Fantasy FanHouse

The Braves Are Debating Sending Frenchy to the Minors

Will Brinson — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, MLB Fans, MLB Rumors, MLB Transactions, Fantasy MLB

It seems like Jeff Francoeur has been in the majors longer than three years. And it also seems like he was supposed to find his swing and really break out this year. While the first one is still technically true, there's no guarantee for how long, as apparently the Braves confirmed Wednesday that they have debated sending Frenchy to the minors to work on his swing.

One primary reason that the Braves haven't shipped Francoeur back to the Minors is the potential backlash they might receive from their fans, who have remained faithful to No. 7, despite the fact that he entered Wednesday night's game against the Phillies hitting just .239 with a .294 on-base percentage and .383 slugging percentage.

[...]Even before he homered in his Major League debut on July 7, 2005, Francoeur was a favorite among Braves fans. Growing up in suburban Atlanta, he was named the high school Player of the Year for Georgia in both football and baseball.

"This is really the first time he's ever struggled," said Braves All-Star catcher Brian McCann, who has been Francouer's best friend since they were 12 years old.

Francoeur has struggled mightily this season, hitting .234/.291/.379 with only eight homers and 20 walks. But, as Philly proved by sending Brett Myers down to AAA, sometimes the most awkward move is the one necessary to jumpstart a player.

But do I actually think they'll send Frenchy down there? No way. Popularity aside, the guy's confidence won't be helped by a demotion, and the Braves need his gascan arm sitting out in right field. Of course, I might be delusional, since I think the freeswinger will turn it around and have a monster second half too.

The Braves Are Debating Sending Frenchy to the Minors originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cox Calls Jurrjens' Win One of the Best Pitching Performances 'Ever'

Will Brinson — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:15:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Kids Are Alright, Fantasy MLB

Bobby Cox has seen the entire career of John Smoltz up close and personal, and he has seen very many great outings by Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux. Let's not discount some of the starts that Steve Avery had back in the day either, when we compute just how many amazing pitching performances he has seen over the years.

So when he throws a compliment to a young pitcher -- or any pitcher for that matter - then you would think that compliment has a lot of merit to it. If that's the case, Jair Jurrjens should be beeming after his eight inning win tonight, because Cox dropped all kinds of hyperbole on him.

"I don't think you can pitch better than that," Cox said. "That was one of the best games I've seen pitched, ever."

This success didn't exactly come as a total surprise. Since turning his ankle while leaving Wrigley Field on June 10 and missing his start the next night, Jurrjens has made three starts and worked 21 1/3 innings without allowing an earned run.

I mean, dang. Ever? That is a stout compliment to the youngster. Of course, he's in the zone right now, as evidenced by above, and he certainly has the pedigree to be a great pitcher.

Fantasy Spin: It's tough to make Jurrjens any sort of sell high/buy low right now, because he's a legit talent. Still, it's hard to see him keeping this up for the rest of the season; if I was in a single season league, I would be looking to move him assuming I got good value back. Keeper league? Hold, please.

Cox Calls Jurrjens' Win One of the Best Pitching Performances 'Ever' originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Never Too Early: Atlanta Falcons Fantasy Football Preview

Will Brinson — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:45:00 EST

Filed under: Falcons, NFC South, Atlanta, Fantasy Football

Yeah. You totally want this guy on your fantasy football team. Ice-man.

Hear that? It's the pitter-patter of fantasy football season approaching. Fantasy FanHouse is here to get you ready by previewing every team from a fantasy perspective.

Meet the ...
Wal-Mart shoppers. And I don't mean that like the Falcons are cheap or reside in the upper echelon of America. I just mean to point out that they're horrible consumers. Both the contracts to Michael Turner and Matt Ryan were a touch absurd, but at least as a result they'll be more entertaining to watch this year. And maybe help your fantasy team. Maybe.

The Breakout
There's really no other option -- it's Turner. Now, the true sleeper (look how I highlight key phrases!) would be Jerious Norwood, because people are casting him aside, talent be damned. But Turner is getting relatively little love for the quality of work he's shown while backing up LaDanian Tomlinson. He's probably going to go third round or later, which is reasonable considering the Falcons stink and he's untested as a starter. But I would probably reach up to the middle/late second round to grab him; I've done the same thing with other untested guys on crummy teams (LaMont Jordan, Chester Taylor) over the years, and it's worked out well.

