Don’t Mess With The Zobrist
May 25, 2009
Category: Fantasy Baseball Daily Notes
On Sunday, Akinori Iwamura was carted off the field. (No, it wasn’t some sorta Japanese custom when a player makes an out.) So Reid Brignac may get some short-term value if the Rays play him. Right now, they don’t seem committed to that plan. And, frankly, I can see why. He hasn’t exactly been tearing it up in Triple A. The Rays should go to Ben Zobrist aka The Best Home Run Hitter In The World With The Last Name Zobrist. With shortstop eligibility and potentially 2nd base, Zobrist will have value getting everyday at-bats. Much has been made of Zobrist’s out-of-the-blue power surge. The only explanation that seems to be out there is that he worked in the offseason with Jaime Cevallos, The Swing Mechanic. (Turns out he helped Little Jake Current too!) Honestly, I don’t think it matters much for Ben Zobrist since he already has shortstop eligibility. It’s worth a flier to see if the power continues. Just don’t cut anyone too worthwhile for that flier, including Little Jake Current — he’s got power to all fields! Anyway, here’s what else I saw yesterday in fantasy baseball:
Troy Percival – Hit the DL and made J.P. Izzywheelfourson the closer. I grabbed Nelson and Wheeler anywhere I could. This could easily become Isringhausen’s… Or Balfour’s… Or Howell’s. Unlike the Nats ‘pen, the guy who wins the Rays raffle will have value so it’s worth grabbing one and praying it ends up being your guy. The Rays used Izzy last on Saturday like he was a closer, though it was a non-save situation. If you don’t have room in 12 team leagues and shallower, I’d cut Percy. The next game he may be closing is the Hall of Famers vs. Non-Hall of Famers Game, which would take place during the All-Star Game festivites, if I had my way. Like you wouldn’t pay to see Lee Smith try to prove his case against Gary Carter. Would have to be better than watching Kenny Mayne throw like a girl. (I’m still holding out hope for the Fattest Guy With No Power Home Run Derby too. C’mon, Sandoval vs. Billy Butler! Or everyone’s (soon-to-be) favorite contest, Worst Strikeout Pitcher Faces Off Against Chris Davis! C’mon, Joel Pineiro!)
Jesus Guzman – Word out of the Tenderloin is Ishikawa isn’t long for the every day job. Makes sensei. He is Sucki-san. If Guzman somehow pulls himself into an every day job, could be huge in ESPN leagues where he’s inexplicably a shortstop. Though Guzman did not play on Sunday. *shakes fist* Bochy!
Kevin Kouzmanoff – 3 HRs in the last seven games. I know, Padres hitters are yawnstipating, but the Kouz is hot.
Dexter Fowler – 7-for-15 in his 4 games and batting leadoff. Has been as good recently as Ian Stewart’s been bad.
Brad Lidge – Hey, whaddya know? Another blown save! He has a 9.19 ERA on the year. Philly says there will be no closer change. I say yet.
Johnny Cueto – 7 IP, 7 Ks, 2 ER, which should’ve been one because of a misplay in the outfield. This was a heartbreaking no decision (for me).
Matt Lindstrom – He embarrassed himself and his family on Saturday then came in on Sunday and retired two guys and walked three before being relieved by Kiko Calero. Kiko’s pitching the best in the Marlins bullpen, but Nunez hasn’t been awful… Okay, he’s been just all right. I think Nunez gets the first chance when Lindstrom’s replaced, but it might be Calero. If you’re a save vulture, you should be grabbing one of them now, because Lindstrom doesn’t seem long for the closer role.
Kelly Johnson – HRs in back-to-back games. He’s sitting at .252 on the year, he can get up to .280 within a few weeks.
Joe Mauer – Another game, another homer. I heard Selena Roberts was seen digging through his trash.
Manny Delcarmen – Been lights out so far in middle relief. Rumors are swirling that he might be headed to the Nats to be their closer with Nick Johnson headed to the Sawx, pushing Big Crapi to the bench. I don’t think the Sawx have the cojones to bench Papi, they’d have to convince him to go to the Disgraceful List. In deep leagues, Delcarmen should be owned, though some Mr. B’s probably already have him.
Daniel Murphy, Angel Pagan, Gary Sheffield, Jeremy Reed, Ramon Castro, Ramon Martinez – Ladies and gentlemen, your 2009 New York Mets!
Adam Jones – Hit his 10th homer yesterday while stealing his 4th bag. Should cruise to 25/15, then Jamaica.
Alexei Ramirez – 2 HRs this weekend. Mazel tov!
Mark Buehrle – Only Mark Buehrle could give up only one run after surrendering 12 hits while striking out only 3. Cust kayin’.
Joel Hanrahan – Picked up the save with a perfect inning. Apparently, he’s the closer again.
Adam Dunn – 2 HRs, 6 RBIs. That’s not a donkey, this is a donkey.
Emmanuel Burriss – The Giants also announced they would be putting Frandsen into a platoon with Burriss. Burriss has speed; Frandsen offers nothing.
Pablo Sandoval – Sat out yesterday with elbow trouble and will go for tests on Monday. I hope they test his cholesterol.
Chris Iannetta – Hit the DL with a hamstring strain. Jessica Alba and Joe Torre hybrid, Yorvit Torrealba, will have some short-term value in deep leagues. For catchers that could be available in some leagues, I’d go Snyder, Salty, Torrealba or Diaz, in that order.
Miguel Tejada – 4-for-4 yesterday, 3 HRs in the last 6 games. Someone’s in the Way Back Machine.
Josh Outman – 7 2/3 IP, 1 ER, Zero Ks. When you don’t strikeout one Diamondback, I’m not buying.
Jason Giambi – Second straight game with a homer. For those in shallow leagues, he hits them in bunches. Some would say in “cycles.”
Barry Zito – 6 1/3 IP, 5 ER. Glad the old baked Zito showed up just as I added him.
Fred Lewis – Two games, two home runs. I wish he’d just get to 15/15 in a month then I could drop him, but that’s not how these things work. Except for Mark Reynolds.
Derrek Lee – Missed Sunday’s game with an undisclosed illness. I thought it was called Suckitis.
Francisco Rodriguez – Might be the first time I’ve mentioned him in roundup. (I tend not to mention guys that are doing what they’re supposed to be.) K-Rod is suffering from back spasms, so the Mets are inserting Putz into their opening. K-Rod said he’s feeling much better after being medicated. In other news, K-Rod’s addicted to painkillers. Sounds like he’ll be back by the end of the week at the latest.
Brandon Phillips – Hairline fracture on thumbkin. Phillips said, “I told (the Reds) I don’t want to go on the DL.” Um, okay. And then you sit out yesterday’s game? This sounds worse than the Reds are letting on.
Joey Votto – Ear infection had him benched on Sunday after hitting 2 homers on Saturday. I totally feel for Votto. Last time I had an ear infection, I rolled around for days crying. Then again, I was 6 months old.
Brandon McCarthy – 9 IP, 0 ER and 6 Ks. Solid game, but he’s way too unpredictable to pick up in mixed leagues. As for this game, maybe McCarthy thought he was facing the Reds.
Tags: Adam Dunn, Adam Jones, Alexei Ramirez, Angel Pagan, Barry Zito, Ben Zobrist, Brad Lidge, Brandon McCarthy, Brandon Phillips, Chris Iannetta, Daniel Murphy, Derrek Lee, Dexter Fowler, Emmanuel Burriss, fantasy baseball, Francisco Rodriguez, Fred Lewis, Gary Sheffield, Jason Giambi, Jeremy Reed, Jesus Guzman, Joe Mauer, Joel Hanrahan, Joey Votto, Johnny Cueto, Josh Outman, Kelly Johnson, Kevin Kouzmanoff, Manny Delcarmen, Mark Buehrle, Matt Lindstrom, Pablo Sandoval, Ramon Castro, Ramon Martinez, Reid Brignac, Troy Percival
May 25th, 2009 at 12:28 am
“I hope they test his cholesterol.” You’re killing me! Excellent stuff as always.
