All is fair in love and fantasy baseball. If you're new to the game, the only hope you have is to accept the fact that you've already lost. The sooner you accept that, the sooner you'll be able to function as a manager is supposed to function: without mercy, without compassion, without remorse. Winning depends upon it. Arm yourselves and be ye men of valor; for we few, we happy few, we band of brothers shall embark upon a land of bullets, triple slashes and pulled hamstrings.

Michael Saunders continues to hit well while filling in for the disgruntled Milton Bradley. He went 2 for 4 with a double and a RBI tonight. He was also caught stealing by Matt Wieters. That makes back-to-back multi-hit games for Saunders, who was named the Mariners #1 prospect at Fangraphs. Saunders was actually stinking up the joint in AAA PCL before he was called up (.254 BABIP doesn't help matters), but he has shown the ability to steal bases and hit for power before. There may be some strike out issues (he has shown improvement here tho) and he's a rookie hitting at Safeco, but how can you ignore a hot hitting top prospect? Think 15/15 potential... not too shabby for a player who is currently 0% owned in Yahoo! leagues.

Mike Aviles continues to swing a hot bat on his comeback tour. He went 2 for 4 today, raising his AVG to .429 (28 At Bats). Coach says he is going to be playing most days due to his solid defense and hot bat. You may remember Aviles as every one's favorite sleeper at shortstop after his .325/10/8 season in 2008 (102 games). He crashed and burned in 2009 and seems to be long forgotten (13% owned). Don't let the 2009 Tommy John surgery and .223 BABIP scare you away from Aviles. He doesn't walk much, but he doesn't strike out much either. He has a little speed and power; I'm sure plenty of people can find room for a .300/15/10 SS or MI.

Call in the Reinforcements Brandon League got the last 5 Outs with a 4 Run lead for his first Save. Tyler Clippard made his 17th appearance and took a lumping, giving up 4 H and 3 ER, recording only 1 Out. Neftali Feliz gave up 3 H and an ER in 2/3 of an Inning for his 2nd Blown Save. Frank Francisco pitched the 10th inning, allowing 2 Hits, but no Runs. Andrew Bailey allowed a Walk, a Hit and an ER for his first Blown Save of the season. Bobby Jenks got the Save opp. a day after Ozzie Guillen said he would play the matchups, Jenks bounced a pitch 5 ft in front of home plate against the intimidating Nick Punto and gave up a double to Jim Thome (which prompted a mound visit), but he came out unscathed and got his 6th Save in 7 chances. Joakim Soria needed some work and entered the game in a non-Save situation, he gave up a solo shot to Russell the Muscle Branyan.

Body Count Erik Bedard was supposed to pitch in a simulated game, but it was rained out. Carlos Beltrán (knee) has started limited baseball activities (swinging a bat, light jogging). Freddy Sanchez went 2 for 4 w/ 2 Doubles and 4 RBI in his first rehab game (single A). Mark DeRosa underwent an MRI and nerve tests for his troublesome wrist. Troy Tulowitzki tested out his sore thigh and could possibly play in Wednesday's doubleheader. Jorge de la Rosa says he's ready to throw and will have an MRI on his finger in the next few days. Justin Duchscherer may come off the DL and start on Saturday. Chipper Jones rested his sore groin today. Jeff Francis threw 7 scoreless Innings in a AA rehab outing, his Fastball averaged 86 mph. Brad Lidge wasn't happy with his bullpen session, Charlie Manuel may have been lying to us! Franklin Morales (shoulder weakness) was put on the 15 day DL. Tim Stauffer could be out 6 weeks after having an emergency appendectomy. J.J. Hardy (wrist) was put on the 15 day DL. Marc Rzepczynski (finger) threw 4.2 scoreless Innings in an extended Spring Training game, striking out 4. He is hoping for a late May return.