The Bust
Ryan is worth a QB2 spot in deeper leagues, and keepers obviously want to target him, but I'm not convinced he's going to be anywhere near worth what the Falcons paid. Corallary bust: Roddy White played well last year and it stands that he would improve again, no? Well, not exactly. Look who will be throwing the rock his way.

The Depth Chart
QB -- Chris Redman/Matt Ryan
RB1 -- Michael Turner
RB2 -- Jerious Norwood
WR1 -- Roddy White
WR2 -- Michael Jenkins
WR3 -- Joe Horn
TE -- Ben Hartsock
K --Jason Elam

The Team D/ST
No, no, no, no, no no nooooooooooooooooo. Moving on.

The Skinny
There's just not a lot to love about the Atlanta Falcons from a fantasy perspective. Norwood is a nice handcuff/sleeper type and Turner is a upside filled RB2 if you can get him late enough, but expecting the Falcons to dominate and/or be good offensively is probably a bit of a stretch. I wouldn't get near the passing game unless White fell to me in the early teens and for the moment, would probably steer clear of everyone else.

Never Too Early: Atlanta Falcons Fantasy Football Preview originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mark Teixeira Apparently Checked His Calendar This Morning

Will Brinson — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 01:15:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, Fantasy MLB

Heading into Sunday's game against the Mariners, Mark Teixeira was on pace for a not-so-blistering 21 home runs this year. It was especially auspicious considering the Braves poor start to the season and all their injuries. Oh, and the fact that he'll be a free agent after this year.

But, as we all know, Big Tex likes to turn it on when the weather gets warm, and he did just that Sunday, helping the Braves finish off Seattle.

Note, to your right, that he went three for four against the M's, with all three of those hits being taterjacks. (The ouch thing is just making fun of the respective in game ERAs of Mike Gonzalez and Will Ohman.) In doing so, Tex became the first Brave to hit three bombs in one game at Turner Field.

And it's not shocking that it happened the day after the solstice, when Teix usually begins to heat up.

Now, one would have to imagine that this morning, either Tex saw figured out "Holy Crap! It's Summer!" or Scott Boras called him up and mentioned how many millions he was going to lose for each homer under 40 he hit this year.

Fantasy Spin: Your buy low chance on Teix? Adios, amigo. He should, now that the heat of summer is upon us and the Braves have nearly been eliminated solely through injuries, have a huge rest of the year. But three home run games get you noticed and you can bet his owner is holding tight. Just thought I'd let you know.

Mark Teixeira Apparently Checked His Calendar This Morning originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 01:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mike Gonzalez Will Return Tonight, if He Dares

Will Brinson — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:15:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, MLB Injuries, Fantasy MLB, MLB Always Be Closing

I won't go over the dead horse that is the injury-riddled Atlanta Braves bullpen. I will, however, point out that Mike Gonzalez is returning tonight for the first time in over a full calendar year, after a lengthy bbq eating stint, to pitch for the Braves.

It seems pretty, pretty likely, given that John Smoltz and Rafael Soriano are both currently disabled, that Gonzo could be the closer ~~until he gets hurt too~~ for the remainder of the season.

'He's throwing good, they say,' said Cox, who envisions using him in key situations late in games from the get-go. 'Hopefully we can count on him for the very end - eighth and ninth. If he's back to his old form, it's a huge plus.'

The news is finally positive for a Braves team that has endured watching Rafael Soriano return to the disabled list this week with the same elbow problems that kept him out for the first two months and John Smoltz's attempt to return as closer end in season-ending shoulder surgery.

See? Gonzo could close out of the gate. Or simply tear his rotator cuff on the first pitch. The latter is the most likely scenario if you have followed the Braves at all this year.

Fantasy Spin: Grab Gonzalez now -- the Braves are somehow still potent despite dealing with tons of injuries, and he could provide nice saves totals, if he can stay healthy. Soriano might still nab the gig when he comes back, but if Gonzo deals immediately, there's no guarantee.

