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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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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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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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Micah Owings Is Doing All He Can to Shatter Hank Steinbrenner's Dreams

Will Brinson — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 01:15:00 EST

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

One has to imagine that Micah Owings and the Arizona Diamondbacks take umbrage to Hank Steinbrenner's ludicrous rants about the National League needing to "grow up" and embrace the Designated Hitter rule.

After all, Owings has a career batting average of .302 and a career OPS of .890. Sure it's only 102 at bats, but he's also got five homers. All of which have garnered some really ridiculous comparisons, and maybe landed him a spot as the Snakes DH during interleague play.

"It's always an option," Melvin said.

Known just as much for his work with the bat, last season Owings won the Silver Slugger Award at the pitcher's position. Owings has slumped at the plate recently, but still owns a .302 career batting average with five homers and 18 RBIs in 102 at-bats.

"It's just not his best stretch going for him," Melvin said. "We'll monitor it going forward."

Yeah, what are you gonna do when one of your pitchers, who bats generally every fifth day, is in a slump. And how do you even know it's a slump with that much time off -- the guy's not supposed to be taterjackin' every time he gets to the plate.

He's had success though, and with Eric Byrnes hurt, it's entirely possible that Owings will bat full time. Of course, with Chad Tracy, Mark Reynolds and Conor Jackson all available it seems like kind of a silly thing to do.

Fantasy Spin: Unless your league counts pitcher batting stats -- unlikely -- you're best to only start Owings when he heads to the mound. Although, if he does play DH, it's possible he could pick up eligibility there, which would be at least interesting on days he pitched for roster movement.

Micah Owings Is Doing All He Can to Shatter Hank Steinbrenner's Dreams originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 01:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brandon Webb Should Totally Be Fine, But That 'Dead Arm' Thing Is a Little Troublesome

Will Brinson — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST

Filed under: Phoenix, Diamondbacks, NL West, MLB Injuries, MLB Rumors, Injury Report, Fantasy MLB

That's right, Mr. Diamondback fan, you can leave Mr. Cub fan out on the ledge and step on inside. It would seem, at second glance, that Brandon Webb is going to be just fine. We hope. At least it does not seem like the line drive he took off the sternum is going to be the problem.

"He felt it a little bit, but at that point, the way we had been riding him, I didn't want to run him out there for two more innings and get his pitch counts up," Melvin said. "Innings-wise he's pitched quite a bit for us. Just wanted to give him a little blow."

Melvin pulled Webb (likely "just being cautious" as Mullet said) after he took a "line drive off his belt in the fifth."

Good for freaking you, Bob Melvin. Now, which session of your Managing for Dummies Summer School do you have Ned Yost signed up for again?

Because, really, the sooner the better for him. But despite solid bench work, there's still something a little troubling about the decision, if only because it unveils some potential arm issues.

Webb said his velocity has been down in recent starts and allowed for the possibility that he might be experiencing a "dead arm," in which everything feels healthy and sound but the ball doesn't come out of his hand in the usual manner.

"Yeah, it doesn't hurt," he said. "Maybe a dead-arm period or something like that. Like I said, it doesn't hurt, so it's tough to tell. Everything feels good."

Now for all my medical wisdom, I believe that "dead arm" is not something other than just being tired, no? Which means a little extra rest should actually prevent further injury. So consider the non-fatal liner actually a good thing.

You know, if you're into that sort of pink-cloud/optimism type thing.

Fantasy Spin: I'll admit. I totally and utterly freaked when I saw that Webb left the game after 58 pitches (and wasn't watching so I was confused to boot.) My initial reaction was "okayquickwhocanItradeWebbto?!?!?!" or some variation of that. But the reality is that Webb -- freakiness like last night's liner back to the mound aside -- is one of the healthiest and best fantasy pitching options available.

Because he's been hit recently, both in the box score and on the belt, Webb might actually be a nice trade target right now. I wouldn't trade him for any other pitcher in baseball, honestly (maybe Cole Hamels but I m-crush him), but that doesn't mean someone else won't. Inquire about him now while he's got the red cross hanging out by his name.

Brandon Webb Should Totally Be Fine, But That 'Dead Arm' Thing Is a Little Troublesome originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Matt Holliday Set to Return Tuesday

Will Brinson — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 13:45:00 EST

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

Things are not looking "good" for the Colorado Rockies, but they are certainly not as bleak as they were a few days ago. That's what the return of a few disabled players will do for you. And given that, the Rockies should be in pretty good spirits come Tuesday night, when Matt Holliday plans on making his return from the disabled list.

A left hamstring strain on May 24 forced Holliday to the disabled list, but after three games at Triple-A Colorado Springs he is ready to return. Holliday is slated to return Tuesday for the opener of a three-game set against the Giants at Coors Field.

He finished his stint on Sunday by hitting a home run in his first at-bat and going 2-for-4 in the Sky Sox's 6-3 loss to Salt Lake City. In three games, Holliday was 6-for-10 with a home run, a double and three RBIs during his rehab.