Mercenaries: soldiers for hire (less than 60% owned)
58% Alexei Ramírez 1/4, R, 2 RBI, 2B
55% Andruw Jones 1/4, RBI, Y! Rank 44
51% David Freese 1/3, RBI, BB, .321 AVG
51% Alberto Callaspo 2/4, .300 AVG
51% Juan Uribe 1/3, RBI, 3B, BB
51% Casey Blake 1/4, 2 R, RBI, 2B, BB
46% Nate McLouth 1/4, R, RBI, BB
46% Kosuke Fukudome 2/3, R, BB
45% J.D. Drew 2/4, R, RBI, SB, BB, .286 AVG, hit 3rd
45% Erick Aybar 2/5, SB(4)
44% Jeff Francoeur 1/3, 2 RBI, SB
42% Rod Barajas 2/4, R, 2 RBI, 2B
40% Daisuke Matsuzaka 7 IP, ER, 3 H, 0 BB, 9 K, Win
36% Julio Borbón 2/6, RBI, CS(1)
36% Johnny Cueto 9 IP, 0 ER, H, 0 BB, 8 K, Win, 102 pitches
35% Juan Pierre 3/5, R, 2B
30% Scott Rolen 2/3, RBI, 2B, BB
30% Mark Teahen 1/3, R, 2B, BB
29% Cody Ross 1/3, HR(2), R, 2 RBI
28% Corey Hart 1/3, RBI, SB(3)
26% A.J. Pierzynski 1/5, R, 2 RBI, 2B
26% Jhonny Peralta 1/4, 2 RBI, 2B, BB
24% Cristian Guzmán 2/3, 2 R, 2B, 2 BB
22% John Buck 2/3, R, 2B, .270 AVG
16% Aubrey Huff 2/4, R, RBI, 2B
16% Alcides Escobar 2/4, RBI, 2B
14% Delmon Young 1/4, RBI, 2B
13% Starlin Castro 2/4
11% Kyle Blanks 0/2, R, SB, 3 BB
8% Austin Kearns 2/4, 3 R, RBI, BB
8% Yuniesky Betancourt 1/3, R, .283 AVG
8% Jason Varitek 2/3, HR(6), 2 R, RBI, split the uprights
6% Daric Barton 2/7, HR(2), R, 2 RBI, .296 AVG
6% Russell Branyan 3/5, 2 HR(2), 3 R, 3 RBI
6% Troy Glaus 2/5, HR(4), R, 3 RBI, 2B
5% Fred Lewis 2/4, RBI, 2B, .309 AVG
5% Gaby Sánchez 1/4, HR(3), R, RBI
5% David Murphy 2/6, HR(2), 2 R, RBI
5% Brett Myers 6 IP, 2 ER, 8 H, 2 BB, 3 K, Win
4% Ronnie Belliard 2/4, 3 RBI, 2B, BB
4% Jerry Hairston Jr. 1/3, R, 2B, 2 BB
3% Adam Rosales 2/5, BB, .280 AVG
3% Ángel Pagán 2/5, R, RBI
3% Brandon Wood 1/4, R
3% Jim Edmonds 2/5, 2B
2% Sean Rodriguez 2/4, R, 2B
2% Ramón Hernández 2/5, RBI, 2B
2% Garrett Atkins 1/3, RBI
2% David Eckstein 2/2 , 2 RBI, SB, 3 BB, .279 AVG
2% Jake Westbrook 6 IP, ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 2 K, Win
2% Gregg Zaun 2/4
1% Trevor Cahill 5.2 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, K, 13/5 GB/FB
1% Nick Punto 2/4, .276 AVG
1% John Ely 6 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 0 BB, 6 K, Win
1% Geoff Blum 1/3, R, .328 AVG
1% Eric Chávez 2/4, HR(1), 2 R, 2 RBI
1% Jamey Carroll 2/5, R, 2 RBI, .274 AVG
1% Darnell McDonald 1/4, RBI, 2B
1% Eric Hinske 2/2, 3 RBI, 2 2B, 2 BB
1% Dioner Navarro 2/4
1% Freddy García 7 IP, 2 ER, 9 H, 2 BB, 3 K, Win
1% Rob Johnson 2/4, R, RBI
0% Mark Grudzielanek 1/2, RBI, BB, .288 AVG
0% Chris Heisey 3/4, HR(1), 2 R, 2 RBI, BB, 1st Major League hit
0% Tommy Manzella 1/3, RBI, CS
0% Humberto Quintero 1/2, RBI

Universal Soldier Awards
Jean Claude Van Damme Ricky Nolasco 7 IP, ER, 5 H, BB, 3 K, Win
Dolph Lundgren Evan Longoria 2/5, HR(8), R, 4 RBI
Michael Jai White Russell Martin 2/5, HR(4), 2 R, 3 RBI
Andre Arvloski Cliff Lee 7.1, ER, 8 H, 0 BB, 2 K, Win
Bill Goldberg Brad Penny 7 IP, 0 ER, 7 H, 0 BB, 3 K

Quote of the Day “No matter what kind of ballpark they built, it was going to be better than that one,” Ozzie Guillen said before Tweeting, “Target fields best stadium in the american league”. no comments

no comments

All is fair in love and fantasy baseball. If you're new to the game, the only hope you have is to accept the fact that you've already lost. The sooner you accept that, the sooner you'll be able to function as a manager is supposed to function: without mercy, without compassion, without remorse. Winning depends upon it. Arm yourselves and be ye men of valor; for we few, we happy few, we band of brothers shall embark upon a land of bullets, triple slashes and pulled hamstrings.

It could be time to let Fred Lewis back into our fantasy lives. After a slow start, he has his AVG up to .300 and he is leading off for TOR. A .300 hitting leadoff hitter is basically enough to be roster worthy. He is benefiting from a .383 BABIP, but he has a .361 career BABIP so he's not far from the norm. What is really surprising is the .200 ISO coming into today. Fred was given the shaft by SF last year, which must be lingering in people's minds because he is owned in only 4% of Yahoo! leagues. Lewis is capable of a .285/10/20 line with a little room for upside, did I mention he is a leadoff hitter?

The Amazins designated Frank Catalanotto for assignment and called up OF Chris Carter. Carter is tearing up the AAA International League with a .336/.390/.611 line. He has 6 HR (17 XBH) in 113 At Bats with a 8/8 BB/K split and he may or may not have created the X Files. The truth is out there. The well traveled minor leaguer (Arizona, Boston, New York) doesn't strike out too often (13.5%-17.9% in 4 seasons of AAA), takes a few walks (7.7%-13.3%) and has some decent power. He hit 19 HR in 2006, 19 HR in 2007, 24 HR in 2008 and 16 HR in 2009. He stole 10 bases in 2006, but since then he's been quiet on the base paths. I'm not going to pretend I know what the Mets are doing here, Bay and Francoeur are likely entrenched in the corners and Ángel Pagán hasn't been awful. He is worth a speculation grab in NL-Only leagues, the rest of us can put him on the watch list and see what happens.

Call in the Reinforcements Miguel Batista was brought in to close the game for WAS, Matt Capps was given the day off after pitching back-to-back games. Manuel Corpas came into a tie game in the Ninth and did his best Franklin Morales impression, giving up 4 ER, taking the loss. I dropped him immediately and it felt goooooood. Owners in need of Saves may want to hold onto him, but not me. F that noise. Brian Fuentes was rocked [1 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, BB, HR, K] and he now has a 1.57 WHIP, 7.04 ERA and a ridiculous mustache.

Body Count Dontrelle Willis (flu) was scratched from his start, Leyland hopes to use him out of the bullpen tomorrow. Andy Pettite hopes to pitch on Saturday. J.D. Drew (vertigo) was a late scratched from the lineup. John Lannan (elbow discomfort) threw a bullpen session and is expected to start Thursday. Chipper Jones (groin) left the game limping, the wind blew too hard on him. Jair Jurrjens (hamstring) had a set back while sprinting. Does ATL not know how to properly stretch? Someone get them a Richard Simmons tape. Carlos Gomez will likely hit the DL. Brad Hawpe was activated from the DL. Huston Street threw a bullpen session. Jeff Francis will have a 2nd rehab start Tuesday. Rafael Furcal could return Friday if his minor league rehab assignment goes well. Brad Lidge said he felt stiffness in his elbow, possibly normal side effects from surgery. He hopes to be ready tomorrow. Jose Contreras should be universally owned.

