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.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

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.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

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.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

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.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Chase Headley, Uh, Heads to the Majors

Will Brinson — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 21:45:00 EST

Filed under: Padres, NL West, San Diego, MLB Transactions, MLB Kids Are Alright, Fantasy MLB, MLB Waiver Wire

Finally, mercifully, the San Diego Padres have decided to bring their top prospect, Chase Headley, to the major leagues. Headley got the call this weekend and will start his first game Tuesday when the Fathers face the Bronx Bombers in Yankee Stadium. So, you know, no pressure.

'He's on his way,' [GM Kevin] Towers said before Saturday's Interleague game against the Indians.

[...]"I think the environment is much better than it was three weeks ago," Towers said. "We have got a lot of guys contributing offensively. When he gets here, he shouldn't have to feel like he's got to carry this ballclub. We're playing good baseball now.

"To me, now is kind of the right time to have him here, when things are going well."

And by "going well", what Towers means is "after his June 1 arbitration date; well enough after, in fact, to make sure everyone forget that's why I kept him down in the first place."

Although, in fairness, the Padres have won seven of their last ten while leapfrogging the Giants and Rockies and somehow climbing within 6.5 games. Additionally, Jake Peavy is back, so maybe things aren't as bleak as they were earlier. Convenient, really.

Fantasy Spin: Headley is going to be OF eligible and likely 3B eligible as he'll spell Kevin Kouzmanoff. He's an impact player, who I would grab in most leagues (if you need 3B help), especially keepers. Of course, he is also a rookie and an OF, so be patient and don't expect him to pull a Ryan Braun or anything.

Chase Headley, Uh, Heads to the Majors originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 15 Jun 2008 21:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

John Smoltz Activated and Could Close Monday Night

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Fantasy What If? -- Positional Eligibility

Will Brinson — Fri, 30 May 2008 01:00:00 EST

Filed under: MLB Transactions, Fantasy MLB

The "news" (read: rumor/speculation) that Evan Longoria could land some time at shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays got us Fantasy FanHouse people kind of excited. Nerdy? Perhaps. But it would still be freaking sweet. Especially when you consider how frustrating it is to see some of the game's best hitters underused at a certain position (sure it doesn't matter to real baseball, but whatever).

1. Alex Rodriguez, (3B to SS) -- Sadly, this is just logical and the Yankees should have done it when he came over and was a better offensive and defensive shortstop than Derek Jeter. Unfortunately, he just didn't possess the intangibles that Captain November True Yankee did, and we're left to wonder what might have been.

2. Alfonso Soriano, (OF to 2B) -- Sweet Lou actually played him at second once this year (right after I traded him), which was spicy, but the days of Fonsy challenging Chase Utley for top two bagger are long gone. Which is a shame, because it's not like a) he's great in the outfield or b) the Cubs can't just swap he and Mark DeRosa. Either way, Matt Murton gets jobbed. Good times!

3. Albert Pujols, (1B to 3B) -- Although he wouldn't surpass our fictional A-Rod (see above), he would be a stone cold lock at second overall if he played third base, as he has in the past. The defensive needs of the position would probably take more of a toll on his offense, so Pooey is probably better at first, but since we don't care about defense, it's nice to dream.

4. Josh Willingham (OF to C) -- Remember that magical season when Ham had catcher eligibility? Just plug him in at the start of the season and don't think twice. He'd have to lay a total and utter egg or land on the DL for you to yank him out of that C spot.

5. Ryan Garko (1B to C) -- Same goes for this guy, who's probably a surprise on this list. But Garko was drafted by the Indians as a catcher and were it not for Victor Martinez' presence, might have had some run at the position. Shame too. He'd be a lockjob C1.

6. Rick Ankiel (OF to SP) -- Do you have any starting pitchers that accrue offensive stats in your fantasy league?

7. Micah Owings (SP to UTIL) -- Oh, right. People were throwing out Ruthian comparisons to Owings earlier this year, and while it might be a bit more gimmicky than anything, the dood can flat out hit.

8. Evan Longoria (3B to SS) -- He could actually be higher on this list, but you have to figure it wouldn't last long with Reid Brignac waiting in AAA Durham. Speaking of which ... where is Brignac? Oh right, June 1, no doubt. Or maybe not. Longoria could play. (/crosses fingers)

9. Adam Dunn (OF to 1B) -- Dunn might be higher too, but he's going to continue to smash taterjacks wherever he plays, the power numbers would just be a little bit nicer from the first base position. But that would derive us of Joey Votto's goodness.

