Fantasy FanHouse

Fantasy Spin: Harden to the Cubbies

Will Brinson — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago, Oakland, Athletics, Cubs, MLB Transactions, MLB Bust a Move, Fantasy MLB

As Watson noted earlier, there has been a fairly decent seismic shift in the National League Arms Race, what with the Cubs acquiring Rich Harden only 24 hours after the Brewers picked up CC Sabathia. And just like it affects real baseball, the trade does some things for fantasy owners as well. So, why not look at the four biggest names in the trade?

Rich Harden, SP -- I've said it once, and I'll say it again: sell high on Harden. Billy Beane rarely gets suckered and this deal kind of looks like one of those times, no? Which makes me think "ruh-roh" with regard to Harden's health. Especially when you remember that during his next to last start in an Oakland uni, he was barely topping 90 mph. But his move to one of the most offensively potent teams and a World Series contender should boost his value in theory, making him a prime sell.

Chad Gaudin, RP/SP -- Gaudin pitched very well when he was in the Oakland rotation, but got bumped back to the bullpen. It's assumed he'll do the same in Chicago, but are so confident he can't beat out Jason Marquis for a rotation spot? Because I sure think he can. In terms of available fantasy guys in this deal, he's the one I'm taking a flier on.

Sean Gallagher, SP -- Gallagher has to be the lynchpin for Beane, right? As Peter Gammons said, the Cubs liked -- and were "nearly sold on" -- Gallagher as a starter. But as good as Ryan Dempster has been, they need a true number two and Gallagher's not that. So maybe Beane thinks he's going to be great. Which makes me think he's worth a gamble in deeper fantasy leagues.

Matt Murton, OF -- I've never hated Murton as much as it seems Cubs fans and the organization did. He always seemed like a smart baseball player that had sleeper written all over him. He might not set the world on fire in Oakland, but you gotta think he's gonna play at least (as opposed to Chicago). I'm taking a gamble.

Fantasy Spin: Harden to the Cubbies originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Studs: Three Young, Live Arms

Matt Snyder — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: MLB New Studs, Fantasy MLB

New Studs on the Block takes a look at players ready to make the leap from "possibly productive fantasy player" to "must-have fantasy stud." This is not a "you've never heard of this dude, but ... " series -- these should be names you already know.

Today I wanna proclaim the following three young pitchers are going to be absolute fantasy monsters by the end of the season, if you don't consider them to meet said criteria already ... basically what I'm saying is that you should never consider benching the following in any fantasy league. I'm that psyched for the potential of these boys.

Brandon Morrow, RP, Mariners
I already wrote about his menacing presence on the hill and beastly potential as a closer. Since that entry, he's been out of his freaking mind, though. I didn't even imagine this. In nine appearances he's closed all six of his save chances, while striking out 12 in 9 2/3 innings. That's not even the best part. Seriously. He's faced 31 hitters, and only two have reached base. One walk, one hit. That's it. Neither dude scored, either. He's allowing a .098 OPS as closer! That's gross. Yes, I'm aware the Mariners suck big-time. Common sense dictates that when a bad team wins it's generally gonna be a close game and the wins are rare enough that the closer won't get overworked. He can still pile up saves. And he'll continue to do so.

Clay Buchholz, SP, Red Sox
He's coming back the Red Sox rotation, and this time it's gonna be for good. He's too good to sit in triple-A, where his ERA is 1.63 in over 38 innings. We've seen enough flashes (like, say, a no-hitter) to know that he's got enough potential to dominate every once in a while in the bigs, too. He hasn't been consistent yet, but he's only 23 right now. This time around the difference is that he's ready to take over as a full-time stud. It helps that he plays for the Red Sox, but he's also got the make-up and the stuff. I'm expecting a large second half, beginning with his Friday start. Get him if he's available in any league where he's not already been snatched up.

Ricky Nolasco, SP, Marlins
Maybe Jim Hendry wouldn't be desperately searching for a Jason Marquis replacement (in fairness, the Cubs would probably replace Sean Marshall's spot should they make a trade ... I'm just saying that Marquis is abysmal) if he didn't deal Nolasco to the Marlins for one uninspiring year of Juan Pierre. Wow, what a bad deal it appears to be in 2008. Almost as bad as it was at the time. I wrote about how hot young Ricky was a little over a week ago, and in the two starts since he's been even sicker ... now the season totals put him in must-start every game territory: 10 wins, 3.74 ERA, 82/29 K/BB.