Mercenaries: soldiers for hire (less than 60% owned)
54% Ted Lilly? 7 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, 0 BB, K
52% Casey Blake 1/4, RBI, BB
49% Mike Napoli 1/3, HR(2), R, 2 RBI
48% David Ortiz 1/4, RBI
47% Nate McLouth 0/4, 2 R, RBI, BB
41% Rod Barajas 2/4, R, 2B
40% Chris Coghlan 1/4, RBI, SB(4), 2B, BB
33% Joel Piñeiro 6.1 IP, 0 ER, 5 H, BB, 7 K
33% Bronson Arroyo 7 IP, ER, 5 H, BB, 2 K, Win
30% Scott Rolen 2/4, RBI, 2 2B
29% Cody Ross 2/4, R, 2 SB
18% John Buck 2/4, R, 2 RBI, 2B
17% José Bautista 1/2, HR(7), 2 R, 2 RBI, 2 BB
14% Carlos Ruiz 4/5, HR(2), 2 R, 2 RBI
13% John Maine 6 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, 4 BB, 5 K
13% Evan Meek 2 IP, 0 ER, H
10% Dexter Fowler 0/2, 2 R, 2 BB
8% Travis Snider 1/4, RBI
7% Adam Kennedy 1/3, HR(2), R, RBI, SB(5)
5% Troy Glaus 2/4, HR(3), R, RBI, BB
5% Luis Castillo 1/4, RBI
4% Xavier Nady 1/4, R, 2B
4% Melky Cabrera 1/4, R, 2B, BB
3% Jeremy Hermida 1/3, R, BB
3% Ángel Pagán 2/5, HR(2), R, RBI, SB(4)
3% Nate Robertson 6 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 5 K, Win
3% Ronny Cedeño 1/4, HR(1), R, RBI
2% Seth Smith 3/5, 3 R, 2B, 3B
2% Brennan Boesch 2/3, 3 RBI, 3B, BB
2% Matt Diaz 1/4, RBI, BB
2% Blake DeWitt 2/4, RBI, BB
2% John Jaso 3/5, RBI
1% Marcus Thames 1/4, RBI
1% Willy Aybar 1/3, HR(3), R, RBI
1% Jason Giambi 3/4, 3 RBI, 2B
1% Luis Atilano 5.1 IP, 0 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 5 K, Win
1% Ronny Paulino 1/4, HR(2), R, 2 RBI

Universal Soldier Awards
Jean Claude Van Damme Tommy Hanson 8 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, BB, 8 K, Win
Dolph Lundgren Martín Prado 2/5, HR(2), R, 5 RBI
Michael Jai White James Loney 2/4, HR(3), 2 R, 2 RBI, BB
Andre Arvloski Casey McGehee 2/4, HR(7), R, 2 RBI
Bill Goldberg Chad Billingsley 5.1 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 4 BB, 7 K, Win

Quote of the Day “I hate walks. I just absolutely hate them because most of them score, quicker than a base hit. But his next time, hopefully, he can work it out.” -Cito Gaston after Brandon Morrow's 1.2 IP, 6 BB performance no comments

...or do I suck for drafting him?

Everyone knows the story line... Javier Vázquez struggled in New York before (2004) and Ozzie Guillen said he can't pitch in big games. Everyone knew there was going to be some regression leaving the NL East for the AL East, but how much regression was the Million Dollar Question. If he stayed in ATL, Vázquez would have been a top 10 pitcher and a top 5 on some people's cheat sheets. Some people left Vázquez out of their SP ranks altogether and I seen him go in the 2nd Round of a deeper, expert mock auction before the season started, so there were mixed feelings to say the least.

Kaboom: the Implosion There is no other way to say it, Vázquez sucks ass this year!!! I blame him and Julio Borbón for burying one of my H2H teams in the early going. I didn't want him, I was caught trying to drive the price up. Anyway, Javier is rocking a 9.78 ERA and 2.04 WHIP and his ownership level has dropped to 74%. His average Fastball velocity is down over 2 mph (88.9 mph from 91.1 mph in 2009), his Walk Rate has more than doubled (5.87 BB/9 from career avg 2.37 BB/9) and he's allowed 8 HR in 23 Innings. It really can't get much worse. Javier has hit rock bottom and I hate to say it, but he is a half way decent Buy Low target. Ugghhhhhh did I just say that? Yuck.

Reasons for Hope The Yanks pushed back Javier's start so he could get in a bullpen session and work on his mechanics. Pitching coach Dave Eiland worked with Javier to tweak some small details in his delivery to ensure his body is moving in the right direction. Joe Girardi was reportedly encouraged, but there were no details about the velocity. He threw 35 pitches, mainly Fastballs and Changeups. His Fastball (-7.9 runs below avg) and Changeup (-1.4 runs below avg) definitely need work, they've regressed bigtime. Last season his Fastball was valued at 12.7 runs above avg and his Changeup was 10.7 runs above avg. Back in 2004, Javier posted a 1.29 WHIP and 4.91 ERA with the Yankees. Rumors have been spread (by Javier's dad and Jorge Posada) that Vázquez was hurt in the 2nd half and his pre/post All-Star break splits back up the gossip: 1.15 WHIP, 3.56 ERA vs 1.49 WHIP, 6.92 ERA.

