Yahoo! Sports Rumors is reporting that Washington Redskins owner Daniel Snyder would like to acquire Giants defensive end Michael Strahan.
While Snyder is typically one to get what he wants when he wants (well, except for wins, playoff appearances and Super Bowls), I highly doubt the Giants would deal Strahan to a team within their division. My feeling is that the Giants would rather see Strahan retire than to trade him, if just simply out of principle.
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Marlings SP Josh Johnson Undergoes Tommy John Surgery
Marlins young star SP Josh Johnson underwent Tommy John surgery on Friday, thus putting his career on hold. The surgery will keep him out not only the rest of this season, but all of 2008. In fact, Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez made mention that he is basically hoping Johnson is ready for Spring Training 2009.
Not good news for fantasy owners. Yearly leagues can cut him this season and write him off until draft day 2009. We might be seeing the next Kerry Wood-like career beginning, as Johnson has had a tough time staying healthy during his career to this point. If he isn't going to cost you anything, hold onto him in keeper leagues, but if you need to create a roster spot, let this kid go at this point.
Not good news for fantasy owners. Yearly leagues can cut him this season and write him off until draft day 2009. We might be seeing the next Kerry Wood-like career beginning, as Johnson has had a tough time staying healthy during his career to this point. If he isn't going to cost you anything, hold onto him in keeper leagues, but if you need to create a roster spot, let this kid go at this point.
Question of the Day: Gordon or Butler?
Sometime around the weeks leading up to the April 1st Opening Day of the 2007 MLB season, if I posed this question to anyone, I would have been laughed at and banned from ever participating in baseball conversations, let alone fantasy leagues.
However, now that we have the benefit of hindsight, this question is as legit as it gets. Who would you rather have for now and for the future; Billy Butler or Alex Gordon? Well, the easiest way to determine this is to look at the stats;
Alex Gordon's stats through Friday's games;
Billy Butler's stats through Friday's games;
Now, let's first keep this in perspective. The fact that we can have this conversation alone bodes well for the future of the Kansas City Royals. Regardless of who the better prospect is, the Royals have a very bright future. Going back to the beginning of the season, Baseball America ranked Alex Gordon as the 2nd best prospect in the entire minor leagues, while Butler was ranked a "lowly" 25th on the annual rankings. So, did BBA get it wrong? Not necessarily.
While Gordon has looked lost at times at the plate, he is a very good defensive player at a position that is not exactly loaded with offensive fire power. It certainly isn't the weakest position around, but when comparing a 3B to an OF (or perhaps even just a DH in Butler's case), the 3B certainly gets a few more points for the positional need. Couple that with the fact that Gordon already has more stolen bases this season than Butler will ever have in his entire career, so he is surely the more "complete" player.
But, Billy Butler has accumulated offensive numbers that either compare or surpass Gordon's in 43% of the at bats. That is production that is tough to argue with! Unfortunately for fantasy baseball enthusiasts, BBA takes into consideration factors, or "tools", that are completely irrelevant to a fantasy squad. Sure, Gordon has a good arm and plays excellent defense -- but, who cares? A fantasy team does not score points based on those factors, thus BBA rankings are not necessarily the most legit ranking system to use when analyzing fantasy baseball prospects.
If the trends continue they way they have been so far this season, then Butler is the guy who will help your team more over the long-haul. Do keep in mind that Butler is playing this well at 21-years old while Gordon is 23. That doesn't sound like much, but in the end it might give light to the fact that Butler's ceiling is higher as batters tend not to hit their prime until they are 27-years old.
If I'm drafting today, I have Butler slightly higher on my list than Gordon, but points have to be given to Gordon based on his position.
However, now that we have the benefit of hindsight, this question is as legit as it gets. Who would you rather have for now and for the future; Billy Butler or Alex Gordon? Well, the easiest way to determine this is to look at the stats;
Alex Gordon's stats through Friday's games;
| AB | HR | AVG | RBI | R | SB |
| 366 | 8 | .243 | 37 | 44 | 10 |
Billy Butler's stats through Friday's games;
| AB | HR | AVG | RBI | R | SB |
| 159 | 4 | .296 | 30 | 16 | 0 |
Now, let's first keep this in perspective. The fact that we can have this conversation alone bodes well for the future of the Kansas City Royals. Regardless of who the better prospect is, the Royals have a very bright future. Going back to the beginning of the season, Baseball America ranked Alex Gordon as the 2nd best prospect in the entire minor leagues, while Butler was ranked a "lowly" 25th on the annual rankings. So, did BBA get it wrong? Not necessarily.
While Gordon has looked lost at times at the plate, he is a very good defensive player at a position that is not exactly loaded with offensive fire power. It certainly isn't the weakest position around, but when comparing a 3B to an OF (or perhaps even just a DH in Butler's case), the 3B certainly gets a few more points for the positional need. Couple that with the fact that Gordon already has more stolen bases this season than Butler will ever have in his entire career, so he is surely the more "complete" player.
But, Billy Butler has accumulated offensive numbers that either compare or surpass Gordon's in 43% of the at bats. That is production that is tough to argue with! Unfortunately for fantasy baseball enthusiasts, BBA takes into consideration factors, or "tools", that are completely irrelevant to a fantasy squad. Sure, Gordon has a good arm and plays excellent defense -- but, who cares? A fantasy team does not score points based on those factors, thus BBA rankings are not necessarily the most legit ranking system to use when analyzing fantasy baseball prospects.
If the trends continue they way they have been so far this season, then Butler is the guy who will help your team more over the long-haul. Do keep in mind that Butler is playing this well at 21-years old while Gordon is 23. That doesn't sound like much, but in the end it might give light to the fact that Butler's ceiling is higher as batters tend not to hit their prime until they are 27-years old.
If I'm drafting today, I have Butler slightly higher on my list than Gordon, but points have to be given to Gordon based on his position.
Parker Held Out of Practice for 4th Day in a Row
Steelers star RB Willie Parker was held out of practice for the 4th consecutive day on Saturday, due to swelling in his knee. The Steelers say it is merely precautionary and that Parker will be back at full strength very soon.
This might be something to keep your eye on, as many experts have looked at Parker with curious eyes as to whether he is big enough to handle a full-time workload. Last year was his first season doing such, so this knee swelling might be a sign of things to come. I've never been one that wanted to put my fantasy eggs in the Willie Parker basket and this news does nothing to make me want to change that belief. Keep your eyes and ears open on this one.
This might be something to keep your eye on, as many experts have looked at Parker with curious eyes as to whether he is big enough to handle a full-time workload. Last year was his first season doing such, so this knee swelling might be a sign of things to come. I've never been one that wanted to put my fantasy eggs in the Willie Parker basket and this news does nothing to make me want to change that belief. Keep your eyes and ears open on this one.
Kyle Davies Rocky in First Start With Royals
Kyle Davies got off to a rough career in the American League today by giving up 5 runs on 6 hits and 3 walks in just 3 innings to the New York Yankees. The Yankees actually had multiple opportunities to tag Davies for even more runs; however failed to do so.