Mike Gonzalez Will Return Tonight, if He Dares originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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State of the Braves Staff: Jorge Julio Arrives

Will Brinson — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Injuries, Fantasy MLB, MLB Always Be Closing

When you are adding Jorge "Gasoline Soaked Matchbook" Julio to your bullpen, then things have not gone "well" for your team over the course of whatever season it is. At least with regard to the bullpen. And the Braves find themselves in the unenviable spot of having Julio on the roster.

This stems primarily from Rafael Soriano's return to the disabled list and the news that Tom Glavine will be out until at least after the All Star Break.

Julio, 29, had a 5.60 ERA in 15 appearances for Cleveland before he was released at the end of May. He has a 13-33 career record and a 4.40 ERA with 99 saves in 131 opportunities, including 83 saves in a three-season span with Baltimore in 2002-04.

'He's got great stuff,' Braves general manager Frank Wren said. 'If a guy like that's a free agent, just makes sense for us to give him a chance. We signed him to give us some additional depth.'

Say what you want about Wren's inability to grasp that the Braves desperately need to trade for another starter, but the guy can flat out spin a boring, lifeless free agent addition/trade to make it sound good.

See, I would say ... well, actually what I would say probably isn't appropriate, so let's just stink with what Wren said.

Fantasy Spin: Yes, there is one. If you're in a deeper league and have a bench spot, taking a flier on Julio isn't that absurd; he could conceivably get save opps for the Braves and that would make him a nice add. High risk, etc.

State of the Braves Staff: Jorge Julio Arrives originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 15 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Now We Know Why Everyone on the Braves and Indians Are Hurt

Matt Snyder — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:45:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Cleveland, Indians, Braves, MLB Injuries, Injury Report, Fantasy MLB

Apparently the ghosts of deceased Native Americans finally decided to take matters into their own hands in regards to team names like "Braves" and "Indians" this baseball season. I'm not going to get into the whole discussion on the insensitivity of these names because that's neither my inclination nor my job.

Still, it's quite eerie they way these two franchises in particular have been plagued this year.

Both were expected to be contenders for the World Series, chock full of fantasy gems. Instead the disappointments and injuries are plentiful, and sometimes hand-in-hand.

The most recent casualty is Victor Martinez, and he already fit the bill as a bust. He's normally picked in the first five rounds (earlier many times). His owners have been treated with pathetic numbers this year relative to expectations (.277, 0 HR). And now he's on the DL with a bum wing (inflamed right elbow, if you must know ... but "bum wing" is so much more fun). The catcher could be out until the All-Star break, so this is a big blow to both the Tribe and your fantasy squad. Unfortunately, I believe you have to sit on him in fantasy, because he's liable to get hot when he does come back and no one will give you anything valuable for an injured bust in a trade.

More haunted individuals ...

Indians

-Travis Hafner was awful earlier in the season (.217-4-22 currently) until he was mercifully placed on the DL with a knee injury.

-Fausto Carmona, expected to help lead this team to the promise-land in a 1-2 rotation punch along with C.C. Sabathia, currently sits on the DL with an injured hip. An injured hip? What is he, an 80 year-old woman?

-Jake Westbrook was supposed to be a rotation fixture -- much moreso than Cliff Lee -- and now he's having Tommy John surgery and ending his season.

-Sabathia's on his way back (shutout earlier this week), but really started poorly beyond their wildest fears in Cleveland. After four starts he was 0-3 with a 13.50 ERA. It has since been whittled down to 4.34, but if you told Indians fans before the season that the big man would be 4-8, 4.34 in mid-June they'd have freaked out.

-Asdrubal Cabrera was beyond bad at the plate before finally being optioned to triple-A in favor of last year's bust, Josh Barfield. Three days later Barfield was headed to the DL himself after six hitless at-bats and a strained middle finger.

-Grady Sizemore and Ryan Garko have fallen deeply short of expectations with the stick as well.

-Boy, I'm shocked they are 6.5 games out before June 15, aren't you?

Braves

Brinson covered their woes earlier today some in his detailing of Tim Hudson's dehydration issues. He also covered the Tom Glavine injury earlier in the week, but there are more:

-Jair Jurrjens fell down the stairs on his way down the clubhouse in Wrigley Field earlier this week. He already missed a start -- in which his replacement was tattooed -- and now he could be headed to the DL.

