We've already discussed the implications of the C.C. Sabathia and Rich Harden trades here on Fantasy FanHouse, but what about the other names that recently found new homes? Joe Blanton
Much like Harden, Blanton's going to go through a whole new experience when he pitches in front of a boisterous packed house tonight. He's going to get a nice trial by fire as the Phillies face the Mets and Braves this week -- Blanton's a two-start pitcher. Look for the change of league to ignite Blanton. He was too good a pitcher to keep scuffling along with such a poor record (5-12) and ERA (4.96) anyway. Now is the time to trade for him, because his stock will never be lower. The ERA was a full run lower last season, and he had a nice 140/40 K/BB. This season he's partially having issues because of his control. He's only sporting a 62/35 K/BB in a little more than half the innings as last year. As I said, the change of league will help ... facing a whole batch of new hitters is always advantageous to the pitcher. His turn-around starts tonight.
Richie Sexson
Going to the Yankees never hurts a guy's value. Sure, Sexson won't be playing even close to everyday ... but if you play in a really deep AL-Only league and you are just looking for power numbers, he'll help. He's going to get at-bats as a DH and 1B against lefties. Don't expect him to infringe upon Jason Giambi's value.
Ray Durham
Believe it or not, going from a bad team to a very good one actually hurts the value of Durham ... and the value of Rickie Weeks as well. Weeks should keep the starting role for the time being, but Durham will surely cut into that playing time sooner rather than later. You can't consider either guy a fantasy starter in any league at this point unless it's a really deep NL-Only. If you have either -- and think you can dupe someone in your league -- now is the time to trade them. Otherwise you'll be cutting dead weight quite soon.