Holliday is clearly the most important player in the Rockies lineup; his home/road splits aside (he's average outside of Coors) he is still their MVP candidate and all world masher. While trade talks have been discussed, it seems unlikely that Holliday will get shipped out just yet.

The chance the Rockies actually make the postseason are pretty slim, but one has to think as long as a chance is there, Holliday will remain in a Colorado uniform. Oh, and everyone knows about his splits too. Which doesn't help his trade value.

Fantasy Spin: Get Holliday active tomorrow morning, obviously. The guy's a masher and a homestand against the Giants is a pretty nice welcome back present. On the other hand, if/when he comes off hot, you should go ahead and shop him, given the aforementioned splits. If he gets dealt this season, his value takes a hit.

Matt Holliday Set to Return Tuesday originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 13:45:00 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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Holy Positional Eligibility Speculation, Batman -- Evan Longoria to Shortstop?

Will Brinson — Thu, 29 May 2008 14:20:00 EST

Filed under: Rays, AL East, MLB Rumors, Tampa Bay, Fantasy MLB

The idea that Evan Longoria would be eligible at shortstop in fantasy leagues is almost too exciting to fathom. And certainly, if that became the case, he would be far more valuable than your normal, everyday Aubrey Huff three bagger (which I think he already is, based on upside alone). But naturally, this is mostly speculation, although it is certainly fun to think about, and quasi-realistic.

The Rays could send [Ben] Zobrist back to Durham and lean on Evan Longoria to spell Bartlett when needed. Longoria played shortstop full-time in 2004 at Rio Hondo Junior College and got about 20 starts there the following season at Long Beach State while starter Troy Tulowitzki was injured.

On Tuesday, Longoria said the Rays haven't asked him about playing shortstop in a pinch, but he said he thinks he could handle the job.

'It's obviously a different position, a little bit different role to fill," he said, "but with some work I don't think that I would have that much trouble adjusting to that position.'

Now again, speculation. So don't do anything silly like trading your still-injured Rafael Furcal for the youngster (unless you're in a keeper league, in which case you want Longoria anyway) because Tampa Bay has not come out and mentioned anything specific, insofar as I know. (Or mentioned calling up Reid Brignac for that matter ... )

But this is something certainly worth considering, especially if you have a roster spot open on your bench and Longoria is somehow out there, or you have an owner who is looking to upgrade elsewhere. Granted, it's not the premium time to trade for Evan, considering his recent heat check, but if the Rays actually follow through, you will probably want to try and make a move.

H/T: Behrens

Holy Positional Eligibility Speculation, Batman -- Evan Longoria to Shortstop? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 29 May 2008 14:20:00 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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Doug Davis Returns to the Rotation, Scherzer Getting Bumped

Will Brinson — Wed, 21 May 2008 11:15:00 EST

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

The news that Doug Davis is set to return to the Arizona rotation on Friday, is one of the best baseball stories of the year. It is alsowhy you sell high on your fake baseball teams (Max Scherzer is the odd man here).

Of course, Scherzer is still talented and will most likely get a look in the rotation at some point, but for now, he is most likely bullpen bound (although he could be headed to AAA). And he is headed that way because Davis is making a return from a battle against cancer.

'I definitely feel like I'm ready to come back and help out,' Davis said.

Davis threw 94 pitches in his second and final rehab start Sunday for Triple-A Tucson, allowing two runs in five innings and coming away with a feel for all his pitches.

'Everything went good,' he said. 'My cutter was there, my curveball, my change-up.'

Melvin said Davis would replace rookie Max Scherzer in the rotation. But with the official transaction a few days away, Melvin wouldn't tip his hand as to whose spot Davis would take on the roster.

There is little question that putting Davis in and pulling Scherzer out is the right move; Arizona already knows Mad Max is on a season long pitch count. The question is whether they want to keep him in the 'pen or attempt to groom him further as a starter in Tuscon.

My vote would be the bullpen. Plenty of starters and starters in waiting have pitched out of the pen and by leaving him there, he would face a stiffer level of competition, having already dominated as a starter at AAA.

Fantasy Spin: Davis is a nice add, although mostly an innings eater. If you like karma, he's especially nice. Scherzer is still a hold though -- Randy Johnson is injury prone -- and actually a buy low again, as he will likely be starting at the end of the season (one man's opinion anyway).

Doug Davis Returns to the Rotation, Scherzer Getting Bumped originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 21 May 2008 11:15:00 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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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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Heeeee's Ba-ack: Zito Returns to the Rotation

Will Brinson — Wed, 07 May 2008 01:00:00 EST

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

Barry Zito was "banished" to the bullpen for all of ... exactly zero outings? Yup. Zito pitched so embarrassingly bad as a starter for the San Francisco Giants (in case you haven't been following his season, just think about what that says) that Bruce Bochy decided to move him into the bullpen.

There seem to be all kinds of quasi-contradictory reasons for why Zito is coming back to the rotation, with the bottom line being that Bochy's got a $120 million starter on his hands, and management wants him pitching. And not stinking.