-Mike Hampton. No explanation needed.

-John Smoltz's season is already over and possibly his illustrious career.

-Chipper Jones is destroying everything in his sight, yet he's recently become ailed with a hamstring injury.

-Rafael Soriano was supposed to be a quality fantasy closer this season, instead he can't rid himself of elbow pain/soreness.

-Matt Diaz and Mark Kotsay are currently battling injuries on the DL as well.

-Boy, I'm shocked they are 7.5 games out before June 15th, aren't you?

I think it's pretty obvious the spirits are telling us enough is enough with these archaic names and logos. It's pretty clear you are much better suited to root for an animal (like a baby bear, for example), a color of a sock, something inanimate (Phillie), or something Godly (Angel).

Now We Know Why Everyone on the Braves and Indians Are Hurt originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Braves Malady: Tim Hudson and Dehydration

Will Brinson — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, MLB Injuries, Fantasy MLB

It just makes more sense to give any injuries that occur to the Braves their own following tag, no? After all, if one more person gets hurt in some sort of fashion this season, the entire city of Atlanta might just quit showing up at games.

The latest case of a player suffering some sort of physical problem is Tim Hudson, who is suffering from dehydration.

Hudson, who allowed just one earned run and seven hits in 6 2/3 innings, seemed to be tiring during the seventh inning. When he left the game and went to the clubhouse, many of his body parts began to cramp.

'He couldn't bend his fingers,' Braves manager Bobby Cox said.

When the clubhouse was opened to the media, the Braves said that Hudson was unavailable to talk. He was still in the trainer's room with an IV providing him fluids.

Certainly, everyone hopes Huddy is alright, and he should be, but come on. This is borderline absurd the way that every single Braves pitcher who gets near the rubber ends up being injured in some shape or form.

Oh, next week: Mark Teixeira gets SARS.br />
Fantasy Spin: Huddy's next start is at Texas, so frankly, I'd sit him. Dehydration + Arlington = Bad.

Braves Malady: Tim Hudson and Dehydration originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tom Glavine Heads Back to the Disabled List

Will Brinson — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 09:15:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Injuries, Fantasy MLB

This will be only the second time in his 22 year career that Tom Glavine goes on the DL. It will also be the second time this year. At this point, I could mention "curses" and "demons" inside the Atlanta mound, but obviously, those are fictional. Besides, Tommy Glavine is old as mess.

Braves officials will meet Wednesday to discuss their options regarding who will take his spot on the roster and in the starting rotation.

Glavine, 42, lasted three innings and was charged with six hits, four runs and four walks. Glavine has won twice in his past 15 starts dating to Sept. 20, when he was with the New York Mets. He has a 4.85 ERA in 12 starts this season.

It's not "good" by any means, but it's not horrible either. If anything, it puts the pressure on Frank Wren to make a move for a starter. Assuming he can do so without giving up an integral young player (like a Greg Norton-type) or any other pitchers, then whatever he pulls off is probably a good deal.

And, that, sadly is the state of affair right now. An already too heavy reliance on the minor leagues has the Braves thinking trade early, instead of actually promoting someone. (Note they could promote someone, but making a deal for Greg Maddux makes much more sense.)

Fantasy Spin: Glavine should be DL'd (deep leagues) or dropped (most leagues) if he was owned. His K/9 is way down this season from an already low number and he represents a risky fantasy start/investment.

Tom Glavine Heads Back to the Disabled List originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 09:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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John Smoltz Activated and Could Close Monday Night

Will Brinson — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 18:45:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Injuries, MLB Transactions, Fantasy MLB

Well that didn't take long. John Smoltz, after only a few rehab starts, has been activated by the Braves and could close as early as tonight.

Smoltz, who had been on the disabled list since April 28 with a severely inflamed right biceps tendon and inflammation in his right rotator cuff, made three Minor League rehab appearances. He made his final appearance on Saturday, and pitched a scoreless inning for Class A Rome.

It's a testament to his durability that Smoltz was able to come back so quickly. He could close tonight, and although it seems like Bobby Cox would want to warm up him before tossing him to the ninth inning wolves, it's hard to imagine that the veteran gets butterflies in his stomach all too often these days.