Is it possible the bullpen session and small tweaks bring back the real Javier Vázquez? I will be starting him vs DET tomorrow, I have faith. He says he feels more comfortable in New York his second time around and I believe mechanical tweaks can make a big difference for pitchers. Even if he throws well tomorrow, the window to Buy Low won't necessarily close. I'm sure owners will look to dump on him with any kind of positive news that could drum up some trade interest. If I were to project guess what kind of numbers Vázquez posts the rest of the way, I'd say: 1.25 WHIP, 4.30 ERA, 8.2 K/9 with 13 Wins. Of course, he could be hiding an injury... again. He wouldn't even tell Posada about it after his dad did and his velocity fell to 89.3 mph in July of 04 and 87.9 mph in August of 04. I'll be chickenhawking his start tomorrow vs DET, especially his velocity. no comments

All is fair in love and fantasy baseball. If you're new to the game, the only hope you have is to accept the fact that you've already lost. The sooner you accept that, the sooner you'll be able to function as a manager is supposed to function: without mercy, without compassion, without remorse. Winning depends upon it. Arm yourselves and be ye men of valor; for we few, we happy few, we band of brothers shall embark upon a land of bullets, triple slashes and pulled hamstrings.

What is up with Mad Max Scherzer? He was worked over by CLE today [5 IP, 5 ER, 9 H, 3 BB, 4 K] and now has a 1.68 WHIP and 6.81 ERA. Jim Leyland said, "He made a couple bad pitches, obviously”. I was expecting some regression, but damn Gina, I didn't expect this much. So what gives? Obviously he left the NL West for the AL Central, but he has also lost a full 2 mph on his fastball. He throws that sucker almost 70% of the time and it has a value of 5.9 runs below average. The strikeouts are way down, his 5.91 K/9 coming into today is a far cry from his 9.19 K/9 from last year. The scary part is, he is getting batters to swing at pitches outside the zone more often (they're making good contact 72%, league avg is 64.9). Max's BB/9 is better than last year, his BABIP is sitting at his career avg, but his WHIP is not cracking. Mad Max is getting his ass kicked in the Thunderdome, might be time to bail if he doesn't recover the lost velocity. I'm starting to wonder about his shoulder, he has experienced right shoulder tightness, fatigue, inflammation and tendinitis in the past.

Bobby Jenks was awful, getting no Outs and allowing 3 ER on 4 Hits vs TOR. He blew the Save, his first BS, and his numbers look terrible (2.17 WHIP, 6.75 ERA). Ozzie Guillen may give him a temporary break as closer, look for Matt Thornton to run away with the job. Thornton has been lights out since 2008 (1.00 WHIP, 2.68 ERA, 187 K in 154.1 IP) and sports a 14.11 K/9 and 11.50 K/BB this season. Jenks doesn't stand a chance. When asked about the temporary change, Jenks responded, “No, doesn’t even make sense”. Sorry Booby, the only thing that doesn't make sense is what is on your chin, bitch. Take that upside your grill piece.

Derek Holland will be called up to pitch on Wednesday in place of Matt Harrison, who is expected to hit the DL soon. You may remember Holland as the highly prized prospect who was called up a little too early last season. Pitching in TEX is no picnic, but Holland has the tools to succeed. He has a high K Rate, low Walk Rate and has shown the ability to induce ground balls in the minors. Pitching in AAA PCL this year, the 23 year old has been pretty darn good: 4-1, 1.01 WHIP, 0.93 ERA, 37 K in 38.2 IP. This is a good one to speculate on and grab now. One good start and he will be hyped up through the roof.

Call in the Reinforcements Kerry Wood came in to close... the 7th inning. Coach says he's in the closer role on Tuesday. Chris Perez recorded his 5th Save, I'm guessing he finishes the season with 15 Saves. Brian Wilson struck out 5 of the 6 batters he faced to lock up his 7th Save. Tyler Clippard got his 6th vulture Win and Matt Capps pitched a clean 9th for his 13th Save (the Nats have 17 Wins). Brad Lidge finally got his first Save, he pitched a clean Inning. Heath Bell blew a Save, but he didn't allow a Hit, Walk or Earned Run. Not Heath's fault.

Body Count Luis Castillo (bruised heel) wasn't in the lineup. Bengie Molina (tight hamstring) wasn't in the lineup, he hopes to play on Tuesday. Chipper Jones (vagina) didn't play, he is listed as day-to-day. Adrian Gonzalez (sore shoulder) was held out of the starting lineup, but he came in as a defensive replacement in the Ninth. Nelson Cruz will play in rehabilitation games on Tuesday and Wednesday. Carlos Gonzalez returned to Venezuela for a funeral, he is expected back on Wednesday. Casey Kotchman (sore ankle) rested today after being hit by a pitch on Saturday. Mike Cameron will soon make a rehab appearance at AAA.