Check that waiver wire, or possibly start working the trading block. These guys are the new studs on the block.

New Studs: Three Young, Live Arms originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Troy Tulowitzki Headed to the DL, No Word on Anger Management Classes

Will Brinson — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 22:45:00 EST

Filed under: Denver, Rockies, NL West, MLB Injuries, Fantasy MLB

What's more popular than stupid baseball injuries? Nothing, really, unless you count baseballs to the groin, which aren't really enjoyable. Add Troy Tulowitzki to the list of players who have hurt themselves doing something stupid, as the Colorado Rockies shortstop is headed to the disabled list after hurting his hand while slamming a baseball bat in frustration.

After being taken out in the seventh inning as part of a double switch, Tulowitzki walked down to the dugout hallway and smashed a bat to the ground in frustration. The bat cracked in his right hand, causing a laceration that stretched from his palm to his index finger.

"I'm obviously sorry to my teammates because I feel like I'm letting them down more than anything, [and] the organization," Tulowitzki said. "Hopefully, it's not too long before I'm back out there, but it's hard to take."

Doh. That's why ... you never slam a baseball bat to the ground in frustration. They are, after all, still made of deadly, sharp and splinterable wood. And yes, palm --> index finger laceration does not sound particularly enjoyable either.

Tulo's injury kind of sums up the Rockies season pretty well though. Chock full of potential and expectations, only to be painfully overhyped once we realized what was going on.

Fantasy Spin: Tulo will hopefully only be out for a few weeks, but this kind of laceration seems like the type of thing that could end up really bugging him down the stretch, given that "hand" is one of those things that is generally considered useful when fielding a baseball and/or batting.

Troy Tulowitzki Headed to the DL, No Word on Anger Management Classes originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 06 Jul 2008 22:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cheap Yard Work: Need Some Outfielding Help? Here ...

Matt Snyder — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST

Filed under: MLB Locking Your Lineup, Fantasy MLB

Cheap Yard Work helps you pick out likely free agents in your league that have been raking over the past week.

Andre Ethier, Dodgers, OF
7 day stats: .357/.400/.821, 3 HR, 6 RBI, 8 R, 4 2B
Wow, he's never hit for much power, but he's upped his season total to ten. Strike while the iron is hot, as he will stay in the middle of the Dodgers lineup and continue to get the RBI opportunities.

Ryan Spillborghs, Rocks, OF
7 day stats: .421/.500/.895, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 8 R, SB, 3 2B
The 2-HR game was a mirage, but he did hit 11 last year in only 264 at-bats. In fact, all he's ever done with regular ABs is produce. His career OBP is .371, so the odds are good that the Rockies leave him atop the lineup for an extended stay. He'll steal bases and score runs without hurting your average and drop in occasional power stats. A very solid pickup right now in most leagues.

Cody Ross, Marlins, OF
7 day stats: .482/.517/.704, HR, 10 RBI, 7 R, 3 2B
Okay, so Coors Field inflated the stat line a bit ... he's still got 14 total bombs this season, and that bears watching in nearly every fantasy league at the midway point.

~~Elijah Dukes, Nats, OF~~
He's on fire ... NOOOOOOO!!!! He's out for four to six weeks. Right in the middle of a hot streak. That sucks.

Specific lineup questions? Hit us up via email.

Cheap Yard Work: Need Some Outfielding Help? Here ... originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 06 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spot Jobs: Josh Johnson in Position for Quality Return Start

Matt Snyder — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 21:15:00 EST

Filed under: MLB Locking Your Lineup, Fantasy MLB

Spot Jobs gambles by picking five spot starters for the week and five usual starters to avoid. The success rate is usually around 50%, but the risk level is always through the roof. Obviously, though, you always start Brandon Webb (when healthy) and sit Dave Bush.

Five Up

Josh Johnson, Marlins, @SD -- It's been a long time since Johnson pitched in the majors. He will again this week, though. Back in 2006 Johnson compiled a 3.10 ERA and 1.30 WHIP to go with his 12-7 record. He also punched out 133 hitters in 157 innings. This week he gets to re-join his Marlins teammates in the pitcher's paradise that is Dodger Stadium.