10. Troy Glaus (3B to SS) -- It actually happened once, when Glaus was on the Blue Jays. In certain leagues, the one game gave him positional eligibility that year and the following year, making him a draft day steal. If he didn't have a hole in his swing and wasn't so old, he would be higher.

Honorable Mention: We're going to go ahead and pencil in Ryan Braun (OF to 3B), B.J. Upton (OF to 2B) to the list because their fun with eligibility is coming to an end soon. Wonk effing wonk. Rich Harden (SP to CL) should make the move just for the sake of saving his arm. Or maybe he could be all time DL instead.

Let us know who we missed in the comments.

Many thanks to all of the MLB Peeps for help on the list.

Fantasy What If? -- Positional Eligibility originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 30 May 2008 01:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Ian Stewart Might Hang Around With That Whole Second Base Position Available

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

Filed under: Denver, Rockies, NL West, MLB Transactions, MLB Kids Are Alright, Fantasy MLB

Just a few short hours after I mentioned that Ian Stewart was getting no love from fantasy circles -- or real world circles -- he might suddenly be getting a lot more value in both worlds. With the return of Garrett Atkins, and the continued absence of Clint Barmes, Troy Tulowitzki and about eight other middle infielders, Stewart is getting starts at second base.

Stewart field five ground balls, including a pair of impressive plays in the sixth inning, in Colorado's 7-4 loss to Philadelphia, and finished 1-for-3 with a double. It was Stewart's first career start at second base.

'Is he going to be as athletic as Jonny [Herrera] or Q [Omar Quintanilla]? Probably not," Rockies manager Clint Hurdle said. "They're just a little more nimble. As far as athleticism, he did some nice things in Spring Training. We'll see how it works out. He made plays that were there for him.'

If Stewart can step in and play second, and one would think he could, he would instantly become a tremendous asset to the Rockies on the offensive end. He would also instantly have everyone saying "It took you this long to figure this out?"

Stewart has been -- pun intended -- pining on the bench behind Atkins for some time now and despite no real power option at second, the Rockies decided to develop him in the outfield.

Fantasy Spin: If Stewart is going to start and stick at second for the Rockies, he is a must add. Unless you have Chase Utley and Brandon Phillips or something. He has a ton of power and positional eligibility there would give him the upside of being a pretty stout option for fantasy owners.

Ian Stewart Might Hang Around With That Whole Second Base Position Available originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 29 May 2008 00:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

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.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

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.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Roy Halladay Picks Up a Hold ... Wait, What?

Will Brinson — Sun, 18 May 2008 23:00:00 EST

Filed under: Blue Jays, AL East, Toronto, MLB Transactions, MLB Locking Your Lineup, Fantasy MLB

Roy Halladay had a streak of four complete games earlier this season, and he tacked onto the weirdness of his season when he picked up a hold tonight. Yes, you read that correctly. Roy Halladay picked up a hold.

The Blue Jays and Phillies game experienced multiple rain delays tonight, and as a result, Doc apparently volunteered to pitch relief and then somehow ended up batting as well.

'I ain't pinch-running you, I'll tell you that right now,' [John] Gibbons said. 'He said, 'No,' and he pointed out to the bullpen.'

Gibbons was laughing as he told the story, but his tone was almost reverential. Halladay, his ace starter, had volunteered for relief work after the first of two rain delays halted the game with only one inning in the books. After the second downpour, Halladay came in to turn back a Phillies threat, ultimately working 2 1/3 shutout innings in Toronto's 6-5 victory.

Funny story indeed, and kind of cool. B.J. Ryan picked up the save, Halladay picks up the hold and the Jays pick up the win. The only problem is ... now Halladay can't make his Tuesday start. Which might mean a lot more to fantasy baseball players, but it's still kind of a big deal, considering that his value as a starter >>>>>>>>>> his value as a middle reliever.

Fantasy Spin: If you own Halladay in a fantasy league, you may now begin punching things. Especially if that league is H2H, because you just lost a start next week, meaning two of the top five fantasy two start guys have been taken off the list. Still, you have to start Halladay. And probably put some ice on that swollen hand.