Fantasy Spin: Get Smoltz active in all leagues. The Braves have had horrible luck in one run games, but if you just backdoored a closer after thinking you were losing a starter, this could actually work out well for you. He's had some success, I believe, in that role.

John Smoltz Activated and Could Close Monday Night originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 18:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chipper Jones Understands the Concept of 'Average', Is Not Concerned with .400

Will Brinson — Mon, 19 May 2008 15:15:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Media Watch, MLB Milestones, Fantasy MLB

It is May. May 19th in fact. I really wish that people would remember that when the talk of Chipper Jones hitting .400 for the entire season begins to heat up.

Sure, it's fun to imagine the possibility of him hitting that magic number, but it's also fun to imagine that Chris Shelton can launch 89 home runs in one season. And not to dog Chipper (which is what a Chris Shelton comparison basically is) because he's a great player, a standup guy and he's absolutely mashing the ball right now. But he knows as well as anyone that it's probably not happening.

'[Hitting] .400 is not a concern for me,' Jones said. 'You're going to run into enough Rich Hardens andJohan Santanas to keep that from happening. If I had hit .390 before in my career, then maybe. But I haven't. When you're a .310 career hitter, you usually hit .310.'

Okay, besides the fact that he lobbed Rich Harden out there like the A's gunner is going to start more than 12 games all season is kind of funny. But still, his point is that when you average .310 for your career, you are not likely to suddenly up and hit .400.

He is seeing grapefruits and raking the cover off the rock; he is also getting a little lucky right now (.408 BABIP, which is more than "a little"). His stats are going to come back to Earth, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't enjoy them for the moment. But there's no need to spend every waking moment asking him about some "quest for .400" when it's mid-May.

Fantasy Spin: See that BABIP? And Chipper's age? I'm selling high all over the place while he's still drawing the hype. Love the guy, love the Braves, but if you expect this to continue all season, you're delusional.

Chipper Jones Understands the Concept of 'Average', Is Not Concerned with .400 originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 19 May 2008 15:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mark Teixeira: Not a Fan of April

Will Brinson — Mon, 05 May 2008 02:30:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Fantasy Felony, Fantasy MLB

If you've ever followed Mark Teixeira's career path, you know that he stinks in April. The rest of the year, the guy is generally an absolute masher who may or may not have been compared to Lou Gherig following his ridiculous 43 homer, 144 RBI season of 2005. But in April, he's not great.

Whether or not those comparisons are actually valid or not, of course, remains to be seen. But remember, that was only two years ago. Teixeira has struggled somewhat so far in April, but as the AJC reports, he's starting to heat up (and yes, he's obviously always a buy low at this point in the season).

"Big Tex" has very quietly hit safely in 18 of his past 22 games. The streak raised his batting average from an invisible .156 to a very noticeable .267. And he's still climbing.

'I just try to go out there and get hits every day, be consistent,' said Teixeira, a career .286 hitter, but only a .251 hitter in the season's first month. 'Hopefully during a full year, the numbers will be there at the end of the season.'

Okay, so he actually hit .290 in April, which is actually better than his career average, but the power numbers haven't even really begun to climb. He's on pace for 21 home runs and 97 RBI. The latter isn't so much in his control, but the former is just not going to stay that low. He's only hitting 11.9% of his fly balls for home runs right now, which is nearly eight percentage points below his career average.

Fantasy Spin: Please note that his is your final chance to buy low. Do what it takes to get him. He's about to go off.

Mark Teixeira: Not a Fan of April originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 05 May 2008 02:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jo-Jo Reyes Arrives, Should Stay

Will Brinson — Mon, 05 May 2008 02:00:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Kids Are Alright, Fantasy MLB

Just because Jo-Jo Reyes doesn't have a great "baseball name", doesn't mean he won't be successful in the bigs, especially his second time around. Reyes struggled badly last year, but was dominant in the minor leagues in 2008, prompting the Braves to call him and start him on Saturday.

Sample Size Alert time, but Reyes dominates left handed batter. He hasn't allowed a hit to one in the majors (admittedly 2.2 innings) and only allowed two hits to lefties throughout his run in Triple-A this year (again, only 7.2 innings). Although in fairness, he was pretty impressive against righties this year as well, holding them to a .228 BAA while posting a 1.76 ERA at Richmond.