May 25th, 2009 at 12:41 am
Lol, loved the Jessica Alba + Joe Torre comment. Awesome.
May 25th, 2009 at 12:42 am
Hamels for Alexei?
A-Rod+Javier Vazquez for Hanley?
May 25th, 2009 at 1:24 am
the whole article cracked me up man, the shit is hilarious; imagine Sandoval ran and read your post @ same time is just too fitting.
May 25th, 2009 at 2:12 am
“Chris Iannetta – Hit the DL with a hamstring strain. Jessica Alba and Joe Torre hybrid, Yorvit Torrealba, will have some short-term value in deep leagues. For catchers that could be available in some leagues, I’d go Snyder, Salty, Torrealba or Diaz, in that order.”
Much more important for me is the information, that Paul Phillips was called up from Triple A. Come on! The coolest mustache of the whole world is waiting in your minor league team for a callup and you bring up the guy who is pretty much the same player without a mustache??!!! SCREW YOU ROCKIES!
I got to tell you, as soon as Sal gets the Call he will be added immediatly in all of my teams! There’s always a bench spot for the greatest catcher ever!
Rockies suck!
May 25th, 2009 at 3:21 am
Great article! I was just wondering what you thought about Scott Feldman this year. He has been lights out, and although his K rate isnt the greatest, he has a completely re-worked reportoire that has baffled hitters lately. He is throwing a power sinker that induces a bucnh of groundballs, which may be just the thing he need pitching in Texas.
I just picked him up before his last start, and I am contemplating stashing him for the long-term… He starts at home versus Oakland next. Is he the real deal? Can I expect an era between 3.85-4.10?
Let me know what you think. Thanks!
May 25th, 2009 at 5:20 am
Ortiz should be included in the Butler/Sandoval contest….
May 25th, 2009 at 5:28 am
“Sure, Votto’s back, but it’s his first game in a while,” I says. “Let him shake off the rust, play a few other schmoes instead,” I says. “What’s he going to do in his first game back?”
Two donks? Oh. Okay.
In a related story: Son. Of. A. Bench.
Well, at least I can get him back in for Sun — what? Dizzy again?
At least he had the courtesy to choose an ailment that lends itself to a great olde-tyme nickname. Dizzy Votto!
re: Isringhausen. Apparently he was warming up to enter a 4-3 game that turned into a 10-3 game in the Rays half of the inning. I think he’s The One. (I even dropped John Baker to pick him up. That’s right — I have no catcher. I’m catcherless! Come on Weiters!)
It makes sense if you think about it. Why else do you sign Izzy if not as part of your ongoing Junky Old Closer Reclamation Project. Worked with Percy. Now Izzy. Soon: Quizzy.
May 25th, 2009 at 5:40 am
You guys are the best. This is my 1st read of the morn with coffee. Has me laughing all the time. Joey Votto – Ear infection had him benched on Sunday after hitting 2 homers on Saturday. I totally feel for Votto. Last time I had an ear infection, I rolled around for days crying. Then again, I was 6 months old. Priceless guys,priceless
May 25th, 2009 at 5:45 am
@Baron Von Vulturewins: If only they had Quizzenberry, but I think you’re right about Izzy. Ditched Nelson for Putz two nights ago then ditched Putz for Izzy last night.
I’d ditch em all for Quizz, Eck, Big And Ugly and The Mad Hungarian!
May 25th, 2009 at 5:50 am
is this a fair trade in a h2h keeper league
Longoria, Mclouth and Palmer for Ibanez, Duke and Branyan
Some people in my league aren’t happy with this trade…
May 25th, 2009 at 5:54 am
Dump NolASSco for Zobrist?
May 25th, 2009 at 6:00 am
@Billy: In a keeper? I certainly hope you’re not giving up the Longoria side.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:02 am
@BigFatHippo: no i’m commish in this league and need advice on if this trade should be shot down
May 25th, 2009 at 6:09 am
@Billy: Obviously the Longoria side would be preferred by 5 out of 6 doctors but i’m of the opinion that unless there’s some funny collusion business going on I don’t veto stupid trades. I prefer not to sub my superior judgment for the shit judgment of a stupid owner.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:10 am
@Billy: Not a big fan of the veto, but unless Longo and McLouth cost too much to keep that’s one I’d have to vote against.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:11 am
@Schlitzy: Good point, the guy giving Longo may believe Ibanez is the second coming.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:24 am
Start Span or Corey Hart this week? Zobrist is available in the FA pool but would have to drop someone, probably Span. Thoughts?
May 25th, 2009 at 6:26 am
@Schlitzy: @BigFatHippo: thanks guys i’m 99% sure there is no collusion here, the Ibranez side thinks this will help his team. who am i to say no it wont?
May 25th, 2009 at 6:29 am
@Billy: Also, a trade like that tells you something about the owner. I’d toss out a few crazy offers to that guy this season since you never know what he might accept.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:34 am
@Schlitzy:lol, Good point…
May 25th, 2009 at 6:39 am
since ian stewart and howie are such a great 2B blahtoon, which one should i drop to get nick johnson? if he started hitting in fenway i know i could flip him to one of the crazy bosox fans in my league. how likely do you think that sox/ nats trade is?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:02 am
Just a *footnote your Dexter Fowler mention: He faces Chris Young on Friday.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:04 am
pick up nolasco now for when he rights the ship?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:09 am
Drop Holland or Kelvim Escobar to put in Ianneta’s replacement or just let it ride at least till Holland starts again? If he blows up, I’ll grab snyder
May 25th, 2009 at 7:12 am
@BigFatHippo:
I’m in the same spot. Qualls is my mainstay. Morrow I keep because he has SP eligibility so I put him in every night. I also have Cruz and Hawkins still. Are they both still closing?
I then picked up Dan Wheeler but was thinking of dumping him for Putz. Now I see people have moved on past Putz to Isringhausen?
Since Hawkins and Cruz are not long for their roles, I need to look to see who will most likely be closing in mid-June. Is Izzy the best bet?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:14 am
@ABell – I would be pretty surprised if the Sox took on a massive injury risk (is it even risk if it’s a sure thing?) like Johnson. I think they’ll be pretty slow to look for outside help.
@Grey – Can we get Mark Reynolds in on the Strikeout Derby? He could face off against the whole Indians bullpen. At once.
As a Sox fan, I’m curious – how often do you folks try to take advantage of our collective hard-on for all things with B’s on their hats to get good deals? I don’t blame you for it, I’d do the same… I’m just wondering if it’s common practice.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:14 am
Also, I’ve yet to activate Steven Drew from the DL. If I do so I’d have to drop Eowyn Stewart. Better to play Stew and stash Drew or drop Stew and play Drew in an 11 teamer.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:19 am
soria for wandy in a keeper league?? which side do you like?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:34 am
@knighttown: I only grabbed Putz because K-Rod (Grey’s not supposed to call him that anymore BTW) almost gave me a coronary with all the whining about the back. Turns out he was just jonesing for some Vicodin.
If you grab Izzy you’re just guessing like the rest of us but if he earns the job it could be his all year. He has strong incentive in that he’s only 7 saves away from 300.
Drop Ian.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:43 am
Start Chad Gaudin today @ Arizona? I am torn. On the one hand, Arizona is a hitters park. On the other hand, Arizona sucks. Please advise! Thanks!!
May 25th, 2009 at 7:49 am
So Francisco Rodriguez just became Dr. Gregory House, right? Shouldn’t the Mets immediately change his entrance music to the theme song for “House”? They could even announce over the PA, “Paging Dr. House, paging Dr. Gregory House”…this would be so awesome.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:00 am
Any thoughts on best middle relievers to grab in a non holds league? Anyone not getting saves would be available and I need about two.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:20 am
@dtv: Wandy. There are very few closers that should be kept in a keeper league and Soria is not one of them in my opinion.
