MLB Fantasy News 2012

[HacheMan]

Stay the Course It's happening already. Your league is losing managers to fantasy football preparation. This, even before your trade deadline is up. This, even with a month left in the season.

Pffffft I say. We know what the best fantasy sport is. The one with the biggest sample size, the most games, the biggest lineups… that's the sport that best determines your ability. Not the one with 16 games in which you're an ACL tear away from doom. Not the one with ten players in your average lineup. The one with 162 games, at least 25 players in your lineup, and a sport that's made for stats. That's the one.

This is not to disparage you fantasy football players that are still on board here. Despite wanting to quit fantasy football for good, I got roped into the RotoWorld Baseball Writers league -- where, like a blind squirrel looking for nuts I took Calvin Johnson sixth overall and followed with Jimmy Graham, Trent Richardson and Ahmad Bradshaw in our PPR. I get that it's fun, it's once a week, and it's an easy breezy game.

But I'm a hardcore fantasy guy, and I want results every night. Fantasy Baseball is my sport. I'll name the tiers after the different fantasy sports, then. It's time to pit them against each other.

Tier 1: Elite (4) (AKA: The "Fantasy Baseball" Tier.)

Aroldis Chapman, Cincinnati Reds
Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves
Kenley Jansen, Los Angeles Dodgers
Joe Nathan, Texas Rangers

Was there any doubt? Baseball is a statistician's wet dream. There's a one-on-one matchup at the heart of it, it moves from static state to static state, and it's been gathering numbers from day one. Just look at all the readily available research out there, and you'll get it. Baseball and numbers were born hand in hand, and fantasy baseball is their natural love child.

There's also no doubt about the top two here. These guys are suddenly in the Cy Young chase, as R.A. Dickey slows and Johnny Cueto doesn't quite have the strikeout numbers to hang. If there isn't an obvious starter for the award, it could be Aroldis Chapman earning the hardware for best pitcher in the National League this year. After all, he now has 30 saves… and 29 hits allowed. That's amazing. He also has 112 strikeouts, which is more than Wandy Rodriguez has, and Wandy has pitched more than twice as many innings. Jonathan Papelbon has 50 fewer strikeouts and is in the same tier. Wait, maybe that's not right.

Tier 2: Rock Steady (7) (AKA: The "Fantasy Football" Tier.)

Jonathan Papelbon, Philadelphia Phillies
Joel Hanrahan, Pittsburgh Pirates
Jason Motte, St. Louis Cardinals
J.J. Putz, Arizona Diamondbacks
Rafael Betancourt, Colorado Rockies
Fernando Rodney, Tampa Bay Rays
Rafael Soriano, New York Yankees

Basketball is my second love as a sport, but since we're talking second love here anyway, I'm going to go with the easy mistress that is fantasy football. She won't make me work too hard -- only one game a week -- and if it doesn't work out, there's always lousy luck to blame.

Jonathan Papelbon doesn't really have himself to blame here. He's still got excellent control and above-average strikeout goodness. It's just that he's not one of the 15+ K/9 guys, and he's not on a team that will hand him save opportunities by the bushel. Offense and bullpen strength are the best predictors of save opportunities, and the Phillies have none of the former and some of the latter. Papelbon's a tweener right now because of the state of his team.

Tier 3: OK options (7) (AKA: The "Fantasy Basketball" Tier.)

Tom Wilhelmsen, Seattle Mariners
Tyler Clippard, Washington Nationals
Ernesto Frieri, Los Angeles Angels
Addison Reed, Chicago White Sox
Chris Perez, Cleveland Indians

Greg Holland, Kansas City Royals

Basketball might be an easy third for others, but the choice here was difficult. I usually play four or five leagues -- easily second to my 15 baseball leagues -- and I'll win a couple of them, so it's not about being bad at it. I just find basketball… sort of in between. It has the nightly work of baseball, but the sport isn't quite made for the fantasy game. The link between the numbers in my box scores and the outcomes in real life seems more tenuous. And then, in the final weeks when everything is on the line -- most basketball leagues are head-to-head -- I'm suddenly required to watch the starting lineups up until game time to find out if that player is going to play. And don't get me started on the tanking.

Tom Wilhelmsen is fine. Yes, a couple other pitchers have gotten saves recently -- Lucas Luetge being the latest -- but his wife was having a baby. He gets a pass. HIs team might not hand him a ton of save opps, but they do have a great bullpen, so if they are ahead, they'll keep the lead. Now they just need to score some runs.

A note about Ernesto Frieri: Scott Downs returned and pitched in the seventh and the beginning of the eighth, meaning that Kevin Jepsen may have leapt ahead of him on the depth chart while he was out. Frieri is still the high-walk, high-strikeout closer in Anaheim. This concludes your note about Ernesto Frieri.

Greg Holland's walk rate looked terrible to begin the year, but he's really reigned it in. In the second half of the season, he's averaged a walk every four innings -- that rate was two walks every three innings in the first half. In his last ten outings, Holland has two walks… against 11 strikeouts. Now the only question is what the team will do with Joakim Soria's affordable option, with the veteran coming off his second Tommy John surgery. It's worth mentioning that Holland will still come at one-tenth the cost of Soria, so he's probably the closer next year, too.

Tier 4: Question marks (5) (AKA: The "Fantasy Hockey" Tier.)

Jim Johnson, Baltimore Orioles
Jose Valverde, Detroit Tigers
Casey Janssen, Toronto Blue Jays
Steve Cishek, Miami Marlins
Carlos Marmol, Chicago Cubs

Grant Balfour, Oakland Athletics
Alfredo Aceves, Boston Red Sox

Say what you want about hockey, but it's still a sport. With athletes in it. Yeah, there's only a couple goals per your average game, and there are some interesting stats (penalty minutes are a positive?), but it's still a game that's played to a score. Fantasy racing? Huh? Fantasy golf? So I pick a guy per tier, but can only pick him twice but maybe three times if this happens? What?

Jim Johnson is on a strikeout binge! He has six in his last ten outings! That means he's only cost you five strikeouts in the past month! He's a one-category guy at this point, and the rankings need to reflect that.

Jose Valverde deserves a little love. After his one-strikoeut, one-hit, clean slate save Tuesday night, his last ten appearances look pretty solid. No blown saves, one walk, and nine strikeouts in ten innings. He still doesn't have an average strikeout rate, walk rate, or ground-ball rate, but he does have a lot of leash. And his velocity has been more up than down recently.

Carlos Marmol is the 'doing it dirty' closer of the tier, but he's been a little better recently. Even after his one-walk, no-strikeout performance Tuesday not (not a save opportunity), he has 11 strikeouts against four walks in his last ten innings. That'll do, especially in that bullpen, and on that team.

Grant Balfour is doing it clean. He's actually been really good all year and has none of the control issues that Ryan Cook has. He now has five saves in a row, and Sean Doolittle pitched the eighth Tuesday night. He's looking like he'll be the closer for the rest of the year, and, most improbably… the playoffs?

Read more about the most volatile closer situations on the next page. <!--RW-->

Tier 5: Rollercoaster rides (6) (AKA: The "Fantasy Fishing" Tier.)

Wilton Lopez (first chair), Wesley Wright (second chair), Houston Astros
Sergio Romo (first chair), Javier Lopez (second chair), Jeremy Affeldt (third chair), San Francisco Giants

John Axford (first chair), Jim Henderson (second chair), Milwaukee Brewers
Dale Thayer (first chair), Luke Gregerson (second chair), San Diego Padres
Glen Perkins (first chair), Jared Burton (second chair), Minnesota Twins
Frank Francisco (first chair), Jon Rauch (second chair), Bobby Parnell (third chair), New York Mets

There was a second where I thought maybe Fantasy College Football should go here -- talk about a ridiculous player universe -- but instead I'll take the low-hanging fruit. Fishing is okay, I've enjoyed it. You get a six pack of a nice beverage, a good friend or family member, and you kill a day in the sun just chilling. Watch it on television? Maybe if it's the dudes catching fish with their hands. Watch it on television and somehow figure out a strategy to determine who the best fisher is before other people do? Or a strategy to figure out what the best fishing/fisher matchups are? I don't get that.

I do get what's going on in San Francisco, or at least hope I get it. It seems like a straight platoon, with righty Sergio Romo and lefty Javier Lopez splitting save opportunities depending on the situation. It actually suits their respective arsenals perfectly. As much as it's tempting to give Romo the lion's share of the saves, since there are more righties than lefties in baseball, the last two games in Los Angeles prove one thing: there's always a lefty in the lineup somewhere, and if he comes up at the right time, the save will go to the LOOGY. So, it's a crapshoot really.

Who has any idea what's going on in Milwaukee. You can't use the fact that the team is looking to the future to decide between John Axford and Jim Henderson -- both are under team control for a while. You can't really use career stats to decide -- both have underwhelming minor league histories full of spotty control. Who got the last save? That works best in times like this, and it was John Axford that came out and shut the door after Manny Parra allowed some base runners and Jim Henderson allowed a couple of them to score. So it's John Axford? Seems like it.

Dale Thayer was doing fine as the interim closer in San Diego, and Luke Gregerson still has that Romo-esque problem with all the sliders, the platoon split, and the iffy control. But Tuesday night, Thayer gave up a long home run to center to Garret Jones, while Gregerson struck out one in his clean inning in the eighth. Doesn't matter, his sliders weren't all biting just right despite the box score, and Thayer is probably still the guy until Huston Street's calf gets right.

Frank Francisco and Glen Perkins might be the respective closers of the Mets and Twins, but you'd barely know it. Those teams have nine combined saves in August, but the player-high for either team is two. Two saves this month. They're ownable, but not bank-able.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *​

Injured

Sergio Santos (shoulder), Toronto Blue Jays
Matt Capps (shoulder), Minnesota Twins
Huston Street (calf), San Diego Padres

Matt Capps is still not close to resuming throwing. It's mid-August. He won't factor in this year. Huston Street says his calf feels much better and he's riding a bike. He'll be back in early September.

The Deposed

Jordan Walden, Los Angeles Angels
Hector Santiago, Chicago White Sox
Brian Fuentes, St. Louis Cardinals
Javy Guerra, Los Angeles Dodgers
Sean Marshall, Cincinnati Reds
Henry Rodriguez, Washington Nationals
Brandon League, Seattle Mariners
Rafael Dolis, Chicago Cubs
Jonathan Broxton, Kansas City Royals
Ryan Cook, Oakland Athletics.

Ryan Cook replaces Grant Balfour on this list, but Ryan Cook will probably factor into saves in Oakland next season, so he's a name to remember.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *​

The Steals Department

It might be time to stream for steals. With fewer than six weeks left in the season, you might be able to work the matchups to find those extra stolen bases you need. I don't recommend going after specific batteries on a day-by-day basis: that's too much work, and besides, lineups change. If you picked up a speedster because he was going to face a certain catcher and then that catcher got a foul ball off the thumb that night, your fortunes might change some. If you instead think of the world in series, and think of teams as a whole, you can glean some useful knowledge and stream for steals -- without your leaguemates noticing even.

There's even a way to think of the rest of the season as a monolith. September is for divisional matchups, as the schedule is weighted in a way as to create exciting divisional races down the stretch. The NL West will face the NL West, and that's a good thing, given how close that division is. Let's say you were thinking of picking up Everth Cabrera or Alexi Amarista for their steals right now -- that might not be a great idea. San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Colorado are all above average, and Arizona is the best at preventing the stolen base in the major leagues. Then the Padres have three games against St. Louis (second in caught stealing percentage) and Atlanta (tenth). Looks like those Padres aren't your best pickups.

Move to the bottom of the list, and you'll find some of the National League Central hanging out: Pittsburgh is last in the league, having given up 100 stolen bases against ten caught stealing, Houston and Chicago are bad, and MIlwaukee is below-average. You'll just have to avoid St. Louis, but if you're considering picking up Jon Jay, that's not a problem.

If you're willing to go in three-game chunks, it gets easier. Try to find guys that are facing Minnesota, Washington, or Pittsburgh, and you're giving your speedster a good chance. Anaheim, San Diego, Houston and Cleveland join Pittsburgh in having allowed 100+ stolen bases this year, so they look vulnerable too. No matter what, the schedule and this leaderboard is worth a look before you make your next pickup as you hunt for steals.

 

[HacheMan]

Closers regaining jobs

Balfour, Thayer appear set for saves again; Axford re-emerges for Brewers

By Tristan H. Cockcroft | ESPN.com

Let's tell the tale of two new closers, one who should be and one who shouldn't be.

The one who should: Grant Balfour of the Oakland Athletics, who despite having actually lost said closer's job earlier this season ranks among the most productive late-inning relievers of 2012. Combining saves and holds, Balfour's 27 rank 16th in the majors, and his 93.1 percent success rate (converted save or hold) ranks 12th-best among relievers with at least 20 opportunities.


Balfour has ridden a 0.63 ERA and 0.63 WHIP and 32.1 percent strikeout rate (calculated based upon a percentage of total batters faced) since the All-Star break -- those stats ranking seventh, third and 11th, respectively, among qualified relievers -- to his second stint as a closer in 2012. Capitalizing upon Ryan Cook's recent struggles in the role, Balfour has converted five consecutive save chances.


Though Athletics manager Bob Melvin hasn't yet formally declared Balfour his full-time closer -- he said on Aug. 11 that he merely wanted Cook to work a few clean innings in a lower-pressure role before restoring him to the role -- the patterns read as equivalent. Besides, examining the three most likely closer candidates in Oakland, the full-season statistics lean in Balfour's favor:


Balfour: 2.51 ERA, 0.94 WHIP, .162 BAA, 22.0 K%, 93.1% SV/HD conversion
Cook: 2.58 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, .176 BAA, 25.6 K%, 77.4% SV/HD conversion
Sean Doolittle: 3.54 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, .262 BAA, 35.9 K%, 88.9% SV/HD conversion


"SV/HD conversion" is a calculation of saves plus holds divided by total opportunities (save or hold), and that category alone shows how wide the split is between Balfour and Cook. As the Athletics fancy themselves contenders -- they are five games back in the American League West and are tied for the two wild-card spots -- they're sure to be aware of those numbers.

Balfour has another advantage in the race for saves out west: Since the beginning of the 2010 season, his 2.42 ERA ranks 10th and his 1.02 WHIP eighth among relievers with at least 150 innings pitched. His track record is lengthier than that of either Cook, who has all of 64 career big league appearances, or Doolittle, who has 25. And we know how managers sometimes prefer the guy with "experience."


It's for that reason that Balfour, despite the lack of an official closer endorsement, soars seven spots in this week's rankings. He might well make a case to be a second-tier closer, one deserving of a ranking in the 11-20 range.


As for the one who shouldn't: Dale Thayer of the San Diego Padres, the fill-in for Huston Street while the latter nurses a strained quadriceps. Since Street's placement on the disabled list on Aug. 11, Thayer has converted two of his three save opportunities but allowed three runs on six hits in four innings in the process, opponents batting .333/.368/.556 against him during that span.


As with the Athletics' bullpen, let's examine the stats of the leading contenders to close in San Diego to illustrate the point from a seasonal perspective:


Street: 0.75 ERA, 0.53 WHIP, .094 BAA, 35.7 K%, 100.0% SV/HD conversion
Thayer: 3.89 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, .259 BAA, 18.6 K%, 83.3% SV/HD conversion
Luke Gregerson: 2.37 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, .216 BAA, 25.7 K%, 84.6% SV/HD conversion


It's Street's job when he's healthy, based on his recent and historical performances, including an 84.0 percent SV/HD conversion rate, 2.93 ERA and 1.02 WHIP in his eight-year big league career. But he's probably out another two weeks or so, having only recently resumed playing catch, so there's enough value in his fill-in that the discussion has merit.

Perhaps the rationale behind Thayer being Street's short-term substitute is that he's done the job before; he converted each of his first five save opportunities the last time Street was on the disabled list in May. But even then, Thayer showed his warts: He had a 6.52 ERA and .359/.366/.538 rates allowed during his 10 appearances total while Street was sidelined, done in by two extremely ugly appearances (May 26 and 30) late in his stint as closer.


Gregerson, meanwhile, never seems to get a fair shake when it comes to doling out saves. He has a 1.02 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, 28.7 percent strikeout rate and 16 holds in 18 opportunities scattered across 37 appearances since June 1. And from a historical perspective, his statistics compare favorably to any Padres pitcher since his debut in 2009, as he has a 2.94 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 85.0 percent SV/HD conversion rate in his career. Gregerson has also done one other recent thing that has made him a more "complete" reliever: He has diminished his platoon split to the point that left-handed hitters have .253 AVG/.371 OBP/.360 SLG rates against him in 2012, whereas in 2011 they managed .329/.394/.376 numbers against him.


The debate between should and is closing isn't easily reconciled, though, so while Gregerson has a fair share of sleeper potential based upon skills, Thayer still seems to be the one to own.


But here's a reason to think the Padres might be rethinking that approach: Rookie Tom Layne, a 27-year-old left-hander who had one save and a 4.50 ERA during his minor league career, got the call on Wednesday. Granted, Thayer had pitched on each of the previous two nights, totaling 42 pitches, but it's not unthinkable that manager Bud Black is rethinking his ninth-inning strategy.


In NL-only leagues, certainly, don't underestimate what Gregerson might offer you the remainder of the year.


Skunky Brew

If Balfour should be closing and Thayer shouldn't, then how does one describe John Axford … "kinda-sorta should"?


I've said it before in this space and will say it again: There are saves to be had on the Milwaukee Brewers' roster, but they're sure to be ugly the remainder of the season. Five Brewers relievers have a save this season, and not one of them has an ERA beneath 3.50 or a WHIP less than 1.26. As with the previous two teams, let's take a closer look at the seasonal stats of their candidates:


Axford: 5.08 ERA, 1.50 WHIP, .250 BAA, 28.4 K%, 73.3% SV/HD conversion
Jim Henderson: 3.97 ERA, 1.59 WHIP, .306 BAA, 33.3 K%, 83.3% SV/HD conversion
Francisco Rodriguez: 5.03 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, .266 BAA, 23.0 K%, 80.0% SV/HD conversion
Kameron Loe: 3.50 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, .258 BAA, 19.1 K%, 50.0% SV/HD conversion
Jose Veras: 4.59 ERA, 1.65 WHIP, .256 BAA, 24.6 K%, 84.6% SV/HD conversion


Though Axford's rate statistics might not elevate him above the competition, consider a few things: Remember that while Henderson has the greater strikeout rate, Axford's has been accumulated over the larger sample, that of 178 more batters faced. Axford's SV/HD sample is also considerably larger; he has 24 more opportunities than Henderson. Axford also has a 48.9 percent ground ball rate, which, coupled with his healthy strikeout rate, should make him one of the "safer" bets of this bunch … if any could be called truly "safe." (None can.)


Axford's problem appears to stem from issues with fastball command within the strike zone. On pitches "down" in the zone -- bottom third of the strike zone and beneath -- he has limited opponents to .168/.258/.224 rates since 2009, his yearly splits rarely wavering from those numbers. But Axford has been getting pounded on pitches "up," opponents batting .295/.476/.557 against them, particularly his fastball. He has thrown only 21 percent of fastballs down in the zone, whereas from 2010-11 he threw 25 percent of them there. That's effectively a sample of 30 fewer pitches located there … which means he's leaving a fastball up approximately once per two appearances. That's a lot for a reliever.


This hardly means Axford will correct that problem in the next few weeks, if at all this season. But he has the skills to most deserve another chance to close, and for that reason, ugly as his saves might be, he's the man to own in Milwaukee.



TOP 75 RELIEF PITCHERS

Note: Tristan H. Cockcroft's top 75 relief pitchers are ranked for their expected performance from this point forward, not for statistics that have already been accrued.
<table><thead><tr><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> Rnk </center></th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"> Player, Team </th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> Prev
Rnk </center></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 1 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Aroldis Chapman, Cin </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 2 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Craig Kimbrel, Atl </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 2 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 3 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Kenley Jansen, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 3 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 4 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Fernando Rodney, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 5 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Rafael Soriano, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 6 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jason Motte, StL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> J.J. Putz, Ari </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 9 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 8 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jonathan Papelbon, Phi </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 8 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 9 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Joel Hanrahan, Pit </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 7 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 10 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ernesto Frieri, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 10 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 11 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Greg Holland, KC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 12 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 12 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Tyler Clippard, Wsh </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 13 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 13 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Joe Nathan, Tex </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 11 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 14 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Rafael Betancourt, Col </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 14 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 15 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jim Johnson, Bal </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 16 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 16 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Tom Wilhelmsen, Sea </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 15 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 17 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Casey Janssen, Tor </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 18 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 18 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Addison Reed, CWS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 17 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 19 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jose Valverde, Det </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 19 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 20 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Steve Cishek, Mia </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 20 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 21 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Grant Balfour, Oak </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 28 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 22 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Chris Perez, Cle </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 22 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 23 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Carlos Marmol, ChC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 25 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 24 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Wilton Lopez, Hou </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 27 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 25 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Alfredo Aceves, Bos </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 26 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 26 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Huston Street, SD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 21 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 27 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Glen Perkins, Min </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 24 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 28 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Drew Storen, Wsh </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 29 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 29 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ryan Cook, Oak </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 32 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 30 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> John Axford, Mil </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 31 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jeremy Affeldt, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 23 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 32 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Vinnie Pestano, Cle </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 31 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> David Hernandez, Ari </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 36 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Alexi Ogando, Tex </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Dale Thayer, SD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 38 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 36 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Sergio Romo, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 30 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 37 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Luke Gregerson, SD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 40 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 38 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Joel Peralta, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 42 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 39 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Sean Marshall, Cin </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 37 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 40 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> David Robertson, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 41 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jonny Venters, Atl </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 49 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 42 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Bobby Parnell, NYM </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 39 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 43 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Brett Myers, CWS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 43 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 44 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Scott Downs, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 44 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 45 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mike Adams, Tex </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 48 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 46 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Joaquin Benoit, Det </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 46 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 47 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jared Burton, Min </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 41 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 48 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jon Rauch, NYM </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 54 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 49 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jonathan Broxton, Cin </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 52 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 50 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Andrew Bailey, Bos </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 47 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 51 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Santiago Casilla, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 45 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 52 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jim Henderson, Mil </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 51 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 53 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Edward Mujica, StL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 50 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 54 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Kyle Farnsworth, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 57 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 55 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Javier Lopez, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 56 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Aaron Crow, KC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 55 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 57 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Pedro Strop, Bal </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 56 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 58 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Tim Collins, KC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 53 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 59 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Frank Francisco, NYM </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 59 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 60 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Stephen Pryor, Sea </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 66 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 61 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Octavio Dotel, Det </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 65 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 62 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Rex Brothers, Col </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 60 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 63 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Francisco Rodriguez, Mil </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 71 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 64 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mitchell Boggs, StL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 64 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 65 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Andrew Miller, Bos </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 66 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Kameron Loe, Mil </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 67 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 67 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Brandon Lyon, Tor </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 69 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 68 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Heath Bell, Mia </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 63 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 69 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Sean Burnett, Wsh </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 70 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 70 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Brad Brach, SD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 73 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 71 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Fernando Salas, StL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 72 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> James Russell, ChC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 68 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 73 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jason Grilli, Pit </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 74 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Matt Thornton, CWS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 72 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 75 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Eric O'Flaherty, Atl </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 74 </td></tr></tbody></table>

 

[HacheMan]

Banning Bartolo It was fun while it lasted.