Well Mr. Davies, you ain't in Atlanta anymore. I would actually argue that Davies' fantasy stock increases somewhat on the Royals then when he was with Atlanta, simply due to the fact that he will be given every chance to start and learn from his mistakes. While those mistakes may come to bite you in your fantasy ass if you choose to lean on him too hard, he remains a talented pitcher that has many years to go before you need to worry about him not figuring things out. He's a good long-term prospect for keeper leagues and simply ran into an offensive juggernaut today in the Yankees. You can't blame the kid for not being on his "A-game" today at Yankee Stadium.
But hey, at least he entered into the record books! Kyle Davies will forever be known as the answer to, "What pitcher gave up Alex Rodriguez's 500th career homerun?" There ya go, Kyle! There is a positive side to everything!
Well Mr. Davies, you ain't in Atlanta anymore. I would actually argue that Davies' fantasy stock increases somewhat on the Royals then when he was with Atlanta, simply due to the fact that he will be given every chance to start and learn from his mistakes. While those mistakes may come to bite you in your fantasy ass if you choose to lean on him too hard, he remains a talented pitcher that has many years to go before you need to worry about him not figuring things out. He's a good long-term prospect for keeper leagues and simply ran into an offensive juggernaut today in the Yankees. You can't blame the kid for not being on his "A-game" today at Yankee Stadium.
But hey, at least he entered into the record books! Kyle Davies will forever be known as the answer to, "What pitcher gave up Alex Rodriguez's 500th career homerun?" There ya go, Kyle! There is a positive side to everything!
Salty Seriously Struggling
In his transition to the American League and his new team, the Texas Rangers, Jarrod Saltalamacchia has been struggling enormously. Through the 7th inning of Saturday afternoon's game, Salty has been humbled to the tune of 1 hit in his first 16 at bats as an American Leaguer.
Couple the slump with the fact that Salty has yet to strap on the catcher's gear, and his value is beginning to plummet. The promising prospect played 25 games behind the plate with the Braves, so his ability to be used as a catcher in 2008 should be safe in most every fantasy league. However, unless the Rangers make it a point to move Gerald Laird in the offseason, there might come a time where you wish to sell of Salty on a high note within the next year.
Saltalamacchia remains an elite talent and in now way should you give up on him now; however, I simply caution you of what may lie ahead. The kid is simply making an adjustment right now, and is certainly seeing more power pitching than he ever had seen in the National League East. He will figure things out in due time.
Couple the slump with the fact that Salty has yet to strap on the catcher's gear, and his value is beginning to plummet. The promising prospect played 25 games behind the plate with the Braves, so his ability to be used as a catcher in 2008 should be safe in most every fantasy league. However, unless the Rangers make it a point to move Gerald Laird in the offseason, there might come a time where you wish to sell of Salty on a high note within the next year.
Saltalamacchia remains an elite talent and in now way should you give up on him now; however, I simply caution you of what may lie ahead. The kid is simply making an adjustment right now, and is certainly seeing more power pitching than he ever had seen in the National League East. He will figure things out in due time.
Hughes Smacked Around in Return
Well, so much for that 8 1/3 of no-hit ball, huh? Phil Hughes, making his return to the Yankees rotation, showed signs of brilliance here and there. However, at the end of the day, he gave up a 6-2 lead to the Royals, lasting only 4 1/3 innings while giving up 7 hits, 6 earned runs and striking out 5.
All in all, the outing had massive highs (striking out the side in the 2nd inning) and some horrible lows (4 runs given up in the top of the 5th), but for his first start back since May 1st, we can't complain too much. Hughes remains an immense talent and now might be a good time to swoop in and attempt to acquire him, especially in keeper leagues.
All in all, the outing had massive highs (striking out the side in the 2nd inning) and some horrible lows (4 runs given up in the top of the 5th), but for his first start back since May 1st, we can't complain too much. Hughes remains an immense talent and now might be a good time to swoop in and attempt to acquire him, especially in keeper leagues.
Vladdy Guerrero Turns It On
Vladimir Guerrero had his second two-homerun night in as many nights, both against the Oakland Athletics. As was the case in both nights, the first homerun was a pitch that 99% of major leaguers wouldn't even attempt to swing at, let alone hit for a homerun. The second in each night was a pure mistake pitch by the pitcher.
Hey Athletics! How 'bout you stop pitching to this guy? When Vladdy gets hot, he gets HOT! Hopefully you made the move to buy him low in the past few weeks when he had gone 39 days without a homer, because if not, it is too late. Look for him to go on a massive tear from here on out to post typical Vladdy-like numbers.
Hey Athletics! How 'bout you stop pitching to this guy? When Vladdy gets hot, he gets HOT! Hopefully you made the move to buy him low in the past few weeks when he had gone 39 days without a homer, because if not, it is too late. Look for him to go on a massive tear from here on out to post typical Vladdy-like numbers.
Huge Morning for Arod, Hughes & Yankees!
UPDATE: Hughes' streak of no-hit ball just came to an end at 8 1/3 innings. Of course, it was stretched out over the course of almost 3 months due to his injury; however, you have to give it up to the kid. He's mature and he's going to be the "make or break" player for the Yankees as to whether they make the playoffs. Perhaps the reason the Yankees didn't make a blockbuster deal at the deadline was because Hughes and Joba Chamberlain were their "acquisitions".
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The Yankees received a massive shot in the arm in the first inning of today's game vs. Kansas City. Today marked the return of super-prospect Philip Hughes, looking dominant in his first inning of work since May 1st when he pitched 6 1/3 innings of no-hit ball against the Rangers.
That was then followed up in by Arod finally nailing his 500th career homerun by way of a 3-run jack in the first inning off of newly acquired Royals' starting pitcher Kyle Davies. This homerun should not only loosen Arod up from here on out, but the team as well.
Robinson Cano continued his torrid power hitting streak with a triple in the bottom of the 1st to cap off a 4-run opening frame. Then Hughes came back in the top-half of the second to strike out the side. All in all, through 1 1/2 innings, the Yankees have received a major confidence boost.
While Arod never should have been inactive on your squad despite his recent struggles, look for him to go on a tear now that he got over this hump.
If Hughes was available for some reason, get him now! Otherwise, he is one of those guys that it is worth selling the farm for to acquire. He will be a rock-solid foundation to your fantasy staff for the next decade-plus.
..............
The Yankees received a massive shot in the arm in the first inning of today's game vs. Kansas City. Today marked the return of super-prospect Philip Hughes, looking dominant in his first inning of work since May 1st when he pitched 6 1/3 innings of no-hit ball against the Rangers.
That was then followed up in by Arod finally nailing his 500th career homerun by way of a 3-run jack in the first inning off of newly acquired Royals' starting pitcher Kyle Davies. This homerun should not only loosen Arod up from here on out, but the team as well.