@Maitland: Madson, Thornton, Meyer…
May 25th, 2009 at 8:24 am
@Maitland: Madson, thornton, dotel, belisario, pena, calero just to name a few (in no particular order)
May 25th, 2009 at 8:30 am
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Putting my faith in your intuition, and picking up Izzy. I hear that Pete Rose is betting on him for the Rays closer. Dizzy Votto and Daffy Dusty.
@naughtandcross: Thanks! Just picked up Fowler in almost every league. Every SAGNOF should be streamed against Chris Young.
@Grey – The Torrealba quip should make the “Best of Grey” I volunteer to be your editor. BTW, thanks for pointing out the current state of the Mets. They did manage to take 2 of 3 from the Bosox in Fenway, however. I know that you are dedicated to us, but working on Memorial Day? Chill out, have a couple of Heinikens at a Barbeque; go to the beach with a hot babe…
Start or bench De La Rosa?
@mgeoffriau: Ha!
@BigFatHippo: Ah, the Mad Hungarian! Great memories.. with the Fu Manchu and silver ring; “He’d stomp off the mound toward second base, eyes blazing, the fury practically seeping through his uniform as he turned his back to the hitter who was left waiting at the plate until he was done working himself into an altered state he called his “controlled hate routine,” then whirled around, pounding the ball into his glove while the home crowd generally went nuts.” Nice to know that someone is as old as me on this blog.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:45 am
@Grey, I want to pick up kelly johnson because i believe he will get hot however this means I have to drop a pitcher because there is nobody on my hitting side i could possibly drop. So, i have the option of dropping J. Zimmerman (but he just put in a nice start), Parra (I like him but I just cant stand the stats right now), Marshall (I like him a lot but i think you disagree) , or tommy hanson whom i think will be great once he gets the call. Who should it be?
May 25th, 2009 at 8:53 am
@Baron Von Vulturewins: I also sat Votto for Saturday but only because I was pretending I had a life and didn’t make it in time to put him in after he was listed as a go. Between missing the two donks and him not playing he single (double?) handedly cost me 4 categories in one of my H2H leagues.
He gets a pass since he’s been putting me over the top in a couple of leagues. Its ok, Joey, I’m just glad its not Lyme’s.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:56 am
@Martin: Parra
May 25th, 2009 at 9:02 am
@Lines: Any time I have a 2nd or 3rd tier Bo-Sox player and the Boston kid has a player I need I’ll try to make a deal. We have a guy in a league who is hardcore about Boston, a few years back he had something like 6 or 7 Red Sox players as starters. There is something wrong with you people.
@DrEasy: Thanks!
@Spaceman.Spiff: Thanks! I want Hamels. I want A-Rod+Javier Vazquez or Hanley depending on needs. I’d prefer Hanley.
@Elbert: Thanks!
@Bob from Germany: Sal!
@Joe from Point Pleasant: His ERA’s at 4.04 now. And he’s been pitching great for him. That ERA probably goes up about a half a run in the middle of the summer in that park. See ya at Martel’s.
@Jareth Cutestory: Hehe
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Ha, funny run.
@Bill: Thanks!
@Mr. Rickey: Start Hart.
@naughtandcross: Zoinks!
@sean: Not unless it’s an NL-Only league.
@cubbies299: Drop Escobar.
@Lines: Reynolds coild be in there, but I think he’d have to face the same pitcher for it to be even.
@anon: It’s very risky. I wouldn’t outside of 15 leagues or deeper. Or NL-Only ones.
@mgeoffriau: Nice
@Paulie Allnuts: Thanks! Think you gotta start him.
@Martin: He’s already hot. Lose Parra.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:04 am
hey grey – do you think Brian McCann will start to put up some good numbers – I have the 2nd waiver spot in my league – or should I hold on to it for some young player that might come up later in the season
May 25th, 2009 at 9:06 am
I never own a top rated catcher – I consider that position as a field goal kicker in football
@Mr Baseball: He’s on waivers? Pick him up.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:11 am
@Mr Baseball: 2 team league?
May 25th, 2009 at 9:12 am
I just burned a 9th waiver spot for Jose Lopez…I think you should definitely burn the 2nd waiver for McCann…
May 25th, 2009 at 9:17 am
@mgeoffriau: hahahaha, really? Still, I like him as the 2nd best catcher at least as long as he’s healthy.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:25 am
hey grey..i have a crowded OF, so ive been playing 3 OF and one of them @ util…
Bay, BJupton, Pierre, Lind, Ethier,
would you drop any of them to pick up loney? I could use him for my Util spot…
basicallly, is he an upgrade over one of those OF? b/c i play one of them in util anyways.
thanks!!!
May 25th, 2009 at 9:29 am
@PJTres: Only good for average, so I would pass. Especially with Manny out.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:32 am
@Mr Baseball: McCann on waiver? that’s gotta be one cool league, can I join : )?
May 25th, 2009 at 9:34 am
@Elbert: Apparently it’s a 2-teamer. Membership is very exclusive. He’ll need to run a background check.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:38 am
Any word on Votto: inny or outty today?
May 25th, 2009 at 9:41 am
I’m not saying I would ever drop McCann, but, in a very competitive 12 team league where a team got autodrafted McCann and then, say, Bengie Molina, I could definitely see someone dropping him. Or, at least, it’s not shocking to me.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:41 am
@Simply Fred: “Votto is out of Monday’s lineup, with Adam Rosales covering first base.” Answered own.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:42 am
@Simply Fred: out according to yahoo
May 25th, 2009 at 9:48 am
Lineup per John Fay, Cincinatti Enquirer:
Lineup:
Willy Taveras cf
Jerry Hairston 2b
Chris Dickerson lf
Jonny Gomes rf
Ramon Hernandez c
Alex Gonzalez ss
Adam Rosales 1b
Paul Janish 3b
Aaron Harang p
vs. LHP Wandy Rodriguez.
with reference that Votto still battling ear infection
May 25th, 2009 at 9:50 am
What do I do with the 50 HR, 50 SB threat that is Nelson Cruz? He’s clearly streaky, and his average is pushing .300 again. I’m selling high, but who should I am for? I feel like he is doing what Alex Rios should be doing and before Cruz’s crazy last week, I actually offered Cruz and Jered Weaver for Rios and Cruz and Weaver for Werth and Cecil, both of which were thankfully declined. Nonetheless, I want to trade Nelson for some offense. What is reasonable?
May 25th, 2009 at 9:52 am
Gamel starting at 3B and hitting 6th today!
May 25th, 2009 at 9:54 am
Haha that Votto roundup was pretty funny
May 25th, 2009 at 10:00 am
@James: Thanks for the heads-up, hadn’t seen that lineup yet. I have a feeling Chipper’s going to sit again today so that helps me at 3B.
May 25th, 2009 at 10:05 am
# 45 mgeoffriau (52 comments) Says:
May 25th, 2009 at 9:11 am
@Mr Baseball: 2 team league?
this is what the owner did in 14 team league (wow) he picked up Jason Varitek and dropped Brian McCann
I have the number two waiver pick but the team that has number one waiver pick has Pablo Sandoval as his starting catcher
you have to guard those number 1 and 2 waivers picks and make sure you use them wisely -
May 25th, 2009 at 10:07 am
I need help in steals..do I drop Stewart and add either Morgan, Crisp, Fowler, Winn, Andrus, Ben Francisco, Scott Hairston. I want a guy that has good average while having solid SB’s and runs. please help
May 25th, 2009 at 10:09 am
# 50 Elbert (60 comments) Says:
May 25th, 2009 at 9:32 am
@Mr Baseball: McCann on waiver? that’s gotta be one cool league, can I join : )?
been in the league for 6 years now – something like this never happens – I am sure in any league after a long extended period of time a player can slip onto the free agent market – maybe he gave McCann an eye examination
May 25th, 2009 at 10:13 am
@Grey: you ranked hardy over tejada a few days ago…still feeling it?