No, not Marlins Park, and no, not John Axford’s hair.

Bartolo Colon. More specifically, the idea that a pudgy journeyman who once won a Cy Young with a 122 ERA+ had saved his career in his late 30s.

How much of Colon’s 2011-12 resurgence was the result of performance enhancing drugs — or other shady means — we’ll never know. Maybe all of it, maybe none of it, likely some of it.

What we do know is that the echoes of an era most of us would like to forget won't stop reverberating.

From a newly christened MVP to a feel-good comeback doubles machine to a fat mascot who seemed perfect for the Oakland A’s, players — good ones — keep testing positive for PEDs.

In a modern era with modern medicine and modern wages, the specter of steroids is unlikely to ever completely fade away. But neither will the damage they do to our favorite teams and players, no matter how used to it we’ve claimed to become.

As A’s fans and fantasy owners adjust to life without one of the last remaining Montreal Expos, here’s to hoping for the cleanest game testing and conscience can buy.

Down Goes Pujols

Albert Pujols has proven myriad things throughout his historic 12-year career, but chief among them is that “El Hombre” can play through pain.

From his freakishly fast recovery from a broken arm last season to his nine-year avoidance of Tommy John surgery, Pujols has never met an ailment he couldn’t divide and conquer.

That’s why his removal from Wednesday’s game with calf tightness — though disquieting — ultimately isn’t cause for concern. He’s highly unlikely to suit up for Thursday’s rubber match with the Red Sox, but is probably better than 50-50 for Friday’s tilt with the Tigers, and will almost certainly return before the weekend is through.

It’s bad timing if you’re fighting for a spot in the fantasy playoffs, but not a concern if you’ve already punched your postseason ticket.

Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows

Rockies fans (not to mention fantasy owners) received news they’ve been waiting for since May 30 Wednesday. Troy Tulowitzki (groin) is finally ready to begin a rehab assignment, and will do so on Friday with Double-A Tulsa.

Despite the nearly three-month absence, he’s expected to need only three or four games on the farm, and should be back no later than next weekend’s home series with the Padres. Questions about Tulo’s durability will be worth examining in earnest over the winter, but for now, just know that you can count on your first-round pick for the fantasy playoffs.

If you’re a Josh Rutledge owner, there’s little reason to fret, as the .333/.351/.611 hitting rookie should be installed at second base upon Tulo’s return.

Speaking of Rutledge (quad), he pinch hit in Wednesday’s win over the Mets, and could return to the starting lineup as early as this afternoon.

Dexter Fowler

Which brings us to the bad Rockies news. In the midst of another big month, breakout 26-year-old outfielder Dexter Fowler suffered a serious looking ankle injury as he advanced to second base on an error.

X-rays came back negative, so it’s not a given Fowler will hit the disabled list. He’ll likely remain sidelined through at least Sunday, however. If you’re an owner in a weekly league, be sure to check his status before setting your lineup.

Good Night, Johan

83 days after throwing 134 pitches against the Cardinals in the first no-hitter in Mets history, Johan Santana was shut down for the season.

“Back inflammation” was the official culprit, but “general worry” might as well have been. Santana was never the same after his magical night against the Birds, getting lit up for a cosmically bad 8.27 ERA in 49 innings over 10 starts.

Santana was the worst pitcher in baseball following his entry into the history books, and well on the wrong side of 30 with an ever-expanding injury history, it’s fair to wonder how many bullets the two-time Cy Young award winner has left.

Game Notes: For the first time in his 18-year career, Derek Jeter homered for the third straight game. It couldn’t prevent the Yankees from getting swept, however. … The Bombers were swept in thanks in large part to the exploits of sensational 23-year-old lefty Chris Sale, who fanned 13 batters as he picked up his 15th victory. The double-digit strikeout effort was his fourth of the season. … While Jeter was homering for the third straight game, Adrian Beltre was homering three times in one game. All three bombs came before the fifth inning in Texas’ rout of the Orioles, with two of them coming in the fourth. Only 57 players in major-league history have homered twice in one inning. … Tyler Skaggs won his major-league debut. He out-dueled Jacob Turner, who was pretty solid in his Marlins debut. You can read more about both in yesterday’s Prospect Report. … Jered Weaver bounced back from his worst start of the season to notch his 16th win. … Kris Medlen was again sensational, tossing seven shutout innings against the Nationals. … Kyle Lohse kept rolling. … Colby Rasmus kept scuffling. … John Axford nailed down his first save opportunity since being reinstated as the Brewers closer. … Jay Bruce stayed hot. … Wade Miley kept dealing.

National League Short Hops: Both Buster Posey and Pablo Sandoval are questionable for tonight’s game against the Braves with hamstring injuries, but each is tentatively expected to play. The Panda’s injury is a much bigger concern since he just came off the disabled list on Monday. … Emilio Bonifacio landed back on the D.L. with a sprained right knee. He’ll miss at least three weeks, and possibly the season. … Shaun Marcum (elbow) will make his first start since June 14 on Saturday against the Pirates. … Marcum’s teammate, lefty Randy Wolf, was handed his walking papers. He should latch on elsewhere in short order despite his awful numbers.

American League Short Hops: Ivan Nova will miss at least one outing after feeling a “grab” in his shoulder in Tuesday’s start. Thursday tests will determine the full extent of his injury. … Yu Darvish won’t make his scheduled start against the Twins after experiencing quad tightness in his most recent bullpen session. He’ll supposedly miss only one outing. Roy Oswalt is taking the ball in his place. … The owner of a 9.35 ERA and 4/4 K/BB ratio through 6 2/3 innings, Joba Chamberlain could be headed to Triple-A.

 

[HacheMan]

Harping on Harvey Another week, another player is suspended for testing positive for synthetic testosterone. It's a trend I'm not particularly thrilled with. Granted, that Melky Cabrera and Bartolo Colon both got caught is a sign that drug testing is working to a certain degree, but I'm not naive enough to think that more players aren't trying to cheat the system.

I'm mostly bummed about this situation because now baseball is getting national attention for the wrong reasons. Not because of the exciting pennant races, the three perfect games we have seen this season, Mike Trout's historic rookie season or even Billy Hamilton's stolen base record. Nope, instead we're rehashing the same old arguments we have had for the past decade or so. It's exhausting.

I mentioned last week that losing Cabrera in fantasy leagues wasn't a death sentence and the same thing applies with Colon. The veteran right-hander was featured in Waiver Wired just two weeks ago, so he obviously had value in mixed leagues, but the good news is that similar production can be found on the waiver wire. In fact, this might be a good time to stash his teammate Dan Straily, who figures to join the starting rotation as soon as he's eligible to return from the minors in a few days.

MIXED LEAGUES

Brett Anderson SP, Athletics (Yahoo: 19 percent owned, ESPN: 14.9 percent)

Anderson was victorious in his first major league start in 14 months Tuesday night, limiting the Twins to just one run on four hits over seven innings while striking out six and walking none. Granted, it's tough to glean too much from one start, but Anderson threw 62 out of 86 pitches for strikes, induced 13 ground balls to zero fly balls and hit 92 mph with his fastball in his final inning of work. Pretty encouraging stuff, especially with Bartolo Colon ruled out for the season after his PED supsension. It's easy to forget that the 24-year-old was emerging as one of the game's best young left-handed starting pitchers prior to undergoing Tommy John surgery, so he could have some sneaky value down the stretch.

Tyler Colvin OF/1B, Rockies (Yahoo: 18 percent owned, ESPN: 22.2 percent)

Colvin scuffled a bit in July, but he should be back on the radar in fantasy leagues now that he'll get regular duty at first base following Todd Helton's hip surgery and Michael Cuddyer's nagging oblique injury. The 26-year-old hit his first home run since July 6 on Monday night against the Mets and is batting .409 (18-for-44) over his last 12 games. The Rockies will face the Cubs in Wrigley Field this weekend before playing six straight at Coors Field, so now is a great time to buy in deeper formats.

Matt Harvey SP, Mets (Yahoo: 35 percent owned, ESPN: 45.9 percent)

The Mets continue to be terrible, but there's a lot to like about Harvey. The hard-throwing right-hander tossed six innings of one-run ball Wednesday night in a no-decision against the Rockies and now holds an excellent 2.75 ERA and 43/15 K/BB ratio over his first six major league starts. He'll likely be shut down at some point in September and don't look for the Mets to give him much help offensively, but he should be owned in more leagues right now.

Jonathan Lucroy C, Brewers (Yahoo: 37 percent owned, ESPN: 23.5 percent)

Lucroy continues to be undervalued in mixed leagues, despite posting some very impressive numbers. The 26-year-old backstop hasn't dropped off much since his return from a broken bone in his hand late last month, hitting .283 (17-for-60) with three home runs and 11 RBI in 20 games. If it wasn't for his two-month absence, he likely would have passed his career-highs in homers and RBI by now. With Carlos Ruiz, J.P. Arencibia and Mike Napoli all on the disabled list at the moment, there's no excuse for him to be unowned in standard leagues.

Zack Cozart SS, Reds (Yahoo: 24 percent owned, ESPN: 26.8 percent)

Cozart hasn't made an impact like his teammate Todd Frazier as a rookie, but he's still doing enough to warrant attention in mixed leagues. The 27-year-old is hitting .310 (27-for-87) with four homers and nine RBI in 20 games this month, pulling his batting average up from .240 to .252 in the process. He is currently tied for fifth among fantasy shortstops with 14 home runs and ranks ninth with 64 runs scored. His on-base percentage (.297) is brutal and it would be nice if he ran a little more, but he should be owned in all leagues which use a MI (middle infielder) spot.

Jeff Keppinger 1B/2B/3B, Rays (Yahoo: 7 percent owned, ESPN: 13.4 percent)

Go ahead, laugh if you want, but Keppinger is very quietly having his best season since he batted .332 in 67 games with the Reds back in 2007. The 32-year-old is batting .319 with six home runs, 29 RBI and an .818 OPS in 80 games this season while making eight starts at first base, 14 at second base and 31 at the hot corner. He has spent the majority of the season batting fourth or fifth in Joe Maddon's lineup, so he should continue to get plenty of chances to drive in runs. Keppinger will help fantasy owners the most out of the MI (middle infielder) spot, but the multi-position eligibility is nice to have.

Lucas Harrell RP/SP, Astros (Yahoo: 14 percent owned, ESPN: 9.4 percent)

It was bound to happen sooner or later. The Cardinals got to Harrell on Tuesday night, knocking him around for six runs on eight hits and three walks over just five innings. It broke a string of seven straight starts where he allowed two runs or less. I don't think Harrell can be trusted every time out in fantasy leagues, especially with that pathetic offense behind him, but he's a worthy streaming option this weekend against a reeling Mets team that is struggling to score runs off anyone right now.

Mitch Moreland 1B/OF, Rangers (Yahoo: 20 percent owned, ESPN: 27.1 percent)

I swear I was planning on including Moreland in Waiver Wired even before he hit a grand slam and drove in five runs Wednesday night against the Orioles. Trust me. The truth is that Moreland has been very solid since returning from a hamstring injury in late July, hitting .328 (22-for-67) with three home runs, 13 RBI and an .896 OPS in 22 games. He's best utilized in leagues where you can make daily lineup changes, as he owns a .603 career OPS against southpaws, but he should be useful as a CI (corner infielder) or fifth outfielder in deeper mixed formats.

Patrick Corbin SP, Diamondbacks (Yahoo: 14 percent owned, ESPN: 21.5 percent)

I recommended Corbin in NL-only leagues when he was added to Arizona's rotation at the start of August, but now it's time to give him a shot in mixed leagues. The 23-year-old southpaw has an impressive 2.77 ERA and 24/6 K/BB ratio in 26 innings over four starts this month and a 3.60 ERA and 54/19 K/BB ratio in 65 innings overall this year. It looks like the Diamondbacks will shut him down at some point in September once he reaches his innings-limit, but he's worth owning for now, especially with a promising matchup against the Padres on Friday.

John Jaso C, Mariners (Yahoo: 11 percent owned, ESPN: 3.6 percent)

I called Jonathan Lucroy undervalued a bit earlier, but Jaso's success has flown completely under the radar. The 28-year-old went 1-for-2 with two walks and a run scored in Wednesday's win over the Indians and is now hitting .289 with a .408 on-base percentage and a .908 OPS on the year. Among catchers with at least 200 plate appearances, only Jonathan Lucroy, Buster Posey and Carlos Ruiz have a higher OPS. The Mariners have been alternating Jaso between catcher and designated hitter on most nights, so he makes for a worthy second catcher in mixed leagues at the very least.

Shopping at the five-and-dime:

(Players owned in less than 10 percent of Y! and ESPN.com leagues)

Tyler Skaggs SP, Diamondbacks (Yahoo: 8 percent owned, ESPN: 3.5 percent)

Skaggs got the win in his major league debut Wednesday against the Marlins, giving up two runs on three hits and five walks over 6 2/3 innings. It was a bit of a mixed bag, as he struggled with his location at times, but it's easy to see why the Diamondbacks are so excited about him. One of the top pitching prospects in the game, the 21-year-old southpaw features a fastball in the 92-93 mph range and a knee-buckling curveball. There's no clear path for him in the rotation at the moment, as he was called up for the purposes of the doubleheader, but he could have value in mixed leagues down the stretch if the Diamondbacks end up trading Joe Saunders before August 31. It looks like he's staying in the majors for now, so keep an eye on him.

Will Venable OF, Padres (Yahoo: 3 percent owned, ESPN: 1.5 percent)

Talk about red-hot. Venable is 10-for-16 (.625) over his last four games, which has pulled his batting average up from .238 to .257 and his OPS from .715 to 762. The 29-year-old has also been pretty active on the basepaths recently, stealing nine bases over the past 30 days. Only Rajai Davis and Anthony Gose have more during the same timespan. Venable figures to sit against southpaws and he's naturally more productive on the road than at PETCO Park, so as long as you know what he is and what he isn't, he should be able to help in deeper formats. <!--RW-->

NL ONLY

Charlie Blackmon OF, Rockies (Yahoo: 0 percent owned, ESPN: 0 percent)

The Rockies have lost Michael Cuddyer and Eric Young, Jr. to the disabled list in recent days, so Blackmon is getting the chance to play right field and bat leadoff. The 26-year-old outfielder has struggled with injuries over the past year, but he owns a .312/.376/.473 batting line in the minors and has stolen at least 10 bases in all five of his professional seasons. He hasn't shown much over his first 121 plate appearances in the majors, but that's too small of a sample to give up on him as a potential fantasy asset.

Collin McHugh SP, Mets (Yahoo: N/A, ESPN: N/A)

Called up to take the place of Johan Santana in the starting rotation, McHugh will make his major league debut Thursday afternoon against the Rockies. The 25-year-old right-hander isn't considered a top prospect and has average velocity, but he possesses a wide assortment of pitches and posted a solid 2.88 ERA and a 132/44 K/BB ratio over 143 2/3 innings between Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Buffalo this year. It looks like the Mets will stick with a six-man rotation as they nurse Chris Young, Matt Harvey and Jon Niese to the finish line, so McHugh could have some value down the stretch.

Billy Hamilton SS, Reds (Yahoo: 3 percent owned, ESPN: 0.4 percent)

It's not often that a minor league player makes national headlines, but that's exactly what Hamilton did this week by breaking Vince Coleman's single-season professional stolen base record. Just in case you haven't been paying attention, the speedy 21-year-old has amassed an incredible 148 stolen bases between High-A Bakersfield and Double-A Pensacola. By the way, that's more stolen bases than the Orioles, Tigers and Pirates have combined this season. The Reds could really use a weapon like him down the stretch and manager Dusty Baker said this week that he could be an option to join the big club in September. I wouldn't touch him in mixed leagues quite yet, as he would likely be utilized as a pinch-runner, but it's time to call him a must-own in NL-only leagues.

Gorkys Hernandez OF, Marlins (Yahoo: 0 percent owned, ESPN: 0 percent)

Emilio Bonifacio went back on the disabled list yesterday, this time with a right knee sprain, so Hernandez should get a chance to play center field for at least the next two weeks. Acquired from the Pirates in the Gaby Sanchez deal, the 24-year-old is more known for his glove than his bat. While he was once a top prospect with the Braves, his career has stalled since 2009 and he's hitting just .160 (12-for-75) in 45 games at the major league level this year. He does have some speed, so the best-case scenario is that he swipes a few bags until Bonifacio is ready to return.

AL ONLY

Scott Podsednik OF, Red Sox (Yahoo: 0 percent owned, ESPN: 0.3 percent)

It's been an interesting month for good old Scotty Pods. Traded from the Red Sox to the Diamondbacks in the Craig Breslow deal on July 31, he was given his release after refusing a minor league assignment. He returned to the Red Sox less than two weeks later and is getting the bulk of the playing time in left field now that Carl Crawford is done for the season. Some luck. The 36-year-old has been productive when in the lineup this year, batting .370 (34-for-92) with seven stolen bases in 30 games, so there's no reason for him to be on the waiver wire right now.

Dewayne Wise OF, White Sox (Yahoo: 2 percent owned, ESPN: 2.5 percent)

Do I think Wise is going to continue hitting .297? Of course not. We're talking about someone with a .228/.262/.390 batting line in the big leagues to go along with an ugly 199/35 K/BB ratio. Regression will probably hit him pretty hard sooner or later. But the 34-year-old outfielder has some pop and some speed and should continue to get the majority of the playing time in center field while Alejandro De Aza is on the mend from a rib injury. That's worth something.

Nate McLouth OF, Orioles (Yahoo: 0 percent owned, ESPN: 0 percent)

Well, lookie what we have here. McLouth has shown some signs of life since joining the Orioles earlier this month, hitting .254 (15-for-59) with one home run, one triple, five doubles, six RBI and four stolen bases in 17 games. The 30-year-old still owns a terrible .208/.312/.323 batting line over 735 plate appearances dating back to 2010, so there's not much reason for optimism, but he could continue to help with counting stats as long as he starts in left field.

Johnny Giavotella 2B, Royals (Yahoo: 1 percent owned, ESPN: 0.1 percent)

It's about time. Now that Yuniesky Betancourt has been kicked to the curb and Chris Getz is done for the season following thumb surgery, Giavotella will get a chance to sink-or-swim as the starting second baseman. The 25-year-old owns a lowly .234/.263/.332 batting line over 278 plate appearances in the big leagues, but the Royals really need to see what they have here. On the bright side, his .308 batting average and 252/238 K/BB ratio in the minors indicates that he's better than what he has shown. Giavotella was hyped as a sleeper before the season, so I could see him having some value in deeper mixed leagues if things break right.

 

[HacheMan]

Power Play
Some fantasy owners will get an infusion of power in their lineups Friday, as both David Ortiz and Jose Bautista are poised to be activated from the disabled list.

Ortiz has been sidelined since July 16 due to a strained right Achilles tendon. The 37-year-old ran the bases Thursday afternoon without incident and took batting practice, so unless he doesn't feel up to it upon arriving to the ballpark Friday, he should return for the series opener against the Royals.

Ortiz has been reluctant to rush back from the disabled list, as blowing out the Achilles could cost him big in free agency. He's not 100 percent yet, but he'll attempt to play through the discomfort down the stretch. Ortiz was enjoying his best season since 2007 prior to the injury, hitting .316/.414/.609 with 23 home runs, 58 RBI and a 1.024 OPS in 89 games played.

As for Bautista, he showed no ill effects from his left wrist injury during a rehab game with Double-A New Hampshire on Thursday night, going deep twice while knocking in five runs. "Joey Bats" slugged a grand slam in the fourth inning and later added a solo shot in the eighth. Yep, it sounds like he's ready to terrorize American League pitchers again.

Bautista only ended up playing in two rehab games this week due to inclement weather, but he's still expected to return for the series opener against the Orioles on Friday night. The 31-year-old slugger was hitting .244/.360/.534 with 27 home runs, 65 RBI and an .894 OPS in 90 games prior to injuring his wrist on a swing on July 16.

Wilson Struggles Again

Lost in the insanity of the Angels' 14-13 win over the Red Sox in 10 innings on Thursday night was yet another disappointing performance by C.J. Wilson. The 31-year-old southpaw was tagged for seven runs (six earned) on eight hits over five innings. He now has a 7.43 ERA over his last eight starts and 3.83 ERA on the year. His last win was on June 26.

There hasn't been any mention of an injury, so it's hard to point to any one reason for his struggles. However, it's worth noting that he has served up seven home runs over his last eight starts after allowing just seven over his first 19 starts this year. Wilson has induced ground balls 50 percent of the time for his career and gave up 10 home runs over 204 innings in 2010 and 16 home runs in 223 1/3 innings last year, so he's either leaving too many pitches up in the strike zone or he's suffering from some bad luck. Or some combination of the two, really.

If there's one silver lining from Thursday's start, it's that Wilson didn't walk a batter. Believe it or not, he didn't do that in any of his previous 26 starts this year. He issued 21 walks in 41 innings over his last seven starts coming into Thursday, so while he still got knocked around pretty good, hopefully he'll look a lot more like the pitcher who averaged 2.98 BB/9 last season moving forward as opposed to the one who has averaged 4.0 BB/9 this year. There's way too much upside here to consider dropping him in shallow mixed leagues, but I would think twice about using him next week with another meeting against the Red Sox on tap.