Pitching coach Roger McDowell worked with him on his footwork before he headed back down to the minors this season, and it's apparently paid off.

'We moved last year to the third base side at the end of the year,' recalled Reyes, who began the season with a 20-inning scoreless streak. 'It was a big part of it. Just keeping my leg lift smooth and not so violent and that's helped a lot.'

Clearly, Reyes made a significant change in his physical approach to pitching. That should make a difference in your thoughts on rostering him as well. He pitched against Cincy on Sunday, going five and a third with five K's, while allowing four hits and walking three. The walk totals need to stay down, but the 3:1 ground to air out ratio is certainly a positive sign.

Long and short of it is that you can expect much better numbers than the 6.27 ERA and 1.69 WHIP he posted last year. You can also expect him, because of injuries to stick; and with the Braves bullpen quietly dealing and the offense being quite potent, he should have some nice fantasy value for owners as a back-end of the rotation guy.

Jo-Jo Reyes Arrives, Should Stay originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 05 May 2008 02:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mike Gonzalez Freaking Loves Barbecue

Will Brinson — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, Fantasy MLB

Oh, and he's really, really itching to get back on the diamond. Which is good for Braves fans. Nice find in the Atlanta Journal - Constitution by Velcro Vernacular, whereby we learn that Mike Gonzalez is a very big fan of Smokey Bones barbecue in Atlanta.

Gonzalez ate dinner at Smokey Bones barbecue every night in early April so he could catch Braves games on satellite. But he'd see late inning collapses and want to rush himself all the more. A maturing Gonzalez - who turns 30 on May 23 - decided to read boxscores over his morning coffee instead.
His eagerness dates back to May 16, when after six weeks as a Brave, he succumbed to the disabled list. He couldn't pitch through the pain that bothered him just putting gel in his hair.

So, to recap: Rich baseball player can't watch team in his own home because for whatever reason he doesn't own a satellite or computer or get the local Sports South Station. So rich baseball player -- recovering from an injury and trying to get back in tip-top shape -- spends every freaking evening of early April at a barbecue joint, generally hanging out there for three to four hours at minimum while watching baseball. Color me pessimistic, but this can't possibly be considered "healthy" in any sense of the word.

Still, Gonzalez "matured", finally kicking the barbecue habit in late April, and appears to be on track for a mid-May return to the bullpen. The bad news for him is that with John Smoltz' impending shift from the rotation, he's unlikely to see closing duties any time soon. Still, barbecue addiction or not, he'd be a very welcome addition to the Atlanta bullpen.

Fantasy Spin: Gonzalez is a sleeper for saves (deeeep sleeper) but will make a nice cheap MR add in most leagues.

Mike Gonzalez Freaking Loves Barbecue originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 02 May 2008 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Smoltz Says He's Coming Back 'First as a Reliever'

Will Brinson — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:15:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Gossip, Fantasy MLB

The nice thing about text messages is that while there's room for misinterpretation, there's no dispute about what was actually said, unlike a phone call or an interview. So when the Atlanta Journal-Constitution gets a text message from John Smoltz saying that he will be coming back first this season as a reliever, and most likely in that capacity for the duration of 2008, well, that seems like something that could be pretty serious.

Smoltz went on the DL Tuesday with inflammation of the right rotator cuff and a biceps tendon, and told the AJC he would consider every option -- including possibly moving back to closer -- to help him get through the season.

"I am planning on coming back as a reliever first, and more than likely for the rest of this year," Smoltz said in a text message late Wednesday.

The soon-to-be 41-year-old converted 154 of 168 save opportunities in 3 1/2 dominant seasons as closer through 2004, before returning to starting.

Smoltz doesn't think he can continue as a starter, and the Braves will seriously consider returning him to the closer role.

Now, the rumor is that Smoltz has some clause in his contract that if ever closed again, he would get like quadruple his pay. Given that this is his idea, I doubt that clause -- if it's even real -- would apply or be enforceable. To that end, this is the right move to make.