Justin Verlander, Tigers, vs. Tribe -- He's been a colossal disappointment this year, but he's starting to turn the corner just as the offense has awakened ... and the Indians can't hit.

Jeremy Guthrie, O's, @ Toronto -- He's maddeningly inconsistent, but is dazzling when he's on, which means you have to play matchups. The Jays are towards the bottom in most AL offensive categories, so this one fits the bill.

Jo-Jo Reyes, Braves, @ SD -- Talented, young pitcher looking for his way? Enter spacious Petco Park and the Padres putrid offense (Adrian Gozalez excepted, obviously).

Sean Marshall, Cubs, vs. Giants -- Cubs like to play at home. Giants hit .265 on the road. Marshall just dealt against the Cards on the road. All signs point to "yes" here.

Five Down

Erik Bedard, M's, @ A's -- There are grumblings he's not healthy. If you have a studly staff you can afford to sit him while it gets sorted out. This is only in shallow leagues with other very solid options, though. I wouldn't sit him in favor of Sean Marshall, for example.

Kevin Slowey, Twins, @ DET -- Four straight wins will garner anyone's attention, but he got knocked around a bit by the Indians last time out and this time it's the hot-hitting Tigers.

Armando Galarraga, Tigers, vs. Minny -- By the same token, the Twins can hit, too ...

Braden Looper, Cards, @ Philly -- He's not good enough to keep winning games like this, and heading to the City of Brotherly Love and facing the prodigious Philly batting order isn't fun for anyone.

Randy Johnson, DBacks, @ Philly -- Seriously, the Padres offense sucks. Shutting them down doesn't mean he's still good. He's done, stop starting him.

Specific lineup questions? Hit us up via email.

Spot Jobs: Josh Johnson in Position for Quality Return Start originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 06 Jul 2008 21:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nothin' But a Good Time in Milwaukee: Report Says Brewers to Trade for Sabathia

Will Brinson — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 19:25:00 EST

Filed under: Cleveland, Indians, Brewers, MLB Rumors, Milwaukee, MLB Transactions, Fantasy MLB

The Brewers apparently don't feel content walking down the Cubs in regular fashion (they are only 3 1/2 games back) and have instead decided, according to Tom Haudricourt's Brewers Blog at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, to trade for C.C. Sabathia.

I just was told by a reliable club source that the Brewers have a deal in place with Cleveland for left-hander C.C. Sabathia, contingent on the paperwork being done and medical records exchanged.

But believe me, folks, that's a deal. All that other stuff is formality.

All I know so far is that top prospect Matt LaPorta is in the deal. I was told two lower-level minor leaguers also are included. The Brewers refused to include another top prospect such as Alcides Escobar or Mat Gamel.

Obviously this is huge news; Sabathia has been the primary name mentioned in all major trade talks over the past few months. Word had not-so-quietly leaked that the Indians were willing to concede this season in the AL Central and look to acquire young talent in exchange for the free agent to be. LaPorta fills that need as he ranks at the top of the Brewers farm system and could be an impact player in Cleveland in the near future. More details as the facts surrounding the trade get released.

It looks, at first blush, like a good deal for both teams -- the Indians get a blue chipper in return for their best pitcher, while the Brewers get to rent an ace for the remainder of the season.

Fantasy Spin: LaPorta is a very nice add in AL only leagues because he could get a chance to play immediately at the big league level. Sabathia -- the MLB strikeout leader -- shouldn't see much change in value from Cleveland to Milwaukee, although playing for a better team and slotting in as the number two starter could give him a higher win rate.

Nothin' But a Good Time in Milwaukee: Report Says Brewers to Trade for Sabathia originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 06 Jul 2008 19:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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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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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Cheap Yard Work: Get Lind While You Can

Matt Snyder — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:15:00 EST

Filed under: MLB Locking Your Lineup, Fantasy MLB

Cheap Yard Work helps you pick out likely free agents in your league that have been raking over the past week.