Robinson Cano continued his torrid power hitting streak with a triple in the bottom of the 1st to cap off a 4-run opening frame. Then Hughes came back in the top-half of the second to strike out the side. All in all, through 1 1/2 innings, the Yankees have received a major confidence boost.
While Arod never should have been inactive on your squad despite his recent struggles, look for him to go on a tear now that he got over this hump.
If Hughes was available for some reason, get him now! Otherwise, he is one of those guys that it is worth selling the farm for to acquire. He will be a rock-solid foundation to your fantasy staff for the next decade-plus.
Friday, August 3, 2007
Drew Stanton Out for Season
According to ESPN's Len Pasquarelli the Detroit Lions rookie quarterback, Drew Stanton, is out for the season. Stanton recently had arthroscopic knee surgery that will make his services unavailable until the 2008 pre-season. The surgery came after the rookie had swelling in his knee Sunday evening.
On an odd note, the Detroit Lions had originally stated following Stanton's surgery that he would be back and ready to go on the field in just 2-4 weeks. Something between that original stated timeline and today caused Lions officials to alter that statement, now saying they will be shutting him down for the year.
Is it just me or is the difference between "2-4 weeks" and "entire season" quite a large one? Something is a little fishy here, and I'm assuming the Lions officials simply botched this one. I love William C. Ford, the Lions owner -- I had the privilage of speaking to him on a daily basis about intimate Lions matters for two years -- but, he has surrounded himself by many incompetent people and this is just another event that gives light to that. I have no doubt we will hear more about this mysterious injury in the coming days.
As far as the fantasy factor, there was no telling whether or not the Lions would have opted for Stanton at some point this season. Chances are, if Jon Kitna didn't make good on his "10-wins" prediction (keep smoking whatever that is, Jon), Stanton would have seen the playing field for atleast the last 4 games of the season. Now, Kitna is obviously a safe bet all year while Stanton is simply left as an iffy-keeper in deeper leagues. Kitna's stock goes up due to job security while Stanton's plummets as this puts him a full year behind the curve.
On an odd note, the Detroit Lions had originally stated following Stanton's surgery that he would be back and ready to go on the field in just 2-4 weeks. Something between that original stated timeline and today caused Lions officials to alter that statement, now saying they will be shutting him down for the year.
Is it just me or is the difference between "2-4 weeks" and "entire season" quite a large one? Something is a little fishy here, and I'm assuming the Lions officials simply botched this one. I love William C. Ford, the Lions owner -- I had the privilage of speaking to him on a daily basis about intimate Lions matters for two years -- but, he has surrounded himself by many incompetent people and this is just another event that gives light to that. I have no doubt we will hear more about this mysterious injury in the coming days.
As far as the fantasy factor, there was no telling whether or not the Lions would have opted for Stanton at some point this season. Chances are, if Jon Kitna didn't make good on his "10-wins" prediction (keep smoking whatever that is, Jon), Stanton would have seen the playing field for atleast the last 4 games of the season. Now, Kitna is obviously a safe bet all year while Stanton is simply left as an iffy-keeper in deeper leagues. Kitna's stock goes up due to job security while Stanton's plummets as this puts him a full year behind the curve.
Neifi Perez Get Slapped With 80-Game Suspension
In the only time that you will ever see Neifi Perez's name mentioned on a fantasy sports site (well, because he is one of the most irrelevant players in baseball), the Tigers' bench-sitting SS was slapped with an 80-game suspension today by MLB.
This was the second time in less than one month that Perez was caught taking illegal stimulants, which leads to the question of why Neifi Perez would even need stimulants...and, if he was taking stimulants, he should release his dealer's name to the press so that no other athlete in the world will ever purchase their product, which obviously is horrendous in quality.
Hey Neifi! Did you forget who you are? Your are freaking Neifi Perez! You sit on the bench! What the hell are stimulants going to do for you when you don't even get to swing a bat?!? This is the equivalent of David Eckstein injecting 'Roids into his ass. I mean, c'mon. I can understand Bonds, Sosa and McGwire 'roiding up, because it would actually help them! That is the point of cheating, right? To get an advantage? Unless Neifi was overdosing on Viagra and Ciales, the man got ripped off on whatever stimulants he was buying. A .172 batting average with 1 homer and 6 rbi's doesn't exactly sounds like they were doing a whole hell of a lot, now do they?
He might just end up being the most insignificant player in baseball history to ever get banned for stimulants. But, this does make you wonder...if Neifi Perez of all people is taking stimulants, don't you think many others are too?
This was the second time in less than one month that Perez was caught taking illegal stimulants, which leads to the question of why Neifi Perez would even need stimulants...and, if he was taking stimulants, he should release his dealer's name to the press so that no other athlete in the world will ever purchase their product, which obviously is horrendous in quality.
Hey Neifi! Did you forget who you are? Your are freaking Neifi Perez! You sit on the bench! What the hell are stimulants going to do for you when you don't even get to swing a bat?!? This is the equivalent of David Eckstein injecting 'Roids into his ass. I mean, c'mon. I can understand Bonds, Sosa and McGwire 'roiding up, because it would actually help them! That is the point of cheating, right? To get an advantage? Unless Neifi was overdosing on Viagra and Ciales, the man got ripped off on whatever stimulants he was buying. A .172 batting average with 1 homer and 6 rbi's doesn't exactly sounds like they were doing a whole hell of a lot, now do they?
He might just end up being the most insignificant player in baseball history to ever get banned for stimulants. But, this does make you wonder...if Neifi Perez of all people is taking stimulants, don't you think many others are too?
O's Tab Baez as New Closer
UPDATE: Baez nailed down a save on his first night on the job. I truly feel that Chris Ray is going to be out for the season; therefore, make a move to obtain Baez if you need the saves. Only in deeper leagues would Baez already be had, so he is probably sitting right there on your waiver-wire to be claimed. What are you waiting for? Go!
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Say adios to the Orioles excruciatingly confusing "Closer By Committee" situation between Chad Bradford and Jamie Walker. So, which one did manager Dave Trembley go with?
Well...neither, actually. Former closer Danys Baez has been pitching lights out since his return from the DL, prompting Trembley to offer the closer job to him. Baez will only hold down the position until Chris Ray returns, but I believe by the sound of Ray's injury it is less of a "when" Ray returns as it is an "IF" he returns. Ray's diagnosis does not sound good and I would not be the least bit surprised to hear within a week that Ray is being shutdown for the season. Keep your ears open on this one.
As for Baez, he's been horribly inconsistent as a setup man, but when he was a closer, he was damn good at it. Let's see if he can get a little bit of that magic back. Baez is obviously far more valuable now than when he was a setup man, so go and grab him as a high-risk closer. Don't expect the world from him, but if he settles in nicely, you might just have picked yourself up a nice little surprise. If you are a Chris Ray owner, then obtaining Baez is an absolute must, just as a safety net in case Ray is indeed out long-term.
......