Brown Coming Around

This is an instant gratification world, so when a top prospect scuffles over his first couple of stints in the big leagues, it's easy to turn the page and focus on the new flavor of the week. Or year, for that matter. Domonic Brown symbolizes this in a lot of ways, as he was hyped as one of the top position prospects in the game going into spring training last year, but he's barely being talked about now that he's playing every day for the out-of-contention Phillies. We're a fickle bunch.

While Brown may never match the hype attached to him a couple of years ago, he is showing signs of being a useful building block for the Phillies. He went 2-for-6 with a double and two runs scored in Thursday's extra-inning win over the Reds and is hitting .286 (24-for-84) with one home run, seven doubles and 11 RBI over his first 23 games since being called up from the minors on July 31. He's been especially hot recently, collecting five of those extra-base hits in the past five games. He also owns an impressive 10/9 K/BB ratio.

I still wonder where Brown would be right now if he didn't require hamate bone surgery last spring, but given that the Phillies were messing around with his swing at the time, it's possible he would have struggled anyway. It was a pretty easy call to promote Brown last month after Hunter Pence and Shane Victorino were traded, but his numbers in Triple-A this year weren't exactly jaw-dropping (.286/.335/.432 with five home runs, 4-for-10 in stolen base attempts and a .767 OPS in 60 games), so there are still many questions to be answered. And that's not even talking about his defense, which remains a work in progress. Still, I wouldn't shy away from picking him up in a deeper mixed league right now. Perhaps something has finally clicked with him.

NL Quick Hits: Buster Posey (hamstring) was held out of the starting lineup again Thursday while Pablo Sandoval (hamstring) went 1-for-4 with an RBI single after leaving Wednesday's game early … Johnny Cueto allowed two runs over five innings Thursday in a no-decision against the Phillies … Dexter Fowler (ankle) is out of his air cast and isn't using crutches, but there's no timetable for his return … Allen Craig went 3-for-5 with a double and three RBI in Thursday's win over the Astros and now has 65 RBI in just 82 games this year … Collin McHugh struck out nine over seven scoreless innings in his major league debut Thursday against the Rockies, but was handed a no-decision … Jacob Turner, who allowed three runs over six innings Wednesday in a loss to the Diamondbacks, will remain in the Marlins' starting rotation … Devin Mesoraco was optioned to Triple-A Louisville on Thursday, but should be back when rosters expand in September … Sergio Romo notched a two-out save in Thursday's win over the Braves … The Diamondbacks will keep Tyler Skaggs in the big leagues, though it's not clear if he'll pitch as a starter or in relief … Jerry Hairston, Jr. is set to undergo season-ending hip surgery … Nationals pitching prospect Lucas Giolito will undergo Tommy John surgery on his right elbow next week … Jason Marquis was placed on the disabled list Thursday with a fractured left wrist …The Padres have officially released shortstop Jason Bartlett …

AL Quick Hits: An MRI on Albert Pujols' right calf revealed inflammation and he's considered day-to-day … Miguel Cabrera left Thursday's game with a sore right ankle, but hopes to be in the lineup Friday … Justin Verlander struck out 12 while allowing two runs over nine innings Thursday in a tough-luck no-decision against the Blue Jays … Dustin Pedroia homered and knocked in five runs Thursday in a loss to the Angels … Josh Hamilton drove in five runs in Thursday's win over the Twins and now leads the American League with 107 RBI … Carl Crawford underwent successful Tommy John surgery on his left elbow Thursday … Mike Napoli (calf) is not expected to return from the disabled list when he's first eligible Sunday … Josh Willingham was scratched from Thursday's lineup due to a stiff neck … Doug Fister has been scratched from Saturday's start against the Angels due to a groin injury and will be replaced by Drew Smyly … Denard Span (clavicle) went 2-for-5 with an RBI, a walk and two stolen bases in his return to the lineup Thursday … Alex Cobb gave up just four hits in his first career shutout Thursday against the Athletics … Vernon Wells homered and knocked in three runs in a wild win over the Red Sox on Thursday … Michael Young left Thursday's game to be present for the birth of his child and may be placed on the paternity leave list … Felix Doubront (knee) will be activated from the disabled list to start Sunday against the Royals … Adam Lind (back) went 1-for-4 with a walk and three strikeouts Thursday in his first rehab game with Double-A New Hampshire … Ivan Nova was placed on the disabled list Thursday with right rotator cuff inflammation and will not pick up a baseball for five days …

 

[HacheMan]

Brett Looks to Build No one knew what to expect when Brett Anderson took the hill in Oakland on Tuesday night for the first time in 13 months.

Previously one of the most impressive young pitchers in the game, Anderson had been shelved for over a year by Tommy John surgery, and while he'd shown good control in a six-start minor-league rehab stint, he also got knocked around a little bit. Some bumps in the road are to be expected in the path back from elbow surgery.

As it turned out, Anderson's ride couldn't have been smoother in his 2012 MLB debut. The lefty shut down the Twins, allowing just one run on four hits in seven innings while striking out six and walking none. His fastball velocity was good, his breaking pitches sharp and his command excellent.

If you exclude his final two ugly starts before going under the knife last year (when elbow soreness was likely a factor), the 24-year-old is 11-10 with a 2.76 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 137-to-42 K/BB ratio in 192 innings since the start of the 2010 season. Phenomenal.

His sterling performance this past week is hardly a guarantee that he's fully returned to form, but Anderson is immensely talented and it was a heck of an encouraging sign. Fantasy owners in need of a pitching boost should be scurrying to add him, and with two relatively favorable starts lined up for The Week Ahead, there's no time like the present.

Going Twice…

American League

Strong Plays

Brett Anderson: @CLE (Hernandez), BOS (Buchholz)
David Price: @TEX (Holland), @TOR (Morrow)
Felix Hernandez: @MIN (Hendriks), LAA (Santana)
Scott Diamond: SEA (Iwakuma), @KC (Mendoza)
Jered Weaver: BOS (Morales), @SEA (Iwakuma)
Chris Sale: @BAL, @DET (Sanchez)
Clay Buchholz: KC (Hochevar), @OAK (Anderson)

Decent Plays

Derek Holland: TB (Price), @CLE (McAllister)
James Shields: @TEX (Darvish), @TOR (Romero)
Hisashi Iwakuma: @MIN (Diamond), LAA (Weaver)
Tommy Milone: @CLE (McAllister), BOS (Morales)
David Phelps: TOR (Romero), BAL
Luis Mendoza: DET (Sanchez), MIN (Diamond)
Luke Hochevar: @BOS (Buchholz), MIN (Hendriks)
Anibal Sanchez: @KC (Mendoza), CWS (Sale)
Francisco Liriano: @BAL (Tillman), @DET (Scherzer)
Zach McAllister: OAK (Milone), TEX (Holland)
Chris Tillman: CWS (Liriano), @NYY (Garcia)

At Your Own Risk

Liam Hendriks: SEA (Hernandez), @KC (Hochevar)
Roberto Hernandez: OAK (Anderson), TEX (Feldman)
Franklin Morales: @LAA (Weaver), @OAK (Milone)

National League

Strong Plays

Stephen Strasburg: @MIA (Nolasco), STL (Westbrook)
Kyle Lohse: @PIT (Correia), @WAS (Zimmermann)
Matt Cain: @HOU (Norris), @CHC (Wood)
Yovani Gallardo: @CHC (Wood), PIT (Bedard)
Wade Miley: CIN (Cueto), @LAD (Capuano)

Decent Plays

Jake Westbrook: @PIT (Burnett), @WAS (Strasburg)
Vance Worley: NYM (Young), @ATL (Hudson)
Marco Estrada: @CHC (Germano), PIT (Karstens)
Chris Capuano: @COL (Chatwood), ARI (Miley)
Bud Norris: SF (Cain), CIN (Arroyo)
Bronson Arroyo: @ARI (Cahill), @HOU (Norris)
Travis Wood: MIL (Gallardo), SF (Cain)
Trevor Cahill: CIN (Arroyo), @LAD (Blanton)

At Your Own Risk

Joe Blanton: @COL (Francis), ARI (Cahill)
Jeff Francis: LAD (Blanton), SD
Justin Germano: MIL (Estrada), SF (Lincecum)
<!--RW-->
Streamer City

The following pitchers are generally available in over 50 percent of fantasy leagues and have favorable match-ups this week:

American League

Wednesday, 8/29: Sam Deduno vs. SEA
The right-hander has been able to overcome his horrendous control to post quality starts for the Twins. It may not be sustainable, but he's still a good bet at home against the M's.

Thursday, 8/30: Jeremy Guthrie vs. DET
Guthrie is on fire, as he's gone three straight starts without allowing an earned run while posting a 19/3 K/BB ratio in 22 2/3 innings.

National League

Wednesday, 8/29: Jacob Turner vs. WAS
Turner looked sharp in his Marlins debut this past week. Now that he's sticking in the rotation, he'll be a great streaming option and deep-league pickup for the final weeks.

Wednesday, 8/29: Eric Stults vs. ATL
The veteran lefty journeyman is having a surprisingly good season, with a 3.02 ERA and 1.22 WHIP in 56 innings. He's generally a solid play at Petco.

Friday, 8/31: Nathan Eovaldi vs. NYM
Since coming over to Miami, Eovaldi is 3-2 with a 3.75 ERA. He's looked particularly comfortable pitching in Marlins Park.

Total Games

American League

6: DET, LAA, NYY, SEA, TEX
7: BAL, BOS, CLE, CWS, KC, MIN, OAK, TB, TOR

National League

5: MIA
6: ATL, CIN, COL, HOU, NYM, PHI, PIT, SD, SF, WAS
7: ARI, CHC, LAD, MIL, STL

Lefty/Righty Breakdowns

American League

BAL: 4 vs. RHP, 3 vs. LHP
BOS: 4 vs. RHP, 3 vs. LHP
CLE: 5 vs. RHP, 2 vs. LHP
CWS: 5 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP
DET: 3 vs. RHP, 3 vs. LHP
KC: 6 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP
LAA: 4 vs. RHP, 2 vs. LHP
MIN: 5 vs. RHP, 2 vs. LHP
NYY: 2 vs. RHP, 4 vs. LHP
OAK: 6 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP
SEA: 5 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP
TB: 4 vs. RHP, 3 vs. LHP
TEX: 5 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP
TOR: 4 vs. RHP, 3 vs. LHP

National League

ARI: 5 vs. RHP, 2 vs. LHP
ATL: 4 vs. RHP, 2 vs. LHP
CHC: 6 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP
CIN: 4 vs. RHP, 2 vs. LHP
COL: 4 vs. RHP, 2 vs. LHP
HOU: 5 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP
LAD: 3 vs. RHP, 4 vs. LHP
MIA: 3 vs. RHP, 2 vs. LHP
MIL: 3 vs. RHP, 4 vs. LHP
NYM: 4 vs. RHP, 2 vs. LHP
PHI: 5 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP
PIT: 6 vs. RHP, 0 vs. LHP
SD: 4 vs. RHP, 3 vs. LHP
SF: 3 vs. RHP, 3 vs. LHP
STL: 6 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP
WAS: 5 vs. RHP, 1 vs. LHP

The Infirmary

You can get a full listing of injured players at Rotoworld's Injury Page but here's the latest on a few prominent players who have been out of action:

Peter Bourjos: Out until early September (wrist)
Carl Crawford: Out for the season (elbow)
Eric Young Jr.: Out until September (intercostal)
Michael Cuddyer: Out for the season (ribs)
Alejandro De Aza: Out until September (ribs)
Emilio Bonifacio: Out until early September (knee)
Johan Santana: Out for the season (back)
Ivan Nova: Out until September (shoulder)
Jason Marquis: Out until September (wrist)

 

[HacheMan]

Blockbuster Redefined
The blockbuster of blockbusters highlights this week’s edition.



Before jumping into the baseball news, I just wanted to make sure you all know that Colton and the Wolfman has changed timeslots. We are now on Tuesdays from 10pm-1am ET on SiriusXM (Sirius 210, XM 87). This week we host the “Colton and the Wolfman” listener league draft featuring show regulars and 8 listeners. Will be fun!

Ok, now back to business . . . .





Adrian Gonzalez: Of course, you would need to have been living under a rock to have not heard about the quarter of a BILLION dollar deal the Dodgers struck with the Red Sox, acquiring Adrian Gonzalez, Josh Beckett, Carl Crawford and Nick Punto from the Red Sox for James Loney, Allan Webster, Ivan DeJesus Jr. and two players to be named later (believed to be Rubby De La Rosa and Jerry Sands). Frankly, I am not sure why the Red Sox or fantasy players were down on AGone. In a supposed down year, he is hitting .299 with 89 RBI. Yes, it is only 16 HR but geez, who wouldn’t take .300 and 114 RBI (his current pace)? The bottom line is simple here. AGone will benefit from the change of scenery, Matt Kemp and of course a manager who knows a thing or two about playing 1B - Donnie Baseball. If you can buy for this year or next, do it!



Josh Beckett: The “other” immediate impact player moving in the blockbuster is Josh Beckett. Readers of this column know I am a huge fan. But, putting my bias aside (ok, not really), what do I think of Beckett for this year and next? Answer, I like - a lot! Beckett goes from pitching in the bombers of the AL East to the anemic bats of the NL West. Add in that Dodger Stadium is the polar opposite of Fenway and you have seeds for success. Now, let's get more specific. What has hurt Beckett in the past has been the HR. But, many of the Fenway HR now will be Chavez Ravine flyballs that land in the gloves of Kemp and crew. For this year, I buy. For next year, I am even more bullish. Josh Beckett has had 5+ ERAs twice in recent years (2006 and 2010). The succeeding years were stellar, 2007 (3.28 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 194K) and 2011 (2.89 ERA 1.03 WHIP 175K). The numbers don’t lie.



James Loney: Sticking with the big deal, let's not forget that the Red Sox got James Loney. Yes, he has never lived up to his potential and is hitting just .254 with four home runs and 33 RBI in 114 games this year. However, he is only 28 and that green monster could just be the cure for what ails him. Plus, he had homered twice in the last 6 games he played for LA. Add in the fact that he has posted double digit HR 5 years in a row in the pitcher’s park in LA and you could get cheap value here. Buy while the stock is down, just don’t expect a huge payoff - a solid return will do.



David Ortiz: Not only have the Sox lost Crawford, Beckett and A Gone, it looks like they will lose Papi too. It appears he will hit the DL and very well could be done for the year as the Sox have given up. Roto lesson here -- the T in SMART stands for Team. If Papi’s team was good and in contention, they might not shut him down and his roto owners might get more production. I am not saying anyone should have known the Sox would be bad back in March, but it does prove the maxim -- better to invest in players on good teams.



Ben Sheets: In proof of another timeless roto maxim -- that injury prone players get . . . injured -- the Braves placed RHP Ben Sheets on DL with shoulder inflammation. If you own Sheets, I hope you enjoyed the ride because it is likely over. Not only is he hurt, but he has given up 14 ER in his last 16 innings. Either he has been hurt for a while or the league caught up with him. Either way, time to find another starting pitcher for your roto rotation.



Casey Kelly: According to reports, top prospect Casey Kelly will make his major league debut Monday against Atlanta in place of the injured Jason Marquis. Kelly is only 0-1 with a 3.78 ERA over three rehab starts with AA San Antonio after missing most of the year. However, he is one of the top pitching prospects in baseball. Keeper leaguers beware and be awake. Major stash opportunity.



Andre Ethier: Andre Ethier is one of the Dodgers who should benefit from AGone joining the lineup. Friday, Ethier went 4-4 with a homer and four RBI. In my view, Ethier is one of the more underrated OF in fantasy. He is on pace to hit .290+ with 94 RBI. Not too shabby. Add in the fact that he has had to produce without Matt Kemp or any other serious threat in the lineup for most of the season and you can see why I am bullish for the stretch run. Buy now while you still can.





Adrian Beltre: There is no one hotter in MLB than Adrian Beltre. Friday, Beltre went 4-4, hit for the cycle and had 3 RBI. In the last week, Beltre hit .433 with 5 HR. It is these kinds of weeks that change roto fortunes down the stretch. Yes, Beltre gets nicked up and misses time, but that team will score and Beltre will hit while healthy. In my book, a good gamble for the rest of 2012.



Matt Harrison: Matt Harrison just keeps on pitching really good baseball. Friday, he took a no-no into the 7^th inning and ended up tossing 8 shutout innings for his 15^th win of the year. Add in his 3.04 ERA and you have a solid horse for your rotation. Harrison has proven that his 3.40 ERA of 2011 was no fluke. Bottom line here folks: Big reliable lefties pitching for good teams are very hard to find. Harrison is one. Buy.



Andrew Bailey: Andrew Bailey got his first save of the year on Friday. This writer thinks there will be more to come. Aceves is in the doghouse and the Sox need to see what they have in Bailey while they prepare for 2013. Buy if you need saves. He won't get a ton but what he gets could make all the difference!



And last and but not least, this from the Baron of the Bottom of the Page -- Schultz says: “While I am sure it's self-explanatory from the title, this column usually takes a look back at the week that was and discusses what happened and how it might affect the future of your fantasy baseball team. One of the things that's rarely done - on this site as well as others that cover the same subject matter - is a discussion as to the rules that govern fantasy and rotisserie baseball. Notwithstanding the fact that nearly a million people engage in the roto-baseball pastime (all figures made up, not estimated or approximated, though I suspect I may be right), there really are no uniform rules for standard play and each league has its own quirks that usually develop over time and with good cause. It's this lack of uniformity that makes most call-in/write-in shows/columns inane as the "expert" usually has no framework for why anyone would be asking if they should start Felix Hernandez or Justin Verlander or the question needs Schultz-like verbosity to obtain a useful answer.


As the Adrian Gonzalez, Josh Beckett, Carl Crawford, Nick Punto for James Loney and prospects trade has yet to be formalized or actually take place, it's not really proper fodder for a column entitled The Week That Was. (Definitely material for a column entitled The Week That Would Have Been Really Cool). As the Greatest Commissioner In The History of Rotisserie Sports, seeing this trade arouses a feeling of empathy for Bud Selig, the man who must decide whether this trade will be allowed to occur. If the prospective Red Sox/Dodgers trade took place in your roto-league, I suspect that it would result in an e-mail chain that would contain questionable language, insults that would require future apologies and one threat to quit the league. (Schultz' tip: whenever anyone threatens to quit, the Commissioner should just say OK. You would be amazed how quickly that shuts up narcissistic hotheads who overestimate their own importance to your roto-league). Surely, you can imagine the last-place owner in your league would be whining about playing for next year and that he wasn't going to keep those guys anyway and that no one else offered him anything better while the owner sitting in the Dodgers' position quietly sits back and hopes that the Commissioner doesn't exercise his (or her) veto power.


For rotisserie baseball purposes, it should never fall onto one person to decide whether a trade should be sanctioned or reversed. Quite frankly, even if your Commissioner is Schultz, one person isn't going to be right 100% of the time and what makes roto-baseball fun is the various different strategies employed by the owners to achieve the same goal. Any league of worth should employ some sort of trading review system in which every owner has the ability to register an objection with a threshold of 60% or 67% of the non-involved teams objecting in order to negate a trade. One or two vociferous owners should not have more sway than the rest of the league and it should take significantly more than half of your league feeling the competitive balance has been skewed to prevent two other owners from exerting their freewill. There is much more that can (and should) be written on this subject, but I suspect it's not smart to have Schultz Says run longer than the main column.”



Response: I laughed a few times. Thanks! In Schultz’s defense, he sent me his section before the blockbuster went through. He should have more to say next week. Same bat time, same bat channel.

 

[HacheMan]

Dodger Dealings

Almost all of the big trades in baseball come before the July 31 deadline. The Dodgers and Red Sox bucked that trend over the weekend, completing a blockbuster nine-player deal that sent Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford, Josh Beckett and Nick Punto to L.A. and James Loney, Rubby De La Rosa, Allen Webster, Jerry Sands and Ivan DeJesus Jr. to Boston.



There’s a reason these kinds of deals rarely happen. In fact, a deal like this had never happened, at least not on this scale. It’s the first time ever that two $100-million players (Gonzalez and Crawford) were traded in the same deal, as the Red Sox unloaded a total of $262.5 million in contracts. The goal for the Red Sox is obviously to obtain payroll flexibility and gain a fresh look to a roster that has been plagued by controversy and disappointment in recent years. From the Dodgers’ perspective, they have new ownership that clearly isn’t afraid to spend, and they’re obviously dead-set on going hard after a playoff spot this season, despite obvious long-term risk.



In the short-term, both of the fantasy-relevant players are headed to the Dodgers. Gonzalez hasn’t had a prototypical year, but he’s been one of the hottest hitters in baseball over the last two months and thrilled Dodgers fans Saturday by launching a three-run homer in his first at-bat in Dodger blue. The first baseman will play 14 more games this year in pitcher-friendly Dodger Stadium and another six in San Francisco and San Diego. But, he’ll also salivate over three in Colorado, two in Arizona and three in Cincinnati. Overall, Gonzalez’s fantasy value probably takes a small hit, but he’s worth emptying your NL-only FAAB purse if there’s any money left in there.



Beckett had a pretty rough time at it this year in Boston, putting up a 5.23 ERA over 21 starts, and he’s shown no signs of turning things around of late, allowing at least four runs in five of his last six starts. The veteran right-hander’s velocity has also been at an all-time low. So what’s to like? Well, Beckett has feasted on NL teams in his career (3.31 ERA, 1.18 WHIP), and he’ll certainly benefit from going up against NL West lineups instead of AL East lineups. It’s hard to give him a ringing endorsement, but at least a moderate uptick in performance should be expected, and a big upgrade isn’t impossible.



Bats, Papi Back to the DL



Both Jose Bautista’s (wrist) and David Ortiz’s (Achilles) recoveries lasted a bit longer than anticipated. Yet, it appears that they still might have been activated a bit too soon.



The AL East sluggers have experienced setbacks after they played a mere three games between them upon activation from the disabled list. And, unless they experience unexpected recoveries, their seasons have likely come to a close.



Bautista has already officially been placed back on the DL, and his season is likely over following a nifty .241/.358/.527 batting line with 27 homers and 65 RBI over 92 games. Joey Bats is under contract through 2015, so he’s obviously not going anywhere, but it will be interesting to see what the offseason brings for Ortiz.