Adam Lind, Jays, OF
7 day stats: .250/.304/.550, 2 HR, 5 RBI
I've been high on Lind for a while. As a 22 year-old in 2006 he hit .330 with 24 bombs and 89 RBI in 125 minor league games. So that's why. He only hit .238 in 290 at-bats with the big club last year during his first extended big league stay, and he was atrocious earlier this season for a short stint before being promptly returned to the farm. Still, he's only 24 and has done nothing but mash in the minors. One of these times he's going to stick and be a productive major leaguer. For right now ... he didn't even have a huge week, but he still would have been helpful in most leagues with those stats. Plus, the Jays are going through a transition period with the new manager and all. They currently sit in last and I can't reasonably think they'll finish higher than fourth. Why not let him play into big league form at this age?

If you have the room to add him, you might as well try.

Ross Gload, Royals, 1B
7 day stats: .500/.565/.800, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 7 R, 1/3 K/BB, 3 2B
He'd been pathetic all season (.234/.271/.266, 0 HR, 9 RBI) until this past week. Might as well use him while you can in deep AL-Only leagues where you have injury issues (if you own Paul Konerko, for example). Four games in Baltimore shouldn't create terribly tough pitching matchups.

Joe Inglett, Jays, 2B/3B
7 day stats: .417/.482/.583, 1 HR, 5 RBI, 5 R
New manager, clean slate. Cito Gaston is wanting to be impressed, and Inglett is doing so. He has the chance to stick as the everyday 2B until Aaron Hill returns from the DL ... and as we've seen with Ryan Church, it's tough to predict when you can return from a head injury.

Jason Kubel, Twins, OF
7 day stats: .300/.400/.650, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 6 R, 2/4 K/BB
Michael Cuddyer is on the DL, so Kubel's gonna play everyday for at least the next two weeks no matter what. He played most days anyway and quietly is on pace for a 24 HR season. Definitely worth a look if you have OF issues.

Cheap Yard Work: Get Lind While You Can originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spot Jobs: Big Z Is Back, Sit Johan?

Matt Snyder — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:45:00 EST

Filed under: MLB Locking Your Lineup, Fantasy MLB

Spot Jobs gambles by picking five spot starters for the week and five usual starters to avoid. The success rate is usually around 50%, but the risk level is always through the roof. Obviously, though, you always start Brandon Webb (when healthy) and sit Dave Bush.

Five Up
Carlos Zambrano, Cubs, @STL -- Yeah, so he's an obvious name. I just wanted to take the opportunity to make sure you get him active for this upcoming scoring period, because he's going to be off the DL in time to make a Friday start against the rival Cardinals. He'll be fired up and raring to go.

Eddie Bonine, Tigers, @Minny -- The Tigers aren't losing the way many thought they wouldn't lose. Ride the unknowns in deeper AL-Only leagues while they're hot!

Ricky Nolasco, Marlins, vs. Nats -- Last ten starts? 7-1, 3.06, and 52/18 K/BB ... and that includes one stinker (12 hits and seven earned runs against the Braves on June 5th). Plus, he's facing the Nats offense. Big-time must-start here.

Garrett Olson, O's, vs. Royals -- Getting the Royals at home is never a bad thing, unless you play in the NL. Olson doesn't.

Johnny Cueto, Reds, vs. Nats -- I hate to pick on the Nats, but when someone has the stuff Cueto does and gets to face a futile offense, you gotta get him in there.

Five Down

Matt Garza, Rays, vs. Red Sox -- He's coming off an absolutely stellar outing and currently sits with a 3.76 ERA. He's also been a tad bit fickle and faces a Red Sox team that could go off at any moment.

Cliff Lee, Indians, @ChiSox -- He hasn't slowed down yet, as we thought he was starting to do with the two less than quality outings about a month ago. Still, if you really think he's going 22-2 with a 2.33 ERA (his current pace) you're crazy. Plus, the White Sox love to hit the longball at home.

Manny Parra, Brewers, @DBacks -- He's in the middle of a great stretch, and the DBacks aren't. Still, the opposing hurler is Brandon Webb, so the margin for error will be quite small.

Johan Santana, Mets, @ Philly -- WHAAAAAAT??? I know, I know ... you can't sit him. I'm simply saying that I have a feeling the Phils knock him around a bit more than he's accustomed to.