Say adios to the Orioles excruciatingly confusing "Closer By Committee" situation between Chad Bradford and Jamie Walker. So, which one did manager Dave Trembley go with?
Well...neither, actually. Former closer Danys Baez has been pitching lights out since his return from the DL, prompting Trembley to offer the closer job to him. Baez will only hold down the position until Chris Ray returns, but I believe by the sound of Ray's injury it is less of a "when" Ray returns as it is an "IF" he returns. Ray's diagnosis does not sound good and I would not be the least bit surprised to hear within a week that Ray is being shutdown for the season. Keep your ears open on this one.
As for Baez, he's been horribly inconsistent as a setup man, but when he was a closer, he was damn good at it. Let's see if he can get a little bit of that magic back. Baez is obviously far more valuable now than when he was a setup man, so go and grab him as a high-risk closer. Don't expect the world from him, but if he settles in nicely, you might just have picked yourself up a nice little surprise. If you are a Chris Ray owner, then obtaining Baez is an absolute must, just as a safety net in case Ray is indeed out long-term.
Carlos Zambrano Leaves Game Early
Cubs ace and free-agent-to-be Carlos Zambrano left today's game vs. the Mets after the 5th inning due to dehydration and cramps. The Cubs trainers do not believe this is anything to worry about.
Zambrano is a tough guy, so he must have been feeling pretty bad today to leave the game that early. His exhaustion clearly showed in his stat line with giving up 7 walks, very un-Zambrano-like. Despite Zambrano's early season struggles, he's put up one hell of a year statistically, which simply goes to show you just how dominant this guy can be. You don't need to worry about this event today at all. Assume Zambrano will be back and as good as ever for his next start.
Zambrano is a tough guy, so he must have been feeling pretty bad today to leave the game that early. His exhaustion clearly showed in his stat line with giving up 7 walks, very un-Zambrano-like. Despite Zambrano's early season struggles, he's put up one hell of a year statistically, which simply goes to show you just how dominant this guy can be. You don't need to worry about this event today at all. Assume Zambrano will be back and as good as ever for his next start.
Dempster Gets Rocked
In a 2-2 game in the top of the 9th, Cubs closer Ryan Dempster proceeded to give up 4 runs, allowing the Mets to walk away with a 6-2 victory.
Dempster is a fairly safe start in most leagues and is commonly an underrated source of saves. You may be able to acquire him on the cheap after this horrendous outing; however, buyer beware. Despite Angel Guzman's being moved to the 60-day DL, there is a common belief that Dempster will eventually be moved to the starting rotation while Guzman finishes out the season as the Cubs closer.
With the Cubs now in the thick of things in regards to winning their division, this seems somewhat unlikely. However, with each implosion that Dempster has from here on out, the probability of this becomes all the more likely. Guzman is a must have in all keeper leagues due to his upside, despite his injury concerns.
Dempster is a fairly safe start in most leagues and is commonly an underrated source of saves. You may be able to acquire him on the cheap after this horrendous outing; however, buyer beware. Despite Angel Guzman's being moved to the 60-day DL, there is a common belief that Dempster will eventually be moved to the starting rotation while Guzman finishes out the season as the Cubs closer.
With the Cubs now in the thick of things in regards to winning their division, this seems somewhat unlikely. However, with each implosion that Dempster has from here on out, the probability of this becomes all the more likely. Guzman is a must have in all keeper leagues due to his upside, despite his injury concerns.
Off Topic: Dan "Ya Know" Uggla
Note to Dan Uggla, second baseman for the Florida Marlins...I'd like the 10-minutes of my life back, between 3:40 and 3:50 p.m. (EST), that I spent listening to your interview on the Mike & Murray Show on Sirius Channel 123 (Sports Action).
During this 10 minute interview with Uggla, the supremely talented infielder must have said the phrase "You Know" over 100 times. I kid you not. In 600 seconds, that two word phrase was spoken over 100 times. There was even one point where there was a stretch of 12 words spoken, 8 of them being the comprised of the phrase "You Know."
From a listener's perspective, it became a little funny when hosts Bruce Murray and Mike Yam (tremendous duo by the way! Worth the subscription alone!) caught the "You Know" virus and started saying it themselves. While Bruce and Mike are never entirely "professional" in regards to their topics, they always deliver their insights as well spoken as anyone. So, to hear them fall into the massive pit dug by Uggla was a little humorous.
During this 10 minute interview with Uggla, the supremely talented infielder must have said the phrase "You Know" over 100 times. I kid you not. In 600 seconds, that two word phrase was spoken over 100 times. There was even one point where there was a stretch of 12 words spoken, 8 of them being the comprised of the phrase "You Know."
From a listener's perspective, it became a little funny when hosts Bruce Murray and Mike Yam (tremendous duo by the way! Worth the subscription alone!) caught the "You Know" virus and started saying it themselves. While Bruce and Mike are never entirely "professional" in regards to their topics, they always deliver their insights as well spoken as anyone. So, to hear them fall into the massive pit dug by Uggla was a little humorous.
Calvin Johnson Inked to 6-Year Deal
Nicholas J. Cotsonika, of the Detroit Free Press, is reporting that the Detroit Lions have locked up their #1 pick (2nd overall) to a 6-year deal at the maximum slotted value of $64 million.
This is great news for fantasy owners. Feel free to draft Calvin Johnson now without any hesitation as he will undoubtedly be the Lions #2 option behind Roy Williams. If you are in a keeper league, his value increases tremendously as he can be a major cog on your team for the next ten years. Do not underestimate this kid's talent and don't hesitate to "reach" a bit for him in keeper leagues, perhaps has high as the 5th overall WR taken.
Look for 2006 "Where the Hell Did He Come From?" Award Winner, Mike Furrey, to steal some reception. Jon Kitna clearly had great chemistry with him last year to the tune of 98 receptions. While Furrey's 2006 numbers are clearly out of reach this time around, do not expect him to haul in less than 50 receptions this year.
Reasonable expectations for Calvin are around 60 receptions for 1,050 yards and 8 TD's...definitely worthy of a #2 WR slot on your team and #1 production down the road on keeper teams.
This is great news for fantasy owners. Feel free to draft Calvin Johnson now without any hesitation as he will undoubtedly be the Lions #2 option behind Roy Williams. If you are in a keeper league, his value increases tremendously as he can be a major cog on your team for the next ten years. Do not underestimate this kid's talent and don't hesitate to "reach" a bit for him in keeper leagues, perhaps has high as the 5th overall WR taken.
Look for 2006 "Where the Hell Did He Come From?" Award Winner, Mike Furrey, to steal some reception. Jon Kitna clearly had great chemistry with him last year to the tune of 98 receptions. While Furrey's 2006 numbers are clearly out of reach this time around, do not expect him to haul in less than 50 receptions this year.
Reasonable expectations for Calvin are around 60 receptions for 1,050 yards and 8 TD's...definitely worthy of a #2 WR slot on your team and #1 production down the road on keeper teams.