May 25th, 2009 at 10:17 am
@Pork Burn – Don’t lump me in with “them”. I’m a die-hard in real life, but I try to keep the fan out of fantasy. I have only 3 Sox on my team – one’s an MVP, one’s 2nd in the league in RBI, and one’s Jon Lester.
When one of you pulls off a Nick Green for Han-Ram deal, I wanna hear about it.
May 25th, 2009 at 10:18 am
@Grey: you ranked hardy over tejada a few days ago…still feeling it?
there is no law you have to do what grey says? just 92% of them
May 25th, 2009 at 10:18 am
Anyone read Paul Bourdett’s Yahoo! column ‘The Pick Up Artist?’ Check out this funny exchange we had in the comments:
Me: I hate the format of this column. It’s not funny. It’s convoluted. Week after week stretching the life-span of a bad joke that wasn’t all that clever to start with. I skim over it, looking for names of interest and trying to decipher any solid baseball news from mostly characterless dribble. I’m sorry, Paul Bourdett–but please think about a new way of presenting information. In all sincerity, Steve.
Him: And despite the fact that it’s not funny and convoluted, you continue to come back each week and read. I must be doing something right, huh? In case you haven’t figured it out by now, the format is here to stay. And if past history tells us anything…so are you! Thanks for being a faithful reader!
Man, this is dejecting. He actually succeeds in making me feel like a douche. I want to maintain class and refrain from assuming the role of ITG (internet tough guy), but I’m tempted to deliver a ‘jerk store called’ line.
@Swass: I don’t think you can get a hitter that would be a significant upgrade. I’d put him in my outfield and ignore his cold streaks knowing the hot ones will take care of themselves. If that said, if you can move him for a Victorino, Hill, McCann or Youuuuk, then go for it. But I don’t think you’ll get that level of player back.
@paulzone: Players go hot and cold, over the whole season, I still want Hardy, but if you’re playing just the hot hand then Tejada’s fine for right now.
@GhostfacePrzybilla: I don’t know who you’re talking about, but I’d never go back there if someone talked to me like that.
May 25th, 2009 at 10:27 am
@GhostfacePrzybilla: I’d be tempted to get really snarky and post a completely over-the-top apology complete with a full analysis of his jokes and why you missed the humor on the first reading. Nothing like deconstructing some lame jokes to drive the point home.
May 25th, 2009 at 10:31 am
@Mr Baseball: valid point, but i’ll go with the law of averages (92% vs. 8%).
maybe tejada has decided to try a new “sugar” on his shredded wheat…who knows? oh wait, maybe grey does…hardy’s vagina spasms aren’t doing wonders for him (or me) either.
May 25th, 2009 at 10:36 am
@GhostfacePrzybilla: I guess I’m easy to please, but I’m just happy that Yahoo has added so many fantasy columns lately. I would let him be.
May 25th, 2009 at 10:37 am
if you were a utlity player, would you rather be:
cano playing @tex vs. harrison or victorino in phi vs. volstad?
May 25th, 2009 at 10:41 am
@GhostfacePrzybilla: Really? you’re dejected because he hit you with one of the most obvious and lame responses in the book?
I would respond with something along the lines of,
It’s not that you are doing something right, it’s more that the Yahoo! marketing team is really good. Knowing where to place their links to columns so that people who are updating their teams are sucked in to reading columns is a solid skill.
May 25th, 2009 at 10:41 am
Magic Wandy getting hit around in the 1st……there’s the correction you’ve been waiting on.
May 25th, 2009 at 10:46 am
@Maitland: i think i would respond with something along the lines of,
“Okay. Thanks. Now, shave your ass.”
May 25th, 2009 at 10:48 am
@mgeoffriau: I was counting on a correction, just was hoping it would be spread out over a few starts instead of all coming in one inning. Great start for my weekly h2h league! I’m currently leading in ERA and WHIP- 45.00/7.00!
May 25th, 2009 at 10:49 am
can someone answer comment #62
@G: Add Fowler.
@paulzone: Cano
@mgeoffriau: @royce!: FWIW, it should be 5 unearned. Can we get the official scorer’s email address?
May 25th, 2009 at 10:57 am
@Grey: @mgeoffriau: @Maitland: Does anyone read the column? It’s really very bad. Here’s a sample…
“Somebody should write ‘explosive’ on you, ‘cause you are the bomb.”
Mike Jacobs(notes) (1B, KC) – 33-percent owned in Y! Plus Leagues
I thought about responding with something like, “I’m not sure if you’re familiar with the amount of time in the day, Mr. Bourdett, but I read any and all free fantasy news. Me visiting your column is essentially the same as me flipping to VH1 to see who got bumped from Daisy of Love. I’ll do it, but I won’t feel good about it.”
May 25th, 2009 at 10:57 am
@Grey: They changed Tavares’s hit an error!!! All 5 are now unearned!!! You must have emailed the scorer a convincing argument! How do you email a horse’s head?
@GhostfacePrzybilla: Honestly, I’ve never heard of him. Your examples don’t make me want to read it either.
May 25th, 2009 at 11:00 am
@royce!:
Amazing!
@royce!: That’s the best news I’ve ever heard. Seriously. If I had a kid and they were an astronaut, I wouldn’t be as excited as that news.
May 25th, 2009 at 11:04 am
@Grey: Did you see what was up with Pudge? He’s out now, and the announcer said they were looking at his glove hand. I’d like Towles to have another chance, although it’s beginning to seem that he might love Round Rock too much to leave to Houston. Round Rock is the #7 best place to live in the US according to Money magazine. Seriously.
May 25th, 2009 at 11:05 am
@royce!:
_|\ _/|_,
,((\\``-\\\\_
,(()) `))\
,(())) ,_ \
((())' | \
))))) >.__ \
(((' / `-. .c|
hjw / `-`'
May 25th, 2009 at 11:06 am
@mgeoffriau: Nevermind, I suck at the internet.
@royce!: He looked absolutely fine, but they were looking at his wrist. Didn’t seem serious at all. Nothing a little B-12 shot couldn’t fix.
May 25th, 2009 at 11:08 am
well, i guess i will lose ERA/Whip this week, thanks wandy and harang! I’ve missed out on 4 of Vottos HRs this year, that sonofabench!! Ear infection?? seriously? are you 3 years old????
Sleepytime Jones gets some love, let’s hope he can cruise to 25/15!!!
May 25th, 2009 at 11:10 am
@Grey: “Dad! Dad! I’m going to space!” “Hold on, son! I’m thinking about the day when Wandy’s 5 earned runs were ruled unearned!” [son, shoulders stooped, exits stage right].
Seriously though, I feel the same way. What’s so cool about space anyway?
@ETMcgee: Wandy’s 5 were unearned. You’re welcome.
@royce!: Yeah, monkeys have been to space. When’s the last time a monkey took a 1.50 ERA into June?
May 25th, 2009 at 11:11 am
@mgeoffriau: Actually, if someone emailed me that I would be disturbed. Ha!
May 25th, 2009 at 11:14 am
@Grey: nice. last time i looked at the stat-tracker, still had them as earned runs. i guess it is just the whip that is completely lost…
May 25th, 2009 at 11:40 am
So Ramon Hernandez is batting .290, but his power numbers still suck. When does he become a better option that Salty? He’s on waivers in my league right now, and I have Salty. I figured Hernandez would have a little more production in that lineup if he was hitting, but all his numbers are lame.
May 25th, 2009 at 11:43 am
@grey -ricky romero, zimmerman, marshall? rank por favor
May 25th, 2009 at 11:50 am
Just pulled Wandy and Fuentes (mine) for Damon and Bruce, who is the winner?
May 25th, 2009 at 11:50 am
Whoever didn’t get Damon, I’d imagine…
May 25th, 2009 at 11:51 am
Gaudin or Happ? which one is a better 5th starter (12 team H2H, 35 inn min)? I usually start Gaudin at Petco against sorry teams and I don’t know what to think of Happ.
May 25th, 2009 at 12:00 pm
3 Leagues of potential Harang Wins hanging in the balance by a rain delayed 1/3 of an inning.
@Tom: He’ll probably get power-hot at some point in the season (probably when the weather heats up), but Salty has more upside (and more downside). It’s pretty close to a toss-up.
@Martin: Zimmerman, Marshall, Romero…
@anoraxx: You done good.
@jerkstore: Gaudin at home, Happ away. Happ has more upside (and downside). I’d prefer to take Happ with a 5th or 6th starter, but it kinda depends on your team’s staff.
May 25th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
Ay ay ay, Gil Meche! I started him today thinking that he was due for a luck correction, and now I get to watch him give up 6 hits and 3 walks in 2+ innings! The worst part is that every time I check the Box Score on Yahoo, I’m greeted by the smug little smirk he wears on his player portrait. What are you smirking about, Gil??? You’re about to get Pnswned!
@Ham: Ugh, that sucks. Looked like it was gonna rain for a while. The good and bad of it is Dusty will probably send him back out there, but it might be to the detriment of his career.
May 25th, 2009 at 12:04 pm
@Grey:
Thanks for the approval
May 25th, 2009 at 12:05 pm
@Grey: Haha yeah like last years extra inning debacle. Looking back though, if it weren’t for Dusty shitcanning Harang’s season last year I wouldn’t have him in so many leagues on the cheap this year.
May 25th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Guys, if you aren’t watching/following the STL/MIL game, you should be. That’s all I’ll say.
May 25th, 2009 at 12:27 pm
Fernando Martinez might get called up: http://tinyurl.com/olpgjr
May 25th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
I’d like to pick up Fernando Martinez for my 20 team league… Worth dropping any of the following (all benched): Fred Lewis, Krispie, Yadier, Burriss? League counts Ks, BB, and OPS, FWIW.
@mgeoffriau: Yeah, I’m watching it.
@royce!: That article sounds like conjecture and Minaya said he didn’t want to start his clock. Who knows, maybe he will get the call, but I wouldn’t think he’s going to get the call for just a weekend series. Guess we’ll see.
May 25th, 2009 at 12:34 pm
@Grey: Yeah, fair enough. I guess I’m a bit eager to ditch the schmohawks that have been dragging me into “the muck and the mire. Nearly got killed bein stuck in the fire, Like Jeremiah.”
@royce!: I’d drop Yadier.
May 25th, 2009 at 1:15 pm
@Grey:
“Yeah, monkeys have been to space. When’s the last time a monkey took a 1.50 ERA into June?”
Don Mossi finished 15-7 with a 2.96 ERA in 1961. If I recall correctly, he got off to a hot start with a Greinke like 1.47 ERA in June. Based on this picture, I have to assume he was a primate.
http://www.stevemandich.com/2008/07/bubblegum-card-of-week-don-mossi.html
Oh, was that a rhetorical question?
May 25th, 2009 at 1:19 pm
since votto is still dizzy would you rather have mike jacobs in your line up or Jason Giambi?
Giambi’s looking like he’s starting one of those tears, he at least walks/K’s about the same amount. Jacobs just K’s alot, hits for a bit of a better average? Starting to look at it as i’d rather have giambi in right now off waivers and cut down on the K’s than stupid jacobs in getting one single and k’ing 3 times…? thoughts?
and i love how when i attend the cincy/indians game and don’t have votto in my lineup he hits 2 HR’s (which i called by the way, ask my friends i text about 5 of them he was going to hit AT LEAST 2 HR’s that day…) what a joke, will someone fix whatever the EFFFF is wrong with votto! Or at least let me know when he’s playing because yahoo can’t figure it out either….
May 25th, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Apparently Brian Roberts has left the game with a leg injury.
It seems that Manny, Chipper, Reyes, Quentin, Dukes, and Atkins* wasn’t enough punishment for one roster….I needed to lose Roberts too.
*I know Atkins isn’t hurt, but he’s playing like both wrists are broken.
May 25th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
@knighttown: Wow. I applaud you, sir. Words cannot capture how amazed I am and how perfect the world is at this moment.
Oops, just looked at Liriano’s line for the day… But even that can’t bring me down from this high.
May 25th, 2009 at 1:37 pm
@mgeoffriau: That was exhilarating!
Old school/new school pitching duel, neither team deserved to lose.
@knighttown: Nice
@Tony Y: Go with Giambi
May 25th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
@Grey: thanks grey, stupid jacobs is just dragging me down, not that giambi is going to help that much….
now if i just had that first basemen i drafted, what was his name, oh yeah dizzy votto….
May 25th, 2009 at 1:45 pm
i hope greinke falls off. Then the guy in my league that thinks he’s a genious will have to suck on that for the rest of the season….
May 25th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Hall’s walkoff pinch hit (for Gamel) and Gamel’s 0-fer w/ 2 Ks can’t be very helpful to Gamel’s chances for regular ABs. Any prediction for Gamel’s future?
May 25th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
How long before Chris Davis becomes dropable in 12 team mixed league? I have him sitting on my bench indef in favor of mini-donkey corn.
May 25th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
@royce!: I hope Macha’s not going to place too much weight on Gamel’s performance today….Carp was dealing, and Hall got to hit against McClellan.
May 25th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
and votto PH’s! i quit! is he dizzy or isn’t he?
Does this guy go home at night, chug a beer, and spin with his forehead on his big red whiffle ball bat or what!?
May 25th, 2009 at 2:21 pm
I feel kind of stupid even bringing up this trade offer….but I’m so tired of Atkins I think I’d take a jar of rusty safety pins if someone offered it to me.
I give Atkins, I get Liriano. I mean, I know, I know….but doesn’t Liriano have a better chance of turning it around than Atkins? As bad as it was, he still K’d 7 and didn’t walk any today….have we seen any signs of life from Atkins all year?
May 25th, 2009 at 2:24 pm
**** Iwamura out for season, torn ACL *****
worth picking up aybar? or is there someone else that will become valueable as a 2nd baseman?
May 25th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
@Tony Y: I did a beer olympics type thing with one of the competitions involving the spinning around the bat thing after a day of drinking and I believe I am still dizzy from it. And I did it last Saturday.
So, if this is the case for Votto, he gets a pass from me.
May 25th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
@I’m Keith Hernandez: As bad as his average and K’s are, he’s still on pace for nearly a 80/40/80 season…I think his power potential is too great to drop, especially considering it hasn’t really heated up in Texas yet
That said, I’m in the same boat as you, Davis is currently riding the pine in favor of mini-baDonkaDonk
May 25th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
also, this guy in my keeper league just posted that he is willing to move howard, kinsler, wright, jose reyes, adam jones (as a package, or individually)…
would you trade any of my guys for any of his? (he wants back big ticket items for big ticket items)
i have utley, mig cabrera, longoria, upton, greinke…
May 25th, 2009 at 2:51 pm
Fantastic, looks like if I ever run into Dusty Baker in a bar I owe him one for Harangs 1/3 of an inning after hours of delay.
May 25th, 2009 at 2:59 pm
FransuckssoMleeechhhe De La Hosa just raped my era and whip in the RCL…………
I’m goin drinking, at least the bottles don’t bite back!
May 25th, 2009 at 3:25 pm
Ugh. Craptastic Javy decided to show up today.
May 25th, 2009 at 3:38 pm
Good Lord, Mauer didn’t even start today and he still hit a HR?!
May 25th, 2009 at 4:05 pm
@Grey: i nearly peed my pants laughing at that comment, amazing
May 25th, 2009 at 4:36 pm
@Marr: wowwwww what an odd superhero land he is in right now
May 25th, 2009 at 4:55 pm
@royce!: it’s just one game, and Carpenter was throwing seeds
@mgeoffriau: word
@mgeoffriau: I’d take Liriano.
@PJTres: I’d trade Greinke or Upton for one of them, except Jones.
@anon: Razzball, Wear Diapers.
May 25th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
@knighttown – I have a Don Mossi baseball card. Saved it since I was a kid. I thought he was the ugliest man to ever walk the earth. But a decent pitcher, nonetheless.
May 25th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
I was offered 2 trades today.
Trade 1: My Raul Ibanez/Justin Upton for Chipper Jones/Josh Hamilton
Trade 2: My Raul Ibanez for Josh Hamilton
Here is my team:
C: J Salty
1B: R Howard
2B: K Johnson
3B: E Longoria
SS: J Reyes
OF:Raul Ibanez
OF:Justin Upton
OF:BJ Upton
Util: J Bruce
Bn:M Reynolds
Bn:M Weiters
Bn:D Fowler
May 25th, 2009 at 5:24 pm
@Andrew: I’d hold, your team looks fine.
Make sure you get Fowler in the lineup vs Chris Young.
May 25th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
I traded Cueto & Posada for Matt Kemp, did I lose this trade ?
May 25th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
I like trade 2 for you, not so much trade 1.
May 25th, 2009 at 5:33 pm
I also traded Matt Cain for Nate McLouth, my hitting sucks big time, my pitching already has Greinke, Beckett, Lester, Verlander, Gallardo, and I have closers, did I win the trade or did I screw it up ?
@Sam: You didn’t lose either trade.
May 25th, 2009 at 5:45 pm
i have no idea what to do grey! what would someone of your stature do with my trade situation?
May 25th, 2009 at 5:46 pm
I’m curious to see who I can get for Greinke, I’m dead last in steals/HR’s and you know, all those hitting categories (i’m guessing)
May 25th, 2009 at 6:05 pm
Just lost Iwamura. Better replacement: L. Castillo or S. Schumaker? Yep, that’s all that is left.
@Andrew: I’d do trade #2.
@Sam: You should be able to get just about any hitter. Choose a team that needs pitching and target them.
@Robert: Punt? Castillo.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:11 pm
@Sam: Offer Greinke for a Beltran/Sizemore type, your pitching is still pretty solid. Greinke should get you major pieces right now with all the hype. I tried to get him and Ichiro for A-Rod and got shot down.
What’s your lineup look like?
May 25th, 2009 at 6:20 pm
Oh, Oh, Quentin, just had to be helped off the field. He heard something go “pop” running to first on his 1st inning double. Not good.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
@Grey: @Robert: Jesus Guzman in an ESPN league?
@BKK: Ow, glad I couldn’t swing a deal for him.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
@BigFatHippo:
C – Salty (no idea how to spell his last name)
1B – Berkman (is he showing signs of life?)
2b – Kelly Johnson
3B – Lowell
SS – Aviles, though I picked up Theriot today, someone dropped him.
OF – McLouth
OF – Hawpe
OF – Crisp
Util – Pablo Sandoval
DL – Doumit
SP – Beckett
SP – Lester
RP – Hawkins
RP – Nathan
P – Downs
P – Bailey
P – Franklin
BN – Greinke
BN – Verlander
BN – Gallardo
BN – Meche
BN – Aaron Harang
Its a H2H 12-team league, all those people at the live-draft ignored pitching, I tried to do Greinke for Jason Bay, he declined.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
@BKK: Someone offered a Lester + Downs for Quentin, should I accept ?
May 25th, 2009 at 6:32 pm
@Sam: I’m the Lester side, they’re offering Quentin, just to clear it up.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:46 pm
@Sam: I’d be a bit too worried about this foot injury to make a move for him now. Speaking as a Quentin owner.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:51 pm
@Sam: Don’t bite on Quentin, doesn’t sound good.
Frustrating I know, people don’t value starters as much as they should, and when you need a pitcher they won’t deal him. I would have jumped on that Bay deal.
Try Greinke and a closer for Sizemore/Beltran type. You gotta ditch Coco Puff.
May 25th, 2009 at 6:52 pm
TB bullpen blows a big lead, down to 2, Izzy in for the save opp…naturally, walks the first two he faces
May 25th, 2009 at 6:53 pm
oh mannn unbelievable epic fail in progress in Cleveland
May 25th, 2009 at 6:56 pm
@Sam: Wow, tough call. I haven’t heard any more info on the injury since. How bad do you need saves and starting pitching. I expect him to be go to the DL15, couldn’t say at this point if it will be longer.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:00 pm
…and the Native Americans take the lead on a V-Mart single
May 25th, 2009 at 7:01 pm
@penpen: Meltdown complete. Indians win scoring 7 in the bottom of the 9th!!!!
May 25th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
i’m in vulture mode for saves at this point with frank francisco as my only real closer. i picked up isringhausen in hopes he’d step up but it looks like he has already cracked just giving up the game winning hit, so i need to look elsewhere…the foursome of nelson, wheeler, balfour, and howell are out there for the pickins. putz, cruz, madson, and zumaya really look like the only servicable options at this point – i can probably only grab one (maaaybe two) – who would be my best bet?
@nick m.: Cruz and Madson
May 25th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
@BKK: The heck ? Good thing I didnt add any TB relievers so far.
@BigFatHippo: I thought Crisp would give me some steals, Dukes, Winn, JD Drew, Stephen Drew are the only interesting ones on Waivers right now, who then ?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
@BKK: God damn TB bullpen, hope this means Wheeler gets it, I have him and Nelson. Nelson came in very early, wonder if I should drop him for the crappy Izzy of balfour. My guess, if Wheeler gets a shot he takes it and might run with it. HE’s been awesome the last month.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
@BKK: Yahoo! hasn’t updated yet! It’s still 10-4 in Yahoo! land.
I’m going to look at MLB.com, but as an Izzy owner, I’m not going to like what I see, am I?
‘Tis okay. Al-Ram is back, baby.
Also: Did anyone start E. Santana tonight? ‘Cause that’s not going well.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
@Grey: thanks. drop izzy for one?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:13 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Izzy: 0IP, 2ER, 3BB. Really, could have been worse.
But boy oh boy, Tampa’s bullpen is a mess.
Grab Wheeler? My boy Putz is in for the 8th — guess that means K-Rod’s back is better.
@nick m.: Sure
@Baron Von Vulturewins: I grabbed Wheeler and Nelson everywhere. Flip a coin.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:17 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: I’ve got the Cuban Missile on my other team, good thing he’s showing signs of life.
Do you think I can get YOUUK for Berkman ?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:19 pm
@Grey: Grey, for a league that values holds, Ramon Ramirez, Okajima or Dotel ?
@Sam: Yeah, you can get Youk. Not sure why you’d want to.
@Sam: Ramirez
EDIT: Capitalization.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:23 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Izzy wasn’t good but neither was Thayer or Balfour. Also nice to see Al-ram in the 2 hole where he should have been all along. Nice night for him.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:23 pm
@Grey: Now the proud owner of Wheeler and Izzy. Nelson already gone. I still don’t have a catcher.
Turned on the Mets game; K-Rod pitching the 9th. The Mets are wearing hideous red hats. They look like the Nats.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
@Sam: I would give you Youk if you gave me Berkman.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
@BKK: ah, I guess I shouldnt be too biased, I’m a sox fan if you cant tell.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
@I’m Keith Hernandez: It’s like “Nationals” Deja vu, all over again!
May 25th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
Sweet sweet Alexei. Now I’m feeling better about the Lowell/Hardy/Volquez for Liriano/Al-Ram trade. It wasn’t the best trade, and I’m a little bummed I don’t have Lowell, but oh well.
Is Stewart for Crisp a decent trade? I need some runs, SB and average, and I don’t see Crisp batting .235 all season.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:29 pm
Fun fact: The Nationals hitting coach is Rick Eckstein. David Eckstein’s brother.
Doesn’t that explain just about everything?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:29 pm
Desperate for OF help with Ethier and Span hurting lately and no reserves…Kubel, Melky, Bourn, or Shef worth dropping Ian Stewart for?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
@Adam: Just noticed Fowler is there too, maybe I’ll grab him for his game against Young
May 25th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
First Wandy, now Danks apparently… it’s a Memorial day WHIP massacre for my team.
Though I bet one of you out there has those two guys plus Liriano for the trifecta of torment (bonus pain points too if you just snapped up Izzy in time for his amazing out-free contribution!)
May 25th, 2009 at 7:33 pm
David Price – maybe they rushed him to the majors?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: You’re too funny. No catcher. I’d consider it, but I was able to draft Mauer in the 11th round, he is currently on some other planet where gravity has half the effect as it does here on earth. Just out of morbid curiousity, how many scrub closers do you have on this particular team.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
@penpen: Meche and Harang did it for me.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: If MDC goes to the Nats (which I’d hate to see), does that make him better to just about everyone on the Nats bullpen ?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
@penpen: I had De la Rosa (3.00), Wandy (3.00) and Liriano (2.75). Have Izzy too but I benched him. Not that it mattered, though, because it’s a weekly h2h so there’s no way I’m digging out of that hole.
Also had Dempster in the RCL. So, yeah… massively good times.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
@penpen: Yeah, its not good when there is an INF below both ERA and WHIP.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
I think Ozzie figured out he has had his line-up card upside down to start the season. You see want the Chi-sox 1 through 4 hitters are a combined 13/15 through 4 innings. The cuban Missile going 4/4 with a SB.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:43 pm
Is John Lackey & Chris Carpenter for Jacoby Ellsbury fair ? I’m getting the pitchers, my pitching is OK, should I accept it ?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:43 pm
@BKK: I carried John Baker (I have Weiters on my bench) until the other night, then dumped him so I could grab both Putz and Izzy. Just dumped Putz for Wheeler. My current bullpen: 1) Frank-Frank; 2) Capps; 3) Hanrahan (give him a third look! He’s been good for a few days!) 4) Izzy/Wheeler Rays Closer Bake-Off Winner. Currently tied for 2nd in saves (27).
I feel like Izzy gets one more shot at closing, or at least being part of the committee. Hopefully Wheeler is Plan B. Can’t see Howell getting the nod, as the pen’s only lefty. (Who do you bring in to strike out Big Papi in the 7th? Oh, anyone. That’s right.)
Whenever the Rays situation clears up, I’ll dump the bake-off loser and, if Weiters isn’t up yet, grab whatever replacement-level catcher is out there. Anyone have Dionner Navarro’s cell number?
@Sam: Sounds like that trade is dead. If MDC does go to the Nats, sure, they’d make him the closer, why not? But Hannyranhan has come around a little, and it makes more sense for the Nats to showcase him, then trade him, a la Jon Rauch.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:44 pm
@BKK: Make that 11/13.
@Daaayuum: Accept it.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
@BKK: That is very good news. Yahoo!’s cacking on this game too — not updated since the 2nd. I own both Al-Ram and Dye — this is like a massage with release.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
@BKK: i think alexie is just another “mark teixierish” type guy, and not meaning he’s a monster slugger, meaning he’s a SLOW STARTER…
If it continues thats the way it looks at least.
Whats the deal with QUENTIN? He left the game after hitting a fricking double with the same foot issue? Jesus… killling me smalls, i can’t get healthy!
May 25th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: ah true, I dont see Theo Epstein parting with pitching prospects/bullpen guys.
@Daaayuum: tough call, hows your hitting though ?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:50 pm
@Grey: I’d be dead last in steals, though Chris Carpenter is really looking attractive.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
@Daaayuum: LMAO questioning your own self ?
May 25th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
@Tony Y: All year people have been pointing out that last year Al-Ram was at .194 on May 24. Apparently he doesn’t like the cold. But guess what day today is? May 25.
If anyone sold low, I feel bad for you. Sort of.
@Daaayuum: Plus, trading for Nick Johnson means benching Papi. I agree with Grey: don’t see that happening. Drop him in the order, sure. Send him to the Disgraceful List? Maybe. Bench him for Nick Johnson? Not likely.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Francona is loyal to the veterans.
I can see Papi batting 6th or fifth.
May 25th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Watching the game. The White-sox are pounding these LAA pitching. Konerko just went yard.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
@BKK: here’s hoping Danks doesn’t walk his way out of the fourth; five IP for the win, please!
May 25th, 2009 at 8:03 pm
I lost Delgado, Dukes last week, Hardy, Phillips, Ethier, Kubel this week, and Quentin, Helton today. I should probably just jack up my pitching staff and completely start over with my offense at this point.
What do you call it when you have so many holes to fill on your team you are paralyzed by the sight of your own roster?
May 25th, 2009 at 8:06 pm
@BKK: Just what the doctor ordered. Al-Ram and Dye were my last two players to start in an otherwise ho-hum offensive day. All three of my Reds — Votto/Bruce/Phillips — sat out today.
@Sam: What’s your opinion? Do you think Papi is cooked? Hard to see him reaching 25 HRs this year.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:08 pm
@penpen: It didn’t start out well for him but he settled down. He’s thrown 89, we might see him for one more inning with an 11 run lead.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: eh, its too painful to watch him strike out after strike out this year. Lets say 20 homers, I’m being optimistic here.
I’ve been ticker-teased by the Sox win 12-5 over the Mets, just to see Papi bat 0-5.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: How many homers do you think JayBay will slug this year?
May 25th, 2009 at 8:13 pm
Is Fernando Martinez a guy to grab if he gets the call up in NY?
May 25th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
@naughtandcross: I smell potential glossary item…
May 25th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
@Sam: You own him and you’re a Sox fan? Ouch.
re: JayBay — I’d put the over/under at 35, and take the under, but just barely. He hit 35 one year in Pittsburgh, and he’s only 30, so no reason to think he couldn’t get there again. I don’t see him at 40, though.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
@Pops: He’s still awfully young… depends on your league, I guess. I’m not too worried about him in a 12-team mixed.
Stupid Yahoo! still hasn’t updated ChiSox game. I want to see those beautiful Al-Ram stats on my page before I go to sleep!
May 25th, 2009 at 8:21 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: I dont actually own him, I dont own any DH’s in fact, since they can only play UTIL, though I thought Papi would have more than 1 HR.
I was thinking 33 HRs for Bay, and maybe around 10 steals.
Do you guys think Lugo is worthy to be owned ? Still Lugo sucks.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Why does this happen with Yahoo? What’s the point of paying the extra for the Stattracker if it’s not going to, you know, track stats?
May 25th, 2009 at 8:28 pm
@Gareth: Yeah, it’s pretty lame. Yahoo! is pretty cack-tastic in this regard. But I like the interface a lot better than ESPN.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
here’s a general strategy question:
I’ve got both Kinsler and AHill on a team. Would you hang on to both as a safety measure in case one gets banged up (esp. Kinsler), or shop one of them, probably Kinsler, (higher name value and injury risk) to somebody hoping to upgrade their 2B from, say, Scutaro?
*I also had drafted Weeks, sadly, so the safety value of hanging on to both is fresh in my mind.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
@Baron Von Vulturewins: And on Alexi, I flat-out dropped him about four weeks ago, let alone selling low on him, because I had picked up Aaron Hill as a FA.