Ortiz will turn 37 in November, and he’s limited to designated hitter duties. Yet, just when it looked a couple years ago like he might be fading, he’s come back incredibly strong, punctuated by a 1.026 OPS in 90 games this season. Big Papi seemed to get his feelings hurt last offseason when the Red Sox refused to hand him a multi-year deal. But, now with both Adrian Gonzalez and Carl Crawford out of the picture, perhaps they’re be more willing to give in to the slugger’s demands.











National League Quick Hits: Joey Votto (knee) is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment Tuesday, and if all goes according to plan, he will be activated this weekend. Votto has been sidelined since mid-July with a left knee issue that’s required a pair of surgeries ... Ike Davis launched a pair of homers in Sunday’s win over the Astros. Though he’s batting just .223 with a .295 OBP this season, Davis has now gone deep 24 times and driven in 70 runs ... Casey Kelly will be called up to make his major league debut Monday. The top prospect has missed most of the season with elbow issues, but he’s fine now physically and the Padres think he’s ready ... Nick Masset has been shut down after experiencing more shoulder soreness. It has to now be considered unlikely that he’ll be back this year, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he winds up having surgery ... Michael Morse (hand) expects to be back in the lineup Tuesday. He hasn’t played since getting hit by a pitch Friday, but X-rays on his hand came back negative ... Lucas Duda was recalled by the Mets Sunday and went 0-for-2 with a walk in his first game with the big club in nearly a month. He’s expected to see plenty of time in left field and will also get starts at first base.



American League Quick Hits: The Orioles have acquired left-hander Joe Saunders from the Diamondbacks. Saunders has a 5.51 ERA after the All-Star break, and he’s not a great fit in the AL East. But, the O’s are desperate for pitching, so he could be an upgrade for them. Reliever Matt Lindstrom was sent to Arizona in the deal ... Max Scherzer won his 14^th game and lowered his ERA to 4.13 in Sunday’s victory over the Angels. Scherzer is one of the hottest pitchers in the game, having dropped his ERA a full run over his last 11 starts. He leads the league with 195 strikeouts ... Gavin Floyd exited his start Sunday with right elbow soreness. He spent time on the disabled list back in July with elbow issues, which obviously is not encouraging ... Cody Ross could reportedly sign an extension with the Red Sox before the end of the season. The impending free agent has turned out to be a nice bargain for the Sox and could conceivably net a three-year deal ... Franklin Gutierrez (concussion) is nearing a return to the Mariners. He’s played in seven rehab games this month without having any setbacks ... Albert Pujols missed a fourth straight game Sunday with a calf injury. He could return Tuesday following the Angels’ off day Monday.​

 

[HacheMan]

Why not stream setup men?

Holds guys are often more reliable -- yet less popular -- than subpar starters


By AJ Mass | ESPN.com

With September nearly upon us, the fantasy baseball season is starting to get to the nitty-gritty, especially in leagues with playoff formats.


Many owners have gotten this far by streaming pitchers. After all, once a starting pitcher has taken the mound on a Wednesday or Thursday, he is pretty much done for the scoring period, and his spot in the starting lineup no longer serves any purpose. Subbing in a revolving door of middle-of-the-road names from the waiver wire has long been recognized as a viable strategy in head-to-head weekly leagues.
It goes without saying that the more points you can accumulate, the better your chances of winning. However, gamble with a pitcher such as Lucas Harrell, Jake Arrieta or A.J. Burnett at the wrong time and you've shot yourself in the foot. To avoid catastrophic outings in which a pitcher is hung out to dry as the opposition treats the bases as their personal merry-go-round, why not instead stream holds?
In many scoring systems, you don't get points for holds, but the fact remains that the pitchers who are getting them most often are among the safest pitching options in the game. Take a look at the leaders in this category and their fantasy points on the season:


<table><thead><tr><th> Pitcher </th><th> Team </th><th> Holds </th><th> Points </th><th> Ownership </th></tr></thead><tbody><tr class="last"><td> Vinnie Pestano </td><td> CLE </td><td> 33 </td><td> 160 </td><td> 5.4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Joel Peralta </td><td> TB </td><td> 30 </td><td> 123 </td><td> 2.5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Jason Grilli </td><td> PIT </td><td> 28 </td><td> 136 </td><td> 3.8 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Sean Burnett </td><td> WAS </td><td> 27 </td><td> 134 </td><td> 1.1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Joaquin Benoit </td><td> DET </td><td> 26 </td><td> 146 </td><td> 2.5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Mitchell Boggs </td><td> STL </td><td> 25 </td><td> 142 </td><td> 0.5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Pedro Strop </td><td> BAL </td><td> 23 </td><td> 164 </td><td> 5.6 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Mike Adams </td><td> TEX </td><td> 22 </td><td> 91 </td><td> 6.4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Matt Belisle </td><td> COL </td><td> 22 </td><td> 109 </td><td> 0.1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Luke Gregerson </td><td> SD </td><td> 22 </td><td> 159 </td><td> 4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Francisco Rodriguez </td><td> MIL </td><td> 22 </td><td> 71 </td><td> 4.9 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Sergio Romo </td><td> SF </td><td> 22 </td><td> 144 </td><td> 27.6 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Ronald Belisario </td><td> LAD </td><td> 21 </td><td> 126 </td><td> 0.1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Edward Mujica </td><td> STL </td><td> 21 </td><td> 93 </td><td> 0.1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Eric O'Flaherty </td><td> ATL </td><td> 21 </td><td> 104 </td><td> 0.4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Vicente Padilla </td><td> BOS </td><td> 21 </td><td> 96 </td><td> 0.1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td> Matt Thornton </td><td> CWS </td><td> 21 </td><td> 85 </td><td> 5.9 </td></tr></tbody></table>



As the ownership numbers indicate, most of these guys will be on the waiver wire in your league. Without saves to their name, these setup men don't interest most rotisserie-league owners, and they often get overlooked in points leagues as well. But they really shouldn't be outright dismissed. One alone might not do much for your weekly bottom line, but an army of them could tip the scales.


Some of these pitchers have saves because they have either filled in for save situations or failed previously in a closer role, so their point totals are inflated a bit. Regardless, the majority of the names on this list are just as effective, if not more so, as any ninth-inning specialist. The only difference is that they don't get the extra points for saves. They do pitch multiple times during the week and, unlike starters, usually get pulled quickly if they have a bad day. The risk is not nearly as high.


So which sounds better to you: Rotating three to five of these steady guys into your lineup daily with the hope that each gives you two to four points an outing all seven days of the scoring period or rolling the dice that the sum total of the run-of-the-mill starters you're streaming into those same spots end up netting you positive points when the final tally is taken?


Toss in the good chance that, when streaming starters, I'd likely have to compete with other owners for the same small pool of daily probables versus gaining a stranglehold on these holds specialists as the only person attempting the strategy in the first place, and I'd much rather take my chances with the setup men, even if it comes in smaller doses.


Pointing Up




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Angel Pagan, OF, San Francisco Giants: Although he ended this past week meekly (0-for-8, three K's), since Aug. 10, Pagan has hit .343 with 10 extra-base hits, 15 runs scored and two steals. He even went 6-for-14 at Petco Park. While Melky Cabrera may have let his team down, Pagan has certainly picked up the slack and then some.

Yovani Gallardo, SP, Milwaukee Brewers: He has thrown five straight quality starts and won all five of them, with a 2.02 ERA and .205 batting average against in the process. Add to that a K/BB rate of 3.5 and there should be no surprise that he was one of the biggest movers in our Top 100 rankings over the past week. It also wouldn't be surprising to see him rack up double-digit strikeouts in his next couple starts.
Max Scherzer, SP, Detroit Tigers: Speaking of strikeouts, Scherzer continues to rack up fantasy points, not only thanks to a 4-0 record and an impressive 1.33 ERA over his past four games but also thanks to a stellar 12.4 K/9 rate in August. We've seen him hit rocky patches several times this season, but when he gets on a roll like this, his upside is tremendous. Ride the hot streak, especially since the 5.4 runs of support per game he has been getting this season has been way more than he has needed to earn those wins.
Giancarlo Stanton, OF, Miami Marlins: For the season, Stanton is hitting .273 on the road, compared to .300 at home. Yet on the 11-game road trip that the Marlins just had, he hit .310 with eight home runs and 13 RBIs. Sure, his lineup-mates aren't getting on base in front of him, but with a nine-game homestand on tap, Stanton should do OK.
Aaron Hill, 2B, Arizona Diamondbacks: With 70 fantasy points (ESPN standard) over the past two weeks, no hitter has been hotter than Hill. Six home runs in nine games will do that, but with an OBP of .447 to go along with the power and only three strikeouts in his past 38 plate appearances, there's little negative to be said about this second baseman.
Nick Swisher, 1B/OF, New York Yankees: August has been good to Swisher, who not only has a 1.001 OPS for the month but continues to sport an improved K/BB rate. Over the past 30 days, it sits at 1.36, compared to 1.98 for the season. It's easy to look at the year-to-date stats (.278-19-73) and be a bit underwhelmed, but few players have come on as strong down the stretch.


Pointing Down




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Bud Norris, SP, Houston Astros: He has had some issues with his foot recently, making his chances of recovery from a huge dry spell all the more unlikely. Norris hasn't won since May 21, and he has a 5.72 ERA and an ugly .304 BAA in his past five starts (dating to July 30). Coming off a six-inning outing in which he struck out just a single batter, this Bud's not for you.

Hunter Pence, OF, Giants: Since being shipped out of Philadelphia, Pence has hit just .214 with a whopping 29 strikeouts in 98 at-bats. When he left the Phillies, he was hitting .271 with a slugging percentage of .447. Today, his season numbers stand at .260 and .421, respectively, with no signs of light at the end of the tunnel. Not all deadline deals work out, and this one seems to be falling into the dud category.
Jason Kipnis, 2B, Cleveland Indians: Not only has Kipnis struggled in August (.186 batting average), but his K/BB rate is 4.75. Even with three multihit games in his past eight starts, he has managed just eight hits in his past 34 at-bats (.235), so unless you're guessing right on which days to start/sit him, Kipnis simply isn't worth being in your lineup at all.
Colby Rasmus, OF, Toronto Blue Jays: A 1-for-37 slump is pretty much all you need to know about Rasmus. Even the two weeks prior to this drought weren't all that exciting (.271, run production of seven, 17 strikeouts). As the only hitter in the game to be putting up double-digit negatives over the past 15 days, how can you trust him?

Drew Stubbs, OF, Cincinnati Reds: Since Aug. 15, he has had more than one fantasy point in a game only once, along with four goose eggs and three games of negative production. He is hitting just .171 since Aug. 7 and has struck out once every 2.62 plate appearances in that stretch, depleting his value even further.
Joe Saunders, SP, Baltimore Orioles: On the one hand, a move away from the Diamondbacks and spacious Chase Field might help Saunders improve from a recent run of starts in which he went 1-4 with a 6.60 ERA and .313 BAA. Then again, three of those starts were on the road, and generally speaking, National League lineups are easier than their DH-laden American League counterparts.


Top 100 Overall Players

Note: AJ Mass' top 100 overall players are ranked based on statistics that have already been accrued in ESPN standard points formats and should be used as a supplement to the ESPN Player Rater.
<table><thead><tr><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> Rnk </center></th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"> Player, Team </th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> Prev
Rnk </center></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 1 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Miguel Cabrera, H, DET </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 2 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Edwin Encarnacion, H, TOR </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 3 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 3 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mike Trout, H, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 2 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 4 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ryan Braun, H, MIL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 6 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 5 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Albert Pujols, H, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Aroldis Chapman, RP, CIN </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 7 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Andrew McCutchen, H, PIT </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 8 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Justin Verlander, SP, DET </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 10 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 9 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Prince Fielder, H, DET </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 8 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 10 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> David Price, SP, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 12 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 11 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> R.A. Dickey, SP, NYM </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 17 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 12 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Felix Hernandez, SP, SEA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 13 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 13 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Josh Hamilton, H, TEX </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 9 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 14 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> David Wright, H, NYM </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 11 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 15 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ian Kinsler, H, TEX </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 25 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 16 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Robinson Cano, H, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 16 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 17 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Matt Holliday, H, STL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 20 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 18 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Fernando Rodney, RP, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 18 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 19 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Melky Cabrera, H, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 14 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 20 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Chris Sale, SP, CHW </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 32 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 21 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Carlos Gonzalez, H, COL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 15 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 22 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Clayton Kershaw, SP, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 28 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 23 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Alex Rios, H, CHW </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 21 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 24 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Matt Cain, SP, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 23 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 25 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Adrian Beltre, H, TEX </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 45 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 26 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Aramis Ramirez, H, MIL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 26 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 27 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Cole Hamels, SP, PHI </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 19 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 28 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jose Reyes, H, MIA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 29 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 29 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Carlos Beltran, H, STL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 22 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 30 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Craig Kimbrel, RP, ATL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 30 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 31 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Madison Bumgarner, SP, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 32 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Aaron Hill, H, ARI </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 39 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Josh Willingham, H, MIN </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 24 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> David Ortiz, H, BOS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 27 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Stephen Strasburg, SP, WAS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 37 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 36 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Martin Prado, H, ATL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 43 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 37 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Buster Posey, H, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 31 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 38 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Johnny Cueto, SP, CIN </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 39 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jered Weaver, SP, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 41 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 40 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Adam Jones, H, BAL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 41 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Billy Butler, H, KC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 36 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 42 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ben Zobrist, H, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 48 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 43 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Derek Jeter, H, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 57 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 44 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Joe Mauer, H, MIN </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 42 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 45 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Adrian Gonzalez, H, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 38 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 46 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> CC Sabathia, SP, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 58 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 47 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mark Teixeira, H, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 40 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 48 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Hanley Ramirez, H, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 50 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 49 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Gio Gonzalez, SP, WAS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 49 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 50 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Kenley Jansen, RP, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 46 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 51 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jay Bruce, H, CIN </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 54 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 52 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jose Bautista, H, TOR </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 44 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 53 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Yadier Molina, H, STL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 59 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 54 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Brandon Phillips, H, CIN </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 60 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 55 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Kyle Lohse, SP, STL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 55 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 56 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Joel Hanrahan, RP, PIT </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 47 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 57 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Michael Bourn, H, ATL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 51 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 58 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jake Peavy, SP, CHW </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 56 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 59 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Dustin Pedroia, H, BOS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 80 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 60 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Chase Headley, H, SD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 67 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 61 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ryan Zimmerman, H, WAS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 52 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 62 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Freddie Freeman, H, ATL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 77 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 63 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jimmy Rollins, H, PHI </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 70 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 64 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jason Heyward, H, ATL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 83 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 65 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Elvis Andrus, H, TEX </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 62 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 66 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Paul Konerko, H, CHW </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 69 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 67 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Joey Votto, H, CIN </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 53 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 68 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Hiroki Kuroda, SP, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 64 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 69 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jason Motte, RP, STL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 81 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 70 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jim Johnson, RP, BAL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 84 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 71 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> A.J. Pierzynski, H, CHW </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 68 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 72 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Allen Craig, H, STL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 88 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 73 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Austin Jackson, H, DET </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 61 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 74 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Angel Pagan, H, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> N/R </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 75 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> A.J. Burnett, SP, PIT </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 65 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 76 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Shane Victorino, H, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 66 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 77 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Rafael Soriano, RP, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 72 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 78 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Curtis Granderson, H, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 63 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 79 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Alex Gordon, H, KC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 86 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 80 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Michael Brantley, H, CLE </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 73 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 81 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jose Altuve, H, HOU </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 71 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 82 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> James Shields, SP, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> N/R </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 83 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mark Trumbo, H, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 76 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 84 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Marco Scutaro, H, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 94 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 85 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jordan Zimmermann, SP, WAS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 74 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 86 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Yovani Gallardo, SP, MIL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> N/R </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 87 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Josh Reddick, H, OAK </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 87 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 88 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jason Kubel, H, ARI </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 82 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 89 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Wade Miley, SP, ARI </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> N/R </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 90 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Nelson Cruz, H, TEX </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 91 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 91 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Giancarlo Stanton, H, MIA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> N/R </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 92 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Adam Dunn, H, CHW </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> N/R </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 93 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Paul Goldschmidt, H, ARI </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 89 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 94 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Matt Harrison, SP, TEX </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> N/R </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 95 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ryan Vogelsong, SP, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 99 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 96 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Adam LaRoche, H, WAS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 90 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 97 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Chris Capuano, SP, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 78 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 98 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Nick Markakis, H, BAL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 100 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 99 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Starlin Castro, H, CHC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 79 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 100 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Shin-Soo Choo, H, CLE </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 93 </td></tr></tbody></table>

 

[HacheMan]

Stretch-run schedules

Which teams have the best, worst pitching matchups for rest of 2012 season?

By Tristan H. Cockcroft | ESPN.com


Matchups, matchups, matchups.

It's a word we mention often on these pages, and it's a critical component in pitcher valuation. The smaller the sample, the greater the importance of matchups; it is why we agonize over starting pitching assignments at ballparks like Coors Field, Rangers Ballpark or Yankee Stadium, and stream no-name starters at Petco Park.


We, fantasy owners as a whole, are a meticulous bunch, especially when it comes to evaluating starting pitching. And as the summer progresses, the smartest of us take even greater care examining matchups, being that in many leagues, we're feeling the crunch of innings/starts caps by this stage of season. We're also, in head-to-head leagues, on the verge of the playoffs, increasing the intensity of our scouting.


It's no wonder then that I've received an increasing number of questions about teams' upcoming schedules in the past week, both from colleagues and readers. What better time, then, to take a look at the best and worst of what's left?


In order to do this, I've collected per-game data in three categories -- runs scored, total baserunners and strikeouts -- for all 30 teams broken down by home or road games, then for each remaining team game assumed that the opponent would perform at its average number to date in that particular contest. Totaling these stats gives each team an expected number of runs and baserunners allowed and strikeouts the remainder of the year, assuming that every pitcher on the staff performs at exactly a league-average level, and its opponent performs at exactly the rates that it has so far in 2012.


For example, the Colorado Rockies have averaged 5.74 runs and 13.75 baserunners per game at Coors, both of those most in the majors. Therefore, any team with a remaining game scheduled at Coors would be expected -- again assuming league-average pitching performance plus the Rockies managing exactly those numbers -- to allow 5.74 runs and 13.75 baserunners in that particular game. Then do that for every team and every game.


You can see the full charts for all 30 teams below.



<style type="text/css">.mod-inline td img {margin: 0px;}</style><table style="margin: 0px; width: 100%;"><thead><tr><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"> Team </th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> G </center></th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> R </center></th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> H+BB </center></th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> K </center></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Cincinnati Reds </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 32 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 132.7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 362.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 244.7 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Arizona Diamondbacks </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 134.7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 384.7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 238.4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Atlanta Braves </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 134.8 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 373.5 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 250.4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> St. Louis Cardinals </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 134.8 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 385.4 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 264.2 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Boston Red Sox </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 139.8 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 372.9 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 249.4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Pittsburgh Pirates </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 140.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 385.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 264.8 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Miami Marlins </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 140.2 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 387.3 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 252.9 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> San Francisco Giants </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 141.7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 394.4 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 255.7 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Philadelphia Phillies </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 142.1 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 394.5 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 266.6 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Los Angeles Dodgers </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 142.2 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 392.2 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 245.7 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Texas Rangers </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 142.6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 391.8 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 248.0 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Colorado Rockies </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 143.4 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 405.8 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 257.4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Los Angeles Angels </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 143.7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 388.9 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 251.7 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Washington Nationals </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 144.2 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 404.7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 259.6 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> San Diego Padres </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 32 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 144.5 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 385.1 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 235.5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Milwaukee Brewers </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 148.2 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 401.6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 269.0 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> New York Mets </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 149.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 399.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 260.5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Houston Astros </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 151.5 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 396.3 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 257.9 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Seattle Mariners </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 151.9 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 394.6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 243.0 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Detroit Tigers </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 152.2 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 412.1 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 235.3 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Minnesota Twins </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 152.6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 404.7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 238.1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> New York Yankees </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 152.6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 394.7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 262.5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Chicago White Sox </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 153.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 418.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 238.3 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Chicago Cubs </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 153.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 409.9 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 273.9 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Baltimore Orioles </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 153.5 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 402.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 265.5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Cleveland Indians </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 155.9 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 411.1 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 233.2 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Oakland Athletics </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 157.8 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 412.1 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 246.1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Kansas City Royals </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 158.6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 426.1 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 241.4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Toronto Blue Jays </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 159.0 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 410.9 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 267.8 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Tampa Bay Rays </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 161.5 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 403.6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 252.3 </td></tr></tbody></table>







But, obviously, not all teams will pitch at exactly league-average levels, and some of those opponents might not score, get on base or strike out at the rates they have to date. Gut calls need come into play, and in this week's "60 Feet, 6 Inches," I'm bringing my gut into this discussion.


Here are some of the schedule highlights:

Cincinnati Reds: Their remaining schedule, in this study, projects as the best in baseball in terms of both runs and baserunners allowed, and we're talking by nearly a run per game (0.85, to be exact) and two baserunners per game (1.88). And sure enough, a closer look provides a telling tale: Following the conclusion of their three-game series at Arizona's Chase Field, the Reds, beginning on Friday, embark upon a stretch of 21 consecutive games against teams that rank among the 10 worst in baseball in terms of runs scored per contest. Even if you choose to exclude the new-look Los Angeles Dodgers (Sept. 21-23) from that potential "hot streak," we're still talking about 18 straight soft matchups for Reds pitching.


In other words, Reds starters are ones to trust, at least through the first 20 days of September, which will get you deep into fantasy's Week 23, the first half of your head-to-head league's championship matchup.


A few things to consider: The Reds boast three starting pitchers -- Bronson Arroyo, Homer Bailey and Mike Leake -- who are available in more than three out of every four (75-plus percent) of ESPN leagues; the Reds also play 12 of their remaining 32 games against the Houston Astros and Pittsburgh Pirates. The latter point is particularly important if you consider the track records of those three pitchers alone against those two opponents:


Arroyo (since 2008): 23 GS, 15 QS (65.2%), 13 W, 3.42 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 5.42 K/9
Bailey: 15 GS, 12 QS (80.0%), 10 W, 2.30 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 7.16 K/9
Leake: 19 G (17 GS), 10 QS (58.8%), 5 W, 3.64 ERA, 126 WHIP, 6.26 K/9

Texas Rangers: Though their statistics in the chart at column's end makes them appear scarcely a top-10 team in terms of remaining matchups, the strength of theirs is volume of high-quality matchups. Take out their six remaining games against the Los Angeles Angels, who, since Memorial Day, top the majors in all three triple-slash categories (.288/.347/.472) as well as runs scored per game (5.33), and the Rangers' schedule would be right up there with anyone's. Every other team they face ranks among the majors' bottom half in runs per game, and the Tampa Bay Rays are the only one of them who might push that middle ground.


With the exception of Matt Harrison, the Rangers' other four starters all have questions surrounding them as a result of recent performance. Scott Feldman (7.1 percent owned in ESPN leagues) and Derek Holland (31.9 percent) are the only ones widely available, but Yu Darvish and Ryan Dempster's owners might feel more confident if they saw what remained on their schedules. Assuming an every-fifth-game schedule the rest of the year -- understand that's an assumption -- Dempster isn't even on track to pitch in either Angels series. Here's his schedule in that arrangement: @CLE, @KC, CLE, SEA, @SEA, OAK, @OAK.


Thirteen of the Rangers' final 34 games will be played against the Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners, a point that not only favors Harrison, but also Holland. Here are their stats against those teams since the beginning of 2011:


Harrison: 12 GS, 9 QS (75.0%), 9 W, 2.50 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 6.58 K/9
Holland: 11 GS, 8 QS (72.7%), 8 W, 3.04 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 7.73 K/9

Boston Red Sox: Can you believe this? A team in the American League East, where those September schedules are full of games against the New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays, ranks high on the matchups list? Believe it, being that the Red Sox still have remaining games against the aforementioned Athletics and Mariners, plus six against the Jose Bautista-less Blue Jays and six against the Tampa Bay Rays. Pick carefully, being that this Red Sox rotation is not what it once was, but you shouldn't be so quick to dismiss a Felix Doubront or Daisuke Matsuzaka when the matchup calls. A particular nugget: Clay Buchholz has six quality starts, a 2.76 ERA and 1.11 WHIP in 12 career starts against the Rays.


How about those poor remaining schedules? If you own pitchers from the following teams, prepare to manage your matchups more closely going forward.

Chicago White Sox: They're already meticulously managing two of their starters' workloads, Jake Peavy and Chris Sale, and Francisco Liriano is one of baseball's most unpredictable pitchers. Peavy has already thrown more innings this season (175) than he has in any season since 2007, and Sale already has more innings (153) than he did in 2010-11 combined (94&frac13. Expect to see more weeks like this one, where Peavy has already been pushed back two days, to Friday, and Sale might also get a five-day breather between turns.


There are a few other problems with the White Sox's schedule: They'll play 17 more games at their homer-friendly home venue, U.S. Cellular Field, a problem considering their pitching staff as a whole has surrendered the highest fly ball rate in baseball (38.6 percent) as well as the third most homers in home games (86). They also have three more games in Baltimore, three in Detroit and three in Los Angeles against the Angels, out of their 35 remaining.

Tampa Bay Rays: There's a buzz surrounding them in fantasy, Evan Longoria's healthy return getting them on a hot streak, helping fuel what has been the league's best winning percentage in the month of August (.667). The Rays, too, have baseball's No. 1 ERA (2.28), batting average allowed (.212) and WHIP (0.97) in the month of August, and have Jeff Niemann on the verge of rejoining their rotation. Things are looking up for the Rays … until you look closer at their schedule.


Twenty eight of the Rays' remaining 34 games will be played against teams in the upper half in the majors in terms of runs per contest, most in the game, and each of their next 12 are against teams in the top 10 in the category. This team plays 25 intradivision games and the other nine are against these foes: Five against the Rangers and four at the White Sox. There isn't a breather in there, other than their Sept. 20 and 24 off days.


Here's the other problem for the Rays: They might soon go to a six-man rotation, what with Niemann on the way back, and it's not unthinkable that, should they overcome this challenging schedule and mount a hefty lead in either the division or wild-card races, they'd begin resting their starters in the season's waning weeks.



TOP 100 STARTING PITCHERS

Note: Tristan H. Cockcroft's top 100 starting pitchers are ranked for their expected performance from this point forward, not for statistics that have already been accrued.
<table><thead><tr><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> Rnk </center></th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"> Player, Team </th><th style="vertical-align: bottom;"><center> Prev
Rnk </center></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 1 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Felix Hernandez, Sea </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 2 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 2 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Justin Verlander, Det </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 1 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 3 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Clayton Kershaw, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 3 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 4 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Matt Cain, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 4 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 5 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Madison Bumgarner, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 5 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 6 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> David Price, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 7 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 7 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Roy Halladay, Phi </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 6 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 8 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Cole Hamels, Phi </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 8 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 9 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Cliff Lee, Phi </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 10 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 10 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Adam Wainwright, StL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 11 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 11 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jered Weaver, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 9 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 12 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mat Latos, Cin </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 12 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 13 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> CC Sabathia, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 16 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 14 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Johnny Cueto, Cin </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 18 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 15 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Gio Gonzalez, Wsh </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 15 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 16 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Yovani Gallardo, Mil </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 19 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 17 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Josh Johnson, Mia </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 13 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 18 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Hiroki Kuroda, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 20 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 19 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Zack Greinke, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 17 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 20 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jordan Zimmermann, Wsh </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 14 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 21 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Matt Moore, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 21 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 22 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> James Shields, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 22 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 23 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Max Scherzer, Det </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 30 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 24 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> R.A. Dickey, NYM </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 25 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 25 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Tim Hudson, Atl </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 29 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 26 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jon Lester, Bos </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 28 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 27 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Doug Fister, Det </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 23 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 28 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Chris Sale, CWS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 24 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 29 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jake Peavy, CWS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 27 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 30 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ryan Dempster, Tex </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 31 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Wade Miley, Ari </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 32 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 32 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Brandon Morrow, Tor </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Stephen Strasburg, Wsh </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 26 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 34 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Edwin Jackson, Wsh </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 37 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 35 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Kyle Lohse, StL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 40 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 36 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Kris Medlen, Atl </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 46 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 37 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ian Kennedy, Ari </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 38 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 38 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mike Minor, Atl </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 41 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 39 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Clay Buchholz, Bos </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 36 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 40 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jaime Garcia, StL </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 44 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 41 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jonathon Niese, NYM </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 52 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 42 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> C.J. Wilson, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 33 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 43 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Yu Darvish, Tex </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 47 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 44 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Brandon McCarthy, Oak </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 42 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 45 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> A.J. Burnett, Pit </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 31 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 46 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jarrod Parker, Oak </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 50 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 47 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Derek Holland, Tex </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 56 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 48 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ryan Vogelsong, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 39 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 49 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Shaun Marcum, Mil </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 53 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 50 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Tommy Hanson, Atl </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 45 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 51 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Dan Haren, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 43 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 52 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Matt Harrison, Tex </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 64 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 53 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jeff Samardzija, ChC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 57 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 54 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Tim Lincecum, SF </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 55 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 55 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Paul Maholm, Atl </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 63 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 56 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jeremy Hellickson, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 59 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 57 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Brett Anderson, Oak </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 58 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Francisco Liriano, CWS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 67 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 59 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Phil Hughes, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 62 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 60 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> James McDonald, Pit </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 66 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 61 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Wandy Rodriguez, Pit </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 51 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 62 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Josh Beckett, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 81 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 63 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Wei-Yin Chen, Bal </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 61 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 64 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Chris Capuano, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 58 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 65 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Hisashi Iwakuma, Sea </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 77 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 66 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mike Fiers, Mil </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 54 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 67 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ervin Santana, LAA </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 87 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 68 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Anibal Sanchez, Det </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 68 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 69 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Matt Harvey, NYM </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 79 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 70 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Trevor Cahill, Ari </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 70 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 71 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Marco Estrada, Mil </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 80 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 72 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jason Vargas, Sea </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 69 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 73 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Vance Worley, Phi </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 72 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 74 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mark Buehrle, Mia </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 84 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 75 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Homer Bailey, Cin </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 76 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ross Detwiler, Wsh </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 73 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 77 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Tommy Milone, Oak </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 90 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 78 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Patrick Corbin, Ari </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 75 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 79 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jose Quintana, CWS </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 82 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 80 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Freddy Garcia, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 88 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 81 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Ivan Nova, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 71 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 82 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Alex Cobb, TB </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 89 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 83 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Scott Feldman, Tex </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 86 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 84 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Carlos Villanueva, Tor </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 95 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 85 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jeremy Guthrie, KC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 94 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 86 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Tyler Skaggs, Ari </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 99 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 87 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Lucas Harrell, Hou </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 98 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 88 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Justin Masterson, Cle </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 89 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Clayton Richard, SD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 91 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 90 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jeff Karstens, Pit </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 92 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 91 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Luke Hochevar, KC </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 92 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Bronson Arroyo, Cin </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 93 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Edinson Volquez, SD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 100 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 94 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> David Phelps, NYY </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 95 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Casey Kelly, SD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 96 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Bud Norris, Hou </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 83 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 97 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Chad Billingsley, LAD </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 49 </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 98 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Mike Leake, Cin </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 99 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Jhoulys Chacin, Col </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr><tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> 100 </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Daisuke Matsuzaka, Bos </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> NR </td></tr></tbody></table>




Streamer's delight



Among streaming starter -- something I define as single-start options in daily leagues among pitchers owned in 25 percent of ESPN leagues or fewer -- options for the upcoming week, here are my picks by day:


Tuesday, August 28: Hisashi Iwakuma at Minnesota Twins
Wednesday, August 29: Barry Zito at Houston Astros
Thursday, August 30: Jeremy Guthrie versus Detroit Tigers
Friday, August 31: Mike Leake at Houston Astros
Saturday, September 1: Luke Hochevar versus Minnesota Twins
Sunday, September 2: David Phelps versus Baltimore Orioles
Monday, September 3: Joe Kelly versus New York Mets


Past picks
Tuesday, August 21: Scott Feldman -- 5 IP, 7 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 4 K
Wednesday, August 22: Hisashi Iwakuma -- 5 2/3 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 5 K
Thursday, August 23: Bartolo Colon -- This one sure worked out well. He's suspended 50 games, ending his season.
Friday, August 24: Patrick Corbin -- 4 IP, 9 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 2 K
Saturday, August 25: Jose Quintana -- 5 2/3 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 4 BB, 4 K
Sunday, August 26: Lucas Harrell -- QS, 7 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 7 K
Monday, August 27: Bronson Arroyo -- W, QS, 6 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 3 K


Week's total: 6 GS, 1 W (16.7%), 2 QS (33.3%), 33 1/3 IP, 34 H, 15 ER, 12 BB, 25 K, 4.05 ERA, 1.38 WHIP
Season total: 132 GS, 58 W (43.9%), 70 QS (53.0%), 800 2/3 IP, 765 H, 342 ER, 258 BB, 593 K, 3.84 ERA, 1.28 WHIP


Three up



Brett Anderson, Oakland Athletics: His late-season recovery from Tommy John surgery has already gone more smoothly than any of the three most relevant examples from the past three seasons, Tim Hudson (2009), Jordan Zimmermann (2010) and Stephen Strasburg (2011). Anderson has tallied exactly seven innings in each of his two starts since activation, matching the maximum managed by any of the aforementioned three, and keep in mind that those three averaged 5.12 innings per start during their late-season runs. Yes, his two matchups (MIN, @CLE) were soft, and there will be greater challenges ahead, but Anderson's peripheral stats during those games bode well for his rest-of-year performance: He had a 70.6 percent ground ball rate and 25 percent miss rate, both of those substantially better than his previous career numbers. His curveball has also been sharp: It was responsible for 8 of his 11 K's and has held opponents to a .130 batting average.


Jonathon Niese, New York Mets: We talk often about how pitchers with good sabermetric stats, but so-so performance in the primary Rotisserie categories, usually pick up the latter over extended periods of time. Such has been the case with Niese; his 3.36 FIP last season belied his 4.40 ERA, but this season he has a 3.85 FIP and his ERA has sunk to 3.51. Niese is riding a three-year pattern of improvement in strikeout-to-walk ratio, his 3.35 number a career best, and his 47.7 percent ground ball rate ranks above the major league average. He's someone you should trust going forward, even if on the lower tiers of the rankings.


Max Scherzer, Detroit Tigers: With Sunday's nine-strikeout performance, Scherzer has eight consecutive games with at least eight K's, per the Elias Sports Bureau the longest such streak in Tigers history. Criticize him for his past inconsistencies if you wish, but one thing that elevates him above that group of aggravating pitchers has been his strikeout ability even when he's struggling. He has the highest K's-per-nine ratio (11.35), second-highest K rate (29.6 percent of total batters faced) and sixth-best miss rate on swings (28 percent), and remember that accounts for his entire season, even that five-start April stretch during which his ERA was 7.77 and that five-start May/June stretch during which it was 6.08. Scherzer is well worth the risk, being that he'll contribute in that one category even at his worst, but considering he has a lifetime 3.53 ERA after the All-Star break (4.31 before it) and a 1.18 WHIP after Sept. 1, his lowest in any single month, he might yet be able to sustain this all the way through year's end.


Three down



Lance Lynn, St. Louis Cardinals: He's out of the Cardinals' rotation and Joe Kelly is in, and accounting for Lynn's workload that should be interpreted as a permanent move. Lynn has tallied 145&frac23; innings this year; that is 36 more than he had in 2011 and it had him on a pace to easily shatter his professional high of 164 set in 2010. Remember when the Cardinals claimed earlier in the year that Lynn didn't have a predetermined innings cap? He's a prime example why teams believe they're necessary, as he followed up what was an outstanding first half, going 11-4 with a 3.41 ERA and 1.23 WHIP in 17 starts, with a miserable second half, posting a 5.23 ERA and 1.60 WHIP in eight starts before his removal. What's more, Shelby Miller, pitching for Triple-A Memphis, has quietly restored his top prospect status of late, going 4-1 with a 3.16 ERA, 0.86 WHIP and 12.64 K's-per-nine innings ratio in five starts in August. He, not Lynn, might be the next candidate to assume that spot in the Cardinals' rotation, should the team need an alternative.


Ricky Romero, Toronto Blue Jays: In the past 20 seasons, only two pitchers have managed a game of eight or more walks with zero strikeouts. One of them was Greg Reynolds, who walked eight without a K for the Rockies on May 28, 2008. The other? It was Romero, last Tuesday. The left-hander's command appears to have deserted him; his 5.05 walks-per-nine innings ratio is second worst among qualified pitchers, and his 1.20 K-to-walk ratio is worst in the majors. Romero also has more walks (29) than strikeouts (28) in eight starts since the All-Star break. That kind of pitching isn't going to fly in the loaded AL East, and it makes him a no-go in any fantasy format the remainder of the year.


Ben Sheets, Atlanta Braves: The Braves claimed they'd revert to a five-man rotation beginning with this upcoming weekend's series, and they stayed true to their word, placing Sheets on the 15-day disabled list with shoulder inflammation. Considering his recent performance, injury history and the team's strength in starting pitching, Sheets might have already made his last start of 2012. After five strong starts to begin his season, he allowed 15 runs (14 earned) on 21 hits, five of them home runs, in 16&frac13; innings in his past three turns combined. Sheets' 5.34 ERA in August was considerably higher than that of Kris Medlen (0.64), Paul Maholm (2.45), Mike Minor (2.97) or Tim Hudson (3.19), and the Braves cannot afford missteps as they fight for positioning in the National League playoff race. He might have to settle for a relief role once healthy, if he returns at all this year.

 

[HacheMan]

Pirates Discard Bedard

On June 1, Erik Bedard was boasting a 3.12 ERA over 10 starts. Now he’s looking for a job.



The move has yet to be made official, but Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has reported and Michael Sanserino of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has confirmed that the Pirates have released the 33-year-old veteran.



Though he got off to a terrific start this season, Bedard has been inconsistent, at best, over his last 14 outings, posting a 6.44 ERA. He’s also taxed the bullpen often, having failed to pitch past the fifth inning in 14 of 24 starts. If he’s unable to catch on elsewhere, the left-hander will finish the season with a 5.01 ERA, 1.47 WHIP and 118/56 K/BB ratio over 125 2/3 innings.



So, while Bedard might be the more dynamic talent of the two, the Pirates will turn back to Kevin Correia to fill out their rotation. Correia has put up a 4.53 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and uninspiring 62/37 K/BB ratio over 25 games – 22 starts – this season. He requested a trade late last month after being demoted to the bullpen following the acquisition of Wandy Rodriguez. But, the veteran righty will surely be in better spirits after regaining a rotation spot. He should get the ball this weekend in Milwaukee.



Calf Strain Sidelines Teixeira



Mark Teixeira played in his seventh straight game Monday after missing three contests with a left wrist injury. Unfortunately, he now has a new ailment to deal with.



The Yankees’ first baseman felt a tweak in his left calf while exiting the batter’s box following a foul ball, and although he initially stayed in the game, Teixeira was eventually removed and has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 left calf strain. He’s expected to be sidelined for 1-2 weeks.



“It could be seven days, could be two weeks,” Teixeira told Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News. “The MRI showed a Grade 1; it’s not a Grade 2, which is a month or more. That would be worrisome. We just have to take care of it. If it’s a week, great. If it’s two weeks, not as great, but I’d still have plenty of the season left.”



Unfortunately for fantasy owners, we’re at the time of the year where teams rarely make disabled list moves due to soon-to-be expanding rosters. Thus, you could be hamstrung if you’re lacking roster flexibility. The Yankees are likely to use Nick Swisher at first base while Tex is out, though new acquisition Steven Pearce could also get some time there. Pearce is also an option in right field if Swisher moves to first, as is Andruw Jones.











National League Quick Hits: Casey Kelly was superb in his major league debut Monday, blanking the Braves for six innings on just three hits and two walks. The young right-hander could remain in the Padres’ rotation for the rest of the year and is worth a look in NL-only formats ... Luke Gregerson notched his second save in as many days in Monday’s win over the Braves. Gregerson looks like the new temporary closer for the Padres while Huston Street is out. He’s been unscored upon in the second half and holds a 0.96 ERA since the beginning of June ... Andrew McCutchen tweaked his ankle in Monday’s loss to the Cardinals. He stayed in the game but was obviously compromised. However, McCutchen doesn’t plan on missing any games ... Josh Beckett allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks over 5 2/3 innings against the Rockies in his Dodgers’ debut Monday. He’ll try for better results this weekend against the D’Backs ... Aramis Ramirez homered twice and drove in four runs in Monday’s win over the Cubs. He now has 20 homers and a league-leading 43 doubles ... Scott Hairston was claimed off waivers Monday, but the Mets are not expected to trade him ... Nick Hundley will undergo surgery Wednesday to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. He’s done for the year but should be 100 percent for spring training ... David Freese (wrist) missed his third straight start Monday but was able to pinch-hit. He’s expected back in the lineup Tuesday.



American League Quick Hits: Brett Anderson was outstanding for a second straight start Monday, shutting out the Indians on just two hits over seven innings, with one of the hits coming on a blown call at first base. The lefty has now allowed just one run over 14 frames since returning from the DL ... Felix Hernandez blanked the Twins Monday for his fifth shutout of the season. Four of his shutouts have come in one-run games ... The exploratory surgery Dallas Braden had last week on his left shoulder turned out to be rotator cuff surgery. He’s a question mark for next season ... Roberto Hernandez left Monday’s start with an ankle injury. He’s being listed as day-to-day ... Henderson Alvarez exited his start Monday with a contusion on his shin. He’s expected to be ready for his next start ... Jeff Niemann (fibula) is expected to be activated from the DL when rosters expand Saturday. It’s not clear whether he’ll be used in the rotation or the bullpen ... The Mariners have reportedly placed both Jason Vargas and Kevin Millwood on waivers. Both are likely to be claimed, but it doesn’t mean that either will be traded ... Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine said he hasn’t made a decision on Alfredo Aceves’ future role. Aceves is back with the Sox after serving a three-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team. It’s possible he’ll yield save chances to Andrew Bailey.​

 

[HacheMan]

Tulowitzki's return on hold
The Rockies expect Troy Tulowitzki (groin) to return this season, but he won't be available when rosters expand Saturday.

"It’s going to be a slow process," Tulowitzki said. "Saturday was the goal, but after playing in these games I'm just not sure what the timetable is. If I make progress, that could become a possibility."

This isn't a setback, but Tulowitzki is now without a clear timetable. He won't be activated from the disabled list this weekend, and given his progress, isn't a lock to return in September. The Denver Post believes it could be "a while" before we see him in the Rockies' lineup. Both Tulowitzki and Jason Giambi (viral syndrome) will move their rehab assignments Wednesday to Triple-A Colorado Springs. Josh Rutledge (quad) returned to action Tuesday and will continue to serve as the everyday shortstop.


Twins exploring market for Mauer?

The Twins placed Joe Mauer on revocable waivers Tuesday.

Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com speculates that the Red Sox could pursue a trade, but it would be surprising if Mauer was moved before the end of the season.

The Twins are committed to at least a $65 million payroll in 2013 and have $42 million invested in Mauer, Justin Morneau, and Denard Span. According to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com, Morneau was recently waived and claimed by an unknown team, without a trade being completed. It was also previously reported that Span was involved in a deal that would have sent him to the Reds at the non-waiver deadline.

Mauer has six-years and $138 million remaining on his contract, but Rosenthal suggests that the Red Sox could consider reinvesting the payroll they purged in their trade with the Dodgers. The Twins are believed to have some level of interest in Felix Doubront and prospect Matt Barnes.

That's all speculation for now, of course. But Mauer is signed for an average annual value (AAV) of $23 million through 2018. And the Twins aren't close to winning anytime soon.




American League Quick Hits: Yankees general manager Brian Cashman think it's realistic Ivan Nova (shoulder) could return from the disabled list in mid-September …The Red Sox placed Franklin Morales on the 15-day disabled list and reinstated Alfredo Aceves from suspension … Doug Fister (groin) completed a successful bullpen session Tuesday … Rays outfielder Josh Sale and Blue Jays prospect right-hander Marcus Stroman were suspended 50 games for testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug … Jason Hammel (knee) will make a minor league rehab start Saturday with High-A Frederick … The Orioles are nearing an agreement with left-hander Randy Wolf … Andy Pettitte (ankle) is expected to throw a bullpen session this weekend … The White Sox placed Gavin Floyd on the disabled list … The Rangers are reportedly shopping Roy Oswalt to other teams … Denard Span is scheduled to undergo an MRI on his right shoulder/collarbone.

National League Quick Hits: Matt Kemp underwent an MRI on his right knee and a CAT scan on his jaw Tuesday night … The Cardinals haven't ruled out Chris Carpenter (thoracic outlet syndrome) returning this season … Joey Votto (knee) went 0-for-1 with a walk in his first rehab game with Class A Dayton …. Takashi Saito (hamstring) was cleared to begin a rehab assignment with the Diamondbacks' rookie league affiliate … Josh Collmenter (ulcers) expects to be activated from the disabled list Saturday … Jed Lowrie (knee, ankle) is aiming to rejoin the Astros in mid-September … Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com has spoken to executives that believe Melky Cabrera will have to settle for a one-year deal this offseason … The Giants reinstated Guillermo Mota from the restricted list … Nick Masset (shoulder) is not expected to return this season … The Cardinals recalled Trevor Rosenthal from Triple-A Memphis … Roger Clemens told the Houston Chronicle that he has no immediate plans to pitch again … The Padres officially released Jeremy Hermida.

 

[HacheMan]

Long Season, Long Weekend You might already be on your way somewhere for the long weekend. Maybe you're sneaking this in on your phone in the bathroom as you hide from family, or checking your teams in the final moments before the flight attendant threatens to take your phone away. Maybe your phone has already been confiscated and this is traveling down the aisle as you curse.

Either way, you've given this weekend some thought. As you should, it might be your last long weekend for a while, and it might signal an imminent return to school or work. At the very least, the long weekend should be a wake-up call -- it's time to pick a few categories for the stretch run in your roto league, or it's time to check out the two-starters for your first week in the head-to-head playoffs, or it's your last chance to make a move before your late trade deadline.

But most likely you have a life, and your thoughts about the weekend are mostly centered on your plans. That's fine, I'll be furiously working on my teams and my posts, but we know I'm a hardcore dork. Go enjoy yourself. No, really, it's fine.

And since I'm most likely hanging out in front of my computer or television, I'll use these tiers to rank what you'll be doing this weekend. (No, I swear, it's fine, just go. Go.)

Tier 1: Elite (4) (AKA: The "Going to a Game" Tier.)

Aroldis Chapman, Cincinnati Reds
Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves
Kenley Jansen, Los Angeles Dodgers
Joe Nathan, Texas Rangers

Since everywhere is going to be crowded, why not go to the place that's crowded all the time anyway? Plus, live sports. You really can't complain about the parking, or the prices, or your problems, because, live sports. Plus, with all the wild cards in baseball now, odds are, you can find a competitive game with implications nearby.

Joe Nathan had a Kimbrel Tuesday night! He struck out three in a clean-slate save. He also did tat against Baltimore this month. He has three on the year, even. Kimbrel himself has six of the stat I named after him. Nathan's rebound this season has been remarkable. He now has his fourth-best strikeout rate, his best walk rate, and his second-best ground-ball rate of his career. He's got the swinging strikes to back it up, and his velocity is back to pre-2008 levels. Amazing what a new ligament can do.

Oh and Aroldis Chapman has only struck out one batter in his last three appearances. The shame.

Tier 2: Rock Steady (7) (AKA: The "Staying Home" Tier.)

Jonathan Papelbon, Philadelphia Phillies
Joel Hanrahan, Pittsburgh Pirates
Jason Motte, St. Louis Cardinals
Rafael Soriano, New York Yankees
J.J. Putz, Arizona Diamondbacks
Rafael Betancourt, Colorado Rockies
Fernando Rodney, Tampa Bay Rays

On the other hand, if you're not going to a game, why face the crowds? If you've got a back yard and a grill, you're set. If you've got a rooftop and a hibachi, you're set. If you've got a bathtub, a fridge full of beer, and an iPad with mlb.tv on it, you're set. So, you're probably set, and if you avoid the throngs, you'll get the last laugh. And the last wing. And the last beer. Because it's your house.

Rafael Soriano had a clean slate with two strikeouts Tuesday night, and it caps a stretch of fine work. In his last ten outings, he has 11 strikeouts against one walk. Even with the blown save in there, that kind of strikeout rate, coupled with the bushels of save opportunities that a team with a good offense and a strong supporting bullpen cast can offer, makes Soriano a strong closer. For this year. Mariano Rivera is already making strides in his rehab, and he won't let it end with a shagging injury.

Tier 3: OK options (7) (AKA: The "Going Out of Town" Tier.)

Tom Wilhelmsen, Seattle Mariners
Tyler Clippard, Washington Nationals
Ernesto Frieri, Los Angeles Angels
Addison Reed, Chicago White Sox
Chris Perez, Cleveland Indians
Greg Holland, Kansas City Royals

Grant Balfour, Oakland Athletics

I may be a grump, but I won't talk crap on traveling. Seeing the world is great. Even seeing a place you've seen before again, but have seen less than the inside of your apartment, that's great. But maybe now's not the time. Seriously. If you go next weekend, you'll deal with approximately 46.4% less crap. Fewer lines, cheaper travel costs, emptier beaches -- so why this weekend? If it's the one free vacation day, I'd say that's the cost of avoiding the masses. And you'll get it back, considering everything will be cheaper. Any other weekend.

Ryan Cook once had a closer role, electric stuff and a walks problem. Greg Holland has that same package, and did walk two Tuesday night. There are a few differences, though. For one, Cook's walks issue was worse in the minor leagues. For two, Cook was on a contending team that couldn't afford to break him in. For three, Holland has only walked a batter twice in his last twelve outings. He's made progress, and the team is motivated to see what they've got before they make a decision about Joakim Soria's option.

It looks like Grant Balfour has settled into that Oakland role, now that we're talking about Cookie. He doesn't have the same strikeout rate as Cook, or even an average one for a closer, but he also isn't an outlier like Jim Johnson. He's got an above-average swinging strike rate right now, and double-digit strikeout rates in his career, too. With the Athletics going well, and the team competitive, there's probably not going to be another change at the role this season.

Tier 4: Question marks (6) (AKA: The "Festival" Tier.)

Jim Johnson, Baltimore Orioles
Jose Valverde, Detroit Tigers
Steve Cishek, Miami Marlins
Carlos Marmol, Chicago Cubs
Casey Janssen, Toronto Blue Jays

John Axford, Milwaukee Brewers

Festivals are made by the thing being feted, so it's hard to lump these into one group. And you can't really decide to do a festival next week, since you're stuck doing it when they've set the thing up. But festivals still mean crowds and costs, so we'll rank them here. If it's a wing fest, or a beer fest, well then this ranking is too low. Music fest? Particulars please. And the rest? I'd probably pick the bathtub/iPad combo.

John Axford is back. Two strikeouts and no walks or hits Tuesday night, and now he's successfully converted… two of his last three save attempts. That's progress these days. He's still got the strikeouts -- 12 in his last ten outings (eight innings) -- and the walks have become less common (four in his last eight innings). The Brewers own Axford's rights for a while, and they're happy to see him back on his feet. As are mustache fans, if they're back from the Mustache Festival yet.

Read more about the most volatile closer situations on the next page.<!--RW-->

Tier 5: Rollercoaster rides (6) (AKA: The "Parade" Tier.)

Andrew Bailey (first chair), Alfredo Aceves (second chair), Boston Red Sox
Wilton Lopez (first chair), Wesley Wright (second chair), Houston Astros
Sergio Romo (first chair), Javier Lopez (second chair), Santiago Casilla (third chair), San Francisco Giants
Frank Francisco (first chair), Bobby Parnell (second chair), Jon Rauch (third chair), New York Mets
Glen Perkins (first chair), Jared Burton (second chair), Minnesota Twins
Dale Thayer (first chair), Luke Gregerson (second chair), San Diego Padres

I've talked a lot of crap on parades, so this probably wasn't a surprise to anyone. It's really just the worst of all worlds. And if you're stuck with one of these pitchers, you know what I mean.

Once the Red Sox turned their attention to the future, this change at the closer position was inevitable. Both pitchers are under control until 2014, but Aceves' best asset is his versatility, his ability to start or relieve. Bailey owns no such versatility, and he has the strikeout and walk rates of a traditional closer. As long as he's healthy, he's the guy going forward… but that's a huge if.

Brandon Barnes, Brian Bogusevic, and Jose Altuve. Those are the batters that Sergio Romo set down in order Tuesday night to get the save. Bogusevic is a lefty, but he's also a light-hitting former pitching prospect, so maybe Bruce Bochy thought the risk was minimal. This probably doesn't mean that Sergio Romo is the full-time closer, especially since he still owns that bad platoon split. Also notable from this game was the fact that Santiago Casilla was trusted with the eighth inning in a tie game. That makes him relevant again, especially since he doesn't own those same platoon issues. Wilton Lopez probably isn't in trouble despite blowing the save against the Giants, either. He just allows contact, and this will happen from time to time. There's nobody knocking the door down in Houston anyway. Actually, given their announced attendance Tuesday night, there might not be anyone at all in Minute Maid park these days.

Bobby Parnell has a bit of trouble getting up to his max velocity right away in his appearances. Of course, 'not max' for him is still the mid-nineties, but Captain Fastball can hit the triple digits. By the end of his first inning of work Tuesday night, he was hitting 98. In any case, his fine work this year has bumped him up the depth chart. He might be next in line again when Frank Francisco next grabs a body part.

Luke Gregerson has the same platoon issues as Romo, but the Padres ran out of candidates for a second. Huston Street was out with a calf strain, and Dale Thayer's wife was having a baby. Now Thayer is back, and Street says his calf feels good. The things we do for saves.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *​

Injured

Sergio Santos (shoulder), Toronto Blue Jays
Matt Capps (shoulder), Minnesota Twins
Huston Street (calf), San Diego Padres

Huston Street feels good. He says his calf should allow him to return in early September.

The Deposed

Jordan Walden, Los Angeles Angels
Hector Santiago, Chicago White Sox
Brian Fuentes, St. Louis Cardinals
Javy Guerra, Los Angeles Dodgers
Sean Marshall, Cincinnati Reds
Henry Rodriguez, Washington Nationals
Brandon League, Seattle Mariners
Rafael Dolis, Chicago Cubs
Jonathan Broxton, Kansas City Royals
Ryan Cook, Oakland Athletics.
Santiago Casilla, San Francisco Giants

Will Santiago Casilla take his name off this list?

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *​

The Steals Department

Ryan Kalish isn't playing regularly yet, but does a suddenly rebuilding team have any need for the skeleton formerly known as Scott Podsednik? With his current strikeout rate, Kalish is probably more of a deep leaguer, but there's still hope that he can strike out less often. Coupled with power that looks more like his minor league work, he could be a .260/15/15 kind of full-season player. Of course, if his shoulder is healed, then there's upside for more. In 2010, He hit 17 home runs and stole 32 bases over three levels, and he struck out at around a league average rate. He then lost most of 2011 to a shoulder injury suffered on a defensive play, and 2012 has been a long, slow slog back. Maybe he's more of a name to stash away for next year, but given the fact that the Sox are looking to next year more than this year, now might be the time, too.

You might have thought that was the deep league portion of The Steals Department, it does get deeper. It looked like his career might have been over when he was released by the team that drafted him, but the 31-year-old Nate McLouth has found the fountain of youth in the tougher league. What's amazing is that all of his current stats are right in line with his career rates. His isolated slugging percentage, walk rate, strikeout rate -- they're all right at career numbers. He's stolen six bases in 81 plate appearances so far the Orioles, and that's a little ahead of his pace, but he's running for his life. Expect a slightly worse batting average, power and speed, and you should get some use from McLouth, even if you have to sit him against lefties.

 

[HacheMan]

Harper’s Homers
Bryce Harper turned in a memorable performance in Wednesday’s 8-4 victory over the Marlins, notching a multi-homer game for the first time in his promising young career. According to the MLB public relations department, only nine times in the history of baseball has a player younger than Harper blasted two homers in a game, and that’s with Ken Griffey Jr. and Mel Ott each accomplishing the feat twice.



Harper got the Nationals on the board, launching a two-run homer to right field off Jacob Turner in the fourth inning. He followed it up with a mammoth 425-foot blast off Turner in the fifth frame, increasing the Nats lead to 5-0. He had a pair of chances to make history by launching a third homer, but grounded out in the eighth inning, then bounced into a double play in the ninth. He got very animated after the double play, slamming his helmet to the ground in frustration as he incorrectly thought he had beaten the throw. 1^st base umpire C.B. Bucknor wasn’t having any of it though, and gave Harper the quick heave-ho.



With Wednesday’s pair of homers, Harper now has 14 on the season, passing the great Mickey Mantle (13) and tying Phil Cavarretta for the fourth most HR’s ever hit as a teenager, trailing only Tony Conigliaro (24), Ott (19) and Griffey Jr. (16).



While it may get somewhat overlooked by the tremendous season that rookie sensation Mike Trout is having in Anaheim, what Harper is doing as a 19-year-old in Washington is nearly unprecedented. Even though he’s cooled off considerably, hitting just .201 since the All-Star break, he still owns a .250/.320/.425 line with 14 homers, 40 RBI and 13 stolen bases on the season. It certainly goes without saying, but this young man is going to be a superstar very soon.





Heart problems sideline Jansen



Kenley Jansenwas unavailable for Wednesday’s game against the Rockies as he’s dealing with a heart condition. He spent time on the disabled list with a similar issue during the 2011 season and will be monitored extremely closely over the next few days before the Dodgers determine the proper course of action.



Jansen has been superb since taking over the closer’s job from Javy Guerra early in the season, compiling a 5-3 record, 2.54 ERA, 0.88 WHIP and 86/19 K/BB ratio over 56 2/3 innings, converting 25 of his 31 save chances along the way.



His health is certainly the most important thing to consider in this situation, and the Dodgers organization will do everything in its power to make sure that he has the best care possible. It does sound like he could be sidelined for a while though, perhaps even the remainder of the season, and that would be a tough blow to the Dodgers playoff chances with as well as he’s been pitching.



Ronald Belisariorecorded a save in his absence on Wednesday, and could continue to get looks should Jansen hit the DL. He’s posted a 3-1 record, 2.75 ERA and 47/21 K/BB ratio over 52 1/3 innings on the season. Brandon League has experience in the role and could also merit consideration if necessary.





Kemp day-to-day, no structural damage



Those in Dodger nation could breathe a collective sigh of relief on Wednesday as MRI results revealed no structural damage to Matt Kemp’s left knee or his jaw. He was removed from Tuesday’s game after crashing into the center field fence trying to chase down a Josh Rutledge triple.



He sat out Wednesday’s contest against the Rockies as a precautionary measure, with what’s being called “a bone bruise around the left knee and intense body soreness overall.” Kemp hopes to return to the starting lineup on Thursday against the Diamondbacks, but should be back by the weekend regardless.



He’s been scuffling at the plate over his last 12 games, hitting .220 (9-for-41) with just three RBI and 10 strikeouts, and hasn’t homered since August 8. Make no mistake about it though, they’ll need his bat to heat up again if they plan to chase down the Giants for the NL West crown.







National League Quick Hits: Mets manager Terry Collins announced on Wednesday that Matt Harvey will be shut down once he reaches around 175 total innings on the season. The promising young right-hander has accumulated 146 innings between Triple-A and the Mets, compiling a 2.75 ERA and 10.8 K/9 ratio over his first six MLB starts… Neil Walker missed the entire three-game set against the Cardinals with tightness in his lower back, and still looks to be a few days away from returning… Yadier Molina passed a round of concussion tests on Wednesday, but is still dealing with soreness in his back, neck and shoulder after Tuesday’s scary home plate collision with Josh Harrison. He maintains that he’ll avoid a trip to the DL and expects to return to the lineup at some point over the weekend… Vance Worley will undergo surgery to remove loose bodies from his pitching elbow, ending his 2012 season… Cole Hamels was scratched from Wednesday’s start against the Braves due to an illness, but should rejoin the rotation later in the week against the Braves… Domonic Brown missed Wednesday’s contest against the Mets, dealing with continued soreness in his left knee… Reds GM Walt Jocketty said Wednesday that speedster Billy Hamilton was unlikely to join the club in September… The Pirates promoted top pitching prospect Gerrit Cole to Triple-A after dominating at the High-A and Double-A levels… Emilio Bonifacio may be shut down for the season with his knee injury… A.J. Ellis blasted a grand slam in a victory over the Rockies, and is enjoying a solid month of August, hitting .301 with three homers and 12 RBI… Tyler Cloyd pitched fairly well in his MLB debut, allowing three runs on seven hits over six innings in a loss to the Mets… Chris Heisey smacked a pair of homers and drove home three in a victory over the Diamondbacks… John Axford successfully converted his fourth straight save opportunity and appears to have fully regained his role. Mustache aficionados everywhere are rejoicing… Pedro Alvarez stayed scorching hot, smashing his 26^th home run in a victory over the Cardinals… Matt Harvey posted his fourth consecutive quality start in a win over the Phillies… Lance Berkman had an RBI double and a pair of walks during his rehab game for Triple-A Memphis, but will be used almost exclusively as a pinch-hitter down the stretch… Roger Clemens will make another start on September 7 for the Sugar Land Skeeters, and still hasn’t ruled out pitching for the Astros this season.







American League Quick Hits: The Orioles announced that they’ll send Dylan Bundy to the instructional league once his Double-A season concludes, making in extremely unlikely that he’ll make his MLB debut in September… Joe Mauer passed through revocable waivers unclaimed, but it was merely a procedural move and he’s unlikely to be moved… An MRI on Denard Span’s troublesome collarbone revealed a sprained SC joint, and he’s likely to miss most, if not all, of the weekend’s series against the Royals… Scott Diamond dropped the appeal of his six-game suspension for throwing at the head of Josh Hamilton, and will begin serving it immediately. This pushes his next start back until Tuesday against the White Sox in Chicago… The Red Sox will recall Daniel Bard to rejoin the bullpen on Thursday. He’s compiled a horrifying 7.03 ERA, 1.88 WHIP and 32/29 K/BB ratio over 32 innings with Triple-A Pawtucket since his early-season demotion… Michael Saunders missed his fifth consecutive game with a right groin strain, but is expected to return to the lineup over the weekend… Yunel Escobar had himself a day in a victory over the Yankees, going 4-for-5 with a homer, three doubles and five RBI… Josh Hamilton blasted his 36^th homer in a losing effort against the Rays, and leads all of baseball with 112 RBI… Bruce Chen astoundingly baffled the Tigers on Wednesday, scattering five hits over eight scoreless innings in a Royals victory… Evan Longoria launched a pair of home runs and plated three in a victory over the Rangers… Joe Saunders was hit hard in his Orioles’ debut, allowing six earned runs on 10 hits over 5 1/3 innings in a loss to the White Sox… Samuel Deduno pitched a terrific game in a victory over the Mariners, scattering just two hits over seven scoreless innings while striking out nine and astoundingly walking none… Trevor Plouffe homered, his 20^th of the season, and drove home four to lead the Twins offense in a 10-0 victory over the Mariners.

 

[HacheMan]

Ready, Wilin and Able Rosters are set to expand on Saturday, which means we'll see an influx of prospects and minor league veterans called up to the majors. Some of the more interesting prospects are already here (Manny Machado, Tyler Skaggs, Matt Harvey, Jacob Turner, Jean Segura, Brett Jackson, Mike Olt and Starling Marte, among others) while big names like Dylan Bundy and Billy Hamilton have essentially been ruled out as September call-ups, so this could be a pretty underwhelming crop from a fantasy perspective.

I could definitely see Wil Myers and Jake Odorizzi being relevant in mixed leagues if they get called up, but I'm not sure the Royals will actually do it. Otherwise, we could see names like Shelby Miller, Jurickson Profar, Danny Hultzen, Nolan Arenado, Grant Green, Gary Brown and Jedd Gyorko, just to name a few. Trevor Bauer should also get another look once Triple-A Reno is done with the postseason. There are some interesting names in here and a few could surprise, but don't look for them to save your fantasy season.

One pitcher who could be worth stashing is someone we have talked about before in this space. Dan Straily was sent down to Triple-A Sacramento when Brett Anderson was activated from the disabled list last week, but he could get a chance to reclaim a rotation spot with Bartolo Colon suspended.

MIXED LEAGUES

Lucas Duda 1B/OF, Mets (Yahoo: 23 percent owned, ESPN: 26.3 percent)

I was pretty high on Duda coming into the season, but he ended up being demoted to Triple-A Buffalo last month after playing terrible defense in right field while delivering a disappointing .241/.335/.391 batting line to go along with 12 homers and a .726 OPS. However, now that the Mets are in evaluation mode as they look ahead to 2013, Duda is back up from the minors and playing left field on a regular basis. The 26-year-old slugged a go-ahead two-run homer in Wednesday's win over the Phillies, which functions as a reminder that his pop and multi-position eligibility could come in handy in deeper mixed leagues down the stretch.

Mike Leake SP, Reds (Yahoo: 10 percent owned, ESPN: 4.2 percent)

We're at the point in the fantasy season where matchups are paramount to success. With that in mind, it doesn't get much better than a start against the 40-89 Astros on Friday night. Leake has admittedly been a bit erratic since the All-Star break, so there is some risk involved, but the 24-year-old right-hander limits walks (1.90 BB/9) and keeps the ball on the ground (47.9 percent ground ball rate) for the most part. As far as streaming options go, you could do a lot worse.

Adam Lind 1B, Blue Jays (Yahoo: 21 percent owned, ESPN: 19.7 percent)

Lind was finally showing some signs of life offensively before he was placed on the disabled list a little over a month ago with lower back tightness. While his 2012 season remains a pretty big disappointment, he is 4-for-13 with a homer and two RBI over three games since being activated on Monday. The 29-year-old has been terrible against left-handed pitching over the past three seasons, so he's best utilized in a league where you can make daily lineup changes, but there's enough power potential here to warrant attention in deeper mixed leagues.