Steinbrenner's Health Failing?
In a sad story, Newsday, the Daily News and NY Post are all reporting that George Steinbrenner's health has deteriorated so far that he is now suffering from dementia. I strongly suggest you give this quick article a look over, as it is awfully scary to see just how far one's health can tumble so quickly.
Whether you love the Yankees or hate them, whether you love The Boss or hate him, it doesn't matter when it comes to someone's health. This is a shame to see happen as Steinbrenner has been one of the game's greatest assets for 30+ years now. Perhaps one of the greatest businessmen this country has ever seen, he took a franchise that he purchased for $10 million from CBS Broadcasting and turned it into a franchise that Forbes recently valued at approximately $1.2 billion! The man is a genius and should have a wing to himself in the Hall of Fame when the time comes. He almost single-handedly made the game what it is today over the last thirty years due to his recognition that stars make the game sell, not necessarily winning.
If you are a baseball fan of any kind, this is some very sad news.
For fantasy owners, while this might not seem like that big of a deal right now, it will have tremendous impact on baseball. Steinbrenner's two sons do not have any interest in taking control of the team, and even if they did, they could never run it to the level their father has. The Yankees may very well have some dark days ahead should The Boss not be The Boss anymore.
Whether you love the Yankees or hate them, whether you love The Boss or hate him, it doesn't matter when it comes to someone's health. This is a shame to see happen as Steinbrenner has been one of the game's greatest assets for 30+ years now. Perhaps one of the greatest businessmen this country has ever seen, he took a franchise that he purchased for $10 million from CBS Broadcasting and turned it into a franchise that Forbes recently valued at approximately $1.2 billion! The man is a genius and should have a wing to himself in the Hall of Fame when the time comes. He almost single-handedly made the game what it is today over the last thirty years due to his recognition that stars make the game sell, not necessarily winning.
If you are a baseball fan of any kind, this is some very sad news.
For fantasy owners, while this might not seem like that big of a deal right now, it will have tremendous impact on baseball. Steinbrenner's two sons do not have any interest in taking control of the team, and even if they did, they could never run it to the level their father has. The Yankees may very well have some dark days ahead should The Boss not be The Boss anymore.
SoCal Power Outage No More!
In a massive Enron-like power outage, Vladimir Guerrero had gone weeks without hitting a longball. He changed that last night against Chad Gaudin and the Oakland A's when he jacked two shots which drove in three runs total.
It was nice to see Vladdy get back to his old ways so quickly. I was beginning to worry about him. Vladdy continues to be one of the purest hitters in the game and should never be reserved in any league.
Believe it or not, Vlad the Impaler is only 31 years old! So, the guy still has plenty of years left in him. Keep him active and keep him on your roster. Unless you can score a slew of young, sure-fire prospects, I see no reason to deal him at this point in his career.
It was nice to see Vladdy get back to his old ways so quickly. I was beginning to worry about him. Vladdy continues to be one of the purest hitters in the game and should never be reserved in any league.
Believe it or not, Vlad the Impaler is only 31 years old! So, the guy still has plenty of years left in him. Keep him active and keep him on your roster. Unless you can score a slew of young, sure-fire prospects, I see no reason to deal him at this point in his career.
JoJo's Sad Song Back to Triple-A
JoJo Reyes was sent packing his bags to head back to Triple-A after a horrendous run with the Braves in his first taste of big league action.
Through and inside source, FantasyNewz has learned what the slip from GM John Schuerholz said waiting in JoJo's locker...
Through and inside source, FantasyNewz has learned what the slip from GM John Schuerholz said waiting in JoJo's locker...
Get Out, (leave) right now,
It's the end of you and me
It's too late (now) and I can't wait for you to be gone
'Cause I've seen your stats (what) and I wonder (why) how I bought all the lies
You said that you would pitch for us right but you were just a waste of time (waste of time)
While Reyes is still a viable option in keeper leagues, he more than likely won't see the light of day in a major league ballpark from here on out through the completion of the season. Keep an eye on his minor league stats upon his return. Perhaps he can get things straightened out, but I continue to stress the fact that he just doesn't have major league caliber stuff.
It's the end of you and me
It's too late (now) and I can't wait for you to be gone
'Cause I've seen your stats (what) and I wonder (why) how I bought all the lies
You said that you would pitch for us right but you were just a waste of time (waste of time)
While Reyes is still a viable option in keeper leagues, he more than likely won't see the light of day in a major league ballpark from here on out through the completion of the season. Keep an eye on his minor league stats upon his return. Perhaps he can get things straightened out, but I continue to stress the fact that he just doesn't have major league caliber stuff.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Teixeira Feeling Right at Home
Mark Teixeira, the former Georgia Tech Yellow Jacket, apparently feels right at home in the Braves lineup. For the second consecutive night, Big Tex jacked a longball.
Unfortunately for Atlanta, Teixeira can't pitch, because the back end of this rotation is an absolute mess. As I stated the last few days, Jo-Jo Reyes is an over hyped prospect and not ready for the big leagues (in my opinion, he never will be). Tonight's statline for Jo-Jo;
IP: 3.0
ER: 4
Hits: 5
BB: 4
Not a line you like to see out of the man who is going to be your #5 starter through the rest of the season. The problem is, there really isn't anyone in the minors that is ready to take his spot. The Braves may end up shopping the waivers before long, but if they don't do it soon, it just might be too little too late because of Jo-Jo.
Unfortunately for Atlanta, Teixeira can't pitch, because the back end of this rotation is an absolute mess. As I stated the last few days, Jo-Jo Reyes is an over hyped prospect and not ready for the big leagues (in my opinion, he never will be). Tonight's statline for Jo-Jo;
IP: 3.0
ER: 4
Hits: 5
BB: 4
Not a line you like to see out of the man who is going to be your #5 starter through the rest of the season. The problem is, there really isn't anyone in the minors that is ready to take his spot. The Braves may end up shopping the waivers before long, but if they don't do it soon, it just might be too little too late because of Jo-Jo.
Minor Additions, Major Impact
In the past two days, the Dodgers, Rangers, Mariners and Diamondbacks each brought up arguably their top current offensive prospects.
Dodgers: Delwyn Young was recalled from Triple-A. What the role of this former second baseman turned outfielder will be is still undecided. There is a chance that with Jeff Kent's tweaked hamstring, that Young may get a few starts at his old position. Regardless of where he plays, this kid is an offensive powerhouse and has proved that he can dominate Triple-A. His spits show that there is nothing to make you believe otherwise will occur in the majors. He is a tremendous prospect that should be starting in place of Luis Gonzalez (free agent) next season.
Rangers: Sammy Sosa got the bad news that he will be losing most all of his at bats to a mammoth of a man in Jason Botts. Botts doesn't just make other players scared with his size, but he makes the ball pretty damn scared too. In his second stint with the Rangers, the ballclub has notified him that he will be their full-time DH from here on out. This just might be Botts' last chance to prove that he is more than just a Quadruple-A player. He continuously dominates Triple-A while he seems to stall out upon reaching the majors. His 0-5 performance in his 2007 debut Wednesday night was nothing to write home about; however, he banged a long double during the Thursday afternoon game, which hopefully breaks the ice. Botts is an absolute must have in all leagues, as his upside is along the likes of Ryan Howard-like power.
Mariners: The Mariners have notified their Triple-A team that the big league club will be bringing up former shortstop turned outfielder Adam Jones. In what capacity he will be playing is still unknown, but it is a common belief that the Mariners would not be bringing their prized possession up without giving him a full-time gig. Look for Jose Vidro to lose some at bats from the DH position in the near future. Jones is a 5-tool monster who was among the Triple-A leaders in every offensive category. This addition is basically the Mariners "deadline move" and to be honest with you, they now have as good a player as anyone could have hoped to acquire. Jones is a must-have keeper, as he will be patrolling the outfield, hitting .300 and knocking out 30+ homers while knocking in 100+ RBI's for many years to come. He is one of those guys that you just might have to sell the farm to trade for -- but he is damn well worth it!
Diamondbacks: The DBacks are bringing up one of the most hyped outfielders to come along in quite some time, Justin Upton. There are very few analysts who believe that Upton won't live up to these enormous expectations. Upton, the 1st pick in the 2005 draft, has his organization abuzz with his abilities. Like Jones, Upton is an enormous 5-tool player, but has received far more accolades along the way. I view him as a more costly Adam Jones, so if you had to trade for one or the other, I'd opt for the guy who was going to cost me less to trade for yet offer similar, if not identical, production in Jones. Upton is one of those guys that owners hold on to with an iron hard grasp, thus it is often detrimental to your teams future in order to acquire a guy like this.
Dodgers: Delwyn Young was recalled from Triple-A. What the role of this former second baseman turned outfielder will be is still undecided. There is a chance that with Jeff Kent's tweaked hamstring, that Young may get a few starts at his old position. Regardless of where he plays, this kid is an offensive powerhouse and has proved that he can dominate Triple-A. His spits show that there is nothing to make you believe otherwise will occur in the majors. He is a tremendous prospect that should be starting in place of Luis Gonzalez (free agent) next season.
Rangers: Sammy Sosa got the bad news that he will be losing most all of his at bats to a mammoth of a man in Jason Botts. Botts doesn't just make other players scared with his size, but he makes the ball pretty damn scared too. In his second stint with the Rangers, the ballclub has notified him that he will be their full-time DH from here on out. This just might be Botts' last chance to prove that he is more than just a Quadruple-A player. He continuously dominates Triple-A while he seems to stall out upon reaching the majors. His 0-5 performance in his 2007 debut Wednesday night was nothing to write home about; however, he banged a long double during the Thursday afternoon game, which hopefully breaks the ice. Botts is an absolute must have in all leagues, as his upside is along the likes of Ryan Howard-like power.
Mariners: The Mariners have notified their Triple-A team that the big league club will be bringing up former shortstop turned outfielder Adam Jones. In what capacity he will be playing is still unknown, but it is a common belief that the Mariners would not be bringing their prized possession up without giving him a full-time gig. Look for Jose Vidro to lose some at bats from the DH position in the near future. Jones is a 5-tool monster who was among the Triple-A leaders in every offensive category. This addition is basically the Mariners "deadline move" and to be honest with you, they now have as good a player as anyone could have hoped to acquire. Jones is a must-have keeper, as he will be patrolling the outfield, hitting .300 and knocking out 30+ homers while knocking in 100+ RBI's for many years to come. He is one of those guys that you just might have to sell the farm to trade for -- but he is damn well worth it!
Diamondbacks: The DBacks are bringing up one of the most hyped outfielders to come along in quite some time, Justin Upton. There are very few analysts who believe that Upton won't live up to these enormous expectations. Upton, the 1st pick in the 2005 draft, has his organization abuzz with his abilities. Like Jones, Upton is an enormous 5-tool player, but has received far more accolades along the way. I view him as a more costly Adam Jones, so if you had to trade for one or the other, I'd opt for the guy who was going to cost me less to trade for yet offer similar, if not identical, production in Jones. Upton is one of those guys that owners hold on to with an iron hard grasp, thus it is often detrimental to your teams future in order to acquire a guy like this.
Salty No Longer a Catcher?
Despite common assumption, Jarrod Saltalamacchia started at 1B today. Now, that is not entirely Earth shattering news given that the Rangers, 1) No longer have a true 1B with the trading of Mark Teixeira, and 2) Have one of the better defensive catchers in the league in Gerald Laird.
What is shocking though is that Salty played 1B despite the Rangers backup catcher being in the lineup in place of Laird! Adam Melhuse allowed Laird to rest instead of putting the more proven Salty behind the plate.
This could just be a one-time where the Rangers wanted to give Salty some time to settle in to his new ballclub, but it is definitely something to keep an eye one if it becomes a habit. While Salty has a great future as a hitter, his value takes a huge hit if he only ends up being 1B eligible in leagues. Salty's 25-games played at the Catcher position should be enough in most leagues to allow him to be placed there again next season. And the Rangers should be moving Laird in the offseason to a team in need of a defensive catcher. But then again...the Rangers should have played Salty at catcher today, and we see how that really went.
Stay tuned to this one in keeper leagues. This could make the world of difference in Salty's future value.
What is shocking though is that Salty played 1B despite the Rangers backup catcher being in the lineup in place of Laird! Adam Melhuse allowed Laird to rest instead of putting the more proven Salty behind the plate.
This could just be a one-time where the Rangers wanted to give Salty some time to settle in to his new ballclub, but it is definitely something to keep an eye one if it becomes a habit. While Salty has a great future as a hitter, his value takes a huge hit if he only ends up being 1B eligible in leagues. Salty's 25-games played at the Catcher position should be enough in most leagues to allow him to be placed there again next season. And the Rangers should be moving Laird in the offseason to a team in need of a defensive catcher. But then again...the Rangers should have played Salty at catcher today, and we see how that really went.
Stay tuned to this one in keeper leagues. This could make the world of difference in Salty's future value.
Matsui, Cano, Paulino beginning to heat up
Keep your eyes out for Hideki Matsui and Robinson Cano of the Yankees, and Ronny Paulino of the Pirates. All three have begun monster tears in the past 10 days that have their averages and power numbers rising.
While Cano's numbers have been climbing steadily for some time, he recently has found his power stroke. Cano is a young player with immense talent to target in any league, but especially keeper leagues. See if his owner still will offer him as a "buy-low" player, but at this point with his average over .300 and his stroke going well, that might be a stretch. Still worth an acquisition regardless, though.
Matsui's found his power numbers increase as well and now is hovering around the .300 mark. Given that his "year to date" stats are not all that impressive (some owners do in fact only look at that!), you might get him at a discount. He's not a youngster anymore, but he will be a proven commodity in your outfield for the next two to three seasons.