Smoltz clearly still has great stuff -- witness his back to back 10 K games as he recorded his 3,000 strikeout -- but if he's not healthy, then he's no use to the Braves. The chief issue is whether or not the rotation can survive without him. Expecting Tim Hudson, Tom Glavine, Jair Jurrjens, Jo-Jo Reyes and Mike Hampton to crank out more than one 20 game winner might be stretching things.

But it really does all boil down to whether or not the shift can keep Smoltz healthy. The Braves have made due with patch work rotations before, and worst case could always do something crazy like make a trade. I hear Brian Sabean has some good young pitching out west.

Fantasy Spin: Smoltz wouldn't have quite as much value as a closer -- top end starters are just worth more than even the best closers, but it wouldn't be that far off. At this point, he's a great buy low candidate, just because he could end up saving 30 games for all we know. His move gives some credibility to Jo-Jo's rotation spot as well.

Smoltz Says He's Coming Back 'First as a Reliever' originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 01 May 2008 10:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jo-Jo Reyes Gets the Nod in Atlanta

Will Brinson — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Transactions, MLB Kids Are Alright, Fantasy MLB

Injuries have devastated what seemed like a deep Atlanta rotation and with John Smoltz definitely disabled list bound and possibly bullpen bound, they are going to need some help.

Enter Jo-Jo Reyes, who has a name that does not inspire tales of heartfelt scrappiness. But since you can't judge a player on just his appearance or name -- because that would be silly -- Reyes is actually kind of a baller. And he's now the fourth starter for the Atlanta Braves.

Reyes has posted a 1.17 ERA on the season so far, through 23 innings. He's sporting a quite nice 25:8 KK:B ratio and a 1.63 ground-air out ratio. That last stat is particularly significant, because if you look at the way Reyes struggled with the Braves in 2007, he only posted a 1.12 ground to air ratio. Less balls on the ground equaled less balls in the park, which led to nearly a home run allowed per start.

Reyes hasn't given up a homer in the minors so far this year though, and his ability to cut down on his walk rate is particularly concerting. Additionally, he generally dominates left handers, striking out 18 of them in 17.2 innings last year and this season.

The expectations for Reyes might be tough though, simply because the Braves are desperate for pitching right now; if he can come up and make a string of quality starts though, he'd be a vast improvement over the remaining options.

Fantasy Spin: Reyes will start Saturday and unless you really need pitching or are in a deeper league, he's probably better for a wait and see option at this point. Although, it's entirely possible that Reyes could not only a) stick in the rotation but b) pitch well enough to contribute to fantasy owners' cause. To that end, if you have a spare roster spot available, take a flier.

Jo-Jo Reyes Gets the Nod in Atlanta originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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John Smoltz Heads Back to the Disabled List

Will Brinson — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:00:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Injuries, Injury Report, Fantasy MLB

It's almost like he just popped his head up to record his 3,000 career strikeout, and then, just as quickly as he came, John Smoltz is gone again, hitting the disabled list Tuesday with an inflamed biceps muscle and rotator cuff. I kid about the head-popping thing; Smoltz was actually around long enough to make five starts, three of them wins and two of them where he struck out 10 different batters.

The crazier thing is that, according to MLB.com, Tom Glavine was called up for his Atlanta debut only because the Braves sent Doyle Alexander to Detroit for this Smoltz guy. And then today, they swapped sides as Glavine was activated to take Smoltz' place on the roster.

Before sending Glavine to the mound to start Tuesday night's series opener at Nationals Park, the Braves seemingly found some good news regarding Smoltz's right shoulder. But they will still be without the 40-year-old hurler for at least two more weeks, while he goes on the 15-day disabled list for the second time this season.

'We're going to let him rest for a little bit and see what happens, said Braves manager Bobby Cox after learning that noted surgeon Dr. James Andrews didn't find any significant structural damage while evaluating Smoltz on Tuesday.

That's at least good news -- DJA is the most terrifying name you can hear when you're talking baseball injuries, so any time someone gets out of 'Bama able to come back at any point of the season. The Braves have said, though, that there is "no timetable" for Smoltz' return and that they want him to be as healthy as possible before returning.

Fantasy Spin: There's not a lot you can do, other than DL or bench Smoltz. If you don't own him though, I'd probably consider him a nice buy low; the guy has been relatively healthy for his career and usually goes through some semi-extended injury each season.

