valuable outfielders in fantasy.
Jose Veras -- Veras was hit on the pinkie of his pitching hand by a James Loney line drive in last night's game, leading to his exit, but he seems to have avoided major injury. X-rays came back negative and the team is calling the pinkie "bruised." Even healthy, Veras' time as a closer could be coming to an end if Houston trades him this month. If he is traded, Jose Cisnero seems to be the favorite to take the reins with Hector Ambriz the other option. Cisnero might be worth stashing in deep leagues just in case.
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