Justin Duchscherer, A's, @ChiSox -- In the same vein of my comments on Lee, Duch is just too fuego right now. He can't keep up the 1.91 ERA or 0.92 WHIP ... and the Sox rake at home.

Spot Jobs: Big Z Is Back, Sit Johan? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:45:00 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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The Large, Old, Injured, Ill-Tempered, and Unknown: State of the Yankee Rotation

Matt Snyder — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Injury Report, Fantasy MLB, MLB Waiver Wire

I'm sure this is the way Joe Girardi and Brian Cashman drew it up coming into the season. The last turn through the Yankees rotation went like this: Mike Mussina, Dan Giese, Andy Pettitte, Darrell Rasner, and Joba Chamberlain.

Ok, so Mussina and Pettitte: check. Joba? Wasn't he supposed to be setting up? Instead Yanks fans get treated to a rousing rendition of Kyle Farnsworth in the 8th ... woo hoo! Rasner was an uninspiring injury replacement last year, and who the heck is Dan Giese? Sidney Ponson is next to the party. You remember him, right? He's the fat dude pictured here who got kicked off the Rangers for being a royal pain in the arse and enjoys driving after a few pops.

Injuries got them here.

The major issue is Chien Ming-Wang's foot injury -- because the NL hasn't grown up.

Ian Kennedy is on his way back from injury and threw impressively -- seven K in three shutout innings -- in a rehab start last Monday.

Finally, Carl Pavano is apparently closer to a MLB return than Phil Hughes.

Whaddaya say we fantasy spin it up for each dude after the jump ...

Here's what we can expect from here on out:

Mike Mussina -- Apparently he listened to Hank, because he's made the necessary adjustments to succeed as an old dude. He's actually on pace for 20 wins. Expect more like 17, but he should remain along this same path -- low strikeouts, high hits, and wins.

Andy Pettitte -- For a guy that's only 36 and has always been a finesse pitcher, you wouldn't expect him to slow down too considerably. He's been a tad bit consistent, and you can expect a similar final line to last season (15-9, 4.05, 141 K).

Joba Chamberlain -- He's finding his groove, and last Wednesday he collected his first career victory as a starting pitcher. Expect a lot more, starting with eight more this season. In his last three starts, he rocks a 0.98 ERA in 18 1/3 innings. As the season progresses he'll be able to work later in the game, and he's punched out 16 guys in the last two games. By August he's a strikeout-per-inning guy with shutout stuff nearly every start. Plus, he won't break down because he became a starter well into the season. He should never be benched from here on out.

Darrell Rasner -- Since a dazzling start (3-0, 1.89, 11/2 K/BB), he's fallen apart. In his last five starts, Razzy (doesn't work? ok, sorry) is 1-4 with a 7.00 ERA. He figures to be the one left out when the fat man joins, which means he's dead to you.

Dan Giese -- He handcuffed the Reds in his first career MLB start, and overall sports a 3.50 ERA. The thing is, he's 31 and just now made it to the bigs. He's always been good, but never great, in the minors. He does, however, strike out nearly a batter per inning. On the flip side, if Ponson sticks, Giese is only in the rotation until Kennedy returns. Use him only in deep AL-only leagues or as a short-term fix.

Sidney Ponson -- It's tough to trust him, but as of right now he actually looks like a good fantasy option moving forward. The Yanks will keep his personality in check, his run support should remain nice, his ballpark is now more pitcher friendly, and he was throwing the ball really well for Texas.

Ian Kennedy -- I mentioned Kennedy's rehab start earlier, which is a great sign. The 23-year-old was awful earlier in the season, but things are different in the Bronx now. His career minor league numbers are 14-3 with a 1.79 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, and a 180/52 K/BB in 160 innings. He's ready this time, and is a big-time second half sleeper. Stash him immediately.

Carl Pavano -- I don't care if he comes back before Hughes. There are enough other options. Don't waste your time.

Phil Hughes -- Sounds like the Yanks are thinking late-August. If Kennedy and Ponson work out behind the top three on this list there won't be any reason to rush the young stud. He's a stashee in large leagues, but can be ignored for a while in shallower ones.

Chien Ming-Wang -- He's gotta be stashed. If he's sitting on your waiver wire, get him now. He'll be back in September to join a hotly contested pennant race. One in which I predict the Yanks outduel the Rays for the AL Wild Card.