Mercenaries: soldiers for hire (less than 60% owned)
57% Garrett Jones 1/4, 2 RBI(22)
55% Dallas Braden 9 IP, 0 ER, 0 H, 0 BB, 6 K, Perfect Game
52% Juan Uribe 0/0, R, RBI, 4 BB
52% Liván Hernández 7 IP, ER, 5 H, BB, 3 K
51% Adam LaRoche 1/4, RBI
51% David Freese 0/4, 2 R, RBI, 2 BB
48% David Ortiz 1/4, R, RBI, 2B
47% Josh Willingham 1/2, HR(6), R, RBI, 2 BB
43% J.D. Drew 2/3, R, RBI
41% Chris Coghlan 3/4, R
37% Julio Borbon 2/4, R
34% Juan Pierre 2/4, 2 RBI
29% Corey Hart 2/4, R, 3B
29% Cliff Pennington 1/5, R
21% Ike Davis 2/3, RBI, 2 BB
20% Mike Leake 7 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, BB, 6 K, Win, 1.20 WHIP, 3.10 ERA
18% Austin Kearns 1/4, 2 R, BB
17% Ian Kennedy 7 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, BB, 5 K
17% Nick Blackburn 7 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 0 K, Win
16% Jose Bautista 1/4, RBI, 2B, BB
13% Aaron Rowand 1/4, HR(4), 2 R, 2 RBI, BB
13% Ian Desmond 2/4
12% Carlos Ruiz 1/2, BB, .325 AVG
9% Jason Vargas 7.1 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 4 K, Win
9% Tim Stauffer 5 IP, 0 ER, 6 H, 0 BB, K
8% Ryan Sweeney 2/4, RBI
7% Travis Snider 1/5, RBI, 2B
7% Mike Aviles 3/4, HR(2), 2 R, RBI, .417 AVG
7% Adam Kennedy 1/3, R, BB
6% Daric Barton 3/5, 2 R
5% Troy Glaus 2/3, 2 RBI, BB
5% David Murphy 3/4, R, 2 RBI, 2B
4% Nate Schierholtz 1/5, R
4% Lastings Milledge 1/4, R
4% Adam Rosales 1/3, 2B, BB
4% Omar Infante 3/5, R, 2B
3% Fred Lewis 1/5, HR(2), R, 3 RBI, .294 AVG, leadoff hitter
3% Brendan Ryan 1/4, RBI, BB
3% Jeremy Hermida 2/4, HR(4), R, 3 RBI
3% Ángel Pagán 2/4, R
2% Starlin Castro 1/3
2% Jonny Gomes 1/4, R, RBI, SB, 2B
2% Ramón Hernández 2/3, 2B, BB
2% Jeff Clement 1/4, R
2% Tyler Colvin 1/3, HR(4), R, 2 RBI
2% Blake DeWitt 1/3, R, 2B
2% Gregg Zaun 1/4, HR(2), R, RBI
1% Ramón Santiago 1/3, BB
1% Tony Gwynn 2/5, RBI, SB(7)
1% Chris Narveson 5.2 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 BB, 8 K, Win
1% Brendan Harris 3/4, 2 R, 2B
1% Andrés Torres 1/2, SB(4), 3 BB
1% The Nick Punto 2/3, 2 RBI
1% Jack Wilson 3/3, HR(1), 2 R, 3 RBI, 3B, BB
1% Jamey Carroll 1/3, RBI
0% Max Ramirez 1/2, RBI, 2B, BB
0% Michael Saunders 2/4, HR(1), 2 R, 2 RBI
0% Nick Stavinoha 1/3, 2 RBI, 2B
0% Matt Downs 2/5, RBI
0% Mark Grudzielanek 3/4, R, 2 RBI, SB(1), .281 AVG
0% Andy Marte 1/2, R, 3 RBI, 3B, BB
0% Adam Moore 1/4, RBI
0% Mitch Maier 2/4, R, 2 RBI, 2B
0% Joe Mather 2/6, 2 R, RBI
0% Tyler Greene 1/4, 2 R, RBI, SB, 2B

Universal Soldier Awards
Jean Claude Van Damme Clayton Kershaw 8 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 3 BB, 9 K, Win
Dolph Lundgren Ubaldo Jimenez 7 IP, ER, 2 H, 4 BB, 5 K
Michael Jai White Alex Rios 4/4, HR(6), 3 R, RBI, 2B, BB
Andre Arvloski John Lester 7 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 7 K, Win
Bill Goldberg Vernon Wells 3/5, HR(9), 2 R, 2 RBI

Quote of the Day “I’ve got to go out there and play angry, just like I’m fighting for my life every time I’m in the batter’s box, kind of the way I came up and the way I’ve always done. A lot of people say, ‘Relax and have fun.’ That’s not the way I succeed.” -Hunter Pence no comments

Coming into the season, people were down on Raúl Ibañez. The haters simply could not be happy for Raúl's success. So rather than be happy, they made a point of exposing his flaws. The haters were saying, "Raúl Ibañez is an old bum, he was lucky last year. He is a bust waiting to happen". Now that Ibañez has gotten off to a slow start, I'm sure all those bustas think they're smart. They're not! His .253 AVG and 2 HR does not mean Ibañez is a washed up has-been, it just presents us with a good Buy Low opportunity.

He was Lucky? I never understood the lucky argument. Raúl's BABIP (.290) was 15 points below his career average (.305). It was the first time since the year 2000 that his BABIP was below .300. Oh OK, his HR/FB% made a significant jump from his career 13.0% mark up to 21.1%. Guess what, that's what happens when you leave Safeco for Citizens Bank Park. He went from one of the worst hitter's parks to one of the best. Plus the lineup around him was, let's just say, a little bit better. A 21% HR/FB% is not that hard to duplicate in a hitting environment like Philly.

This season Raúl is sporting a .282 BABIP and 7.1% HR/FB%. The Line Drive Percentage (20%) is good, the Walk Percentage is up, the Strikeouts are OK, he's been unlucky so far. Ibañez may be turning 38 this summer, but he hasn't shown any signs of slowing down. I've turned down offers for him and I recently made a deal for him, shipping out Alfredo Simon for his services. I didn't really need Ibañez, but I wasn't going to turn down an opportunity like that. I was going to post this article a few days ago, but I had to wait for the Million Dollar Trade Offer to be accepted before I exposed my hand. Once the weather heats up and Raúl shakes off the cobwebs, the only thing that can slow him down will be the crazed, taser inducing Philly fans. MDS expects a .290 AVG, 31 HR, 110 RBI and a couple SB. no comments

Twitter is a buzz with Starlin Castro hype. Ryan Theriot is moving to 2nd Base and Castro has been/will be called up from AA. Castro definitely has MLB talent, but he is pretty young (20 years) and hasn't log many at bats in the minors (none above AA). However, the at bats he has logged have been pretty productive. This season Castro was hitting .376 in AA, with a .412 BABIP. He has plenty of speed, but he does get caught stealing (38 SB, 21 CS) so his base running needs refining. People expecting 25 steals could be disappointed like Alcides Escobar owners. Castro doesn't strike out much (10.1% K% this season), is taking walks a little more this season (9 BB, 11 K), hits the ball into the ground to utilize his speed (46% GB% this season) and has developing power. Castro isn't yet available in the Yahoo! player pool so if you want him, you'll have to win the bidding/waiver priority war. There have been plenty of AA all-stars who have struggled after making the jump (Matt Garza, Brandon Wood and Alex Gordon come to mind) so I wouldn't get too worked up about him. I think he'll be fine as a deep league SS/MI option, but I wouldn't expect more than a .270/5/20 line. no comments

All is fair in love and fantasy baseball. If you're new to the game, the only hope you have is to accept the fact that you've already lost. The sooner you accept that, the sooner you'll be able to function as a manager is supposed to function: without mercy, without compassion, without remorse. Winning depends upon it. Arm yourselves and be ye men of valor; for we few, we happy few, we band of brothers shall embark upon a land of bullets, triple slashes and pulled hamstrings.