John Smoltz Heads Back to the Disabled List originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fantasy Spin: Matt Ryan Goes to the Falcons

Will Brinson — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Falcons, NFC South, NFL Draft, Atlanta, Fantasy Football

Fantasy FanHouse will be chiming in throughout the NFL draft with fantasy analysis of each fantasy relevant pick.

I'm of the opinion that Matt Ryan is not a franchise quarterback, no matter how much Mel Kiper will justify his 19 interceptions by saying he was "coming from behind." Ryan will, however, be given the reigns in Atlanta next season. He might not start right away -- the Falcons still have Joey Harrington and Chris Redman -- but he'll be taking snaps by week six.

That doesn't necessarily mean that he will be fantasy relevant this year. Well, actually, he'll be relevant, but he will not be worth much for single season leagues. At the very best in a one year league he will be a QB2 option, and that's only for the owner who prefers to take a stud QB early and then wait a long time for a backup. Still, even if you're that type of owner, Ryan is a lower end option at best.

For dynasty/keeper purposes, Ryan certainly has a lot more appeal. He would not be my first draft choice for a keeper league though -- I'd rather spend that on Darren McFadden or Rashard Mendenhall -- but deeper leagues are obviously going to want to jump on Ryan. But I'm not entirely sold, personally. On the other hand, there are a lot of owners who will want to get all up on the Matty Ice hype. If that's the case, I would recommend using him as trade bait. If you get stuck in the keeper draft position of having to draft him though, you could certainly be worse at quarterback.

Fantasy Spin: Matt Ryan Goes to the Falcons originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 26 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Andruw Jones Slumpbustin' in the ATL

Will Brinson — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Los Angeles, Braves, Dodgers, NL East, NL West, Fantasy MLB

Nothing like an old flame to get you out of that funk, eh, "tubbo"? Andruw Jones rolled into a three game road trip to Atlanta -- his first visit since signing a two year, $35 + million a year deal with the Dodgers -- hitting well below the Mendoza line and having failed to register a home run in 2008. At least one of those problems is now solved, because, as you can see below, ~~Bobby Cox gave him a freebie by starting Chuck James~~ Druw laced a ball to left field early in Saturday's game.

And boy-o-boy did he get around those bases quick. And gracefully! It shouldn't be too shocking to see Druw get hot in Atlanta. It's the only place he's ever played prior to joining the Dodgers. Whether he can keep the hot streak going once they leave is the big question.

Bonus Fantasy Spin: Me saying that Druw is going to bust out and suddenly go on a power tear is probably a bit of a stretch. However, he is going to be better than he was for the first two weeks of the season. He's just not that ~~fat~~ bad. If you can stomach the average, and need some power with the upside of a former 50 home run hitter, I'd actually say he's a decent buy, if only because you can basically get him for free right now.

Andruw Jones Slumpbustin' in the ATL originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 19 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Peter Moylan Likely Done for the Year

Will Brinson — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 21:30:00 EST

Filed under: Atlanta, Braves, NL East, MLB Injuries, Fantasy MLB

Amid the good news of an Atlanta 8-0 lead over Florida on SportsSouth, the announcers dropped the unfortunate little bomb that Braves reliever and briefly one time closer Peter Moylan is likely out for the season. They were kind enough, at least for my purposes, to post this quote from Frank Wren:

I think, realistically, we know that it's a long shot that we can get Peter back this season. But we're going to give it two weeks to see what happens.

Apparently a calcium build up of some sort led to a bone spur that has "compromised the ligament in his elbow". Things did not sound anywhere near good if you're a Braves fan, so it seems safe to say that Moylan will miss the rest of the season. That means the Braves pitching staff is even more depleted than before. Rafael Soriano remains on the disabled list, Tom Glavine is banged up, Mike Hampton is Mike Hampton. Don't be surprised to see Wren make a move of some sort -- clearly Atlanta needs some MR help, and it doesn't look like it's coming from inside.

Bonus Fantasy Spin: Obviously you can drop Moylan. And it looks more and more like Manny Acosta is going to get the saves for the Braves, making him a nice add in almost any format for as long as Soriano is hurt.

Peter Moylan Likely Done for the Year originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 21:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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