Fantasy FanHouse

Furcal to Miss Eight More Weeks Following Back Surgery

Will Brinson — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 01:30:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Injuries, MLB Rumors, Injury Report, Fantasy MLB

The injuries seemed like they were maybe, possibly, kind of taking a turn for the better for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Then they got the brutal news early Thursday that leadoff hitter and sparkplug of the offense Rafael Furcal will miss another eight weeks after undergoing back surgery.

Manager Joe Torre would not concede that Furcal will be lost for the rest of the season, but neither did he say he's holding his breath awaiting Furcal's return.

"From all the numbers I've heard, he'll probably miss a minimum of eight weeks," said Torre, meaning a return of September at the earliest.

That's probably overly optimistic. Watkins performed a similar procedure in 2002 on Dodgers pitcher Kevin Brown, whose disc was badly ruptured. Brown rushed back after two months, but quickly had to shut it down because he was not fully healed. Reliever Eric Gagne underwent a similar operation by Watkins at St. Vincent's Hospital on July 8, 2006. Like Brown, Gagne was also trying to return from elbow woes at the time and did not pitch again that season.

Like I mentioned the other day (link above), I'll believe it when I see it regarding recovery. Eight weeks is still a looooong time anyway and the odds that Furcal will be completely healthy by the beginning of September is possible but as soon as KB and EG's names get tossed around, I get a little skeptical.

And no, the "would not concede" line does not help anything either.

Fantasy Spin: I'm heading to drop him in a 12 team league right now (non-keeper) and grab someone that can help me now. Bear in mind though, that this is a head-to-head league, so not only will I be able to grab him later, but the loss of steals isn't permanent, so to speak. Still, I think he's done.

Furcal to Miss Eight More Weeks Following Back Surgery originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 01:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Clayton Kershaw Is Not Particularly Thrilled About Returning to the Minors

Will Brinson — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 01:15:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Transactions, Fantasy MLB

It would be hard to blame uber-prospect Clayton Kershaw for getting upset at his demotion back to the minor leagues; he has pitched well thus far, despite not getting any run support from the Dodgers. I actually watched him last night and the 12-6 he froze Hunter Pence on in the fifth after dialing up 96 the pitch before was a perfect example of his potential to dominate.

But the Dodgers have more than just watching a youngster unleash nasty deuce-balls, and he understands that.

It's disappointing, but it's a business," he said. "I'm going to Jacksonville to keep pitching like I'm supposed to. I didn't expect it. Right now, I'm just disappointed."

Well, of course he's disappointed. (So am I, for the record.) Kershaw has pitched very well at times, while at others looking very much like a rookie, but what did the Dodgers expect? The biggest issue with PE#1 was his control: he only walked one or less batters once, during his first start of the season.

Additionally, tossing under a fairly rigid pitch count didn't help matters, as Kershaw never got to really extend past 90 pitches, much less five innings. His last start was arguably his best of the season but LA still couldn't hold on for the win and Clayton remains 0-2 so far in his MLB career.

Fantasy Spin: He's still a virtual lock to land back in the majors at some point, it's just a matter of where the Dodgers are in the pennant race when they decide to bring him back up. Also, if injuries continue to strike, there's a good chance he won't stay in Jacksonville that long. He's a must have in keeper leagues, but seasonal leagues, particularly smaller ones, can drop him and just keep an eye out.

Clayton Kershaw Is Not Particularly Thrilled About Returning to the Minors originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 01:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is Clayton Kershaw Hurt? Nope, He's Just Not As Good As You Thought.

Matthew Greber — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:09:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, Fantasy Baseball

In todays game against the Chicago White Sox, Dodgers rookie pitcher Clayton Kershaw was pulled after four innings after only giving up two runs.Kershaw only threw 69 pitches, hardly a yeoman-like effort.

So what's the deal? Is Kershaw hurt? Well, not as far as I can see - no reports suggests Kershaw was pulled for anything besides his ineffectiveness. 29 of those 69 pitches were balls, which isn't terrible but doesn't suggest he was locked into the zone.