Ronny Paulino was expected to be a tremendous asset to any team this year given his position (catcher) and the fact that he led the majors in batting average this spring training while flexing his homerun hitting muscles. Well, he might just finally be finding that stroke. He is most-definitely a buy-low candidate, so find out who owns him and lowball for him immediately!
While Cano's numbers have been climbing steadily for some time, he recently has found his power stroke. Cano is a young player with immense talent to target in any league, but especially keeper leagues. See if his owner still will offer him as a "buy-low" player, but at this point with his average over .300 and his stroke going well, that might be a stretch. Still worth an acquisition regardless, though.
Matsui's found his power numbers increase as well and now is hovering around the .300 mark. Given that his "year to date" stats are not all that impressive (some owners do in fact only look at that!), you might get him at a discount. He's not a youngster anymore, but he will be a proven commodity in your outfield for the next two to three seasons.
Ronny Paulino was expected to be a tremendous asset to any team this year given his position (catcher) and the fact that he led the majors in batting average this spring training while flexing his homerun hitting muscles. Well, he might just finally be finding that stroke. He is most-definitely a buy-low candidate, so find out who owns him and lowball for him immediately!
Sleeper Wide Receivers
There is one sleeper WR this season that many teams are pinning their hopes on, especially in keeper leagues...Vincent Jackson, San Diego Chargers. Jackson is a giant target with speed to spare. Couple that with the fact that he is entering into his third season in the NFL (WR's have a history of breaking out in their 3rd year of play), that he is part of the most dynamic offenses in the league and that everyone on the field has to be watching Tomlinson each and every down -- well, Jackson might have just found the perfect system to put up some monster stats.
With Keenan McCardell's departure, Jackson will now start opposite rookie Craig Davis, with Eric Parker more than likely lining up in the slot (their two positions will probably be fairly interchangeable with one another's). While Jackson will see no shortage of double teams should he impress early on in the season, those Defensive Backs must always favor the Chargers option to run, if even just the slightest bit, which will allow Jackson to turn on the afterburners and streak on down the sidelines.
Look for Jackson to post numbers for your squad that you would come to expect out of a solid #2 WR on a fantasy team. He may very well turn into a #1 option; however, he has a little bit of maturing to do with his skills. A reasonable return on investment seems to be expecting 65 receptions for 1,100 yards and 7 touchdowns. If he can put up those numbers, he is well on his way to becoming a Top-10 Fantasy WR in the coming years.
The second WR to keep your eye on is Dwayne Bowe. While most fantasy owners have their sights set on Calvin Johnson first and Robert Meacham second, you should be doing the smart thing and keeping your eyes on the Chiefs new #1 wideout. Bowe is was unquestionably the second most talented receiver in the draft to Calvin Johnson. Not only that, but he was placed on a team with no other receiving talent around him, but with one of the most dominant RB's the game has ever seen in Larry Johnson. That formula might not sound like having the making of a monster year, but remember, Bowe is just a rookie so don't expect the world. Despite the great year Marques Colston had last season, he still only ranked around 20th in fantasy points in leagues that awarded 1 point per reception (PPR). So, if you take Bowe, you aren't looking for him to be your team's receiving cornerstone.
Regardless of whether Huard or Croyle man the helm this season in the Chief's offense, Bowe will get his fair share of looks. Like Jackson, Bowe will be the beneficiary of having defensive backs attempting to cover his speedy route running while also keeping an eye on bone crushing runner, Larry Johnson. A respectable return from Bowe would be along the lines of 50 receptions for 900 yards and 5 touchdowns. Again, solid, but do not lean on him as a cornerstone.
With Keenan McCardell's departure, Jackson will now start opposite rookie Craig Davis, with Eric Parker more than likely lining up in the slot (their two positions will probably be fairly interchangeable with one another's). While Jackson will see no shortage of double teams should he impress early on in the season, those Defensive Backs must always favor the Chargers option to run, if even just the slightest bit, which will allow Jackson to turn on the afterburners and streak on down the sidelines.
Look for Jackson to post numbers for your squad that you would come to expect out of a solid #2 WR on a fantasy team. He may very well turn into a #1 option; however, he has a little bit of maturing to do with his skills. A reasonable return on investment seems to be expecting 65 receptions for 1,100 yards and 7 touchdowns. If he can put up those numbers, he is well on his way to becoming a Top-10 Fantasy WR in the coming years.
The second WR to keep your eye on is Dwayne Bowe. While most fantasy owners have their sights set on Calvin Johnson first and Robert Meacham second, you should be doing the smart thing and keeping your eyes on the Chiefs new #1 wideout. Bowe is was unquestionably the second most talented receiver in the draft to Calvin Johnson. Not only that, but he was placed on a team with no other receiving talent around him, but with one of the most dominant RB's the game has ever seen in Larry Johnson. That formula might not sound like having the making of a monster year, but remember, Bowe is just a rookie so don't expect the world. Despite the great year Marques Colston had last season, he still only ranked around 20th in fantasy points in leagues that awarded 1 point per reception (PPR). So, if you take Bowe, you aren't looking for him to be your team's receiving cornerstone.
Regardless of whether Huard or Croyle man the helm this season in the Chief's offense, Bowe will get his fair share of looks. Like Jackson, Bowe will be the beneficiary of having defensive backs attempting to cover his speedy route running while also keeping an eye on bone crushing runner, Larry Johnson. A respectable return from Bowe would be along the lines of 50 receptions for 900 yards and 5 touchdowns. Again, solid, but do not lean on him as a cornerstone.
Sleeper Running Backs
In continuing with the "sleeper" topic, let's venture over to everybody's favorite fantasy football hoarding position -- RB's.
As far as this sleeper designation goes, backs such as Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch do not qualify, in that we know they are talented, know they have big contracts, thus know they are going to get a helluva lot of touches each and every game. What we are looking more for here are those lesser known rookies and second year players. Let's have a looksy, shall we?
The first one to discuss on the docket today is Brandon Jackson of the Green Bay Packers. Let's be serious here...for exactly how long can Brett Favre hand the ball off to Vernand Morency? I'd say somewhere along the lines of four weeks or so. After that, Brandon Jackson and WR Greg Jennings will prove to be the talented foundation that the Packers' future is built around.
Jackson is a fairly dynamic back, not unlike longtime Cheesehead Ahman Green. Like Green, Jackson has no problems running routes and screens while catching the ball out of the backfield. While Jackson may not be as explosive a runner as Green was in his prime, the rookie is certainly an upgrade over the 2005-2007 versions of Green.
Look for Jackson to put up respectable numbers of 900 yards rushing, 35 receptions, 290 yards receiving and total times hit paydirt around 7. Nothing to scoff at for a late pick on draft day and definitely something to build upon if you are in Keeper / Dynasty league.