The Large, Old, Injured, Ill-Tempered, and Unknown: State of the Yankee Rotation originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brandon Webb Blaming His Slump on Contract Negotiations

Will Brinson — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:35:00 EST

Filed under: Phoenix, Diamondbacks, NL West, MLB Rumors, MLB Biz, Fantasy MLB

Brandon Webb is still on pace for 23 wins, which is absolutely ridiculous, considering he's scuffled his way to losses in four of his last seven starts. Obviously he wasn't going to go 118-0, or whatever he started out heading towards, but he should still have a really good, Cy-Young-worthy season.

And it seems, based on what Webb is saying, that he could be due for a drastic improvement, now that negotiations for a contract extension have been called off. Because these negotiations, which have been going on since Spring Training, were clearly just killing him.

'It's off my mind now,' Webb said. 'It's not something I'm thinking about. I'm just going to go out there and pitch; we're still talking about 2 1/2 years here. Yeah, I was very disappointed that we didn't get it done, but I'm moving on from that. I've got a responsibility to pitch for these guys in here and for the fans.'

Yes. Yes, you do, Brandon. And you also have a responsibility to get my fantasy team off the schnide. I tend to side with Bob Melvin on this one when he points out that "it's not like he hasn't pitched in games with that out there" already this year.

I understand the point that continued discussion of the extension finally just wore on him, but come on. It seems like a pretty feeble excuse.

Fantasy Spin: Webb is actually a pretty good buy low right now. There has been discussion about his "dead arm" and his continued struggles over the past four starts might make his owner think injury. Now there's a possibility that there is an injury, but Webb has too much upside not to make him worth the risk.

Brandon Webb Blaming His Slump on Contract Negotiations originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:35:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mark Mulder to Start Saturday?

Matt Snyder — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:28:00 EST

Filed under: Cardinals, NL Central, MLB Injuries, Injury Report, Fantasy MLB, MLB Waiver Wire

This is news I didn't think I'd be reporting this season, and it's most certainly something I didn't think would happen in June. This is nothing short of miraculous. After all the setbacks Mark Mulder has experienced, he might start this weekend in Kansas City for the Cardinals. As reported in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch:

Tonight's outing is considered a tuneup more than a full-blown start, suggesting the Cardinals have made a decision but will wait to see how Mulder exits the appearance before confirming his return to the major leagues.

"It depends on how it goes. We're not really putting a day on it," general manager John Mozeliak said.

Asked when Mulder would start, Mozeliak said, "We'll know that by Tuesday."

So he's going tonight for Triple-A Memphis, and unless his arm falls off he could be inserted into the rotation? After everything that we've been reading up to this point, it's an absolutely stunning revelation. I'm still skeptical that he's physically okay. I mean, just a month ago we thought he'd never pitch again because they had no idea what was wrong with the shoulder. Now he's ready to pitch in the bigs? C'mon.

Fantasy Spin: Don't bother. There's no way he'll hold up over the course of the season. Even if he somehow does, he's been completely ineffective in triple-A, compiling a 13.50 ERA in 13 1/3 innings of work. He's only punched out eight, while he's allowed 28 hits en route to a horrifying 2.48 WHIP. If that's what the minor leaguers were doing the major leaguers (yes, even the Royals) will tattoo him.

Mark Mulder to Start Saturday? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:28:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Two Start Pitchers: Leave Gorz Alone

Matt Snyder — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:44:00 EST

Filed under: MLB Locking Your Lineup, Fantasy MLB

Remember when Tom Gorzelanny was a burgeoning fantasy stud last year? He worked over 200 innings, garnering 14 wins for a sorry Pirates squad and compiling an ERA of 3.88. He only walked 68 batters. This year he's already walked 50, in only 71 innings. The ERA is particularly gross at 6.59. His three starts of less than three innings probably didn't help matters, but he's been consistently bad. Well, this week he gets to screw you over twice in fantasyland ... against the Yankees and Rays no less. Don't let that happen. He's last in my two-start rankings, behind Eric Hurley. Who? Exactly ...

Other notes:

- Gotta love Sean Marshall's chance for a great outing against the O's at home, but he will likely have trouble on the South Side of town for his second start.

- Aaron Laffey gets two lackluster teams at home this week, so he's a quality option.
- Good sleeper for the week: Joe Blanton. He's been struggling all season, but he gets the Phillies (2-7 against the AL) and Giants at home. It's now or never for salvaging a quality campaign.

Pitcher	Team	First Start	Second Start
Jake Peavy	SD	MIN	SEA
Johan Santana	NYM	SEA	NYY
Josh Beckett	BOS	ARI	at HOU
John Lackey	LAA	at WAS	at LAD

Ben Sheets	MIL	at ATL	at MIN
Dan Haren	ARI	at BOS	at FLA
Felix Hernandez	SEA	at NYM	at SD
Derek Lowe	LAD	CHW	LAA
Jonathan Sanchez	SF	at CLE	at OAK
Mark Buehrle	CHW	at LAD	CHC
A.J. Burnett	TOR	CIN	ATL
Aaron Laffey	CLE	SF	CIN
Jeremy Guthrie	BAL	at CHC	at WAS
Sean Marshall	CHC	BAL	at CHW
Andy Sonnanstine	TB	at FLA	at PIT
Scott Olsen	FLA	TB	ARI
Jeff Francis	COL	at KC	at DET
Oliver Perez	NYM	SEA	NYY
Braden Looper	STL	at DET	at KC
Joe Blanton	OAK	PHI	SF
Darrell Rasner	NYY	at PIT	at NYM
Bronson Arroyo	CIN	at TOR	at CLE
Kenny Rogers	DET	STL	COL
Brian Bannister	KC	COL	STL
Jo-Jo Reyes	ATL	MIL	at TOR
Kevin Slowey	MIN	at SD	MIL
Jamie Moyer	PHI	at OAK	at TEX
Brian Moehler	HOU	TEX	BOS
Jason Bergmann	WAS	LAA	BAL
Eric Hurley	TEX	at HOU	PHI
Tom Gorzelanny	PIT	NYY	TB

Two Start Pitchers: Leave Gorz Alone originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:44:00 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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Spot Jobs: Big Unit Done, Mad Dog Not

Matt Snyder — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:54:00 EST

Filed under: MLB Locking Your Lineup, Fantasy MLB

Spot Jobs gambles by picking five spot starters for the week and five usual starters to avoid. The success rate is usually around 50%, but the risk level is always through the roof. Obviously, though, you always start Brandon Webb (when healthy) and sit Dave Bush.

Five Down

Randy Johnson, DBacks, @ Boston -- As I assumed would happen when he was going well, he's in the middle of a free-fall. He's done. I wouldn't start him again the rest of the season anyway, but getting the Red Sox in Fenway is a rough task for anyone. Do not let him destroy your ERA and WHIP just for a few Ks.

Roy Oswalt, Astros, vs. Rangers -- I don't trust him anymore, and the Rangers lead the majors in runs scored. He's already disappeared from "must-start" territory, so why would you let him go against a team that mashes like Josh Hamilton, Ian Kinsler, Milton Bradley, and company?

Daisuke Matsuzaka, Red Sox, @ Houston -- That last debacle of a start was enough to scare me temporarily, and the Astros definitely have the potential to take advantage of mistakes in that park. I like him for one sit and then he's back to a must-start.

Scott Kazmir, Rays, @ Pitt -- Gut feeling here. The Pirates are a pretty underrated offensive team (4th in NL in runs).

Livan Hernandez, Twins, vs. Brewers -- You shouldn't really rely on him anyway, but the Brewers are scorching hot right now -- just overshadowed by the Cubs in their own division.

Five Up

Sean Gallagher, Cubs, vs. O's -- He hasn't given up more than three earned runs in a start since May 21st, but he hasn't been receiving much run support. Well, his last three starts were on the road, and this one is at home. The Cubs rake at home. The kid's gonna get a win, give up less than three runs, and punch out around five.

Jeremy Sowers, Tribe, vs. Giants -- Dude, the Giants just used up a week's ration of scoring on Sunday in the first five innings ... and they still lost. Sowers has always dealt in the minors and had problems -- for the most part -- in the bigs. You might call him a "quadruple-A" player. Well, the Giants' offense most certainly fits that bill on their own. This game should be in Sowers' wheelhouse!