Kershaw has yet to notch his first major league victory, and if you are a Dodger fan or in a fantasy league, that comes as a bit of a letdown considering the huge amount of hype surrounding the youngster. Sports talk radio, internet chats and office watercooler talk ask one question - is Kershaw a bust?

Hardly.

Sure, he's a Dodger which means he's partially evil and eats small babies for breakfast. (What? I'm a Giants fan.) But he's also just a kid, and it's expected that things should be a bit rough for him out of the gates. He's barely 20 years old, people.

From a fantasy perspective, he's clearly great if you are in a keeper league. But in standard, single-season leagues the problem is that he's not even doing a good Johnny Cueto impression - that is, inconsistent starts but with a lot of strikeouts. He's doing okay in that category, but until he starts showing a bit more dominance, he's really not worth starting in most of your leagues. I'm holding onto him to see if he gets his act together, but in shallow leagues he's waiver fodder.

Oh look ... I made Tommy Lasorda cry.

Is Clayton Kershaw Hurt? Nope, He's Just Not As Good As You Thought. originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:09:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brad Penny DL Bound with Shoulder Injury

Will Brinson — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Injuries, Injury Report, Fantasy MLB

Brad Penny, loser of five consecutive starts including a 3.2 inning, seven run, no strikeout outing against the Tigers the last time he took the mound, was placed on the disabled list today. Penny is dealing with an "inflammation of the bursa sac" (which sounds like something a lot worse, I think) and "mild tendinitis in his right shoulder", according to the Dodgers website.

Penny had complained of discomfort in the shoulder for more than a month without missing a start, but the pain worsened during pregame warmups before his last start, on Saturday against Detroit. An MRI performed on Monday revealed no structural damage.

Tough skids for the Dodgers, of course, but the reality is that Penny had not been pitching well. And if he was performing poorly as a result of shoulder woes -- which seems likely -- then giving him a few weeks to heal up and get right is the correct move.

Fantasy Spin: Penny is obviously DL'd or benched on your roster now (and hopefully before now) but he's not really droppable unless you're in a really shallow league. He finally put together a good second half last year and seems like a reasonable buy low at this point. Always better to inquire before he starts to head back.

Brad Penny DL Bound with Shoulder Injury originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rafael Furcal's Return Date Bumped Back (Again) to Mid-June

Will Brinson — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Injuries, Fantasy MLB

The seemingly endless Rafael Furcal recovery process took another hit. And no, not the trade for Angel Berroa. Furcal's time for return was pegged for June 17, well over a month since stepped foot on the diamond.

"I think that's reasonable," Torre said.

Furcal, who last played May 5, resumed taking grounders at short Thursday and reported that his strained lower back felt fine the next day.

The Dodgers pretty clearly need Furcal in the lineup in order to make their offensive squad the most effective. They are still only four games out of the Diamondbacks though, with both teams having gone 3-7 in their last 10 games.

I'm still going to be a little skeptical about Furcal's return until I actually see him on the field after all the setbacks, but at least we have a timetable now.

Fantasy Spin: Furcal should still occupy a bench spot or a DL slot depending on your league options, at least until the week following his return. Now's a pretty good time to take a step at trade for the wrecking ball

Rafael Furcal's Return Date Bumped Back (Again) to Mid-June originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ned Colletti Politely Does Not Slam Door on Derek Lowe's Return to Los Angeles

Will Brinson — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Rumors, MLB Biz, Fantasy MLB

You want to know how to be a successful Major League general manager? Two things you need to know. First, always sign multiple, expensive and washed up or worthless centerfielders to your ballclub. Secondly, make sure to use ridiculous verbage when described free agent to be pitchers.

Take Ned Colletti for instance. A true professional indeed, listen (in your head's reading voice) as he politely discusses the Dodgers' starting pitching and the possibility of Derek Lowe's return next season.