Roy Halladay Picks Up a Hold ... Wait, What? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 18 May 2008 23:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

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.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

The Hype Machine Implodes: Max Scherzer Is Moved in the Arizona Rotation

Will Brinson — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:15:00 EST

Filed under: Phoenix, Diamondbacks, MLB Transactions, MLB Kids Are Alright, Fantasy MLB

Holy. Hype. Machine. Max Scherzer, who was absolutely filthy in his first stretch of MLB pitching (four innings of no hit ball, seven strikeouts) last night while starter Edgar Gonzalez got absolutely shell-shocked.

Manager Bob Melvin and Josh Byrnes, the team's general manager, met just after the D-backs lost, 6-4, to the Astros and made the decision.

"It was a very short meeting," Melvin said on Wednesday only hours before his club closed its three-game series against Houston.

Melvin pointed out that Doug Davis would be returning soon, so there was no guarantee how long he Scherzer would be in the rotation. It's hard to believe that if the kid continues to pitch like he did last night -- or anywhere in the immortal realm of what he was slinging anyway -- that they will pull him from the starting five. On the other hand, the Backs have shown how good they are at youth development over the past few years, so I'm going to just trust Byrnes implicitly on this one. Either way, do what you need to in order to see this kid pitch.

Fantasy Spin: Add, add, add. If you can get your hands on Scherzer, you pick him up immediately. If he's not available in your league, you put a waiver claim in for him when he clears. (May 2 is the date I believe in Yahoo! leagues.) And I've mentioned this before, but it merits repeating: if you can swing a stud for Scherzer, and it's highly likely that you can, make sure you do it. The guy is going to be great, but there's no guarantee on his production. If you'd like to know what is considered a good deal for him or not, hit up the Fantasy FanHouse crew via email.

The Hype Machine Implodes: Max Scherzer Is Moved in the Arizona Rotation originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Jo-Jo Reyes Gets the Nod in Atlanta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Barry Zito Might Be the Most Expensive Middle Reliever of All Time

Will Brinson — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Giants, NL West, MLB Fans, San Francisco, MLB Transactions, Fantasy MLB

You and I have something in common with Barry Zito. We all have the exact same number of wins as professional baseball pitchers in the month of April. No, I don't have any either. Relax.

Dollar for dollar, it's hard to fathom that any pitcher in professional baseball could be worse. And Zito knows this. Which is how he ended up in front of his locker apologizing to the freaking media following the latest shellacking that dropped him to 0-6. This was followed by a principal-office-visit-like trip to Bruce Bochy's office.

'Obviously, I'm hurting the team right now,' Zito said. 'I just have to keep grinding and fighting. For me this is an opportunity to stick it out and toe the line.'
Bochy called his pitcher into his office after the game to notify him that he may be sent to the bullpen or have his next start skipped.

Degrading? Absolutely. But better than having to visit the minors. Really, the best thing the team could do though, is just have the guy fake an injury. Send him in for fake surgery if you have to. But the Giants -- who have a pretty nice, young rotation outside of Barry -- need to get him out of the public's eye.

San Francisco is only at 11-15, but that's better or equal to five other National League teams, which, sadly, is an improvement from our preseason projections. But when Zito takes the mound and gets knocked around, which is to say every time he takes the mound, Giants fans aren't reminded of the young talented group that could make up a decent rotation in the future. They're reminded of Brian Sabean's incompetence. And it's not it will cost them any wins.

Fantasy Spin: Please don't own Zito. Much less start him.

Barry Zito Might Be the Most Expensive Middle Reliever of All Time originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Braves Closer Soriano Hits Disabled List

Will Brinson — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 23:15:00 EST

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

The nightmare week for the Atlanta Braves continued today with the news that closer Rafael Soriano would be landing on the disable list with elbow tendinitis, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. This news comes on the heels of the completely unrelated but no less depressing revelation that Jordan Schafer was using HGH. Of course, the Soriano injury is vastly more detrimental to the team in terms of their need to win right now. It's worth noting too that Bobby Cox held Raffy out for a game Monday because his elbow was sore and also that Soriano missed time in the preseason because of the same injury.

If Soriano's problematic right elbow wasn't barking, they would not have considered the move. He is the only Braves reliever with closer experience, and now he's out until at least April 22. The move was retroactive to Monday.