Ty Wigginton hit his 10th HR! How is a 10 HR second baseman owned in only 64% of Yahoo! leagues? Especially someone like Wiggy who has a cult following of fantasy managers who love multi-position eligible players. He will lose playing time at 2B when Brian Roberts comes back, but Ty has played LF, RF, 3B, 1B and, of course, DH. BAL will be able to find room for his bat. I think it's pretty obvious Wiggy cannot sustain the 32% HR/FB%, but he also has a low .246 BABIP. A correction in BABIP would help counterbalance a drop in Batting AVG when the Fly Balls don't clear the fence as often. Not too many 25 HR, 2B eligible players come off the free agent market, more managers need to Get Wiggy With It.

The 44% owned Carl Pavano looked great vs BAL [8 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, 8 K], minus the aforementioned Ty Wigginton HR. Pavano is now sporting a 1.12 WHIP and 3.43 ERA. He was a poster boy for unlucky pitchers last season with his .335 BABIP. Hip managers, like MDS, drafted him coming into the season... the rest of you need to grab him off the free agent wire. Coming into the game, Carl was rocking a 0.86 BB/9. He had walked 3 batters in 31.1 IP. He had a 7.33 K/BB! Basically we have a pitcher with an average K Rate, superb control and the ability to induce a moderate amount of ground balls. He should be good for a 1.25 WHIP and 3.75 ERA and the Twins are winning a lot of ball games, that is a useful pitcher in most leagues.

What do you think of the 3% owned Scott Olsen? I'm so used to him being worthless, it's hard to believe he's allowed only 1 ER in the past 3 games (20.1 IP). Olsen worked over the Braves today [7.1 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 8 K], taking a No-Hitter into the Eighth. He appears to be a better pitcher than the disappointing Scott Olsen of yesteryear. His fastball velocity is up from the past two seasons (he was reportedly in the low 90s today) and while it is still a slightly below average pitch, it is better than the -15 to -20 runs below average that it was from 2006 to 2009. Olsen is using his Slider and Changeup more, which helps the whiff rate. The rising trend in his F-Strike% is encouraging. The ground ball rate is up. Olsen has made improvements that are sustainable and he can be rostered in leagues (deeper leagues for now) once again. Tim Hudson (who went 7 strong in the game) summed it up nicely, “He’s got pretty good stuff but, let’s be honest here: I don’t think he’s got no-hit stuff”.

Call in the Reinforcements Tyler Clippard [1.2 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 2 BB]was given a chance for a Save, but couldn't leave an inherited runner on base. He was credited with the BS, but got the Win anyway. Matt Capps had pitched on the 4th and 5th and was given the day off. Joakim Soria came in to finish the 8th and gave up Home Runs to Josh Hamilton and Vladi, he took the Blown Save and Loss. Chris Ray (7th) was credited with a Blown Save, Frank Francisco (8th) gave up an Earned Run and got the Win, Neftali Feliz (9th) locked down his 7th Save. Ron Washington basically said Feliz is their best pitcher, "What was great about it, we got their best pitcher and they didn’t get ours." Koji Uehara pitched the 8th for BAL and Alfredo Simon pitched the 9th, recording his 3rd Save. Neither BAL pitcher gave up a hit or walk. Jonathan Broxton gave up 4 H and 2 ER in 1 IP, blowing the Save. He finished with the Win, but has blown two Saves in 3 chances. For all the extrapolaters in the house, Broxton is on pace for 6 Saves this season. Even after today, he still has a 0.93 WHIP and 1.86 ERA, he is still one of the best. LaTroy Hawkins served up a Grand Slam to Andre Ethier in the 9th, hopefully everyone who was Hassling the Hoff Man was starting LaTroy tonight.

Body Count Jason Heyward was held out of the starting lineup, but did come in to pinch-hit. Paul Konerko was scratched with a sore neck, but is expected back for Friday's game. Randy Ruiz rejoined the team after leaving for personal reasons. Carlos Gomez didn't play after hurting his shoulder, he is schedule for a Friday MRI. Erik Bedard (throwing shoulder) threw a pain-free bullpen session on Wed and is expected to pitch in a simulated game on Mon or Tue.

Mercenaries: soldiers for hire (less than 60% owned)
59% Scott Podsednik 2/4, HR(2), R, 4 RBI, 2 SB(11)
56% Garrett Jones 2/4, R, 3 RBI(20), 2B, BB
54% Mark DeRosa 2/4, R, 2 RBI
52% Adam LaRoche 2/4, R, 3B
50% Mike Napoli 1/4, HR(1), R, 2 RBI
49% Nate McLouth 1/3
47% Alberto Callaspo 1/5, HR(5), R, 2 RBI
46% Erick Aybar 2/4, R, SB(3), 2B, BB
45% Juan Rivera 1/4, 2 R, RBI, 2B
38% J.D. Drew 1/3, 2 R, RBI, 2 BB
25% Skip Schumaker 2/4, BB
18% Justin Smoak 1/4, HR(3), R, 3 RBI
13% Jason Kendall 1/4, R, RBI, 2B
10% Carlos Ruiz 3/4, RBI, 2B
9% Aaron Rowand 2/4, R, 2 RBI, 3B
8% Yuniesky Betancourt 1/2, 3 R, 2 BB
7% Adam Kennedy 1/2, R, BB
6% Travis Snider 2/2, R, 2B, BB, CS
6% Aki Iwamura 0/4, 2 R, BB
5% Mike Aviles 1/5, R
5% David Murphy 3/5, R, 2 RBI, 2 2B
5% Dana Eveland 7 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 4 BB, 3 K, Win
4% Andy LaRoche 0/2, 3 R, 3 BB
4% Lastings Milledge 2/3, 4 RBI, 2 2B, BB
4% Xavier Nady 1/4, RBI
4% Jeff Keppinger 1/4, R, 2B
3% Nate Schierholtz 3/3, HR(1), 2 R, 3 RBI, SB(3), BB
3% Jeremy Hermida 1/3, 3 RBI
2% Dave Bush 5 IP, ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 4 K
2% Brad Bergersen 6.2 IP, 0 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 0 K, Win
1% Kila Ka'aihue 1/1, RBI
1% Fred Lewis 2/4, 2 RBI, 2B, CS
1% Geoff Blum 2/4, RBI
1% Jamey Carroll 2/4, 2 R, 2B
1% Willy Aybar 2/5, 2 RBI, 2B
1% Darnell McDonald 1/5, 2 RBI, 2B
1% Gregg Zaun 2/4, 2 RBI
0% Brett Carroll 1/4, R, RBI, 2B
0% Tony Abreu 4/5, R, RBI, 2B
0% Rusty Ryal 1/3, RBI
0% John Ely 6.2 IP, ER, 4 H, 0 BB, 7 K
0% Brian Burres 7 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 4 K, Win
0% Xavier Paul 2/4, 2 R, RBI, SB, 2B, BB
0% Eric Byrnes 6/6, 4 HR, 6 R, 14 RBI, 2B, an illegal SB, 3 beers