'I am concerned about our starting pitching in two cases,' Colletti says. 'I had a nice chat with Derek the other day.

'I told him we're not slamming the door on him from coming back,' Colletti says. 'In Boston he might have known he was not coming back.'

Maybe Boston did treat Lowe -- World Series hero Lowe at that -- poorly on the way out. But not "not slamming the door" isn't anything nice. That's just not being rude. The door, Ned, if you want to maintain a positive stance in negotiations, should always be open.

Unless of course Ned is secretly trying to get D. Lowe down from a 10 mil a year asking price (maybe in the range of 8 a year for the next 12 season, Ned?). That would explain why he's playing hard to get.

Fantasy Spin: Not that you care about Derek Lowe's contract negotiations, but now seems like a good time to point out that Lowe is starting to not be horrible again and is fantasy relevant. Shallow leagues probably saw him get dropped, but you can get the jump by grabbing now.

Ned Colletti Politely Does Not Slam Door on Derek Lowe's Return to Los Angeles originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Andruw Jones on the Disabled List, Mercifully

Will Brinson — Sun, 25 May 2008 12:45:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Injuries, MLB Rumors, Fantasy MLB

It's pretty rare in professional baseball when you think a trip to the disabled list is a good thing. But in the case of Andruw Jones, that is exactly the situation. The former slugger formerly known as a superstar was placed on the DL, in advance of having surgery on his right knee.

Now the club is going to invest 4-6 weeks of recuperatory time in the 31-year-old slugger, who will be on the DL for the first time in his career. Dr. Neal Elahrache, the Dodgers' orthopedic surgeon, will perform the surgery on Tuesday at the Kerlan-Jobe Clinic.

'He was really determined not to have it done, but surgery is the best thing,' general manager Ned Colletti said. 'It will not only help him physically, but hopefully it'll help his game. Obviously through seven weeks it's been disappointing for him and for everyone involved.'

Andruw getting out of the lineup, out of the public's eye and out of his head would all be good things. Don't be surprised if the surgery is "quick" followed by six weeks of intense "rehabilitation".

See, my theory is that if Jones would just not be as chunky, his ability to hit and field the baseball will improve. I have to believe that the Dodgers feel the same way and given the opportunity to pull a "golf ball sized wart" out of his knee, they might as well drain his stomach too. So don't be shocked to see Jones come back a little lighter, is what I'm saying.

Fantasy Spin: Obviously you can drop him now. Jones might be worth a flier if he comes back in better shape, but I'd probably wait about a month before making a play for him.

Andruw Jones on the Disabled List, Mercifully originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 25 May 2008 12:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More Rampant Clayton Kershaw Speculation!

Will Brinson — Fri, 23 May 2008 12:04:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Rumors, MLB Transactions, Fantasy MLB

The Jacksonville Suns did that thing where they pull a stud prospect pitcher early even though he is fine and pitching well. I say "that thing" because such a manuever is usually followed by a call-up to the major leagues. And that's the news coming out of Dodger-land as well, with Clayton Kershaw dealing and the Dodgers making a run in the NL West.

Beginning with Tuesday's game in Chicago, the Dodgers will need a fifth starter on almost a traditional five-day rotation through the All-Star break. The last time the spot came up Saturday in Anaheim, manager Joe Torre went with a tag-team of Chan Ho Park for four innings (one earned run), followed by Hong-Chih Kuo for four scoreless innings in a 6-3 win.

Bear in mind that a few weeks ago, when we thought Kershaw was getting the call, the Dodgers were not as hot on the heels of Arizona as they are now. The team was inconsistent, except for Andruw Jones, who stunk all the time. Suddenly, they are surging, just three games back. And they have a prospect that their manager has likened to Sandy Koufax (whether that's accurate or not is beside the point).

So a call-up coming seems pretty likely. Or at least pretty reasonable. So, um, welcome to the Kershaw-dome. And any other number of horrible Public Enemy jokes I will be slinging your way.

Fantasy Spin: If you haven't burned through your transaction cap listening to me on Kershaw advice, go ahead and run back out there and grab him. He's a phenom with an otherwordly curveball and tons of strikeout potential. Non-keepers want to be trying to move him as soon as he gets up, if not earlier, because of his innings cap and the hype involved.

More Rampant Clayton Kershaw Speculation! originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 23 May 2008 12:04:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Andruw Jones Could Have Surgery on His Knee ... Mmmm, Knife

Will Brinson — Tue, 20 May 2008 13:25:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Injuries, MLB Rumors, MLB Bust a Move, Fantasy MLB

Finally, a decent excuse from the Los Angeles Dodgers for Andruw Jones' poor performance, since it would just be too freaking easy to come out and say "he is overweight". Apparently, Jones has a problem with his right knee that could cause surgery.

The Dodgers centerfielder had an MRI on his knee and the rumors of the surgery are being batted around, according to Tony Jackson's Inside the Dodgers blog.

We learned after the game that Andruw Jones had an MRI today, that the MRI showed fluid and torn cartilage in his right knee and that if it isn't better by Thursday or Friday, he'll have arthroscopic surgery that will sideline him, according to what Jones says the doctors told him, for four to five weeks. My experience has been that they usually don't even TALK about surgery unless they're fairly sure it's going to happen. But he is going to get treatment and try to make it work.

Just so we are clear, there is like a 75% chance (at minimum, in my undoctored opinion) that his weight gain caused the problems with his knee.

I also firmly believe that he will undergo surgery this season. And there is obviously no telling how much time Druw will miss if he is forced to stick his leg underneath a really sharp knife, but hey, think of all the free ice cream at the doctor's office!

Update: Karma strikes back, emptying my stomach as I find out that Jones has a "golf-ball sized wart behind his knee that might have to be surgically removed." Geh.

Fantasy Spin: I dropped Druw a while ago and suggest you do the same. If Juan Pierre is available in your league, bust a move. Obviously if Matt Kemp or Andre Ethier are there, snatch them up. Pierre could end up being a huge steal with the way he has played and his proclivity for the stolen base.

Andruw Jones Could Have Surgery on His Knee ... Mmmm, Knife originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 20 May 2008 13:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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No More Nomar Rumors at Shortstop

Will Brinson — Mon, 19 May 2008 12:10:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Rumors, MLB Transactions, Fantasy MLB

Rafael Furcal remains on the disabled list, expected to play as early as Friday, and that creates a bit of a void for the Dodgers. Offensively, it just will not get filled. But defensively, they at least have some options. It was thought that one of those could be the eternally overrated Nomar Garciaparra, who played short with some team that traded him right before they won something.

But Nomar's ability to always be healthy will probably prevent that, as it turns out he and Furcal are moving in opposite directions in terms of getting on the diamond.

When Nomar Garciaparra took ground balls at shortstop this week, it led to speculation that the veteran might temporarily return to his natural position until Rafael Furcal returns from the disabled list.

But in the last few days, Furcal has made steady improvement from his back sprain, while Garciaparra's recovery from a strained calf muscle has stalled.

That would be an interesting move for sure, but not something that would really benefit the Dodgers. Garciaparra seems practically allergic to anything that will cause strain on his body from the obliques down, and I would probably set the over/under at games played at SS somewhere around .05 before he got hurt.

In the meantime, the team won't be crushed by forcing Chin-lung Hu or Luis Maza out on the field. Sure, they're not great options, but remember, as long as Andruw Jones (-7.8 VORP) is still getting at bats, anything is justifiable.

Fantasy Spin: Maza and Hu have little to no value in all but the deepest leagues, and Furcal should be benched in weeklies where possible, given he probably will not be worth much until Week 9.

No More Nomar Rumors at Shortstop originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 19 May 2008 12:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kershaw Not Likely to Get the Call

Will Brinson — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Fans, MLB Rumors, MLB Kids Are Alright, Fantasy MLB

Despite all signs pointing towards Dodgers uber-propsect Clayton Kershaw getting the call to start this weekend, it appears as if he will not be promoted to the majors anytime soon. Tony Jackson reports that people inside the Dodgers organization believe Kershaw needs to wait a little longer in order to not exceed his innings ceiling for 2008.

Saturday's fifth-starter assignment will almost certainly go to either Kuo or Park, with no chance of it going to Kershaw. Torre said, 'To me, it's doubtful.' I got a more definitive 'no' from another source within the organization.

Torre also pointed out that in the effort to have Kershaw throw no more than 170 innings this season, that has to be projected not through Labor Day, when the minor-league season ends, or through September, when the big-league season ends, but through October and the major-league postseason. 'It would be unfair if we didn't consider October as part of his innings.' That means they have to be even more conservative with him.

Wonk, wonk. If you're a fan of young, ridiculously talented pitchers and freakish upside, this is sad news. On the other hand, if you're a Dodger fan, you should be happy. Sure, the club could use him now, but just be glad they're thinking of the future.

It could be much worse. Seriously. You could have hired Dusty Baker. Kershaw would have thrown five complete games by this point if that was the case.

Fantasy Spin: Single year leagues can hold off on grabbing Kershaw ... for now. Maybe. If you're in a league where you've got a guy who's jumpy on prospects, and you have an open spot on your bench, it wouldn't hurt to grab him now and plan to trade him. Keeper leagues absolutely want this guy.

Kershaw Not Likely to Get the Call originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 14 May 2008 15:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rafael Furcal Is Headed to the DL

Will Brinson — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:45:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Injuries, Injury Report, Fantasy MLB

It seems like once we get past NFL season, coaches and teams could stop acting the fool re: players being injured, but for some reason, they seem wont to keep hiding injuries. And it's really freaking irritating. Such is the case with Rafael Furcal, who has been day-to-day for what feels like a week now. But he is headed to the disabled list, apparently.

Shortstop Rafael Furcal, who has missed the Dodgers' last five games because of lower back pain, was placed on the 15-day disabled list Monday. The move is retroactive to May 6, meaning the earliest Furcal can be activated is May 21 for the final game of a three-game series at Dodger Stadium against Cincinnati.

I guess at least it's retroactive, so that's not as bad (unless you started him this week in fantasy! *muffled scream*). Or unless you're the Los Angeles Dodgers, who desperately need Furcal doing intangible type things at the top of their lineup to really get them going.

Seriously. I don't buy that much into that sort of hype, but they were white hot before he got hurt and have gone 1-4 without the guy. They need him. Not to mention he was making a legitimate case for MVP (even if it was driven by an absurd BABIP) and absolutely tattooing the ball everywhere. Nightmare all around.

Fantasy Spin: Reserve him and go fishing for a cheap SS eligible type guy like Clint Barmes. I'm also going to suggest throwing out feelers while he's hurt and dealing him when he comes back. It's unlikely that he keeps up his previous pace and we saw how he struggled when hurt last year. Oh, and don't punch any walls. It hurts.

Rafael Furcal Is Headed to the DL originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 12 May 2008 23:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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All Signs Point to Clayton Kershaw

Will Brinson — Thu, 08 May 2008 01:40:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Injuries, MLB Rumors, MLB Transactions, MLB Kids Are Alright, Fantasy MLB

The feeling you get out of Los Angeles, at least on the Dodger side of the monorail tracks, is that Clayton Kershaw, a.k.a. Public Enemy Number One, needs to be called up now. That guy who yells a lot on ESPN everyday at 5:30 inked a column about it a while back and now Esteban Loaiza is disabled list bound, which will create an opening in the Dodger rotation on May 17. Yhency Brazoban is scheduled to take his spot for the immediate moment, but it sounds like Dodger fans could get their wish sooner than later.

Kershaw, 20, could replace Brazoban or another reliever on the active roster the next time the Dodgers need a fifth starter -- probably on May 17. The spot belonged to Loaiza, whose move to the disabled list is retroactive to Sunday, making him eligible to be activated May 18. Hong-Chih Kuo has also pitched in that role, but Manager Joe Torre said he wants Kuo to remain in the bullpen.

A place for Kershaw on the 40-man roster can be opened by moving Jason Schmidt from the 15-day to 60-day disabled list. Asked Wednesday about the possibility of Kershaw's being called up, Torre replied, 'You'll have to wait and see.'

Oh, Joe ... you're so cryptic. And full of candy. But mostly cryptic. Color me, for one, friggin delighted at the prospect of seeing Kershaw buckle knees with this curveball. Bear in mind though, that even Torre has been more or less pointing out the similarities between young Clayton and some Sandy Koufax guy. Who may have been good or something.

So the expectations are going to be out of control. Doesn't mean he can't be great, or won't be great, but fans of the Blue probably need to realize he's not coming up for the duration right now. Just a taste.

Fantasy Spin: If Kershaw is available, I'd grab him immediately. He was dominant in spring training and should be beasty his first time around. Worst case scenario is that you deal him when the hype starts getting out of control, and it will, around May 12th or so. That's for single leaguers though. Long term peeps want to ~~hold on loosely and don't let go~~ put a death grip on him.

All Signs Point to Clayton Kershaw originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 08 May 2008 01:40:00 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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Nomar Still Loves You Beautiful

Will Brinson — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 11:45:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, MLB Injuries, Fantasy MLB

Nomar Garciaparra returned to the starting lineup last night, for the first time this season. He was slotted at third base and took the spot of Blake DeWitt, who later pinch ran for the oft-injured No-mah. Garciaparra's return was a little surprising, if only because most people thought he would join the Blue on Friday instead.

The sight of Mr. Mia Hamm's moniker on the card threw all press types for a loop, as word on the street was Friday as a target date. The front office consensus, however, is that Garciaparra won't be any healthier in 48 hours than he is right now, so there's no real harm in tossing him back into the fray.

Nomar went one for two with a pair of walks as the Dodgers throttle-jobbed the Pirates, and his return, especially with Andy LaRoche still on the mend, has to be somewhat comforting to Dodger fans. However, two quick points. First, Nomar is not going to solve the offensive quagmire in the outfield (Andruw Jones is still in a funk and Juan Pierre is still on the roster; it really is more "boggy" than "giggity" in every sense of the situation).

Second, this guy just can't win. Regardless of Mia Hamm and piles of money. We're talking about the face of the Red Sox and their losing ways ... until Theo Epstein shipped him out and they won a championship. And whether or not he has a 2004 championship ring (I think he does), well, it doesn't really matter since that's like catching the garter belt at your ex-wife's wedding reception. In other words, I think expecting a full, healthy and productive season is a bit of a reach.

Bonus Fantasy Spin: Nomar is not a prime option for fantasy owners. However, he can still hit for decent average and a little pop (roughly .290 something and 27 homers over his 800 odd at bats with the Dodgers) so I suppose you could do worse. Not by much, but you could do worse. But if you're stuck with a 3B or 1B option that's not cutting it right now, he's at least worth a look.

Nomar Still Loves You Beautiful originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 11:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kids Are Alright: Public Enemy Number One

Will Brinson — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, Fantasy Baseball, MLB Kids Are Alright, Fantasy MLB

Kids Are Alright will examine some hot minor league prospects and their potential to be fantasy relevant towards both seasonal and keeper leagues. If you'd like to read more of Will Brinson's minor-league rantings, check out Greensboro Grassbloggers, his Single-A blog. Yes, he has Discovery Channel issues.

I was perusing my the blog/news info on my RSS reader last night and stumbled across an interesting little nugget in an MLB.com Dodger mailbag. Ken Gurnick was answering questions, mostly about Dodger minor leaguers, and one reader wondered why uber-stud and very young prospect Clayton Kershaw was kicking it in AA. This is a reasonable request since he pitched very well in the spring at the major league level and should in theory at least be in AAA.

The way the ball flies out of the Pacific Coast League in general and Triple-A Las Vegas in particular, management seemed to prefer to keep the best pitching prospects in Jacksonville.

[...]Instead, Kershaw will have his innings monitored, while Hong-Chih Kuo, Chan Ho Park and Esteban Loaiza fill the fifth-starter job for a few months. A callup before the All-Star break is expected.

So that's pretty interesting, I tend to think. If you're in a non-long term keeper type league, Kershaw might not be owned yet. And surely he's not owned in any single season leagues. In fact, because he's in Double-A, he's probably not really on the single league radar just quite yet. But that doesn't mean you -- and us, naturally -- shouldn't be monitoring him.

Kershaw is currently tied for second in the Southern League with 12 strikeouts through eight innings. He's allowed four walks and nine hits, so his WHIP is high and the .280-some that batters are hitting off of him early is a little disconcerting. However, if you go back and read between the lines via Joe Torre, Gurnick and even Russell Martin before spring training, you can relax a little, since Kershaw's not down in J-Ville trying to amp up his stats; he's down there working on his changeup and trying to expand his repertoire. (He basically threw curves and fastballs in ST. Vin Scully named his curve "Public Enemy Number One". That in and of itself makes him worth owning in any league.)

My point of all that? Ignore the stats (except the K/9) and grab him if he's available in your keeper. Single season leagues without minor spots probably want to hold off a little while, but this guy is going to be an impact pitcher in the majors this year.

Kids Are Alright: Public Enemy Number One originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Major League Mongering: Jermaine Dye in Dodger Blue

Tom Fornelli — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 13:21:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago, Los Angeles, Red Sox, White Sox, Angels, Brewers, Dodgers, Padres, AL East, AL West, NL West, Fantasy Baseball, MLB Rumors

Major League Mongering will look at players rumored to be on the move between now and the July 31st pseudo-trade-deadline.

Why does this need to happen? It's pretty simple really. Jermaine Dye is in the last season of his contract, and the White Sox need to make some changes if they're going to compete for the AL Central again anytime soon. There's also the fact that Dye has become distant from the rest of the team ever since the White Sox gave Mark Buehrle a contract extension.

He wants to know why the team hasn't talked to him about an extension, and it's because they want to trade him.

The Dodgers need some power in their lineup, and though Dye has struggled this season, his bat has start to come to life again since the break. He's hitting .367 with 4 home runs and 7 RBI in his last seven games and looks to be on the verge of busting out of his slump.

Also the change of scenery would probably do Dye well. I'm sure he feels unappreciated in Chicago where he won a World Series MVP in 2005, and was the team's best player last season. Getting a fresh start on the west coast could be exactly what he needs.
What might he bring back? The Dodgers don't exactly want to trade James Loney or Matt Kemp, but if the right deal comes along that they feel can help the team get to a World Series, they'll listen. The White Sox have also always been in love with power arms, so maybe they could pry away a Jonathan Broxton to help in their horrible bullpen.

Really though, the Sox should take whatever they can get because they're not going to bring Dye back next season, so it's better to get something rather than nothing.

What other teams are interested? There are plenty. The Red Sox, Angels, and Padres have also shown interest in Dye and the Brewers could become interested as well depending on Bill Hall's status. The more teams that are interested, the better for the White Sox. Dye may be struggling this season, but somebody will be willing to take a chance on a guy with such a strong track record.

Should fantasy owners care? If you still have Jermaine Dye on your team at this point, then a trade could be beneficial for you. I don't think Dye is going to blow up and become a full-time starter, but he could make a valuable fourth outfielder or utility player for your team.

Major League Mongering: Jermaine Dye in Dodger Blue originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 19 Jul 2007 13:21:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jason Schmidt Could Be Out for the Season

Larry Brown — Tue, 01 May 2007 20:04:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, Fantasy Baseball, MLB Injuries

Over the weekend I noted the report that Dodger pitcher Jason Schmidt could be out for months. Now, thanks to Sons of Steve Garvey for pointing to me towards Ben Maller, who reports even worse news about Jason Schmidt:

The Dodgers are worried that Jason Schmidt might not pitch again this season, according to a major league source. Schmidt, who signed a three-year contract for $47 million, has a bad shoulder and could be shutdown for surgery soon. Schmidt is 1-2 with a 7.36era this season in three starts.

Wow, talk about a terrible turn of events. It was a mystery as to how Schmidt even got hurt, and what has led to his decrease in pitch velocity. And now a report that he could be out for the year? Man, this whole situation is fishy. Sounds like all you fantasy baseball players can drop Schmidt from your roster, and also like those who picked the Dodgers as a World Series team are in bad shape.

Previously at FanHouse:
Jason Schmidt Could Be Out Months
Jason Schmidt Hits the DL With Shoulder Inflammation
Has Jason Schmidt Lost His Fastball?

Jason Schmidt Could Be Out for the Season originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 01 May 2007 20:04:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Has Jason Schmidt Lost His Fastball?

Larry Brown — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 09:30:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, Fantasy Baseball, MLB Gossip, MLB Rumors

Rumor around Vero Beach is that Dodgers prized free agent signing Jason Schmidt has lost his fastball. The Dodgers official site says scouts are suggesting there is something wrong with Schmidt. To make matters worse, Tony Jackson in the LA Daily News says the front office is confirming the rumor

Manager Grady Little and pitching coach Rick Honeycutt both said Schmidt's velocity has been marginally lower this spring than what is normal for him. Honeycutt said Schmidt has been consistently between 86 and 91mph this spring, which isn't enough of a dropoff to cause alarm.

Obviously I cannot judge the rumor until I see him pitching with a radar gun going, but this is a serious deal. From '02-'05 Schmitty was one of the league's premier power-pitchers -- relying on a fastball that could reach 95+ on a regular basis. How will he do if he can't dial it up? Schmidt however, suggests there's no cause for concern:

"I know what it takes in Spring Training and I don't think about velocity now," said Schmidt ... "It's not only about being ready for April 1 but for June and July and August and throughout an entire season. I feel fine."

As Schmidt points out, you see guys like Kenny Rogers consistently throwing in the mid-80s during the regular season all-of-a-sudden popping 95 on the gun during the post-season. While this is a concern for Dodger fans, Schmidt's a pro -- and he's a pitcher now, not a thrower, so there's no need to panic (until his ERA reaches 7.00 in May).

Has Jason Schmidt Lost His Fastball? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 21 Mar 2007 09:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Will Nomar Garciaparra Move to Third Base?

Matt Watson — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 13:40:00 EST

Filed under: Los Angeles, Dodgers, NL West, Fantasy Baseball

It's still pure speculation at this point, but the Dodgers might shift Nomar back to the left side of the infield. From MLB.com:

Garciaparra is the logical fallback option if management is not satisfied with youngsters Wilson Betemit, Andy La Roche and company at the hot corner. Moving Garciaparra not only would put an All-Star bat at third base, it would open first base for James Loney, the Triple-A batting champ last year who has nowhere to play if Garciaparra stays at first.

Grady Little said it's nothing he'll consider right now, but Nomar is on the record saying he'd willingly make the switch to help the team out.

That puts a lot of pressure is on Betemit and LaRoche this spring. They're both talented players in their own right, but Loney hit .380 at Triple-A Las Vegas last year and .284 in 102 at-bats with the Dodgers. The kid can rake and he deserves a chance to play. Granted, the same can be said about LaRoche (who hit .322 in a half season at Vegas), but Loney is the one with actual big league experience, even if it is just 48 games.

Keep an eye on this if you play fantasy baseball -- quality third basemen are hard to come by, and having a guy like Nomar suddenly eligible to fill the position on your roster could be a nice break.

Will Nomar Garciaparra Move to Third Base? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 07 Mar 2007 13:40:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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