Soriano pitched in both weekend games against the New York Mets, including Saturday, when he worked the ninth inning with the Braves ahead 11-5.

In four appearances, the right-hander has a 2.25 ERA with two hits, one run, three walks and five strikeouts in four innings. He converted his only save opportunity when he gave up a run in the ninth inning of Sunday's 3-1 win.

The AJC said that Cox named Manny Acosta the closer for tonight's game against the Rockies -- it doesn't appear he'll be needed anyway -- but the FanHouse pick to get the most saves over the next week and a half is Peter Moylan. Moyland was dominant last year, posting a 1.80 ERA in 90 innings, and is sporting a quite tidy 1.93 so far in 2008. Soriano's move was retroactive as well, meaning he will not have to miss a full two weeks.

Bonus Fantasy Spin: Soriano has had lots of arm issues before, so he's a bit of a risk to go after. However, the Braves are paying him to close, so they'd like to see him do it when he's healthy. Plus, he's dominant as long as he's not spending time in the training room, making him a nice buy low, if the price is right. Moylan should be added in almost all leagues (particularly roto or deep H2H), based on his low ratios and high upside for saves.

Braves Closer Soriano Hits Disabled List originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 23:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Fantasy Spin: Johan to N.Y.

Tom Herrera — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 19:18:00 EST

Filed under: Twins, Mets, Fantasy Baseball, MLB Transactions

Welcome to the big city, Johan Santana.

If you haven't heard the news by now, the Twins have struck a tentative agreement to dish their prized ace to the Mets in exchange for four prospects (listed in order of importance) -- Deolis Guerra, Carlos Gomez, Kevin Mulvey, and Phil Humber.

What does it mean in the fantasy world?

The move instantly makes Santana a top-five, if not top-three selection (especially if you're having your fantasy draft on the east coast). A little too high to take a pitcher for my tastes. Picture the hype when Pedro Martinez first came to New York, then multiply that by a bazillion. Santana will own National League hitters, and he has the defense to back him up when he's not quite "on like Johan". The Mets are solid with Jose Reyes and Luis Castillo up the middle -- the latter of which Santana is familiar playing with -- and strong at center with Carlos Beltran. And moving to pitcher-friendly Shea will be a joy for him as well.

But let's not forget the impact that Santana can have on the rest of the pitching staff. We can only hope mad scientist Rick Peterson steps aside for a bit and lets Johan school Oliver Perez, John Maine and Mike Pelfrey on the proper way to throw a changeup. Or in Pelfrey's case, any consistent pitch other than a fastball. He certainly had a positive effect on Francisco Liriano during the young star's breakout season before he was derailed by injury. Perez showed improvement on his changeup last season, but it could surely use refinement, and Santana could be the role model to provide that calming effect on the emotional lefty.

As far as the prospects that the Mets gave up are concerned, AL-only leaguers only need to be concerned with Gomez and Mulvey at this point. And Gomez may have value in mixed leagues as well, but shouldn't be drafted.

Guerra undoubtedly has the most upside of the quartet. The 18-year-old has raw, untapped talent, and many are excited that he displayed better velocity last season -- even touching 96 mph at times. But after a Single-A season where he managed a 4.01 ERA, walked 25 batters in 89.7 innings, and dealt with a bout of shoulder tendinitis, we're still talking about the potential here.

Gomez is a very toolsy player, but he still needs improvement in the power department and strike zone judgment. Mulvey has drawn increased interest after a surprising 2007 campaign in Double-A where he posted a 3.32 ERA and struck out 110 in 151.7 innings, with only four homers allowed. He's 22 years old, so his peak may be approaching sooner rather than later. And Humber has had a rocky road in his comeback from Tommy John surgery. At age 25, we may be looking at nothing more than around a 4.25 ERA and a reliable innings eater in the American League.

In all, the Twins are banking on quantity over quality. Prospect expert John Sickels doesn't have any of them rated over a B+ grade. And while it's too early to see how this deal pans out, you can't help but wonder why they passed on the Yankees' offer of Phil Hughes over this one instead. Minnesota fans are probably choking on their dinners right now, while Mets fans are already rushing to pick up tickets for every one of his projected starts... or just getting hammered in celebration of Minaya's move.

Fantasy Spin: Johan to N.Y. originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 19:18:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments