By admin | July 2, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
Some reasonably available players to assist you in the Strikeouts category. Realize that some of these will come with high ERAs & WHIPs because if a Pitcher has low numbers in those categories and a good K total, they’re already spoken for.
Jose Contreras, Chicago White Sox - Contreras had a solid week collecting 16 Ks while splitting his two decisions. His ERA was 3.52, his WHIP was 0.91, and his K/9 ratio was 9.4. On the year he’s 3-7 with 46 Ks, a 4.84 ERA, and a 1.27 WHIP. He’s owned in 41% of Yahoo!, 4.6% of ESPN, and 25% of CBS leagues.
Jordan Zimmermann, Washington Nationals - Zimmermann had 12 Ks while going 1-0 with a 2.08 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, and a 8.3 K/9 ratio. On the year he’s 3-3 with 75 Ks, a 4.52 ERA, and a 1.30 WHIP. He’s owned in 52% of Yahoo!, 11.4% of ESPN, and 55% of CBS leagues.
Kevin Correia, San Diego Padres – Correia is 2-0 in his last two starts with 16 Ks., a 2.63 ERA, 0.66 WHIP, and a 10.5 K/9 ratio. On the year he’s 5-5 with 70 Ks, a 4.23 ERA, and a 1.23 WHIP. He’s owned in 53% of Yahoo!, 9.2% of ESPN, and 48% of CBS leagues.
Chad Gaudin, San Diego Padres – Gaudin is 2-1 in his last three starts with 28 Ks, a 2.14 ERA, a 0.76 WHIP, and a 12 K/9 ratio. On the year he’s 4-6 with 74 Ks, a 4.97 ERA, and a 1.39 WHIP. He’s owned in 22% of Yahoo!, 3.3% of ESPN, and 20% of CBS leagues.
Felipe Paulino, Houston Astros – Paulino came off the DL to strike out 9 in 7 Innings to earn a Win. He posted a 1.29 ERA and a 0.43 WHIP. He was consistently hitting 97 with his fastball. On the year he’s 2-4 with 46 Ks, a 5.51 ERA, and a 1.54 WHIP. He’s owned in 6% of Yahoo!, 0.4% of ESPN, and 5% of CBS leagues.
Vin Mazzaro, Oakland A’s – Vin picked up 8 Ks in 5 Innings (14.4 K/9 ratio) in his last start. His ERA and WHIP were bloated at 5.40 and 1.80 respectively, but his yearly totals remaine impressive. He’s 2-3 with 28 Ks, a 2.95 ERA, and a 1.17 WHIP. He’s owned in 53% of Yahoo!, 4.9% of ESPN, and 36% of CBS leagues.
Ronald Belisario, Los Angeles Dodgers – Ronald had 7 Ks in 5-2/3 Innings (11.1 K/9) of scoreless relief. His WHIP was a mere 0.71. On the year he’s 1-2 with 46 Ks, 10 Holds, a 1.89 ERA, and a 1.09 WHIP in 47-2/3 Innings. He’s owned in 14% of Yahoo!, 1.5% of ESPN, and 3% of CBS leagues.
Michael Wuertz, Oakland A’s - All seven outs he recorded last week came via strikeout. He did not allow a Run and his WHIP was 1.12. On the year he’s 4-1 with 41 Ks, 2 Saves, 8 Holds, a 2.72 ERA, and a 0.96 WHIP in 36-1/3 Innings. He’s owned in 22% of Yahoo!, 2.3% of ESPN, and 7% of CBS leagues.
By admin | July 2, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
7/1/09
Hitters
Billy Butler – 4 for 4, 2 Doubles
Hank Blaylock – 3 for 5, 3 Runs, Double, 2 HRs, 3 RBIs
Joe Mauer – 3 for 3, Run, RBI, 2 Walks
Matt Diaz – 3 for 5, Run, HR, 2 RBIs
Alexei Ramirez – 3 for 4, Run, RBI, SB
Vladimir Guerrero – 3 for 4, Run, Double, Walk
Michael Young – 3 for 5, Run, RBI
Juan Rivera – 2 for 5, Run, HR, 3 RBIs
Martin Prado – 2 for 4, 3 Runs, Double, 2 RBIs, Walk
Chipper Jones – 2 for 4, Run, Double, 3 RBIs
Ramon Castro – 1 for 4, Run, HR, 3 RBIs
Pitchers
Johnny Cueto – W, 6 IP, 0 Runs, 1 Hit, 8 Ks
Ricky Romero – W, 8 IP, 0 Runs, 4 Hits, 7 Ks
Mike Pelfrey – W, 7-2/3 IP, 0 Runs, 6 Ks
Jair Jurrjens - W, 7 IP, 0 Earned Runs, 1 Hit, 6 Ks
Dallas Braden – W, 7 IP, 1 Run
Glen Perkins – W, 7 IP, 1 Run
Randy Wells – W, 7 IP, 1 Run
Brian Moehler – W, 6 IP, 1 Run, 8 Ks
Jose Contreras – W, 8 IP, 2 Runs, 8 Ks
Andy Pettitte – W, 7 IP, 2 Runs, 5 Ks
Adam Wainwright – ND, 9 IP, 1 Run, 12 Ks
Brad Bergesen – ND, 8 IP, 1 Run, 4 Hits, 6 Ks
Matt Cain – ND, 7 IP, 1 Run
Jordan Zimmermann – ND, 6 IP, 2 Runs, 6 Ks
Yovani Gallardo – 7 IP, 1 Run, 12 Ks
Jason Hammel – CG, 8 IP, 1 Run, 5 Ks
Jon Garland – 6 IP, 1 Run
By admin | July 2, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
The Minnesota Wild had an interesting day. A franchise that usually doesn’t make headlines was in the news twice today. Marian Gaborik, the face of the Minnesota Wild for eight seasons has moved onto New York to play for the Rangers. The Rangers will be more than happy with Gaborik’s ability, especially in a more offensive-minded system. He will feel like the chains have been lifted getting out of Jacques Lemaire’s zone trap. Ranger fans and future Gaborik fantasy owners need to beware though. Gaborik has been injury-prone. He has played in only 272 of the Wild’s 410 (66%) games the past five seasons. The Wild fans were pretty tolerant of Gaborik’s inability to stay healthy for the most part. This year was a little different. They knew the Wild needed to trade him or risk getting nothing in return. His hip injury prevented them from accomplishing that goal. In New York though, if he isn’t on the ice, he’ll feel the heat from the fans and from the media. I wish you the best of luck in New York. You got what you want. I hope you were careful what you wished for.
To replace Gaborik’s firepower the Wild added Martin Havlat. Havlat had 77 points (29 goals, 48 assists) for the Blackhawks, who earlier signed Marian Hossa to a mega deal. More importantly, he played in 81 games last year, although Havlat has also had a tendency to miss time. Havlat’s deal ($5 million annually) is for $2.5 million less per season.
By admin | July 2, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
In case you missed it Carlos Beltran received good news when his second opinion confirmed his injury as a bone bruise. He will likely be out until after the All-Star break. There was talk of microfracture surgery, so this is clearly great news for Beltran owners.
Brandon Webb has decided not to have shoulder on his ailing shoulder. He will continue to rehab it with the hope of throwing in September. If you are holding a roster spot (or a DL spot) for Webb, it’s safe to cut the cord and let him go.
If you were waiting on Kansas City’s Mike Aviles to bust out of his Sophomore Slump, you can get on with your life. Aviles is going to undergo Tommy John Surgery to repair his elbow.
In other elbow news, Baltimore’s Koji Uehara has a partially torn tendon in his elbow, which will cost him 6-8 weeks.
Jake Peavy will miss a couple more weeks as he didn’t get clearance to begin rehabbing his ankle. He’ll be back in a protective boot for another couple of weeks.
Raul Ibanez, an early MVP candidate, will begin a rehab assignmnet next week. He suffered a groin injury.
The Rangers will get a boost this weekend when Josh Hamilton returns from the DL. He is recovering from surgery on an abdominal muscle. He was able to steal third in a rehab game the other day, so he should be good to go. Maybe he can finally get his 2009 season on track.
Speaking of needing to get back on track, the Cubs finally got some good news when they found out that Aramis Ramirez should return early next week. The Cubs have been in a freefall, and perhaps he can steady the lineup. As for steadying the clubhouse, that may need an act of God.
By admin | July 2, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
TSN is reporting that the prized free agent RW Marian Hossa and the Chicago Blackhawks have agreed to a monster 12-year, $62 million deal. Hossa tallied 71 points (40 points, 31 assists) last year for the Detroit Red Wings. He has been to the last two Stanely Cup finals, coming up short both times.
Chicago, who made great strides last year, should continue its resurgence as Hossa joins a talented young team featuring Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews.
By admin | July 2, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
I was contacted by a doctoral candidate at the University of Northern Colorado who put together a survey on fantasy sports loyalty for his dissertation. He asked me to share a link to his survey with all of you. I took the survey personally, and ask you to do the same. It was an enjoyable survey that will gather information to improve fantasy sports sites. How can you not like that? If you get a chance, please take a few moments and follow the link to the survey.
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=lgISDWdhwNxOYE_2bh2cbIdg_3d_3d
Thanks
By admin | July 2, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
Some reasonably available players to assist you in the Runs and/or RBI categories.
Runs
Josh Willingham, OF, Washington Nationals- Willingham led the league with 9 Runs last week while hitting .478 (11 for 23) with 3 RBIs and a SB. On the year he’s hitting .282 with 30 Runs, 9 HRs, and 16 RBIs. He’s owned in 9% of Yahoo, 2.1% of ESPN, and 16% of CBS leagues.
Maicer Izturis, 2B/3B/SS, Los Angeles Angels – Maicer scored 8 Runs last week while hitting .381 (8 for 21) with a HR and 5 RBIs. On the year he’s hitting .291 with 35 Runs, 2 HRs, 24 RBIs, and 6 SBs. He’s owned in 18% of Yahoo, 1.8% of ESPN, and 7% of CBS leagues.
Nate Schierholtz, OF, San Francisco Giants – Nate scored 7 Runs last week while hitting .444 (11 for 25) with 2 HRs and 3 RBIs. On the year he’s hitting .311 with 15 Runs, 3 HRs, 12 RBIs, and 2 SBs. He’s owned in 12% of Yahoo, 3.3% of ESPN, and 9% of CBS leagues.
Emilio Bonifacio, 2B/3B, Florida Marlins – Emilio scored 7 Runs last week while hitting .360 (9 for 25) with 2 RBIs and 5 SBs. On the year he’s hitting .250 with 43 Runs, a HR, 20 RBIs, and 17 SBs. He’s owned in 30% of Yahoo, 37.8% of ESPN, and 35% of CBS leagues.
Pat Burrell, OF, Tampa Bay Rays – Burrell scored 6 Runs last week despite hitting just .208 (5 for 24). He did hit a pair of HRs. On the year he’s hitting .230 with 17 Runs, 3 HRs, and 23 RBIs. He’s owned in 34% of Yahoo, 54.6% of ESPN, and 71% of CBS leagues.
Nolan Reimold, OF, Baltimore Orioles – Nolan scored 6 Runs last week while hitting .375 (9 for 24) with a HR and 3 RBIs. On the year he’s hitting .296 with 20 Runs, 9 HRs, and 20 RBIs. He’s owned in 38% of Yahoo, 8.4% of ESPN, and 49% of CBS leagues.
Chris Coghlan, 2B/OF, Florida Marlins – Chris scored 6 Runs last week despite hitting .192 (5 for 26). On the year he’s hitting .262 with 28 Runs, 2 HRs, 12 RBIs, and 4 SBs. He’s owned in 19% of Yahoo, 2.2% of ESPN, and 22% of CBS leagues.
RBIs
Casey McGehee, 2B/3B, Milwaukee Brewers – Casey had 8 RBIs last week while hitting .217 (5 for 23) with 3 Runs and 3 HRs. On the year he’s hitting .325 with 21 RBIs, 5 HRs, and 20 Runs. He’s owned in 47% of Yahoo, 15.8% of ESPN, and 46% of CBS leagues.
Edgar Renteria, SS, San Francisco Giants – Edgar had 8 RBIs while hitting .450 (9 for 20) with 4 Runs. On the year he’s hitting .265 with 36 RBIs, 2 HRs, 31 Runs, 4 SBs. He’s owned in 16% of Yahoo, 5.8% of ESPN, and 30% of CBS leagues.
Marlon Byrd, OF, Texas Rangers – Marlon had 7 RBIs while hitting .310 (9 for 29) with 4 Runs and 3 HRs. On the year he’s hitting .286 with 39 RBIs, 7 HRs, 29 Runs, and 3 SBs. He’s owned in 17% of Yahoo, 5.5% of ESPN, and 18% of CBS leagues.
David Murphy, OF, Texas Rangers – Murphy had 7 RBIs last week while hitting .273 (6 for 22) with 5 Runs and 4 HRs. On the year he’s hitting .259 with 25 RBIs, 7 HRs, 21 RBIs, and 5 SBs. He’s owned in 6% of Yahoo, 1.1% of ESPN, and 12% of CBS leagues.
Brendan Harris, 2B/3B/SS, Minnesota Twins – Brendan had 7 RBIs last week while hitting .273 (8 for 29) with 3 Runs. On the year he’s hitting .288 with 21 RBIs, 4 HRs, and 26 Runs. He’s owned in 15% of Yahoo, 3.3% of ESPN, and 15% of CBS leagues.
Travis Ishikawa, 1B, San Francisco Giants – Travis had 6 RBIs last week while hitting .238 (5 for 21) with 2 Runs and a HR. On the year he’s hitting .258 with 25 RBIs, 5 HRs, and 22 Runs. He’s owned in 2% of Yahoo, 1.2% of ESPN, and 7% of CBS leagues.
Kurt Suzuki, C, Oakland A’s – Kurt had 6 RBIs last week while hitting .333 (8 for 24) with 4 Runs and 2 HRs. On the year he’s hitting .279 with 31 RBIs, 5 HRs, 34 Runs, and 4 SBs. He’s owned in 56% of Yahoo, 21.3% of ESPN, and 74% of CBS leagues.
Miguel Montero, C, Arizona Diamondbacks – Miguel had 6 RBIs last week while hitting .391 (9 for 23) with 2 Runs and a HR. On the year he’s hitting .255 with 16 RBIs, 4 HRs, and 16 Runs. He’s owned in 2% of Yahoo, 0.4% of ESPN, and 5% of CBS leagues.
Placido Polanco, 2B, Detroit Tigers – Placido had 6 RBIs last week while hitting .208 (5 for 24) with 2 Runs and 2 HRs. On the year he’s hitting .259 with 33 RBIs, 5 HRs, 31 Runs, and 3 SBs. He’s owned in 35% of Yahoo, 74.3% of ESPN, and 63% of CBS leagues.
Jake Fox, 3B/OF, Chicago Cubs – Fox had 6 RBIs last week while hitting .333( 9 for 27) with 4 Runs and 2 HRs. On the year he’s hitting .321 with 11 RBIs, 2 HRs, and 5 Runs in 53 At Bats. He’s owned in 31% of Yahoo, 2.7% of ESPN, and 27% of CBS leagues.
Jonny Gomes, OF, Cincinnati Reds – Gomes had 6 RBIs last week while hitting .364 (8 for 22) with 3 Runs and 2 HRs. On the year he’s hitting .338 with 15 RBIs, 4 HRs, and 9 Runs in 71 ABs. He’s owned in 2% of Yahoo, 0.4% of ESPN, and 3% of CBS leagues.
By admin | July 2, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
6/30/09
Hitters
Martin Prado – 4 for 5, Run, Double, HR, 4 RBIs
Jermaine Dye – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, Double, HR, 2 RBIs
Gordon Beckham – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, HR, 2 RBIs
Freddy Sanchez – 3 for 3, Run, Double, 2 RBIs, Walk, SB
Pedro Feliz – 3 for 3, Run, HR, RBI, Walk
Mark Reynolds – 3 for 5, Run, Double, 2 RBIs
Miguel Montero – 3 for 4, Run, HR, 2 RBIs
Willy Aybar – 3 for 5, 2 Runs, HR, RBI
Gregor Blanco – 3 for 5, 2 Runs, Triple, Walk
Jorge Cantu – 3 for 4, 2 Doubles, RBI
Franklin Gutierrez – 3 for 5, Run, RBI
Kenji Johjima – 3 for 4, Double, RBI
Corey Hart – 3 for 5, 2 Runs, Double
Ryan Braun – 3 for 4, Run, Double, 4 RBIs
David Wright – 3 for 4, Run, HR, 2 RBIs
Edgar Renteria – 3 for 4, Run, Double, 2 RBIs
Kevin Youkilis – 3 for 5, 2 Runs, Double, HR, 3 RBIs
Jacoby Ellsbury – 3 for 5, Run, HR, 2 RBIs
Jeff Bailey – 3 for 4, 3 Runs, Triple, Walk
Nolan Reimold – 3 for 5, 2 Runs
Ryan Raburn – 3 for 3, Run, 2 Doubles, RBI
David Eckstein – 3 for 4, Double, RBI
Marlon Byrd – 2 for 5, 2 Runs, 2 HRs, 5 RBIs
Albert Pujols – 2 for 3, 2 Runs, 2 HRs, 3 RBIs, Walk
Hanley Ramirez – 2 for 4, Run, HR, 4 RBIs, SB
Adam Dunn – 2 for 4, Run, Double, HR, 3 RBIs
Placido Polanco – 2 for 5, Run, HR, 3 RBIs
Dustin Pedroia – 2 for 6, Run, Double, 3 RBIs, SB
Elvis Andrus – 2 for 3, Run, 4 SBs
Oscar Salazar – 2 for 2, 2 Runs, HR, 3 RBIs
Ichiro Suzuki – 2 for 4, Run, Walk, 3 SBs
Asdrubal Cabrera – 1 for 3, Double, 3 RBIs
Melky Cabrera – 1 for 3, Run, Double, 3 RBIs
Pitchers
Jason Marquis – W, CG Shutout, 9 IP, 0 Runs, 2 Hits
Ross Ohlendorf – W, 7 IP, O Runs, 8 Ks
Dan Haren – W, 7 IP, 1 Run, 9 Ks
Matt Garza – W, 7 IP, 1 Run
Armando Galarraga – W, 6-1/3 IP, 1 Run, 2 Hits, 5 Ks
Mike Burns – W, 6-2/3 IP, 2 Runs
Derek Lowe – ND, 6 IP, 2 Runs
Brian Bannister – 7 IP, 1 Earned Run, 6 Ks
Ted Lilly – 7 IP, 2 Earned Runs, 7 Ks
Chad Billingsley – 7-2/3 IP, 3 Runs, 11 Ks
By admin | July 1, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
The Pittsburgh Pirates were wheeling and dealing today with two separate trades.
First they shipped off Eric Hinske for Minor Leaguers Casey Erickson and Eric Fryer. Hinske, who plays in the OF, was hitting .255 with 18 Runs, 1 HR, and 11 RBIs in 106 At Bats for the Pirates. Erickson was 3-3 with a 2.25 ERA, a 1.45 WHIP, and 37 Ks in 44 Innings for Triple-A Charleston. Fryer, who plays Catcher & Outfield, was hitting .250 with 34 Runs, 2 HRs, and 24 RBIs for A+ Tampa.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting that the Bucs continued their wheeling and dealing ways by sending OF Nyjer Morgan and RP Sean Burnett to Washington for OF Lasting Milledge and RP Joel Hanrahan. Morgan was hitting .277 with 39 Runs, 2 HRs, 27 RBIs, and 18 SBs. Burnett was 1-2 with a 3.06 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 1 Save, 6 Holds, and 23 Ks in 32-1/3 IP. Milledge, who is recovering from a broken finger, hit .167 with a Run, an RBI, and a SB in 24 ABs. Hanrahan, who lost the Nationals’ Closer job, is 0-3 with a 7.71 ERA, a 1.96 WHIP, 5 Saves, 2 Holds, and 35 Ks in 32-2/3 IP.
None of the players hold much fantasy value. If pressed, I’d choose Nyjer Morgan as having the most.
By admin | July 1, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
There is a rumor going around the net that the 2003 MLB steroid list has been revealed. I will not perpetuate the rumor by sharing the names. If you want to know who’s on the supposed list, it can easily be googled. I will admit that there were some names on there that surprised me. I suspect there will be denials, but unless they are accompanied with a lawsuit, they don’t have a lot of bite in my mind. I hope this rumor is quickly dismissed. None of the names, including Sammy or A-Rod should have been released. Not when the test subjects were taking them anonymously. That goes against everything our country stands for. Just so we’re clear, I am not pro-steroid use. I don’t condone it or endorse it. I think they cheated the game, and it’s something the players will have to live with. Releasing these names though, cheats the legal sytem.
By admin | July 1, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
One of the biggest question marks, as fantasy football players begin their rankings, is the health of LaDainian Tomlinson. He is no longer considered the top pick, but he is still a first round pick. I had the opportunity to take him in a mock draft with the fifth pick, but opted to take Larry Fitzgerald instead. If the same scenario was presented to me today, I may have to reverse my thinking and take LT. It’s close.
Some think I’m nuts for taking a WR with the fifth pick, but Chris Johnson is in a shared backfield with LenDale White, LT & S-Jax are coming off injuries, and there isn’t a proven track record for DeAngelo Williams and Steve Slaton. Fitz has 1400 yards and 10 TDs in three of his past four years. With roughly half of first round RBs typically falling short of expectations, Fitz just seems a safer play for a top pick. This article isn’t about Fitz though, so let me get back to the matter at hand.
LT, by all accounts, had a down year in 2008. The man had 1536 total yards (1110 rushing, 426 receiving) and 12 TDs (11 rushing, 1 receiving). His ypc wasn’t great at 3.8, but he was dealing with a toe injury. That injury has healed though, and according to an AP report he is “kind of making sure my body’s in great shape, and making sure I’m as strong as possible. I haven’t missed any time, worked out every single day. … I haven’t had a setback at all.” Encouraging words for those who own LT in keeper leagues.
Another factor is the return of Shawne Merriman. He will single-handedly make the Defense better. Instead of Rivers airing it out, the Chargers will likely be able to have a more balanced attack. Sproles will have a larger role next year, but that should only serve LT better by keeping him fresh.
Obviously a setback can occur along the way, but the future Hall of Famer is rising on my board.
How about you? With what pick would you take LT?
By admin | July 1, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
Just because you’ve slipped behind in the Stolen Base category doesn’t mean you can’t catch up. Here are some reasonably available SB threats.
Emilio Bonifacio, 2B/3B, Florida Marlins - Emilio picked up 4 SBs last week while hitting .346 (9 for 26) with 8 Runs and 3 RBIs. On the year he’s hitting . 250 with 16 SBs, 42 Runs, a HR, and 20 RBIs. He’s owned in 26% of Yahoo!, 37.3% of ESPN, and 35% of CBS leagues.
Everth Cabrera, SS, San Diego Padres – Everth makes his debut in the Speed Demon club with 3 SBs last week. He hit .348 (8 for 23) with 5 Runs and 3 RBIs. In 16 games he’s hitting .319 with 3 SBs, 11 Runs, and 4 RBIs. He’s owned in 4% of Yahoo!, 0.4% of ESPN, and 14% of CBS leagues.
Erick Aybar, SS, Los Angeles Angels - Aybar had 2 SBs last week while hitting .300 (6 for 20) with 6 Runs and an RBI. On the year he’s hitting .276 with 5 SBs, 24 Runs, 2 HRs, and 21 RBIs. He’s owned in 4% of Yahoo!, 2.3% of ESPN, and 7% of CBS leagues.
Willie Harris, 2B/3B/OF, Washington Nationals – Willie picked up 2 SBs last week while hitting .296 (8 for 27) with 4 Runs, 2 HRs, and 4 RBIs. On the year he’s hitting .241 with 7 SBs, 22 Runs, 4 HRs, and 15 RBIs. He’s owned in 8% of Yahoo!, 0.6% of ESPN, and 3% of CBS leagues.
Brett Gardner, OF, New York Yankees – Brett stole two bases last week while hitting .320 (8 for 25) with 4 Runs, a HR, and 2 RBIs. On the year he’s hitting .289 with 17 SBs, 31 Runs, 3 HRs, and 13 RBIs. He’s owned in 20% of Yahoo!, 10.6% of ESPN, and 26% of CBS leagues.
Scott Podsednik, OF, Chicago White Sox – Pods had 2 SBs last week while hitting .281 (9 for 32) with 4 Runs, a HR, and 4 RBIs. On the year he’s hitting .313 with 12 SBs, 26 Runs, 3 HRs, and 20 RBIs. He’s owned in 60% of Yahoo!, 20.1% of ESPN, and 48% of CBS leagues.
Chris Getz, SB, Chicago White Sox – Getz had 2 SBs last week while hitting .182 with 6 Runs, a HR, and 8 RBIs. On the year he’s hitting .243 with 11 SBs, 29 Runs, a HR, and 16 RBIs. He’s owned in 4% of Yahoo!, 2.2% of ESPN, and 12% of CBS leagues.
Franklin Gutierrez, OF, Seattle Mariners – Gutierrez continues to produce. He had 2 SBs last week while hitting 391 (9 for 23) with 4 Runs, a HR, and 3 RBIs. On the year he’s hitting .266 with 5 SBs, 32 Runs, 7 HRs, and 27 RBIs. He’s owned in 6% of Yahoo!, 2.7% of ESPN, and 10% of CBS leagues.
Willie Bloomquist, 2B/OF, Kansas City Royals – Willie struggled at the plate hitting .182 (4 for 22) with 2 Runs, but did manage 2 SBs. On the year he’s hitting .273 with 12 SBs, 24 Runs, 1 HR, and 14 RBIs. He’s owned in 8% of Yahoo!, 2.2% of ESPN, and 10% of CBS leagues.
By admin | July 1, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
6/29/09
Hitters
Ryan Church – 4 for 5, Run
J.J. Hardy – 4 for 4, 2 Runs, 2 Double, HR, RBI, Walk
Gary Sheffield – 3 for 5, Run, HR, 3 RBIs
Marlon Byrd – 3 for 4, Run, Double, HR, RBI
Jason Kendall – 3 for 4, Run, RBI, Walk
J.D. Drew – 3 for 5, 2 Runs, Triple, HR, 2 RBIs
Gordon Beckham – 3 for 3, 2 RBIs, Walk, SB
Hanley Ramirez – 3 for 4, Run, Double, RBI
Bengie Molina – 3 for 5, Run, RBI
Miguel Olivo – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, Triple, HR, 2 RBIs
Nyjer Morgan – 3 for 4
Ryan Sweeney – 3 for 4, Run, HR, 2 RBIs
Juan Pierre – 3 for 5, Walk, 3 SBs
Edgar Renteria – 2 for 4, Run, Double, 3 RBIs
Casey McGehee – 1 for 3, Run, Grand Slam, 4 RBIs, Walk
Travis Ishikawa – 1 for 4, Run, HR, 3 RBIs
Pitchers
Tim Lincecum – W, CG Shutout, 9 IP, 0 Runs, 2 Hits, 8 Ks
Roy Oswalt – W, CG, 9 IP, 1 Run, 2 Hits, 8 Ks
Gavin Floyd – W, 7-2/3 IP, 0 Runs, 5 Ks
Jon Lester – W, 7 IP, 0 Runs, 8 Ks
Luke Hochevar – W, 7 IP, 0 Runs, 2 Hits
Jeff Niemann – W, 7-1/3 IP, 1 Run
Rich Harden – W, 7 IP, 1 Run, 9 Ks
Brett Anderson – W, 5-1/3 IP, 1 Run, 7 Ks
Sean O’Sullivan – W, 6 IP, 2 Runs, 5 Ks
Braden Looper – W, 6-1/3 IP, 1 Earned Run
Ricky Nolasco – W, 8 IP, 2 Runs, 4 Hits, 8 Ks
Ubaldo Jimenez – ND, 7 IP, 2 Runs
Randy Wolf – ND, 6 IP, 2 Runs
Scott Olsen – 7 IP, 2 Runs, 7 Ks
Carl Pavano – 7 IP, 2 Runs, 6 Ks
Roy Halladay – 6 IP, Runs, 7 Ks
By admin | July 1, 2009
Submitted by Imaginary Diamond Blog
The New York Yankees are putting wins on the board a little differently these days. The Bronx Bombers are still lighting up the outfield bleachers, but they have also made better use of smaller ball tactics to scratch out runs and win games.
The Major League leaders with 112 home runs, the Yankees have fallen just off the pace in June, hitting the seventh-most homers (32) in baseball. But in the place of overwhelming power, baseball’s most star-studded, veteran-laden and patient lineup has worked over opposing pitchers and scored runs the old-fashioned way.
New York has drawn 126 walks this month, by far the most in the Majors; struck out just 134 times, the second-fewest in the Majors; stolen 25-of-27 bases, the highest success rate in baseball; and slugged 82 extra-base hits, fourth-most in baseball.
The Yankees are presenting nearly the same power threat, while frustrating pitchers with their patience and running the bases with extreme efficiency.
At the same rate, New York’s pitchers have shown marked improvement, helping the club win five straight games and keep pace with the Boston Red Sox in the American League East.
CC Sabathia eased injury concerns with a dominant Friday start against the Mets; A.J. Burnett is on fire with three straight excellent outings; Joba Chamberlain lowered his ERA for the third straight month in June; and Chien-Ming Wang finally has his first victory of the season under his belt.
And, Phil Hughes has made a smooth transition from starter to reliever, helping to cure what ailed the team’s bullpen. The 23-year-old has a 1.50 ERA, .122 opponents batting average and a 15-to-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio in seven relief appearances. If Wang continues to improve as the season moves along, the decision to move Hughes to the ‘pen will only look more brilliant.
Collectively, the staff has been baseball’s most unhittable in June. New York leads the Majors with 208 strikeouts and a .222 opponents this month and has a tidy 3.49 ERA - nearly a full run lower than its season mark (4.47).
The recipe bodes well going into the summer months, and this club could be downright dangerous when all the big boppers get going again. If the same offensive approach holds true in the second half, and some of the team’s scuffling stars — Mark Teixeira, Robinson Cano, Alex Rodriguez and Jorge Posada — snap out of their funks, the American League could be in serious trouble.
Here’s a glance at the Yankees’ lineup by position, with brief notes on their recent statistics and fantasy prospects.
C - Jorge Posada: Still working his way back from hamstring injury; has 10 HRs, but is hitting just .182 (10-for-55) in his last 17 games
1B - Mark Teixeira: Has cooled off since torrid May/June stretch; homerless drought has reached 14 games and 56 at-bats
2B - Robinson Cano: Showing signs of life again, but struggling in run production role; has zero RBIs in his last nine games
3B - Alex Rodriguez: Issues are well-publicized, but is quietly rounding into form; is 7-for-15 with 2 HRs, 9 RBIs, .667 OBP his last 5 games
SS - Derek Jeter: Power, run production have flatlined (0 HRs, 0 RBIs last 9 games), but making up for it with surprising 17-for-18 stolen bases
LF - Johnny Damon: Adding SBs back into his fantasy game; after 20 games without a SB attempt, is 3-for-3 in his last seven games
CF - Brett Gardner: Has slight edge over Cabrera for ABs in CF; take out big 5-for-6 effort in Subway Series opener, and his .289 average falls to .268
RF - Nick Swisher: Enhances Yankees’ powerful, patient dynamic; hitting just .237, but with 14 HRs, 50 BBs and .373 OBP
DH - Hideki Matsui: Moves back into DH role after nine straight games in National League parks; finished interleague play with .139 average (5-for-36)
Rotation
#1 - LHP CC Sabathia: Tight bicep looked plenty fine in dominating the Mets; early exit in Florida was only time in last 10 starts he didn’t go 7+ innings
#2 - RHP A.J. Burnett: Dominant starts against crosstown Mets (15 IP, 0 ER) can help fans forget struggles against Boston (7.2 IP, 11 ER)
#3 - LHP Andy Pettitte: Having issues with consistency and working deep into starts, but is still good bet to win 14+ games for 12th time in his career
#4 - RHP Joba Chamberlain: Take progress where you can get it; BB rate, HR rate, ERA have gotten progressively lower each month of the season
#5 - RHP Chien-Ming Wang: Reason to be hopeful; Sunday start was his first win (1-6) and first start allowing fewer hits (4) than innings pitched (5.1)
Closer
RHP Mariano Rivera: Had a milestone day against the Mets; recorded career save No. 500 and career RBI No. 1
By admin | June 30, 2009
Submitted by Imaginary Diamond Blog
Fans and fantasy owners can be remarkably short-sighted.
In trying to project for an upcoming season, the tendency is to look at last season’s results and assume they are going to repeat themselves. Understandably so, too; the fresher information is the safest approach to evaluating players and the best way to feel good about the picks you’ve made.
It takes some guts to reach for a rookie or a player coming off an injury plagued season. We can’t look at the statistics and feel safe in our decision-making, so we tend to avoid those players and only look at them when prices are absolutely right.
This is most true for aging veterans. We don’t give a 33-year-old coming off a rocky season much of a chance to bounce back and have a career year. We would prefer to avoid those players and consider them washed up and no longer worth our time in fantasy.
The “warm and fuzzy” factor is big because we all want players on our fantasy rosters who excite us. To capture that feeling, good numbers from the previous season are a near must.
Every season, though, there is a group of players who defy expectations by making unprecedented improvements. These kinds of pleasant surprises are the glue that binds our fantasy rosters together; the draft day bargains who provide big-time bang for the buck.
Here are 10 such players …
Derek Jeter, SS, New York Yankees: Fantasy owners didn’t think that The Captain’s career was over. They thought it could be over and that he may no longer deserve serious fantasy consideration. Jeter had a fine season in 2008, but he put up pedestrian numbers with 11 home runs and 11 stolen bases. He had to prove himself again in those categories to re-claim his status as one of fantasy’s elite shortstops, and so far he has. Jeter already has nine homers and 17 stolen bases, while looking like a sure bet for another 200-hit, .300-average season.
Michael Young, 3B/SS, Texas Rangers: Young was in a similar position to Jeter entering this season, with his power dwindling and only a superior batting average remaining in his fantasy arsenal. His move to third base also clouded the picture, but it looks like a blessing since Young takes less of a pounding on defense and can put more energy into his offensive game. The 32-year-old should do his usual with a .300+ average, but he’s also got 10 homers already - just two off his 2008 season.
Prince Fielder, 1B, Milwaukee Brewers: Fielder had an OK season in 2008, but fell short of lofty expectations that come with a 50-home run season. That lingering disappointment made Fielder a great value in fantasy drafts, where he was costing fewer auction dollars and lasting later on draft boards. By most statistical measures, Fielder is leaps and bounds ahead of his sluggish start to the ‘08 season, but that’s especially true in his RBI count. Fielder, who is second in the Majors with 73 RBIs, didn’t drive in his 73rd run of the ‘08 season until Aug. 13.
Carl Crawford, OF, Tampa Bay Rays: Early in his career, Crawford was pegged as a future 40-40 type player, a fantasy owner’s dream come true. We waited years for Crawford’s superior skill set to yield a more respectable home run count, and it simply never came. That fact, combined with a finger injury that limited him to 109 games last season, made Crawford a forgotten man this season. Even if he’s plateaued as a 15-home run hitter, Crawford has become baseball’s best basestealer (the Major League leader with 39) while putting up respectable numbers in every other rotisserie category.
Curtis Granderson, OF, Detroit Tigers: Granderson has blown past expectations of another 20-20 season and thrown his name into the ring for 30-30. He’s moved to the middle of the Tigers’ lineup, so his objectives have become more of a run producer’s and less of a table setter’s. Granderson is hitting for more power (18 HRs) and driving in more runs (43 RBIs), but he’s also on target for a career-high in stolen bases. Granderson strikes out too much to add a .300 average to his arsenal, but the rest of his game is that of an upper tier fantasy outfielder.
Victor Martinez, C/1B, Cleveland Indians: Faith was lost in Martinez’s ability to stay healthy; not his ability to flat-out rake. The Cleveland star had been swiftly knocked off his perch as fantasy’s No. 1 catcher, but he’s fighting back to try and re-claim it. Martinez is hitting .321, leading all catchers with 57 RBIs, and erasing doubts in his power with 14 homers in 290 at-bats. While fellow backstops Geovany Soto, Russell Martin and Brian McCann have fallen off, Martinez has joined Minnesota’s Joe Mauer as head of the catchers class.
Felix Hernandez, SP, Seattle Mariners: King Felix, still just 23 years old, has continued a steady trend of improvement and gotten even closer to his massive potential this season. He posted sound numbers in 2008, but didn’t make a quantum leap in large part because of his team’s inability to compete. Hernandez has improved in virtually all statistical measures, but the biggest benefit to his fantasy game has come from improvements in the team around him. Hernandez had a lowly 9-11 record last season, but barring a second-half tailspin, he should reach 15 victories (he’s 8-3 now) to go along with his current 2.54 ERA and 1.17 WHIP.
David Aardsma, RP, Seattle Mariners: Aardsma can’t even be called a preseason sleeper; he was in more of a hibernation or coma. Things ended badly for him as a middle reliever in Boston, when he suffered a groin injury and fell apart in the second half of last season. Even at just 27 years old, there was no indication that Aardsma would ever warrant fantasy consideration. But, through the the struggles of closer-turned-starter-turned-closer-turned-starter Brandon Morrow, Aardsma got his big chance to close games. He’s held up his end of the bargain, too, especially this month with a 0.00 ERA, 8 saves and a 20-to-4 K-to-BB ratio in 9 innings of work.
Michael Cuddyer, OF, Minnesota Twins: Cuddyer has never been a fantasy star, but he’s always had the potential to be a nice role player, a No. 4 or No. 5 outfielder type. Most were expecting a big breakout following a 2006 season in which Cuddyer hit .284 with 24 home runs and 109 RBIs, but it never came. This season, Cuddyer is approaching that same form with 11 homers and 38 RBIs in 67 games. He finds himself in the heart of Minnesota’s lineup once again, which should translate into another run at 20 homers and 100 RBIs.
George Sherrill, RP, Baltimore Orioles: Sherrill has not only rebounded from some adversity in the second half of last season, but from a rocky start to this one. Orioles manager Dave Trembley said he would deploy a closer-by-committee on May 4, and since that day, Sherrill has allowed one earned run in 19 innings. He’s also grabbed the closer’s job by the horns once and for all by going a perfect 12-for-12 in saves over that same stretch. The hot streak suddenly has Sherrill among the top half of fantasy closers with a 2.05 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and 16 saves.
By admin | June 30, 2009
Submitted by High Altitude Gardening Blog
Poppies, Wild Roses and Six Hills Giant Catmint
* A favorite perennial combination.
Have not been in a talkative mood, lately. And, that silence throws everyone off.
Mom’s Wild Roses originated at my Grandmother’s and have moved from house to house. (That’s called stealing but only when you get caught in the act.)
Under normal circumstances I never stop talking. You’d think people would be thrilled when I finally run out of things to say!
There’s really only one thing wrong with Oriental Poppies: At some point, they stop blooming.
Instead, they tippy toe around me, walking on those proverbial eggshells. Fearful I’m mad. Even more fearful they might have to step up to the plate and carry the conversation.
Bleeding HeartsNot sure what that’s all about between talkers and listeners, but a role reversal certainly gets my friends a fidgeting. What’s interesting, though, is that their fears are kind of a self-fulfilling prophecy. They’re worried that I’m mad, so they become tongue-tied. Yet it’s their silence that actually makes me mad.
Rains ~ incessant rains ~have turned my desert landscape into a lush island paradise.
* The vertical lines in the sky is the rain pouring down.
Well, it used to make me mad. Not any more. At some spot on that long, tiresome path called growing older it suddenly dawned on me. It’s not because they don’t care. They just don’t have the words.
And, neither do I. Which is why I thought I’d let my flowers do the talking.
PS: Does anyone know who this lanky lady might be?
By admin | June 30, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
Yahoo! Sports is reporting that Yao Ming troublesome foot could force him to miss the entire 2009-2010 NBA season. He broken foot isn’t healing properly and he will continue to see specialists. There are some that thing the injury could lead to an early retirement.
If you were considering using Yao in a keeper league, you’ll have to look elsewhere. Even if he does get the green light to return, can you really risk hanging onto somebody with his track record. For now Yao can hang out with Bernard King and Bill Walton at the Boulevard of Broken Dreams.
By admin | June 30, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
It was picture day last week for T-Ball so we didn’t get to play the game. Instead we practiced fielding grounders and throwing to first. It went pretty well, but Heath was a little disinterested. I had one of the parents play First Base and Heath would either throw the ball over his head or walk right up to him and fire the ball.
It turns out that was the easy part. When we went to take the pictures the photographer told Heath to say “Daddy tooted” in an effort to get him to smile nice for the camera. It may have worked for some of the kids, but with Heath she was just throwing gasoline on a fire. Heath is the type of four-year old who thinks that anything pertaining to a bodily function is great humor. To him, he just got a green light to say those words. Thankfully he didn’t bust into any curse words, but he did say some of kids’ most popular four letter words, “poop” and “butt”, a couple of dozen times. What’s worse is the other kids would laugh, which would just feed into it. Getting a good team picture was a challenge to say the least. Here I am trying to smile for the photo while trying to get my son to stop saying the naughty words. Frustrating to say the least.
We had a pretty busy weekend with a graduation party and a birthday party, but we were able to work on throwing, fielding, and hitting last night. We don’t play this week so I hope to get a few practices in before the next game. I just hope the words are a little less colorful.
By admin | June 30, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
June 29, 1999
Hitters
Marquis Grisson – 4 for 4, 3 Runs, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs
Carlos Beltran – 4 for 5, 2 Runs, RBI
Ellis Burks – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, Double, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs
Jerry Hairston, Jr. - 4 for 5, Run, 2 Doubles, SB
Tony Batista – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, Double, HR, 3 RBIs, Walk
Rafael Palmeiro – 3 for 5, Run
Doug Mirabelli – 3 for 4, Run
Jose Valentin – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, 2 Doubles, RBI, 2 Walks
Mark Loretta – 3 for 6, 2 Runs, Double, RBI, SB
Jeff Cirillo – 3 for 5, 3 Runs, Walk
Todd Zeile – 3 for 5
Rickey Henderson – 3 for 3, 2 Runs, RBI, Walk, SB
Chris Singleton – 3 for 4, Run
Rey Sanchez – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, Double
Ozzie Guillen – 3 for 5, Double, RBI
Rondell White – 3 for 4, Double
Quilvio Veras – 3 for 6
Bobby Abreu – 3 for 5, 2 Runs, RBI
Glenallen Hill – 2 for 3, 2 Runs, 2 HRs, 2 RBIs, Walk
Vladimir Guerrero – 2 for 3, Run, HR, 4 RBIs, Walk
Juan Gonzalez – 2 for 4, 2 Runs, HR, 3 RBIs, Walk
Dave Nilsson – 1 for 2, 3 Runs, HR, 4 RBIs, 2 Walks
Joe Randa – 1 for 5, 2 Runs, Double, 3 RBIs
Pitchers
Roger Clemens – W, CG Shutout, 9 IP, 0 Runs, 8 Ks
Kirk Rueter – W, CG, 1 Run
John Burkett – W, 7 IP, 0 Runs, 1 Hit, 7 Ks
Orel Hershisher – W, 8-1/3 IP, 1 Run
Curt Schilling – W, 8 IP, 2 Runs, 4 Hits, 8 Ks
John Halama – ND, 9 IP, 1 Run, 5 Ks
Mike Oquist – ND, 7 IP, 1 Run
Andy Benes – ND, 7-1/3 IP, 2 Runs, 3 Hits, 7 Ks
Andy Ashby – ND, 7-2/3 IP, 2 Earned Runs
By admin | June 30, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
Batting Average
Ichiro Suzuki - .372
David Wright - .342
Pablo Sandoval – .340
Carlos Beltran - .336
Scott Rolen – .333
Runs
Albert Pujols - 59
Carlos Pena - 58
Marco Scutaro – 58
Ryan Braun – 55
Johnny Damon - 55
Chone Figgins – 55
HRs
Albert Pujols - 28
Adrian Gonzalez - 24
Carlos Pena - 23
Raul Ibanez - 22
Mark Reynolds – 21
RBI
Albert Pujols – 74
Prince Fielder – 73
Jason Bay – 69
Evan Longoria - 63
Justin Morneau – 61
SBs
Carl Crawford – 39
Jacoby Ellsbury – 31
B.J. Upton – 28
Michael Bourn - 25
Chone Figgins – 23
Wins
Zack Greinke – 10
Roy Halladay - 10
Kevin Slowey - 10
Tim Wakefield – 10
Five tied at 9
ERA
Zack Greinke - 1.95
Dan Haren - 2.25
Edwin Jackson - 2.49
Roy Halladay – 2.53
Felix Hernandez – 2.54
WHIP
Dan Haren - 0.81
Zach Greinke - 1.02
Roy Halladay – 1.04
Edwin Jackson – 1.04
Javier Vazquez - 1.06
Strikeouts
Javier Vazquez - 125
Tim Lincecum - 124
Justin Verlander - 124
Zack Greinke - 114
Felix Hernandez – 107
Saves
Heath Bell - 21
Brian Fuentes – 21
Francisco Rodriguez – 20
Brian Wilson - 20
Joe Nathan – 20
Huston Street – 20
By admin | June 30, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
Written by Eric Stashin the Rotoprofessor
We’ve posted early rankings for Quarterbacks (click here to view) and Running Backs (click here to view), so now it is time to turn our attention to the Tight End position. Things are likely to change as we get closer to the season, so we’ll continue to update and expand this list, but here’s my first crack at it:
1. Tony Gonzalez – Atlanta Falcons - Everyone can say what they want, but this guy is still the best in the game at his position. The move should not affect his value in the slightest, considering he should morph into the safety valve for Matt Ryan.
2. Jason Witten – Dallas Cowboys - With Terrell Owens now in Buffalo, Witten can finally become Tony Romo’s go to guy. Roy Williams will get his fair share of catches as well, so don’t expect him to suddenly jump to the 100-catch plateau. Still, look for him to see the ball often this season.
3. Antonio Gates – San Diego Chargers - He is no longer the main focus of the offense, but a huge threat all the same. He’s a great red zone target and should be among the Top 3 tight ends in TDs.
4. Chris Cooley – Washington Redskins – Only 1 TD? How could that be possible? I would certainly expect him to get a few more this season, and considering his other numbers (he was second among TE in catches last season), his value is going to increase significantly.
5. Dallas Clark – Indianapolis Colts - He’s always been a great option for Peyton Manning and with Marvin Harrison no longer in the mix, his touches could see an increase.
6. Kellen Winslow – Tampa Bay Buccaneers - In a new offense, he has the potential to be a major threat in the offense in general, but also in the red zone. Yes, Tampa Bay always likes to use the running game, but with the contract they handed him it’s not going to be to hang around and block.
7. Greg Olsen – Chicago Bears – They have limited options on the outside and what they have are certainly no sure things. Jay Cutler to Olsen has a great ring to it and he certainly should prove to be a solid option all season long. Yes, Desmond Clark could steal some touches, but not enough.
8. Owen Daniels – Houston Texans - His 70 catches and 862 yards last season tells us a lot. The one number that hangs over his head is 2 TD, but that should see an increase this season.
9. Vishante Shiancoe – Minnesota Vikings - If Brett Favre signs there, his value is only going to increase. As it is, he was third in the league among TE in TD with 7 last season and will provide stability for whoever is manning the QB spot.
10. Zach Miller – Oakland Raiders – He was eighth among TE in catches, but led the way with 16 of them going for 20 or more yards. With that type of resume, how could he manage to score just once? That’s what happens when you play for a poor offensive team, but things can only improve as JaMarcus Russell continues to improve.
What do you think? Who got left out of the Top 10 that you feel should be included? Who should be removed from the list?
By admin | June 30, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
6/28/09
Hitters
Nate Schierholtz – 4 for 5, 2 Runs, HR, RBI
Brandon Phillips – 3 for 5, 3 Runs, 3 RBIs, SB
Ramon Hernandez – 3 for 5, Double, 3 RBIs
Willy Taveras – 3 for 5, Run, Double
Willie Harris – 3 for 4, Double, HR, RBI, Walk, SB
Josh Willingham – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, SB
Anderson Hernandez – 3 for 4
Adam LaRoche – 3 for 4, Run
Jose Lopez – 3 for 4, Run, Double, 2 RBIs
Curtis Granderson – 3 for 4, Run, HR, RBI
Alexei Ramirez – 3 for 5, Run, HR, 2 RBIs
Jason Kubel – 3 for 4, Double, RBI
Scott Hairston – 3 for 4, Run, Double, HR, 2 RBIs
Ryan Sweeney – 3 for 4, RBI
Aaron Hill – 2 for 5, 2 Runs, 2 HRs, 2 RBIs
Macier Izturis – 2 for 3, 3 Runs, HR, 2 RBIs, 2 Walks
Gary Matthews, Jr. – 1 for 4, Run, Double, 3 RBIs, Walk, SB
Justin Morneau – 1 for 5, Run, HR, 3 RBIs
Pitchers
Chad Gaudin – W, 8 IP, 0 Runs, 1 Hit, 9 Ks
John Danks – W, 7 IP, 0 Runs, 5 Ks
Tommy Hanson – 6 IP, 0 Runs, 2 Hits
Ryan Sadowski – W, 6 IP, 0 Runs
Aaron Cook – W, 8 IP, 1 Run
David Price – W, 6-1/3 IP, 1 Run
Micah Owings – W, 6 IP, 1 Run, 2 Hits
Francisco Liriano – W, 7 IP, 2 Runs, 6 Ks
Zack Greinke – W, 6-1/3 IP, 2 Runs
Russ Ortiz – ND, 7-1/3 IP, 2 Runs 5 Ks
Tommy Hunter – 6-1/3 IP, 2 Runs
Brad Penny – 6 IP, 2 Runs
By admin | June 29, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
Written by Eric Stashin the Rotoprofessor
It’s time to look at the potential two-start options for the upcoming fantasy week. If I have someone rated as a three, four or five-star option, they are someone I would definitely use. A two-star option is someone who is borderline, but I’d strongly lean against it unless I have no other options. The one-star options are an absolutely not scenario.
So, with that said, let’s take a look at the players available to you this week:
5-Star Options:
Johan Santana – New York Mets – @ Mil, @ Phi
Chris Carpenter – St. Louis Cardinals – vs. SF, @ Cin
Dan Haren – Arizona Diamondbacks – @ Cin, @ Col
Tim Lincecum – San Francisco Giants – @ Stl, vs. Hou
Roy Halladay – Toronto Blue Jays – vs. TB, @ NYY
4-Star Options:
Jon Lester – Boston Red Sox – @ Bal, vs. Sea
Roy Oswalt – Houston Astros – @ SD, @ SF
Matt Garza – Minnesota Twins – @ Tor, @ Tex
3-Star Options:
Ted Lilly – Chicago Cubs – @ Pit, vs. Mil
Joba Chamberlain – New York Yankees – vs. Sea, vs. Tor
Gavin Floyd – Chicago White Sox – @ Cle, @ KC
Joe Saunders – Los Angeles Angels – @ Tex, vs. Bal
Ricky Nolasco – Florida Marlins – vs. Was, vs. Pit
Zach Duke – Pittsburgh Pirates – vs. CHC, @ Fla
Rick Porcello – Detroit Tigers – @ Oak, @ Min
Nick Blackburn – Minnesota Twins – @ KC, vs. Det
Randy Johnson – San Francisco Giants – @ Stl, vs. Hou
2-Star Options:
Ubaldo Jimenez – Colorado Rockies – @ LAD, @ Ari
Rich Harden – Chicago Cubs – @ Pit, vs. Mil
Randy Wolf – Los Angeles Dodgers – vs. Col, @ SD
Bronson Arroyo – Cincinnati Reds – vs. Ari, vs. Stl
Joe Blanton – Philadelphia Phillies – @ Atl, vs. NYM
Kenshin Kawakami – Atlanta Braves – vs. Phi, @ Was
Fernando Nieve – New York Mets – @ Mil, @ Phi
Vicente Padilla – Texas Rangers – vs. LAA, vs. TB
Brian Bannister – Kansas City Royals – vs. Min, vs. CWS
Vin Mazzaro – Oakland Athletics – vs. Det, @ Cle
1-Star Options:
Brandon Morrow – Seattle Mariners – @ NYY, @ Bos
Carl Pavano – Cleveland Indians – vs. CWS, vs. Oak
Ross Ohlendorf – Pittsburgh Pirates – vs. CHC, @ Fla
Clayton Richard – Chicago White Sox – @ Cle, @ KC
Braden Looper – Milwaukee Brewers – vs. NYM, @ CHC
Luke Hochevar – Kansas City Royals – vs. Min, vs. CWS
Rich Hill – Baltimore Orioles – vs. Bos, @ LAA
Brad Thompson – St. Louis Cardinals – vs. SF, @ Cin
Brian Moehler – Houston Astros – @ SD, @ SF
Josh Geer – San Diego Padres – vs. Hou, vs. LAD
Mike Burns – Milwaukee Brewers – vs. NYM, @ CHC
Jason Berken – Baltimore Orioles – vs. Bos, @ LAA
Sean O’Sullivan – Los Angeles Angels – @ Tex, vs. Bal
Craig Stammen – Washington Nationals – @ Fla, vs. Atl
Wade LeBlanc – San Diego Padres – vs. Hou, vs. LAD
Thoughts:
Roy Halladay is not a lock to go on Monday, but all signs are pointing to it. I know most of the time I recommend not starting a pitcher in his first start off the DL, but this is clearly a special exception. Under any circumstance he is a must start option, even in his first start back.
Ubaldo Jimenez is an extremely inconsistent option. We all know that and it costs him from being a must start option in my book. That’s not to say not to use him, but he’s allowed 4 earned runs in three of his last six starts and hasn’t been an overwhelming strikeout artist this season. He’s usable, but I would have my reservations, especially with the Dodgers on the schedule.
We’re going to learn this week a little bit about Brandon Morrow’s chances of transitioning back into a useful starting pitcher. It’s impossible to use him considering he faces the Red Sox & Yankees, but he should be watched closely. If he is successful, he’s going to re-emerge. If he struggles, you’re going to have to keep your distance for now.
Is Fernando Nieve a flash in the pan? It’s possible, but it’s not like he’s been doing it against weaker teams. You would like to see him last a little bit deeper into games, so keep that in mind.
Ricky Nolasco has been solid since returning from the minor leagues, allowing just 5 earned runs over 25 innings. He gets to face the Nationals & Pirates this week and prior to the season, with match-ups like that, he clearly would have been a must use. He’s someone I would use now as well.
Which 2-start pitchers do you like for next week? Which ones are you trying to avoid?
By admin | June 29, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
6/26/09
Hitters
Brett Gardner – 5 for 6, 3 Runs, Triple, HR, 2 RBIs, SB
Elvis Andrus – 4 for 4, Run, Triple, 2 RBIs
Andre Ethier – 3 for 4, 3 Runs, 3 HRs, 6 RBIs
Ramiro Pena – 3 for 5, 2 Runs, 2 Doubles, RBI
Jake Fox – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, Double, HR, 2 RBIs
Adam Jones – 3 for 5, 2 Runs, Double, Triple, RBI
Nick Markakis – 3 for 5, Run, RBI
Nolan Reimold – 3 for 4, 2 Runs, Double
Casey Kotchman – 3 for 4
Matt Kemp – 3 for 4, Run, Triple
Jose Lopez – 3 for 4, 2 RBIs
Hanley Ramirez – 3 for 5, Run, Double, HR, 2 RBIs
Jorge Cantu – 3 for 5, Run
Garrett Atkins – 3 for 4, Double, 2 RBIs
Gabe Gross – 3 for 3, Run, Walk
B.J. Upton – 2 for 4, 3 Runs, 2 Doubles, 3 RBIs, WalkSB
Melvin Mora – 2 for 3, Run, Double, 4 RBIs
Aubrey Huff - 2 for 4, 2 Runs, 3 RBIs
Jim Thome – 2 for 2, Run, Double, HR, 3 RBIs, 2 Walks
Geovany Soto – 2 for 4, Run, HR, 3 RBIs
Jarrod Saltalamacchia – 2 for 3, 3 Runs, Double, 2 RBIs, Walk
David Murphy – 1 for 4, 2 Runs, HR, 3 RBIs, Walk
Placido Polanco – 1 for 5, Run, HR, 3 RBIs
Pitchers
Ricky Romero – W, 7 IP, 0 Runs, 2 Hits, 7 Ks
Josh Beckett – W, 7 IP, 0 Runs, 6 Ks
Yovani Gallardo – W, 7-2/3 IP, 1 Run, 9 Ks
C.C. Sabathia – W, 7 IP, 1 Run, 3 Hits, 8 Ks
Glen Perkins – W, 7 IP, 1 Run
Brad Bergesen – W, 6 IP, 1 Run, 5 Ks
Jason Hammel – W, 7-1/3 IP, 2 Runs, 5 Ks
Jeremy Sowers – W, 7 IP, 2 Runs, 6 Ks
Randy Wells – W, 7 IP, 2 Runs, 6 Ks
Clayton Kershaw – W, 6 IP, 2 Runs, 8 Ks
Virgil Vasquez – W, 6 IP, 2 Runs, 7 Ks
Kevin Millwood – W, 6 IP, 2 Runs, 5 Ks
Adam Wainwright – 7 IP, 2 Earned Runs, 5 Ks
By admin | June 27, 2009
Submitted by lester’s legends sports blog
Jim Leyland got an extension from Detroit. Endy Chavez tore his knee and will miss the rest of the year. Alex Gonzalez landed on the 15-day DL. Tony LaRussa picked up his 2500th Win. Dice-K went on the DL. Don Fehr is stepping down. Carlos Beltran (knee) went on the DL. Akinori Iwamura got some good news when he learned he had a partial tear of his ACL rather than a full one. Instead of missing the season, he could be back in six to eight weeks. Joey Votto came off the DL. Coco Crisp (shoulder) is done for the year. Scott Hairston and Brian Giles traded places on the Padres DL. The Yankees sent RP Jose Veras to Cleveland for cash, which is weird because usually it’s the Yankees buying players. Manny Ramirez started a Minor League stint to get ready to return following his steroid ban. If a Minor Leaguer was suspended for cheating, he would have to serve his full sentence before returning, so why is Manny allowed to play? Is the Minor Leagues not a branch of the MLB? Brad Lidge came off the DL. Ryan Freel and Reed Johnson swapped places on the Cubs’ DL. Geovany Soto tested postive for weed during the WBC. Yuniesky Betancourt landed on the DL. Ian Snell was sent down to the Minors. John Smoltz got rocked in his Boston debut. Eric Byrnes broke his hand.
La’Roi Glover is calling it quits. Max Starks signed a long-term deal with the Steelers. Fernando Bryant is hanging it up. Greg Jennings got a nice, fat pay increase. Julius Peppers signed his franchise tender. Mike Brown signed with Kansas City. Michael Boley had hip surgery and could miss the start of training camp. Gloria Estefan bought a share of the Dolphins. Dallas lineman Marco Colombo, Leonard Davis, and Cory Procter formed a heavy metal band called Free Reign. The Lions signed C Dominic Raiola to a four-year deal.
Atlanta signed Rick Dudley as Associate GM. San Antonio acquired Richard Jefferson from the Bucks for a bunch of garbage. Charlotte won’t bring back Sean May. Washington sent the 5th pick, along with some garbage (sorry Etan) to the Timberwolves for Randy Foye and Mike Miller. The Mavs traded down two slots with Portland for two second round picks (one this year, one next year). Tarence Kinsey, Jr. got popped for a DUI. Phoenix sent Shaq to the Cavs for Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic. Yao Ming is out indefinitely with his latest foot injury. The Knicks bought the 29th pick (Toney Douglas) from the Lakers. New Jersey sent Vince Carter to Orlando. As expected, Blake Griffin went #1 in the NBA Draft. Vancouver sent Darko Milicic to New York for Quentin Richardson. The Wolves sent Ty Lawson to Denver for a future first round pick. The Mavs sent B.J. Mullens to Oklahoma City for Rodrigue Beaubois. Washington sold Jermaine Taylor to Houston. Portland sent Sergio Rodriguez and Jon Brockman to Sacramento for Jeff Pendergraph. Denver sold Sergio Llull to Houston. Miami sent Marcus Thornton to New Orleans for two future second rounders. Detroit send Chase Budinger to Houston for a future second roudner and cash. The Lakers sent Patrick Beverley to Miami for a future second rounder and cash. Charlotte sold Robert Vaden to Oklahoma City. The Wolves sent Nick Calathes to Dallas.
St. Louis signed Keith Tkachuk. Florida sent Stefan Meyer to Phoenix for Steve Reinprecht. Florida then signed Reinprecht to a three-year deal. Brent Sutter is Calgary’s new Coach. Brett Hull, Steve Yzerman, Brian Leetch, and Luc Robitaille were named to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Sergei Federov will play in Russia next year. Jarrett Stoll split with Rachel Hunter just weeks from their wedding.
Noel Johnson, who backed out of USC, chose Clemson. USC signed Kevin O’Neill to replace Tim Floyd. Elliot Williams will transfer from Duke for family reasons. Jeff Jordan is leaving the Illinois program to concentrate on his studies. Dave Rose is cancer-free and ready to coach BYU next year. Oklahoma will rename a health center after Wayman Tisdale.
Iowa T Kyle Calloway got popped for driving a moped drunk. Kellen Lewis, who was booted from Indiana, will play at Valdosta State. Florida State’s Maurice Harris was arrested for grand theft. Northwestern Coach Pat Fitzgerald signed a seven-year extension. Cincinnati added a year to Coach Brian Kelly’s contract.
Lucas Glover won the U.S. Open. Christian Nilsson won the Saint-Omer Open. Jason Enloe won the Fort Smith Classic. Matteo Manassero won the British Amateur. At 16 he became the youngest player to win the tournament, which is golf’s oldest one.
Kasey Kahne won the Sprint Cup race at Sonoma. Carl Edwards won the Nationwide race at the Milwaukee Mile.
Benjamin Becker beat Raemon Sluiter to win the ATP Tour Ordina Open. Tamarine Tanasugarn beatYanina Wickmayer to win the Women’s Final. Dmitry Tursunov beat Frank Dancevic to win the ATP AEGON International. Caroline Wozniacki beat Virginie Razzano to win the Women’s Final.
That concludes the Tidbits. As always feel free to add any stories you liked this week in sports or discuss any of the stories I mentioned. Be sure to check out my Links Page for some great sites.
Poppies, Wild Roses and Six Hills Giant Catmint
Mom’s Wild Roses originated at my Grandmother’s and have moved from house to house. (That’s called stealing but only when you get caught in the act.)
There’s really only one thing wrong with Oriental Poppies: At some point, they stop blooming.
Bleeding Hearts
Rains ~ incessant rains ~have turned my desert landscape into a lush island paradise.
Well, it used to make me mad. Not any more. At some spot on that long, tiresome path called growing older it suddenly dawned on me. It’s not because they don’t care. They just don’t have the words.