Universal Soldier Awards
Jean Claude Van Damme Vladi Guerrero 2/4, 2 HR(5), 2 R, 4 RBI
Dolph Lundgren Dan Haren 9 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, BB, 9 K, Win, 111 pitches
Michael Jai White Jeff Niemann 7 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 6 K, Win
Andre Arvloski Josh Hamilton 3/5, HR(5), 4 R, 3 RBI, 2B
Bill Goldberg Roy Hallady 7 IP, ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 9 K, Win no comments

All is fair in love and fantasy baseball. If you're new to the game, the only hope you have is to accept the fact that you've already lost. The sooner you accept that, the sooner you'll be able to function as a manager is supposed to function: without mercy, without compassion, without remorse. Winning depends upon it. Arm yourselves and be ye men of valor; for we few, we happy few, we band of brothers shall embark upon a land of bullets, triple slashes and pulled hamstrings.

Brett Gardner stole his 13th base. He went 1 for 3, which actually lowered his AVG to .346. He was ranked 16th (Yahoo!) among all players coming into the game today and is only owned in 60% of leagues. He's not going to continue hitting for such a high AVG, but he has taken more Walks, cut down on the Strikeouts and is hitting the ball into the ground more than ever so he can hit .290 or better. Considering he already has 52 SB in 175 career games, it's safe to call Gardner a poor man's Jacoby Ellsbury. He should be owned in a lot more leagues. I shouldn't have traded him.

The 1% owned Trevor Cahill pitched 5 Innings at home vs TEX today. He didn't allow an Earned Run while scattering 5 H, 3 BB and striking out 4 K, getting the Win. The 22 year old has the ability to get strike outs, limit walks and induce ground balls with his sinker. He isn't necessarily great in any one area (yet), but he is still getting better and has a lot of potential. The data is only for one start, but Cahill's fastball is up 1.2 mph which would put him in line with the improvements he made as the season went along last year. I think Cahill is bound to improve his strike out numbers from last season and catch up on some of the ground lost to the once often compared Brett Anderson. He isn't quite standard league starter worthy yet, but he should be owned in more than 1% of Yahoo! leagues.

Cahill's Avg Fastball Velocity
88.0 mph Mar/Apr 09
89.2 mph May 09
89.8 mph June 09
90.1 mph July 09
90.9 mph August 09
90.8 mph Sept/Oct 09
91.0 mph Mar/Apr 10

José Contreras [0.58 WHIP, 1.04 ERA] came in with a four run lead and finished the game for PHI. The gun on TV said he was hitting 97 mph and his pitches had good movement. He hasn't allowed a walk yet and has struck out 14 batters in 8.2 Innings. I have been on the receiving end of a Contreras hot streak (I know the cheat code), some may remember his 18-1 record from August 05 through June 06. I don't believe he will steal many, if any, Saves from Brad Lidge, but there are Contreras supporters out there. Some even believe Contreras will end the season with more Saves than Lidge. There are a lot of Ryan Madson backers out there who are wandering, lost, waiting for a Brad Lidge Blown Save to unite under the José Contreras banner. With McNabb and Iverson (again) out of town, all the crazies will have their attention focused on Lidge. Anyway, Contreras should be picked up in most leagues, he is rostered in all 6 of my leagues, but is owned in only 6% of Yahoo! leagues.

Kris Medlen will start on Saturday in place of the injured Jair Jurrjens. That game is in PHI so the matchup and location are not desirable situations, but Medlen is solid and worthy of a roster spot in more than 2% of Yahoo! leagues. Medlen has used his Curve less this year and is favoring his Fastball and Changeup more often. His K Rate was taken a small hit, but his control has shown significant improvement. His F-Strike% is up 2.6%, his Zone% is up 4.6% and his BB/9 is down to 1.62. Medlen was a well hyped prospect who could be a nice post hype sleeper. Watch list material for standard leagues (for his first start), worth grabbing now in deeper leagues. Start him @PHI at your own risk, he's been beat up by the Phils in the past.

Call in the Reinforcements Chris Perez [1.2 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 2 K] was credited with his second Loss and Blown Save because of the CLE defense. Francisco Cordero blew his second Save, giving up a run on two hits. This was his third straight appearance (took the Loss yesterday). Alfredo Aceves got the one out Save for the NYY. Mariano Rivera was ready to return, the Yanks didn't appear to need him with a 4 Run lead heading into the Ninth. Matt Capps finally has a blemish on his record, he took a loss vs ATL by allowing 2 hits and an ER in 2 Innings. Brian Fuentes gave up a solo HR to Adrian Beltre with his team already behind BOS. The 4% owned Juan Gutiérrez (0-4) took another loss for ARI, his ERA is 7.30 and can be dropped in all leagues. Edward Mujica blew a Save... in the 6th Inning. Franklin Morales walked two without getting anyone out, Manny Corpas threw 2.2 Inning in extra frames for the Win. It won't be long until Corpas is getting Saves in COL.

