Andrew Miller (RP-CLE): The Yankees traded uber-reliever Andrew Miller to the Indians for a prospect haul that included Clint Frazier. Miller has allowed seven earned runs in 45 innings with a 77:7 K:BB ratio. He has allowed a miniscule 22 percent hard contact rate while generating swinging strikes 16 percent of the time. Indians manager Terry Francona was rather cryptic when discussing how he would deploy Miller and current closer Cody Allen. As things stand with Cleveland's dearth of quality left-handed relievers, Allen should earn the majority of the save opportunities; however, if the team brings in another lefty reliever today before the deadline, that could change. Hold both relievers and monitor closely.
Aaron Sanchez (SP-TOR): Aaron Sanchez earned a no-decision after allowing two earned runs on four hits and two walks with three strikeouts in seven innings. Sanchez has enjoyed a breakout season moving from the pen to the rotation, but be careful about overvaluing him for the remainder of 2016, especially in ROTO formats. His 57 percent ground ball rate and 27 percent hard hit rate have kept him blowup proof, but his eight percent swinging strike rate and 25 percent chase rate continue to limit his strikeout potential. He still relies heavily on his fastball, but the secondary offerings are there, so he could move to a #2 SP in 2017. But he isn't there just yet.
Melvin Upton (OF-TOR): Melvin Upton gave way to Kevin Pillar and went hitless as a pinch hitter. Upton has been a ROTO league revelation in 2016, hitting 16 homers with 20 steals in 96 games. His 413 feet average distance on homers mark is among the league leaders and supports his 18 percent HR/FB rate. However, the Jays OF is crowded, and Upton looks to be starting four to five games per week. While his ROTO value takes a minor hit, his value in points leagues and other H2H variations, already questionable, falls off considerably.
Kennys Vargas (DH-MIN): Kennys Vargas went 2-for-2 with a homer, two walks, two runs, and two RBIs against the White Sox. The big man has been on an absolute tear since his recall, boosting his season line to .333/.446/.683 with a 13:18 BB:K ratio and a 41 percent hard hit rate through 18 games. Vargas rediscovered his patient approach at the plate in AAA, where he walked 53 times in 81 games, and looks to be maintaining it during his latest stint in the Bigs. With the Twins experimenting for next season, look for Vargas to continue to earn playing time. He could play difference-maker in a lot of leagues.
James Paxton (P-SEA): DFS tournament players looking for value today can turn to James Paxton, who is priced at $6900 on FanDuel for his matchup with the Red Sox. The play will likely be contrarian, as Boston is second in overall offense against lefties and third on the road. Paxton has been unlucky at home, posting a 3.54 xFIP there while maintain a 21 percent strikeout rate. He has been excellent his past two outings, and with Eduardo Rodriguez toeing the rubber opposite Paxton, the ingredients are here for a big ROI.