Pedro Alvarez 3B, Pirates (Yahoo: 37 percent owned, ESPN: 45.6 percent)

Alvarez is certainly doing his part to keep the Pirates' playoff hopes alive, as he went 8-for-13 with three homers, two doubles, seven RBI and five runs scored during a three-game series against the Cardinals this week. Why can't he face the Cardinals every night? Anyway, the 25-year-old slugger is now hitting .280 with 10 home runs and 20 RBI over 42 games since the All-Star break. Only Jose Bautista (done for the season), Mark Trumbo, Miguel Cabrera and Edwin Encarnacion have more home runs than Alvarez (26) among third base-eligible players. I would be stunned if he gets anywhere close to a .280 batting average the rest of the way, as he still strikes out way too much, but there's no reason why he shouldn't be owned in the majority of fantasy leagues right now.

Wilin Rosario C, Rockies (Yahoo: 33 percent owned, ESPN: 21.5 percent)

Rosario has very quietly been among the best power hitters in all of baseball this season. No, seriously. He has. His 22 homers are tied for second among all fantasy catchers, which is impressive enough on its own, but he has also homered once in every 13 at-bats. The only sluggers who have homered more often this year? Adam Dunn, Jose Bautista, Giancarlo Stanton and Josh Hamilton. And this isn't just a Coors Field thing, as he has 14 homers and an .850 OPS at home and eight homers and an .808 OPS on the road. Rosario might not play everyday, but he's producing enough where it doesn't matter.

Pedro Ciriaco 2B/3B/SS, Red Sox (Yahoo: 36 percent owned, ESPN: 48.9 percent)

Getting a chance in the starting lineup due to injury, Ciriaco has been a nice surprise for the Red Sox over the past two months, batting .345 with 13 extra-base hits (two homers), 16 RBI, 10 stolen bases and 21 runs scored in 45 games. I don't have a ton of faith that he'll be able to keep it up, as the 26-year-old has a .415 batting average on balls in play and has only walked three times in 148 plate appearances. His .272/.299/.357 batting line in the minors is probably more indicative of his skill, but his speed and multi-position eligibility give him a chance to remain useful as the Red Sox play out the string.

Brandon League RP, Dodgers (Yahoo: 39 percent owned, ESPN: 24.7 percent)
Ronald Belisario RP, Dodgers (Yahoo: 5 percent owned, ESPN: 0.1 percent)

Kenley Jansen was unavailable Wednesday against the Rockies because of issues related to heart condition that sidelined him for nearly a month last season. It's not clear how much time he will miss this time around, but the Dodgers obviously won't take any chances with his health. Ronald Belisario got the final five outs Wednesday and is worth a speculative add in many formats, but it wouldn't surprise me if Dodgers manager Don Mattingly goes with League as a fill-in because of his previous experience in the role. Javy Guerra (Yahoo: 22 percent owned, ESPN: 19.2 percent) was surprisingly optioned to the minors last week, but he could also be an option.

Josh Rutledge 2B/SS, Rockies (Yahoo: 32 percent owned, ESPN: 43.9 percent)

Rutledge was dropped in a bunch of fantasy leagues while he was dealing with a nagging quad injury, but it's time to pay attention again now that he's back in the starting lineup. The 23-year-old has two hits in each of his first two games back and is hitting .350 with seven homers, 27 RBI, five stolen bases and a 1.008 OPS over his first 40 major league games. Rutledge's playing time won't be affected when Troy Tulowitzki returns from the disabled list in September, as he'll simply slide over to second base, which is where he'll be playing next season anyway.

Luke Gregerson RP, Padres (Yahoo: 13 percent owned, ESPN: 7.2 percent)

Many assumed that Dale Thayer would serve as the temporary closer while Huston Street was sidelined with a calf injury, but Gregerson has logged the last two save chances for the Padres. To be fair, one of them was while Thayer was away on paternity leave, but his second came when the mustachioed right-hander was available. Thayer pitched the eighth inning of an 8-2 win on Wednesday, which could be indicative of a change in role. Keep in mind that Street is expected to be activated from the disabled list Sunday, so there isn't much time left for Gregerson to make an impact, but picking up even one save over the next two games could make a difference in fantasy leagues.

David Phelps RP/SP, Yankees (Yahoo: 11 percent owned, ESPN: 6.1 percent)

Phelps has thrived in a swingman role for the Bombers this season, posting a 3.48 ERA and 33/9 K/BB ratio in 31 innings across six starts and a 2.96 ERA overall. The 25-year-old right-hander has pitched into the seventh inning in each of his last two starts and should remain in the rotation until Ivan Nova is ready to return. Phelps has been hurt by the home run ball a bit this season, serving up 10 in just 70 innings, but he gets strikeouts, limits walks and has one of the league's best offenses behind him. He makes for a solid streaming option this weekend against the Orioles.

Javier Lopez RP, Giants (Yahoo: 14 percent owned, ESPN: 21.1 percent)

When I mentioned Jeremy Affeldt in Waiver Wired earlier this month, it appeared that the southpaw would split save chances with Sergio Romo. It hasn't worked out that way. Affeldt hasn't had a save chance since April 7 while Lopez has notched four saves in the past 10 days. Yes, closer-by-committee situations can be pretty frustrating sometimes. It's worth noting that Santiago Casilla has pitched much better recently, so this situation could get even more confusing in the days ahead, but it's clear that Giants manager Bruce Bochy prefers Lopez as his lefty closer option. At least I think so.

Shopping at the five-and-dime:

(Players owned in less than 10 percent of Y! and ESPN.com leagues)

Wilson Betemit 1B/3B/OF, Orioles (Yahoo: 3 percent owned, ESPN: 0.4 percent)

Betemit has been sidelined August 11 with a sore right wrist, but he's expected to be activated from the disabled list when rosters expand on Saturday. While the 30-year-old is having an underwhelming season on the surface, he has 11 homers and an .873 OPS against right-handed pitching. It's no fluke either, as the switch-hitter has an .826 career OPS against right-handers compared to a .640 OPS against southpaws. Assuming the wrist feels good, he should be able to help in daily leagues down the stretch.

Casey Kelly SP, Padres (Yahoo: 0 percent owned, ESPN: 1.5 percent)

Kelly was solid in his major league debut Monday night against the Braves, allowing just three hits over six shutout innings while striking out four and walking a pair. His velocity dipped a bit as he got deeper into the game, which could indicate that he's still building arm strength after missing most of the season with an elbow injury, but he showed solid command and his curveball looks like a potential plus-pitch. He's someone worth considering as a matchup play the rest of the way.

Jarrod Dyson OF, Royals (Yahoo: 1 percent owned, ESPN: 0.9 percent)

If you are looking to catch up in stolen bases, listen up. Getting a couple starts a week with Jeff Franceour riding the pine, Dyson is tied for sixth in the majors with eight steals this month. He's now an excellent 25-for-28 in stolen base attempts overall this year. Fantasy owners will have to watch Ned Yost's lineup card on a daily basis and things could get more crowded if top prospect Wil Myers gets called up in September, but Dyson shouldn't be this widely available right now.

Nate McLouth OF, Orioles (Yahoo: 2 percent owned, ESPN: 1.2 percent)

McLouth is getting a chance at regular playing time in left field with the Orioles and he's making the most of it so far. The 30-year-old is hitting .263 (20-for-76) with two homers, five doubles, one triple, nine RBI, six stolen bases and 14 runs scored in 22 games. Of course, this is a small sample size and his previous two seasons tell us that we could be looking at a mirage, but it's easy to forget that McLouth was once a 20-20 guy. Those in deeper leagues and five-outfielder formats can afford to take a chance. <!--RW-->

NL ONLY

Jimmy Paredes 3B, Astros (Yahoo: 0 percent owned, ESPN: 0.1 percent)

Paredes isn't exactly a new name around these parts, as he finished last season as the starting third baseman with the Astros. However, he was moved to the outfield about a month ago in the minors and will his feet wet there in the big leagues down the stretch. The 23-year-old batted .318/.348/.477 with 13 home runs, 59 RBI, 37 stolen bases and an .826 OPS in 124 games at the Triple-A level this year. His plate discipline needs work and I don't expect him to replicate those power numbers outside of the Pacific Coast League, so those in NL-only leagues are mostly grabbing him for his speed and the promise of semi-regular playing time.

John Lannan SP, Nationals (Yahoo: 0 percent owned, ESPN: 0.4 percent)

All indications are that Stephen Strasburg will indeed be shut down in September. It will be impossible to replace him, but Lannan is considered the favorite to take his rotation spot. Aside from two spot-starts with the Nats earlier this year, the 27-year-old southpaw has spent the entire season with Triple-A Syracuse, compiling a 4.58 ERA over 23 starts. Lannan doesn't strike out many batters (4.7 K/9 career), so he's not an exciting option in mixed leagues, but he owns a 3.99 ERA in the majors. Worth a stash.

AL ONLY

Mauro Gomez 1B/3B, Red Sox (Yahoo: 1 percent owned, ESPN: 0.1 percent)

You may have missed it, but the Red Sox traded Adrian Gonzalez, Josh Beckett, Carl Crawford and Nick Punto to the Dodgers over the weekend. Anyway, what we're left with in Boston is a platoon of James Loney and Gomez at first base. Gomez turns 28 next week, so he's hardly a "prospect "at this point, but he was recently named the International League MVP after batting .310/.371/.589 with 24 homers and a .960 OPS in 100 games with Triple-A Pawtucket this year. He hits right-handed, so he will likely be on the short-side of the platoon, but he could provide enough pop to have value.

Franklin Gutierrez OF, Mariners (Yahoo: 1 percent owned, ESPN: 0.3 percent)

Gutierrez returned from the disabled list this week after missing the past two months with a concussion. The 29-year-old center fielder just hasn't had any luck on the injury front lately, appearing in just 107 games over the past two seasons while compiling a miserable .228/.271/.292 batting line to go along with three homers and a .564 OPS. There's obviously risk involved here given his recent injury history, but remember that Gutierrez had 12 homers and 25 stolen bases in 2010 and 18 homers and 16 stolen bases in 2009. Take a chance on the upside.

Dylan Axelrod SP, White Sox (Yahoo: 0 percent owned, ESPN: 0.1 percent)

Axelrod came up big for the White Sox on Wednesday night, limiting the Orioles to one run on three hits over 7 1/3 innings while striking out five and walking four. The 27-year-old right-hander isn't a hard-thrower and had a 5.63 ERA over his previous nine appearances with the White Sox this year, so let's not go crazy here, but at least he has a history of good control and keeping the ball on the ground. He should be a fine option in AL-only leagues until Gavin Floyd returns from an elbow injury.

 

[HacheMan]

No Cy Young for Chris Sale

The southpaw's been great, but Verlander and Felix have more value


By Eric Seidman | FanGraphs

The Chicago White Sox hold a one-game lead over the Detroit Tigers in an up-for-grabs AL Central division. The finale of the three-game weekend series in Detroit pits respective aces Chris Sale and Justin Verlander against one another on "Sunday Night Baseball."



Sale has been a major reason the White Sox have held the division lead for this long, leading to speculation that he could dethrone Verlander -- the 2011 AL Cy Young award winner -- by winning pitching's top award this season.


While the 23-year-old lefty has turned in a fantastic season -- especially considering it's his first in the starting rotation -- his award prospects should be tempered.



The Cy Young race isn't a two-man battle to begin with, but even if it was, Sale wouldn't be an equal to Verlander.

<offer></offer>

The major difference between Sale's and Verlander's cases is innings pitched. Obviously, great pitchers help their team more and increase their own individual value by toeing the rubber more often.



The near-40-inning gap between Sale and Verlander is integral to the discussion, because it creates a gap in value that Sale can't overcome by simply having better numbers in some categories; so far this season, the two starters have posted nearly identical statistics in key categories:


<!-- begin inline 1 -->Competing for the Cy Young

Comparing the numbers of Chris Sale and Justin Verlander this season.
<table><thead><tr><th>

Pitcher​

</th><th>

Starts​

</th><th>

Innings​

</th><th>

K/PA​

</th><th>

BB/PA​

</th><th>

GB %​

</th><th>

ERA​

</th><th>

SIERA​

</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr class="last"><td>

Sale​

</td><td>

23​

</td><td>

157​

</td><td>

25.0%​

</td><td>

6.3%​

</td><td>

44%​

</td><td>

2.81​

</td><td>

3.23​

</td></tr><tr class="last"><td>

Verlander​

</td><td>

27​

</td><td>

196.1​

</td><td>

25.3%​

</td><td>

6.4%​

</td><td>

40%​

</td><td>

2.80​

</td><td>

3.26​

</td></tr></tbody></table>

<!-- end inline 1 -->

Identical is being used in its literal sense here, as these pitchers are mere rounding errors away from each other in each of the relevant rate stats above. However, Verlander's lead in innings results in a 1.5 WAR advantage.



Verlander is currently second in the junior circuit with 5.6 WAR, while Sale ranks third with 4.1. Though it's easy to argue that Sale has pitched as effectively as Verlander on a start-by-start basis, Verlander has simply made three more starts and consumed more outs per start, and that makes a significant difference in accruing value.


The AL Cy Young landscape isn't two pitchers deep, however, as Seattle Mariners ace Felix Hernandez leads both Verlander and Sale (and the rest of the American League) in WAR with 5.8
It's possible that Hernandez will lose a little credit among voters simply because he has thrown more than half of his innings at Safeco Field, which doubles as both the Mariners' home park and a museum that re-enacts the dead ball era. But even after accounting for the extreme disadvantage hitters face at Safeco, it's still not enough to move Sale into the conversation for the most valuable starter in the league. That's clearly a discussion for Verlander and Hernandez only, as of now.


Another factor that could hurt Sale in the Cy Young race is that he doesn't have the narrative of "single-handedly lifting his team to playoff contention" working in his favor. Even if we forget about an offense that ranks fifth in the AL in runs, Sale isn't the only above-average starter in his own rotation, as Jake Peavy is having an equally good season.


Through 26 starts and 181 innings, Peavy has 3.8 WAR and similarly efficient and impressive peripherals.


Of course, many voters still look at wins and losses as a proxy for determining pitcher value and performance, and Sale's 15-5 mark trumps Peavy's 9-10 record. It also bests Verlander's 12-7 and Felix's 13-5 records. While Hernandez himself won the award with a 13-12 record in 2010, he was the clear choice that season. Right now, there are two almost equal choices in Hernandez and Verlander, and a third reasonable one in Sale, and therefore win-loss record may loom large in the voting.


That could be seen as an advantage for Sale, but then you would have to include David Price in the discussion. Price leads the AL in wins with 16, has thrown 17 more innings than Sale (174 to 157), has a better ERA, too (2.53 to 2.81), and trails Sale by only 0.1 WAR. He's also pitching in a pennant race, as the Tampa Bay Rays are within striking distance in both AL East and the AL wild-card race.


The fact that Sale and Price are the only pitchers with a shot at 20 wins could make the AL Cy Young race interesting in September. However, Sale isn't even likely to reach 200 innings, while Price should and Hernandez and Verlander will have 240 innings on their peripheries.



Sale's best shot at winning the Cy Young: A White Sox division title, a sexy wins total, and the Tigers and Rays missing the postseason. That doesn't mean Sale should win, though. It just means that he could, which are two very different things that often get mixed up in award discussions.


Still, Sale has pitched very well this year. He just hasn't pitched the innings Verlander and Hernandez have, and that gap in value is too much to ignore for the Cy Young award.

 

[HacheMan]

Robin Ventura was made to manage

Buster Olney

DETROIT -- Long before Robin Ventura even knew he wanted to manage, Chicago White Sox GM Ken Williams had written down his name as a possible candidate, among other names, in a folder that Williams updates and maintains.


Ventura is understated and even-tempered and cannot be any more different from the old-school Earl Weaver/Billy Martin/Ozzie Guillen model of what a manager should be: fiery, demonstrative, the loudest and most aggressive guy in the room. But Williams had thought that in Ventura's playing days, he had a natural leadership quality, because he was someone who other players trusted and relied on.


Williams also remembered how he had informally quizzed a doctor who specialized in giving personality assessments -- something like the test that's given to prospective NFL draftees -- and Williams had asked who had most impressed him, among all the people the doctor had spoken to through the years. The answer: Robin Ventura.



This is how it came to be that Williams met at his Arizona house with Ventura last fall, with White Sox official Buddy Bell.

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"Do you have any managerial aspirations at all?" Williams remembers asking Ventura.


"Naaaah, not really," Ventura answered.


Days later, when Ventura was introduced as the White Sox manager, the initial perception of the move within the industry was that it was all about public relations, about trying to rebuild a once-popular White Sox player into someone who might have the stature to replace Guillen.


Instead, Williams' new manager is his version of the new prototype of what a Major League Baseball manager should be: respected and respectful -- a very important trait in winning over a new generation of players far more sensitive to criticism than their baseball ancestors -- with an ability to motivate through building expectation rather than through screaming or insults.


The Los Angeles Dodgers have this with Don Mattingly, the Chicago Cubs have it with Dale Sveum; Oakland's Bob Melvin fits the new model, as does the Cardinals' Mike Matheny, among others. These are men who do not overreact, an extremely important quality in this time of exploding social media, when a manager's biting comment about a player erupts outside of a clubhouse in mere seconds.


The White Sox players rave about their work environment, finding Ventura's consistent day-to-day personality a perfect fit for the requirements and challenges of their jobs. He and his coaching staff -- a group that mirrors Ventura's mien, in the eyes of the players -- put the players to work and expect them to prepare and play hard. For example, they are the only team in the majors that takes infield before the first game of every series. Ventura and his staff are positive, upbeat, energetic.


"I love it here," Adam Dunn said after Saturday's game. "I'm still waiting for that day when [Ventura] acts different, but he's the same every day."


When Williams first began seriously thinking about Ventura as a managerial candidate last fall, he was unsure of how White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf would react initially. One day, he was in the same room as Reinsdorf and longtime agent Dennis Gilbert, and with Reinsdorf within earshot, Williams mentioned to Gilbert that he had in mind a candidate who was completely out of the box, someone who would be a surprise.


Gilbert had seen Williams recently chatting with Ventura, who had worked in the minor league system for the White Sox in 2011. "Are you talking about Robin?" Gilbert asked. Williams was astounded that Gilbert had guessed correctly. Their conversation drew Reinsdorf, and when Williams told Reinsdorf what he was thinking, the owner's eyebrows darted upward.


"You know, that's a very interesting name," he said.


The next day, Reinsdorf talked with Williams and told him that overnight, as he thought about the idea hour by hour, he loved the idea more and more. Unlike other outside candidates, Ventura would not have to prove himself to Chicago, to the reporters who covered the team. The focus would be on baseball. Reinsdorf also knew how smart Ventura is and how secure he is, without the burning need for attention.


Williams and Bell asked for a meeting with Ventura under the premise that they would discuss players in the White Sox farm system, until Williams asked him whether he wanted to manage -- and Ventura indicated that no, it wasn't something he had thought about.


"Well, you need to change that attitude," Williams recalled saying, "because what you're really here for is to talk about becoming the manager of the Chicago White Sox."


Ventura looked at Williams and Bell, and with the use of a profanity, told them they were nuts.


Today, Ventura is the manager of the first-place White Sox, a young team that has performed far beyond preseason expectations, and will face the Detroit Tigers on "Sunday Night Baseball" (8 ET, ESPN2).


By the way: Williams has another name in mind of someone who, like Ventura, could manage in the majors without a single day of managing in the minors, someone who is a natural leader: Paul Konerko.
The White Sox hitters were dominated Saturday by Max Scherzer, who registered his ninth consecutive start of eight or more strikeouts, and the Tigers are now within a game of first place. They can move into a first-place tie tonight, when Justin Verlander starts against Chris Sale.
From the Elias Sports Bureau: Scherzer threw eight shutout innings, striking out nine. It was the ninth straight game Scherzer has struck out at least eight. That is tied for the fifth-longest streak by an AL pitcher in the live ball era (since 1920).
Most consecutive games with eight-plus K's (AL pitchers since 1920)
1994: Randy Johnson -- 12
1977: Nolan Ryan -- 12
2002: Pedro Martinez -- 11
1989: Nolan Ryan -- 11
2012: Max Scherzer -- 9
1999: Pedro Martinez -- 9
1946: Bob Feller -- 9


Francisco Liriano was ineffective, struggling to command his fastball.
Dunn, who injured an oblique on a check-swing the other day and was not in the lineup Saturday, told me he fully intends to play tonight.


<!-- begin inline 1 -->Verlander vs. White Sox

Justin Verlander's career numbers against Chicago, separated by the 2009 season.
<table><thead><tr><th>

Stat​

</th><th>

Before '09​

</th><th>

Since '09​

</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr class="last"><td>

Starts​

</td><td>

14​

</td><td>

12​

</td></tr><tr class="last"><td>

W-L​

</td><td>

2-9​

</td><td>

11-1​

</td></tr><tr class="last"><td>

ERA​

</td><td>

5.90​

</td><td>

2.32​

</td></tr><tr class="last"><td>

K per 9​

</td><td>

5.7​

</td><td>

7.6​

</td></tr><tr class="last"><td>

Opp. BA​

</td><td>

.262​

</td><td>

.211​

</td></tr></tbody></table>

<!-- end inline 1 -->More on tonight's Sale-Verlander matchup (from ESPN Stats & Information): Sale has struggled in his matchups with the Tigers, going 0-2 with a 6.00 ERA this season. Verlander has picked up a no-decision in each of his past four starts. He'd never gone more than two straight starts without a decision before. On Sunday, he looks to avoid going five straight starts without a win for just the third time in his career (and first time since 2008).
The Tigers called up five more players, John Lowe writes.
Tigers rookie Avisail Garcia made a big first impression in the big leagues, battling Liriano through 10 pitches in Garcia's first plate appearance before drawing a walk. He's big, he's strong, he's fast, and he's never played above Double-A, and it's apparent that Jim Leyland is going to give him a chance to play regularly in Detroit.
His resemblance to Miguel Cabrera -- his shoulders, his batting style, and even how he walks -- is remarkable.