The Giants were going to need a fifth starter by Saturday and decided to have Zito pitch Wednesday, manager Bruce Bochy said, not only to balance the rotation but to ensure the left-hander does not go too long without pitching.

[...]Barry's going to start. He's a starter," Bochy said. "We felt we had to break it up and give him a break. We were hoping we cold get him out there (in relief) a couple of times. Now, that didn't happen, so he's going back into the rotation."

It's fairly obvious (although unsaid, as the Chron points out) that the Giants want Zito to conveniently avoid having to pitch against the Phillies, instead getting to toss against the Pirates and away from San Francisco, where he is apparently not very popular. Because, you know, he's been embarrassingly bad.

The Giants are going to keep preaching "confidence" and other junk like that, but the fact is Zito doesn't have the same stuff he used to win the Cy Young. And unless something magical or dramatic (or magically dramatic) happens, they're going to end up eating -- one way or another -- one of the worst contracts in the history of baseball.

Fantasy Spin: Don't be a sucker, sucka. Leave Zito alone.

Heeeee's Ba-ack: Zito Returns to the Rotation originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 07 May 2008 01:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Troy Tulowitzki Out Until at Least After the All Star Break

Will Brinson — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:00:00 EST

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

The recent news that Rockies young superstar Troy Tulowitzki will hit the disabled list just got a lot worse. Doctors realized today that the tear in Tulowitzki's right quadriceps is going to keep him out much longer than the originally prognosticated two weeks, according to a statement from his agent.

'Best case scenario is six weeks. The realistic one is a few months,' agent Paul Cohen told The Associated Press on Thursday. 'We're hoping it's a couple months, but we won't know until they do further medical tests.'

Cohen said team doctors will have a better feel for a timeline next week after 'massive swelling and bleeding' subside. 'It's a non-surgical tear, which could be a good thing.'

The combination of "massive swelling" and "bleeding" is about as pleasant and hopeful as "barely broken" and "light hemorrhaging". This a massive blow to the Rockies, of course, who also recently lost Jeff Baker for an unknown amount of time.

The injuries forced Clint Hurdle to put catcher Chris Iannetta at third and Garrett Atkins at second for the remainder of the game on Tuesday. It's a shame too, because Tulowitzki, even if he is slightly overrated on offense because of his monster season last year, is one of the best defensive players in the game. He's like reverse Derek Jeter, really.

Now, the other side of this coin is that he just got straight paid. And he will probably be back this season. And certainly, I don't think his career is over. But it's not like torn quad muscles heal themselves really, really fast or really, really easily. Just thought I'd point that out to anyone who thinks Evan Longoria is foolish for taking his money now.

Again, Tulo's not done for the season by any stretch, and we certainly wish him well, but this is at least something to think about when young players start turning down large contract offers because they want to bankroll at arbitration.

Fantasy Spin: Seasonal leagues have to at least consider dropping Tulo, especially if you're dealing with any other injuries or don't have an open DL slot. Keepers obviously want to hold him. Clint Barmes becomes a nice add because he'll be getting tons of at bats at shortstop, while Garrett Atkins is a really, really sneaky buy low, because if any more injuries strike the Rockies infield, he could end up with second base eligibility.

Troy Tulowitzki Out Until at Least After the All Star Break originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 01 May 2008 19:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Randy Johnson Ready to Pitch Next Week

Will Brinson — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 02:00:00 EST

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

Randy Johnson has been working his way back to pitching for a white hot Diamondback team that will need him to healthy for a little bit to make up for the loss of Doug Davis to cancer recovery, and reports out of Arizona are that he not only looked good in his latest minor league start, but that he will be ready to pitch on Monday. From Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic:

Johnson looked relatively sharp in his six innings of work. He made a few mistakes and gave up a few runs, but he mostly seemed to be hitting his spots, changing speeds well and using all of his pitches.

The scout sitting next to me said Johnson's command looked much better than it did last week, when he allowed five runs in four innings in his first minor league start.

His line: Six innings, three hits, three runs, one walk, seven strikeouts.

That's pretty freaking encouraging, especially when you consider the May line that he posted after coming back from injury: 3-1 with 2.93 ERA and 41 whiffas in just 30 innings. MLB.com reports that he hit as high as 92 on the radar gun during the start and that Bob Melvin expects to see him take the rock on Monday against the Giants in San Fran. There's certainly no guarantee on how long he'll be healthy, but given his age and his upside as a number three starter, the Diamondbacks will take what they can get.

Bonus Fantasy Spin: Dude, brah, man. Snatch the Big U up as fast as possible. He's pure gold in H2H leagues next week, because even if he only goes five innings twice, he's gonna K a good number of batters. And even if he doesn't last long, there's a pretty good chance he gets some solid run support too. Oh, and he's facing the Giants with his first start. I'd run him out there in any league I was in.

Randy Johnson Ready to Pitch Next Week originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 02:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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