Greg Maddux, Pads, vs. Twins -- Did you know Maddux sports a 3.17 ERA? He's quietly been quite studly despite the criminally low run support he receives en route to his 3-5 record. The Twins are not familiar with him at all, but you can bet he's seen enough video on them to get the job done. Plus, it's tough to hit in Petco, and Twins have never been there.

Gil Meche, Royals, vs. Cards -- He's got three straight quality starts, and he doesn't have to deal with Phat Albert . That's good enough for me.

Wandy Rodriguez, Astros, vs. Red Sox -- Yeah, the Sawks have a stellar offense, but Wandy's been Cy Young for the past two seasons at home for some reason. Also, I picked Dice-K to "wet the bed" (right Kobe?), so this pick is the perfect balance.

Spot Jobs: Big Unit Done, Mad Dog Not originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:54:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cheap Yard Work: Russell Branyan Really Wants You to Notice Him

Matt Snyder — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 22:47:00 EST

Filed under: MLB Locking Your Lineup, Fantasy MLB

Cheap Yard Work helps you pick out likely free agents in your league that have been raking over the past week.

Russell Branyan, 3B, Brewers
7 day stats: .315/.381/.842, 3 HR, 7 RBI
Seriously, how many times have we done this dance? Russell Branyan hits home runs. He always has, and, as long as he remains employed, he always will. He's also downright terrible at everything else and strikes out at a higher frequency than Ryan Howard. Right now, though, he's on another level. Ten bombs in only 70 at-bats this year is insane. You might as well take a flier with the chance he doesn't wake up and remember he's an extremely poor-man's Rob Deer by the end of this week.

Willy Taveras, OF, Rocks
7 day stats: .345/.387/.414, 6 SB, 9 R
Another "you know what you're gonna get" guy that's hot right now. Taveras is arguably the best base stealer in the league. The problem is that you can't steal first base and he's OBP challenged (.334 career). As long as he's getting on base like he is now, ride the wave -- soaking in the steals and runs.

Ramon Vazquez, 3B, Rangers
7 day stats: .333/.417/.524, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 6 R
He's never gotten consistent playing time because he's never earned it. A journeyman with more minor league than major league service time. He's taking full advantage of the Hank Blalock injury (who could return this week, so monitor the situation before picking up Vazquez) and is giving the Rangers the chance to make Blalock take his sweet ol' time. The Rangers are a scoring machine, and as long as Vazquez gets the playing time this week he'll be a part of it.

Cheap Yard Work: Russell Branyan Really Wants You to Notice Him originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 22:47:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rick Peterson Might Not Be Unemployed Long

Will Brinson — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 01:45:00 EST

Filed under: Giants, NL West, MLB Rumors, San Francisco, Fantasy MLB

You clearly heard about all the drama surrounding Willie Randolph and the ~~wrongful axing~~ peaceful separation of the Mets organization and most of its coaching staff. One of the men without a job is Rick Peterson, the former pitching coach. But Peterson might not be out on the streets for too lengthy a time.

This is because a previous stop on his resume -- Oaktown. Namely because of a certain pitcher he coached there.

However, when asked what type of relationship they had, Zito noted that as far back as college, he and his family hired Peterson for private coaching. When the A's drafted Zito, Peterson was their pitching coach.

"I had success from the start there in Oakland," Zito said. "There's a lot to be said for your first coach in the big leagues, too. He moved me on the mound and did something also with my hands, stuff like that, stuff I still do today."

Now, this is primarily speculation, as noted by a no comment from Zito. However, it does make a ton of sense. The likely move -- because clearly Dave Righetti is doing a good job -- would be to pay Peterson to coach Zito, and Zito only.

And if that seems like too excessive a move to you, then you haven't been following the disaster that is Barry Zito's 2008 season. And you forgot he won a Cy Young award with Peterson.

Fantasy Spin: I'm going to do something stupid here and suggest you take a flier on Zito. I don't think he has "it" (meaning "the ability to pitch well") anymore, but if anyone can get it back for him, it sure seems like Peterson. Obviously the dominoes have to fall right, but it's a pretty decent gamble if you have the bench room.

Rick Peterson Might Not Be Unemployed Long originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 01:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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