Elsewhere



• The New York Yankees were desperate for a victory and got some help from a newcomer. The Baltimore Orioles blew a three-run lead.
Meanwhile, a reinforcement could be on the way for the Orioles: Jason Hammel threw five innings in a rehab start.
• The Boston Red Sox have a lot of money to spend and will do so -- and Jacoby Ellsbury might cash in, writes Michael Silverman.
From the story:

• That won't be cheap but [Ellsbury's agent, Scott] Boras said the Red Sox can still make it happen.

• "Jacoby likes playing in Boston, that's not an issue here," said Boras. "The only thing I can say about Jacoby is that there are few players like him. He is a proven successful player in Boston and in the American League East environment, and he plays a premium position at Gold Glove levels. He is a franchise player."

• At the very least, it sounds as if talks about keeping Ellsbury for a long time have already begun with general manager Ben Cherington, if only in a preliminary sense.

• "Ben and I always share an open dialogue and we'll continue to talk about Jacoby and other players I represent in the organization and I'm sure this offseason we'll be discussing free agents I represent that could very well be needed in Boston to re-engage in building an annual contender," said Boras.

Meanwhile, the Red Sox keep losing, and their latest defeat included a dugout spat between Dustin Pedroia and Alfredo Aceves.
• The St. Louis Cardinals battled to end their losing streak. They confirmed that Rafael Furcal is out for the year.
• Jeff Locke is going to get the ball and be part of the Pirates' rotation in the last month.
Dings and dents



1. Joey Votto hit a home run in his injury rehabilitation assignment.


2. Alex Rodriguez is a step closer.


3. David Ortiz won't risk further injury to his Achilles tendon, and his season may be over.
Moves, deals and decisions



1. Ron Washington sees a limited role for Jurickson Profar, for now.


2. The Houston Astros' call-ups are starting to trickle in, writes Zachary Levine.


3. Russ Canzler is going to get a lot of at-bats this month.


4. David Lough got the call to the big leagues.


5. A closer's role may be next for Glen Perkins.


6. A kid playing in Double-A might be the Phillies' best option at third base, writes David Murphy.


7. The New York Mets should trade David Wright and R.A. Dickey, writes Joel Sherman.


8. Kirk Gibson explained the Trevor Cahill pitch count watch, Nick Piecoro writes. This has turned out to be a one-sided trade for Oakland, so far.


9. Jason Giambi wants to play again next season.


By The Numbers

From ESPN Stats & Info


2: Straight starts that Cliff Lee has won. First time it's happened this season.
3: Career walk-off hits for Corey Hart, after doing so against the Pirates.
7: Straight winning decisions streak snapped for Tim Hudson with his loss to the Phillies.
8: Home runs for Hanley Ramirez in his past 16 games (none in previous 17 games).
10: Straight games in which Alex Gordon has a hit; he has a .405 BA (17-for-42) and 11 RBIs during the streak.
16: Home runs for Jimmy Rollins, matching his 2011 total.
AL East notes



• Jeff Niemann came back off the disabled list, but left with an arm injury. The Tampa Bay Rays managed to pull out a badly needed victory, with the game ending, again, on a runner thrown out at home plate. The same thing happened on Friday.


From Elias: The last team to play consecutive games in which the game ended with an outfielder throwing out a runner at the plate was the 1982 Pirates -- May 11 (at Astros) and May 13 (versus Reds). The Pirates lost both games.
There is debate in Toronto whether Omar Vizquel should've been removed for a pinch runner.
AL Central notes



• The Cleveland Indians pulled out a win after putting up four first-inning runs.
• For whatever reason, writes Bob Dutton, the Kansas City Royals cannot beat the Minnesota Twins: They were swept in a doubleheader Saturday.
Joe Mauer led a Minnesota sweep, John Shipley writes.
AL West notes



• The Oakland Athletics just keep winning: They shut down the Red Sox again. But along the way, Brandon Inge reinjured his shoulder, and he needs surgery.
• You can't stop the surging Los Angeles Angels, you can only hope to contain them.
• Scott Feldman had a nightmare first inning.
• Felix Hernandez pitched well but lost, and Mike Trout's speed was pivotal.
NL West notes



• Tim Lincecum delivered in a big way for the San Francisco Giants, writes John Shea.
• The Arizona Diamondbacks had no answers against Josh Beckett.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers won with a couple of solo homers.
• Edinson Volquez got lit up.
NL Central notes



• The Pittsburgh Pirates had their guts ripped out, Michael Sanserino writes.
• The Astros walked off with a win.
• The Reds lost a heartbreaker.
• The Cubs dropped the second game of their series.
• The Milwaukee Brewers just keep winning games. I'm not saying they're going to make the playoffs, but they are beginning to make it interesting -- and it's hard to imagine how different their season would have been if not for their bullpen debacles.
NL East notes



• Luck is finally starting to turn Cliff Lee's way.
• Josh Johnson pitched well, but the Miami Marlins lost, writes Joe Capozzi.
• The Mets turned the tables on Miami, writes Michael Snyder.
From ESPN Stats & Info: Jordan Zimmermann allowed a career-high eight earned runs in 3 2/3 innings. It's his shortest start since September 2010 (two different starts of 3 IP) when he was recovering from Tommy John surgery. Zimmermann has now gone fewer than six innings in each of his past four starts (and five of his past six) after beginning the season with 21 consecutive starts of at least six innings.
Other stuff



• Alex Speier thinks the Red Sox need to relieve Bobby Valentine of his duties right now. From his story:

• His ongoing employment as Red Sox manager has become, at best, awkward, at worst, destructive to the team going forward. Reports of his behavior (full disclosure: I have not spent a day around the team on the current West Coast road trip) suggest an embattled manager who feels the walls pressing in around him, amplifying the behavior that characterized the end of the Sox' recent (and roster reshaping) homestand.

• It's come to the point where it is fair to question his ongoing emotional investment in the team.

• On Friday, for instance, he showed up at the ballpark less than three hours before the first pitch -- hours after a manager typically makes his way to the ballpark in order to guarantee his preparedness and ensure his availability to his players and coaches. On Saturday, he was asked about a Red Sox lineup that featured Scott Podsednik penciled into the third spot in the order for the first time in the veteran's big league career.

• "Just a mistake," Valentine said in response to his deployment of Podsednik. "Is that what it says on the lineup? What the (expletive)? Switch it up. Who knows? Maybe it will look good. I haven't seen it."

• And again on Saturday, when Valentine was asked about the fact that catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia challenged baseball etiquette by breaking up a no-hitter in the fifth inning (of a 5-0 game) with a bunt single, Valentine's response was not defense but rather dismissal.

• "Who cares?" he told reporters.

• Michael Cuddyer is staying positive.
• The new wild-card format leads to a whole lot of chaos, Joe Maddon says.
• The Orioles' defense has improved in the second half, writes Eduardo Encina.
And today will be better than yesterday.

 

[HacheMan]

Mad Max

The Tigers know if they make the postseason that Justin Verlander will be their Game 1 starter, but for much of the year, manager Jim Leyland hasn’t had a definitive answer for who would be his No. 2.



Max Scherzer apparently would like to apply for the job.



Scherzer was brilliant in Saturday’s big win over the White Sox, spinning eight shutout innings while allowing just four hits and one walk with nine strikeouts. With the nine punchouts, the 28-year-old became the first pitcher this season to reach 200 strikeouts.



It’s the type of performance that’s been common for Scherzer of late. The hottest pitcher in the American League, Scherzer boasts a 1.03 ERA and 43/9 K/BB ratio over his last 35 innings. He’s put up a 2.76 ERA and 83/22 K/BB ratio over 65 1/3 innings since the All-Star break.



Those numbers have come after the right-hander posted a 4.72 ERA in 17 first half outings, as Scherzer has often gone through ups and downs during his career. What he’s doing now is reminiscent of what he did in his first season in Detroit in 2010, when he put up a 4.61 ERA before the All-Star break before rebounding with a 2.47 mark after the Mid-Summer Classic.



It’s certainly possible that Scherzer could hit another rough patch at any moment, but it seems doubtful given how unhittable he’s been of late. It looks like he’ll be a fantasy stud over the final month.



Final Start for Strasburg Set



September 12, 2012.



It’s a day that Stephen Strasburg’s fantasy owners and baseball fans in general hoped would never come. But, alas, we’re nearly there. When Strasburg toes the rubber at Citi Field that night, it will be the last rubber he steps on this season.



“We had our parameters in place at the beginning of the season, we had our philosophies and our protocols,” Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo told the Washington Post Sunday. “That seems like the right number of innings to end his season.”



Strasburg is currently sitting at 156 1/3 innings after dominating the Cardinals over six stellar innings Sunday, which means he’ll likely wind up throwing about 170 for the season. It would be a jump of just under 50 from the 123 1/3 innings that he threw in 2010, and a jump of about 60 from the 109 frames he spun in his final year at San Diego State.



With a 2.66 ERA in 15 second half starts, Strasburg is pitching some of his best ball of the year. But, the Nats are committed to their decision to handle him with kid gloves despite having already virtually wrapped up a playoff spot.



The Nats should be OK without Strasburg. They’ll still have one of the better rotations in the league, and the right-hander’s likely rotation replacement, John Lannan, is a capable fill-in. But, there’s no doubt that it makes them a less intimidating playoff matchup.













National League Quick Hits: Joey Votto (knee) will play one last rehab game at Triple-A Louisville Monday before being activated. Votto homered Saturday in his fourth rehab game and has picked up two hits over eight at-bats. He’s been out of action for the last six weeks ... The Cardinals will promote top prospect Shelby Miller from Triple-A Memphis this week. Miller isn’t expected to get any starts down the stretch, as he’ll be used in a mop-up role ... Jorge De La Rosa (elbow, forearm) will resume his rehab assignment on Wednesday. The left-hander was shut down back in June after developing tightness in his left forearm. He could make a few appearances for the Rockies late this season ... The Braves are hoping to get Andrelton Simmons (finger) back from the disabled list next weekend. He’s been sidelined since July 8 with a fractured right pinkie finger ... Andrew Cashner will rejoin the Padres’ rotation this week. The flamethrower looked good in his brief turn in the rotation towards the end of the first half and is worth scooping up if you have the roster space ... Juan Carlos Oviedo (elbow) will visit Dr. James Andrews this week. He could need Tommy John surgery ... The Phillies are undecided on whether to activate Carlos Ruiz from the DL this month, as he’s still feeling some pain in his left foot. Ruiz has been out since early August with plantar fasciitis ... Carlos Beltran tweaked his left knee in Sunday’s loss to the Nationals and isn’t expected to play Monday ... Chipper Jones drilled a two-out, three-run, walk-off homer Sunday against Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon. Chipper is now batting a healthy .302/.381/.500 with 14 homers and 58 RBI in his last season.



American League Quick Hits: Jurickson Profar made quite a splash in his major league debut Sunday, homering in his first at-bat and then doubling in his next trip to the plate. Profar won’t receive much playing time down the stretch, but he’s obviously a must-have in keeper leagues ... Mark Reynolds smacked a pair of home runs in Sunday’s win over the Yankees. The streaky corner infielder is red-hot, batting .324 (24-for-74) with eight homers and 17 RBI over his last 23 contests ... Chris Tillman exited his start Sunday with tightness in his pitching elbow. He’ll undergo an MRI but is confident that the injury isn’t serious ... Brandon Inge will undergo season-ending surgery this week on his right shoulder. He’ll be available to pinch-hit until the operation is performed ... Ricky Romero was blasted for seven runs on eight hits while failing to record an out in the second inning of Sunday’s loss to the Rays. His ERA (5.80) is the highest it’s been since his first start of the season. The Blue Jays have no plans to shut the left-hander down ... The Tigers activated Al Alburquerque from the disabled list Sunday. Alburquerque has missed all season with an elbow injury but could eventually work his way back into high-leverage innings ... Curtis Granderson sat out Sunday’s game after leaving Saturday with a hamstring injury. An MRI came back negative, though, and he’s expected back in there soon ... Brett Anderson spun six innings of one-run ball in Sunday’s win over the Red Sox. He’s allowed just two runs in three starts since being activated from the DL​

 

[HacheMan]

Carp's Comeback

"When you look at how Carp was throwing, it was screaming that this deserved an opportunity for consideration."

That’s what Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak told MLB.com regarding the sudden possibility that Chris Carpenter could make a late-season return this season. Carpenter was considered out for the year after undergoing surgery in mid-July in order to alleviate the symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome. But, he threw two simulated innings last Friday and is scheduled for another simulated game Tuesday.

Not only is it looking likelier that he’ll be back, but the Cards would plan on using Carp as a starter. Having missed all season, he still obviously needs to build up his stamina, and he could be used in a “piggyback” situation initially upon his return. Joe Kelly, Lance Lynn, Trevor Rosenthal and Shelby Miller would all be options to follow Carp in this scenario.

"Given the guys we have now in our bullpen, you can see some sort of piggyback scenario if it worked out that way," Mozeliak said. "He has to build up his pitch count. Given the fact he hasn't been able to throw much prior to surgery, he does feel good. It looks like he's on track to contribute. We're hopeful that's what happens."

Carpenter estimated that he threw 36 pitches last Friday, and he should up that total a bit Tuesday. With the minor league season drawing to a close, he’ll have to build up his stamina through simulated games. That means if he does return to game action later this month, it will be his first since Game 7 of last year’s World Series.

It might be too much to ask for Carp to be a big help to fantasy teams in the final weeks, but he’s nonetheless worthy of a speculative roster stash.

Uggla Benched

When Dan Uggla batted just .185 before the All-Star break last season, the Braves stuck with him and were rewarded with a monster second half that saw him hit .296 with 21 homers. With Uggla again struggling to hit his weight, the Braves this time around have decided to pull the plug.

Martin Prado started at second base for the second straight game Monday, and he’s expected to receive the bulk of the playing time there until further notice.

The Braves would be able to stomach Uggla’s .208 batting mark if it came with his trademark power, but the pop just hasn’t been there on a regular basis this season. His 17 homers are 10 fewer than the lowest single-season total of his career, and his .373 slugging percentage is the fifth-lowest mark in the National League among qualified batters.

“It’s not a doghouse situation,” manager Fredi Gonzalez said in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “It’s a situation where you feel like you need to do something for the team and for the name on the front of the uniform. And it’s hard. It’s not easy, because of the relationship. If it was a guy that I met two months ago, you don’t even think about it.”

It’s possible Uggla will get hot and regain his job, but for now the Braves on most days will go with Prado at second base and Jose Constanza or Reed Johnson in left field.



National League Quick Hits: Joey Votto (knee) might not be activated from the disabled list Tuesday as originally anticipated. He hasn’t had a setback, but the Reds are virtually assured of a playoff spot already and don’t want to rush him back. Triple-A Louisville’s season is over, so Votto would have to go somewhere else to continue his rehab ... Andrew Cashner will rejoin the Padres’ rotation Friday. He’s been out since early July with a strained lat ... Kris Medlen’s dominance continued Monday, as he struck out a career-high 12 Rockies hitters while recording his second complete game in the last few weeks. Medlen boasts a 0.59 ERA since the All-Star break ... Carlos Quentin was scratched from Monday’s lineup due to a sore knee. He pinch-hit, though, and could be back in there Tuesday ... Rafael Furcal will get a platelet-rich plasma injection for his right elbow and rehab the injury rather than undergo surgery. There’s an outside chance that he’ll return later this year ... Huston Street (calf) remains without a timetable following his setback last week. Luke Gregerson, who blew a save Monday, will continue to close for the Padres ... J.J. Putz blew his second straight save Monday in a crushing loss to the Giants. He had been pitching extremely well before the recent hiccup ... Sean Burnett is currently unavailable for the Nationals due to irritation in his left elbow. It’s something that’s bothered him since around the All-Star break ... Chad Billingsley could receive a second platelet-rich plasma injection in his ailing right elbow. The first one has helped, but obviously not enough to where he can resume throwing ... Chris Young left Monday’s game with a quad injury. He’s considered day-to-day.

American League Quick Hits: Jered Weaver could miss his next start due to tenderness in his right shoulder. He suffered the injury in his last start when he was hit by a comebacker. He shouldn’t miss more than just the one start, if he misses any at all ... Gavin Floyd (elbow) had a successful bullpen session Monday and will throw again Thursday, when he’ll mix in breaking pitches. Floyd is hoping to be activated when first eligible ... Robinson Cano could sit out Tuesday’s game because of tightness in his left hip. The Yankees are considering him day-to-day ... Evan Longoria left Monday’s game with what the Rays are calling fatigue. The stud third baseman expects to be back in the lineup Tuesday ... Yu Darvish carried a perfect game through 5 2/3 innings and wound up allowing three runs on just three hits and a walk over seven frames in Monday’s win over the Royals. Darvish has now put up four straight quality starts following a rough patch in August ... Colby Rasmus went 0-for-4 in Monday’s loss to the Orioles and is now batting just .168 with 52 strikeouts over 176 plate appearances in the second half ... J.P. Arencibia (hand) is expected to rejoin the Blue Jays’ lineup this weekend. Arencibia has been sidelined since July 25 with a fractured hand ... Jeff Niemann has been diagnosed with a slight strain of his right rotator cuff. The big right-hander wasn’t expected to be a regular part of the Rays’ rotation down the stretch, anyway, and now they seem likely to shut him down ... Adam Dunn (oblique) returned to the lineup Monday and went 1-for-3 with a double and a walk in a win over the Twins.​

 

[HacheMan]

Great Britton
When the 2012 season opened, left-handed starter Zach Britton was on the disabled list with shoulder issues and the Orioles were projected by most to finish dead last in the American League East standings.

And yet here we are on September 5, with the Orioles sitting in a tie for first place with the Yankees atop baseball's most expensive division and Britton pitching like a true ace.

The 24-year-old southpaw tossed seven scoreless innings on Tuesday night against the Blue Jays, fanning eight and walking just two while yielding only four hits as the Orioles grabbed an easy 12-0 victory in Toronto. He has allowed just three runs in four starts (28 2/3 innings) since August 18 and boasts a 29/7 K/BB ratio in that span.

Britton’s ERA was 8.10 on August 7. It’s now 4.15. The surge is legit.



Dodgers Believe Jansen Will Return Soon

Kenley Jansen, who has spent the majority of the 2012 season serving as the Dodgers’ closer, is currently sidelined because of heart problems. But everyone involved seems optimistic about a situation that would typically evoke fear and then precaution.

Dodgers manager Don Mattingly told reporters on Tuesday evening that Jansen is likely to return to action on or around September 17. The hard-throwing righty was prescribed blood-thinning medication late last month and has not experienced a problem with heartbeat irregularity or blood clots since. A cardiologist told him earlier this week that he can pitch as soon as he comes off the meds, and he's planning to drop them in exactly nine days.

Jansen has registered a superb 2.54 ERA and 0.88 WHIP across 56 2/3 innings this season while fanning 86 batters and walking only 19. He has converted 25 of his 31 save opportunities.

The Dodgers will continue to rely on Ronald Belisario and Brandon League for the time being.



Lower Back Tightness Sidelines Holliday

Cardinals left fielder Matt Holliday made an early exit from Tuesday’s 5-1 victory over the Mets after feeling tightness in his lower back while walking to first on a base-on-balls in the seventh inning. It certainly didn’t look like a serious matter, and the St. Louis medical staff is calling him day-to-day, but the Cardinals have an afternoon game on Wednesday and are sure to rest their slugger.

Holliday will then be reevaluated on Friday after Thursday’s scheduled off day.

The 32-year-old is batting .305/.379/.522 with 25 home runs and 92 RBI through 133 games played this season -- playing like a first-round fantasy pick. Many landed him in the second. If the Cardinals make the postseason, he is sure to get National League MVP votes.



National League Quick Hits: Pirates center fielder Andrew McCutchen had four hits and three RBI in Tuesday’s defeat of the Astros … Aaron Hill finished 5-for-5 with a double, a homer, three runs scored and two RBI in Tuesday's extra-innings defeat of the Giants ... The Reds are planning to start Joey Votto (knee) at first base on Wednesday … Jaime Garcia allowed just one (unearned) run over 7 1/3 innings Tuesday in the Cardinals’ win over the Mets … Jay Bruce has homered in three straight games … Adam LaRoche homered twice Tuesday in the Nationals’ rout of the Cubs … The Dodgers are no longer expecting Chad Billingsley (elbow) to return this season ... Nationals right-hander Edwin Jackson has fanned eight batters or more in each of his last four starts … Chris Carpenter (neck, shoulder) threw a successful three-inning simulated game on Tuesday at Busch Stadium … The Dodgers placed reliever Javy Guerra on the 15-day disabled list with a strained oblique … Alfonso Soriano tripled, homered and drove in three in a loss Tuesday in Washington … Rockies outfielder Carlos Gonzalez has 10 hits, including three doubles, over his last six games … Shaun Marcum has a weak 4.29 ERA and 12/6 K/BB ratio in three starts (14 2/3 innings) since returning from the disabled list … The Cubs may shut down Jeff Samardzija before the end of the regular season … Jair Jurrjens will not return to the major leagues this year … The Cardinals officially promoted pitching prospect Shelby Miller on Tuesday evening … Emilio Bonifacio (knee) has been shut down.

American League Quick Hits: Angels ace Jered Weaver is doubtful for his scheduled Friday start because of tenderness in his throwing shoulder … Mark Reynolds is batting .421 with five home runs and 11 RBI over his last five games … Blue Jays slugger Jose Bautista underwent successful surgery Tuesday on his left wrist … Jeff Niemann will have his troublesome right shoulder examined Wednesday by Dr. James Andrews … Rangers catcher Mike Napoli is not close to returning from a quadriceps strain … Dustin Pedroia is working on a 15-game hitting streak … Yankees center fielder Curtis Granderson (hamstring) went 0-for-3 with a strikeout in his return to action Tuesday … Ryan Doumit drove in three runs in the Twins’ thrashing of the White Sox on Tuesday night in Chicago … White Sox starter Jose Quintana has allowed 12 earned runs in his last five innings … Evan Longoria launched a two-run homer in the Rays’ win over the Yankees on Tuesday … Miguel Cabrera is up to 34 home runs and 114 RBI … The Rays have begun to monitor Alex Cobb’s innings … Orioles right-hander Jason Hammel will return from the disabled list Thursday and start against the Yankees … Zack Greinke has won three consecutive decisions after getting off to a slow start with the Angels ... Ivan Nova (shoulder) reported feeling “really good” after a bullpen session Tuesday and should be back in the Yankees’ rotation soon.