Body Count CLE is hopeful Asdrubal Cabrera (quad) can return on Friday. George Laird says he is ready to play after fouling a pitch off his shin on Tuesday. Jason Heyward left the game in the second inning with a sore groin, “I don’t know what I did. I couldn’t tell you, to be honest,” Heyward said. “When I got back to my position, it felt sore.” Heyward is day-to-day. Jair Jurrjens (hamstring) was put on the 15 Day DL. Milton Bradley is out indefinitely with emotional issues.

Mercenaries: soldiers for hire (less than 60% owned)
59% Iván Rodríguez 2/5, RBI, 2B, .405 AVG
59% Rajai Davis 1/3, R, SB(12), 6 game hit streak
56% Garrett Jones 2/4, 2 RBI, 2B
55% Casey Blake 1/5, RBI
53% Nick Swisher 1/3, HR(5), R, RBI, BB
50% Nate McLouth 1/4, RBI, 2B, BB, CS(2)
49% David Ortiz 2/3, HR(4), R, RBI, BB
47% Todd Helton 2/6
46% Andruw Jones 1/4, HR(9), R, 3 RBI, BB
46% Alberto Callaspo 2/4, RBI(17), .303 AVG
41% Orlando Cabrera 3/5, HR(3), R, 2 RBI
36% Johnny Cueto 6 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 8 K
33% Mark Teahen 2/4, RBI, 2B
31% Juan Pierre 2/5, 2 R, SB(15)
30% Orlando Hudson 0/3, 2 R, BB
28% Chris Snyder 1/2, 2 BB, .269 AVG
27% Nolan Reimold 2/3, HR(2), R, 2 RBI, BB
27% Cliff Pennington 1/3, R
21% Clint Barmes 3/5, R, 3 RBI, 2B
18% Alcides Escobar 1/2, R, RBI, 3B, BB, CS
13% Aubrey Huff 1/3, BB, .280 AVG
13% Kyle Blanks 2/5, R, 2 RBI, 2B
13% Gerardo Parra 2/4, 2 RBI, 2B, 3B
13% Jason Kendall 2/3, 2B, .292 AVG
12% Dexter Fowler 2/5, R, SB(3), BB
12% Brandon Morrow 5.1 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 4 BB, 9 K
12% José Bautista 1/4, R
10% Nick Johnson 3/3, HR(2), 2 R, RBI, 2B, 2 BB
10% Ian Desmond 1/5, HR(3), 2 R, RBI
9% Kevin Kouzmanoff 1/3, RBI, BB
9% Carlos Gómez 1/5, 2 R, .276 AVG
8% Aaron Rowand 1/5, HR(3), R, 2 RBI
8% Casey Kotchman 1/4, R, 2B
8% Randy Winn 1/3, R, SB
7% Adam Kennedy 1/3, R
6% Travis Snider 1/4, RBI
6% Daric Barton 2/3, R, RBI, 2B, BB, .292 AVG
5% Gaby Sánchez 2/4, RBI, batted 2nd in lineup (may stay)
4% Brett Myers 7 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, 6 K
4% Travis Hafner 1/3, HR(3), 2 R, RBI
4% Troy Glaus 1/4, R, RBI, BB
4% Matt LaPorta 2/3
4% Ronnie Belliard 2/3, BB, .289 AVG
4% Jerry Hairston Jr. 1/5, R, RBI
3% Brandon Wood 1/3, HR(2), R, RBI
3% Seth Smith 1/3, RBI, 3B
3% Omar Infante 2/4, HR(1), 2 R, 2 RBI, BB
3% Nate Robertson 5.1 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, BB, 3 K
2% Mike Aviles 2/4, R
2% Mike Fontenot 1/3, RBI
2% Ramón Hernández 1/4, RBI
2% Jonny Gomes 2/4, HR(3), 2 R, RBI
2% Reid Brignac 1/1, R, RBI, 2B
2% Ángel Pagán 3/4, R, SB(3), BB
2% Matt Diaz 2/5, R, RBI, 2B
2% Chris Getz 1/4, RBI
1% Alex Avila 2/3, 2 HR(2), 2 R, 2 RBI, BB
1% Fred Lewis 3/5, R, 2 2B, .273 AVG
1% Luis Valbuena 1/3, RBI, 2B
1% Julio Lugo 3/4, R, BB
1% Ryan Church 1/4, HR(2), R, RBI
1% Rodrigo López 7 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB, 4 K
1% Kyle Kendrick 7 IP, 0 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 3 K, Win
1% Freddy García 6 IP, 2 ER, 10 H, 0 BB, 4 K, Win
1% Dioner Navarro 1/3, 2 R, 2B, BB
0% Roger Bernadina 2/4, 2 R, 2B
0% Brett Carroll 1/3, R, .297 AVG
0% Bobby Crosby 2/4, R, 2B, CS
0% Matt Downs 2/2, R, 2B, 2 BB
0% Eric Patterson 1/3, HR(2), R, RBI, SB(2), BB
0% Tommy Manzella 1/3, HR(1), R, 2 RBI
0% Charlie Morton 6 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 0 BB, 3 K, Win

Universal Soldier Awards
Jean Claude Van Damme Miguel Cabrera 3/3, 2 HR(7), 2 R, 2 RBI, BB
Dolph Lundgren John Lackey 7 IP, ER, 2 H, 2 BB, 4 K, Win
Andre Arvloski Matt Garza 8 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, BB, 5 K, Win no comments

Catch the special episode of Starbonell Station on Blog Talk Radio at 7 PM Central. Yours truly will be a guest on the LIVE show and the call-in number is 347-324-3827 in case you want to tell Chris how much you love Vernon Wells. no comments