About three weeks ago Ricky Weeks inexplicably appeared on the wire, and I grabbed him, then Brandon Phillips did likewise, and I grabbed him, then all of a sudden I had three 2B.
Traded Hill away for not much, and was a bit worried when he kept hitting. Then Weeks went down, and I was down to one 2B, then Phillips went down, and I was officially panicking.
Who should still be on the FA list? Alexi. Picked him up yesterday, and today is his first start in his second stint on my team. Talk about lucky.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:31 pm
@penpen: Let my above post be a cautionary tale!
May 25th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
Yahoo’s “Distance from Competition” ranking hasn’t been working for me the last couple of days either.
****Capps is hurt, Pickup Grabow*******
May 25th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
@Grey: Yikes! How hurt is hurt?
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Falling over in pain from a line drive that hit his hand.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
@Grey: Drop Nelson or wheeler for him? Could dish Chris Davis also?
May 25th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
@Grey: Blecch.
Drop Izzy or Wheeler for Grabow? Or flip a coin?
@I’m Keith Hernandez: Lose Wheeler.
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Coin
May 25th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
@Grey: part of me wants to drop Liriano, but I know that is stupid. IS there any players of value I should be targeting to trade him for? Didn’t Nelson pitch early today? I thought Wheeler has the best shot.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
BVV: Tonight was the last straw with regard to my silence regarding the stat tracker. I just sent a long email to Yahoo! about how bad the stat tracker has been this season. They haven’t even made interesting updates or anything! How is it constantly slow, wrong, and disorderly? Anyway, I told them to get it corrected or my PLUS! league will be going elsewhere for our fantasy needs.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
@I’m Keith Hernandez: Looking at both their stats I think you might be right.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:46 pm
@Grey: Wheeler, I hardly knew ye.
@James: Yeah, I’m all over the Internet tonight trying to get timely updates. Just searched “Matt Capps” on Twitter.
@I’m Keith Hernandez: An argument can be made for either. Or neither.
@James: Nice, can we read the strongly-worded letter?
May 25th, 2009 at 8:47 pm
@James: Switch to espn, I am using Yahoo for the first time and not impressed. ESPN gives you all the same shit for free with live scoring and I like the way you can add and search for new players as well.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:49 pm
@James: You have that address so I can send a complaint to yahoo as well?
May 25th, 2009 at 8:49 pm
@Grey: Thanks for the Capps Alert, btw.
Was it clear if it hit his hand or his arm? I’m getting both from Twitter. If it’s his arm, I’m not worried. Hand = worried.
Whatever, I have Grabow now. I own the Pirates second-best closer! Victory is mine!
May 25th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
@Gareth: wow oddly timely tale there…
Yeah I guess since I have 2B and MI slot in my league anyway, I might as well hang on to both to be safe.
I miss Weeks, though. Guy can’t catch a break. The stuff on him over at Disabled List Informer is pretty disheartening to his future prospects.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:51 pm
Ha – damn! I should have posted it here. It was written on their website. Thus, I don’t have a copy of it. Basically, I just said how they haven’t made changes that would give them any type leeway. Then I mentioned how I heard ESPN has timely updates. In addition, I mentioned how my bobble head, while nice, took 8 months to deliver.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:51 pm
This from Rotoworld:
Matt Capps left Monday’s game in the ninth inning after taking a comebacker off his head (!!!).
Capps was able to walk off with minimal assistance, so hopefully he’s day-to-day. John Grabow and Jesse Chavez would be the top candidates for saves if a DL stint is necessary.
(!!!) added by me. Head injury!
@Baron Von Vulturewins: Had my back to the game while I write tomorrow’s roundup. Looked like arm on replays, after I wrote the above comment. Still he fell over in pain and it’s his pitching arm. Didn’t look good.
It’s not his head. They’re wrong.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:52 pm
Anyway thanks for the awesome heads up, I got Grabow first…. yeah crappy closer!!!!
now my second ?, what do Liriano owners do with him. I traded Heath Bell for him but now could nowhere get that talent back. I have him benched indef. and could use a bat, any recommendations of players to target?
May 25th, 2009 at 8:53 pm
It is a website – http://help.yahoo.com/l/us/yahoo/baseballplus/general.html
I have used this before – they are good at responding quickly.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:55 pm
@Grey: This from Rotowire:
Capps left Monday’s game against the Cubs after getting hit by a line drive in his pitching arm.
He left the game in pain after getting hit in the elbow or forearm. We’ll wait for x-rays, but it looks like he could be out awhile.
Glurgh.*
*Added by me.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:55 pm
It wasn’t his hand. Wow.
Matt Capps left Monday’s game in the ninth inning after taking a comebacker off his head. Capps was able to walk off with minimal assistance, so hopefully he’s day-to-day. John Grabow and Jesse Chavez would be the top candidates for saves if a DL stint is necessary.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:57 pm
** maybe rotoworld had a typo… me thinks
May 25th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
@RT: Sounds like it was his hand/arm. See thread above.
May 25th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
Filling in for Iannetta, take Snyder over Baker or Navarro?
@Dim: Snyder
May 25th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
Would you guys start Joba tomorrow? It’s in Texas, and remember he left the last game after 0.2 IP.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:05 pm
@Dim:
Actually, aside from a very slight drop in OBP, Baker’s numbers are better across the board. And he generally hits at the top of the lineup.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
soria coming back soon,would you drop cruz for grabow?
May 25th, 2009 at 9:09 pm
would you all do peavy and chris davis for Big Tex?
May 25th, 2009 at 9:12 pm
@I’m Keith Hernandez:
Uh. Hell yes. In that stadium he touches +/- 40HR
May 25th, 2009 at 9:13 pm
grabow is the Mr. Freeze of Brain Freeze Closers
May 25th, 2009 at 9:15 pm
@Mr Baseball: hopefully he cab just close them down with bad ratios.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
Just watched the ESPN highlights of the Rays game. Boy, Izzy looked terrible. Just dropped him for Wheeler.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:30 pm
Is Grabow the way to go? Or does this Jesse Chavez guy have a legitimate shot at it? Not to mention he kinda looks like the Vote for Pedro kid
May 25th, 2009 at 9:30 pm
If I have to clear a DL spot for Quentin, should I drop Dukes or Kelvim Escobar? I’m dying for healthy players…..dealing with Manny, Chipper, Jose Reyes, Quentin, Elijah Dukes, and now possibly Brian Roberts….if Quentin hits the DL I have to be able to pick up at least one active player.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
@Ham:
Grabow probably gets the call based on experience (read: tenure). Not talent. Chavez is the better arm.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:36 pm
Also…..if my roster is this tight and I really need players, Gamel’s droppable at this point, right? I love the potential but I need players who are in the lineup every day.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:37 pm
is it safe to drop lind? over the past month, hes a .260 hitter…
or are we to expect a return to his very early season numbers?
thanks.
May 25th, 2009 at 9:46 pm
@RT: Haha thanks its all semantics now, someone nabbed Chavez. And to think, yesterday after Capps had a nice strike out the side save, I let out a little sigh of relief. I’d like to take this time to thank Matt Capps for making me a John Grabow owner 2 years and counting!
May 25th, 2009 at 9:49 pm
I’m itching for Alexei who is a free agent in a 10team but I would have to probably drop one of my closers, Downs for him which is probably not worth it right? Got Franklin, Jenks & Hoffman as well.
@DrEasy: I would in a 12 team or deeper.
@AL KOHOLIC: I wouldn’t.
@mgeoffriau: Escobar
@mgeoffriau: Drop him.
@RogerDorn: In a 10 team league, I’d look elsewhere. I’d hold tight in any deeper league at this point.
@Nick: I’d hold tight there.
May 26th, 2009 at 5:42 am
Navorro or Synder at Catcher. I had to put Chris Iannetta on DL.