Our second RB on the list is Chris Henry. Believe it or not, but Henry might have just as much potential as Vikings rookie Adrian Peterson...I kid you not. But you know what they say about potential, right? Potential is what gets Coaches fired!
Henry has tremendous skills but has forever been one of those guys who just can't put it together once he hits the field. Nobody has ever truly been able to figure out why that is, thus nobody has succeeded in polishing off those skills. Coach Jeff Fisher thinks that he might be that guy. Henry is in a tremendously beneficial situation for his career, where he can continue to polish those skills while LenDale White polishes off the buffet table. For insurance measures, the Titans swallows their pride and brought back the oft-injured Chris Brown.
Assuming the Titans can find a pair of pants that can fit White's rapidly expanding ass, Henry will be in a three-way battle for touches in the backfield. You can rest assured that Fisher will split up the carries fairly equally throughout the season with the loss of his premier back, Travis Henry, during the offseason.
Look for Henry to put up less than eye opening stats of 700 yard rushing, 15 receptions for 120 yards and totalling 6 touchdowns. The main thing to watch for is not how many stats he puts up each week, but whether he is being efficient with his skills. If the Titans can get his inconsistencies under control, then they drafted themselves a steal!
As far as this sleeper designation goes, backs such as Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch do not qualify, in that we know they are talented, know they have big contracts, thus know they are going to get a helluva lot of touches each and every game. What we are looking more for here are those lesser known rookies and second year players. Let's have a looksy, shall we?
The first one to discuss on the docket today is Brandon Jackson of the Green Bay Packers. Let's be serious here...for exactly how long can Brett Favre hand the ball off to Vernand Morency? I'd say somewhere along the lines of four weeks or so. After that, Brandon Jackson and WR Greg Jennings will prove to be the talented foundation that the Packers' future is built around.
Jackson is a fairly dynamic back, not unlike longtime Cheesehead Ahman Green. Like Green, Jackson has no problems running routes and screens while catching the ball out of the backfield. While Jackson may not be as explosive a runner as Green was in his prime, the rookie is certainly an upgrade over the 2005-2007 versions of Green.
Look for Jackson to put up respectable numbers of 900 yards rushing, 35 receptions, 290 yards receiving and total times hit paydirt around 7. Nothing to scoff at for a late pick on draft day and definitely something to build upon if you are in Keeper / Dynasty league.
Our second RB on the list is Chris Henry. Believe it or not, but Henry might have just as much potential as Vikings rookie Adrian Peterson...I kid you not. But you know what they say about potential, right? Potential is what gets Coaches fired!
Henry has tremendous skills but has forever been one of those guys who just can't put it together once he hits the field. Nobody has ever truly been able to figure out why that is, thus nobody has succeeded in polishing off those skills. Coach Jeff Fisher thinks that he might be that guy. Henry is in a tremendously beneficial situation for his career, where he can continue to polish those skills while LenDale White polishes off the buffet table. For insurance measures, the Titans swallows their pride and brought back the oft-injured Chris Brown.
Assuming the Titans can find a pair of pants that can fit White's rapidly expanding ass, Henry will be in a three-way battle for touches in the backfield. You can rest assured that Fisher will split up the carries fairly equally throughout the season with the loss of his premier back, Travis Henry, during the offseason.
Look for Henry to put up less than eye opening stats of 700 yard rushing, 15 receptions for 120 yards and totalling 6 touchdowns. The main thing to watch for is not how many stats he puts up each week, but whether he is being efficient with his skills. If the Titans can get his inconsistencies under control, then they drafted themselves a steal!
Fantasy Football Sleeper Picks
Hey, the fact is that it doesn't take a genius to draft LaDanian Tomlinson, Steven Jackson or Larry Johnson. Guys like them are the rock-solid foundation that you build your team around.
...But, in order to take your team to the top, you need to be that squad that grabs the all important sleeper turned fantasy stud. Last year we were treated to a plethora of them in Marques Colston, Maurice Jones-Drew, Joseph Addai and many others.
This season it appears that the sleeper options in your draft might be toned down just a little bit when compared to 2006. So, without further adieu, let's look at who might be that breakout player that takes you to the promised land.
Sleeper Quarterbacks:
There really isn't much going on here in terms of sleepers. Vince Young can no longer be considered a sleeper, and in my opinion neither can Matt Leinart nor Jay Cutler. We have been expecting things out of them, thus we are aware of their immediate upsides.
There are two names that stand out to me that most others may just glance over and not given a second thought to. The first; Joey Harrington.
I know, I know. We're talking about Joey "Friggin" Harrington here. He of the completely inept Detroit Lions. Believe it or not, Joey held his own down on South Beach last season despite a pathetic offense around him (which he can thank much in part to Ronnie Brown). Harrington is now the man in the ATL and actually might have some weapons around him.
With the newly acquired Joe Horn becoming a primary target, Harrington will have someone to look for on deep routes assuming Horn can stay healthy (that is a big assumption, I know). Couple that with the tremendously talented young RB, Jerious Norwood and the equally versatile Warrick Dunn (who should be back in action beginning in Week 4) and you all of a sudden have a fairly dynamic offense to work within.
Bobby Petrino's system was not meant for Michael Vick anyway. Petrino prefers your stereotypical pocket passing quarterback, something that Harrington very much fits the mold of (despite showing running abilities at times in Detroit, that was merely him running for his life - he'd much prefer to just sit in the pocket).
Now, don't get me wrong here. Harrington is not going to blow you away by dropping stats of 30 TD's and 4,000 yards passing on you. But, he is going to be far more a productive backup than you might think. He is a perfect guy to use a final round draft pick on in order to have some security if your first-stringer goes down in a heap.
The other quarterback I have my eye on is surprisingly very similar to Harrington; however, far more talented. David Carr of the Carolina Panthers is anything but washed up. Many Texans fans wanted Carr to pay some of his signing bonus back because they felt he was sitting on his ass too much. The fact is though that he was only lying down on the job because he could barely ever stand up straight for more than 40 seconds at a time before getting pummeled by the opposing defensive line.
Let's put it this way...if the U.S. Government put the detainees at Guantanamo Bay through the same inhumane punishment that the Texans offensive line put David Carr through, we'd be asking for Dubya's resignation speech tomorrow!
But now Carr is in a better place...a place where he can enjoy a growing city while sipping Mint Juleps and enjoying "Southern Hospitality". Well, he might not be able to relax too much, as Jake Delhomme might be on the hot seat this season. Delhomme is, in my opinion, the second most overrated quarterback in the NFL (the first was Michael Vick, but we don't have to worry about that anymore, now do we!). Delhomme just doesn't get it done and this year more than ever leaves no excuses for him.
With a solid offensive line, a new zone blocking scheme that will allow DeAngelo Williams and Deshaun Foster to flourish, Steve Smith running down one sideline and the sure-handed Trojan Dwayne Jarrett on the other, Delhomme better have one helluva year if he wants to keep his job. My guess is that by Week 8 Carr is making noise while being at the helm in the Panther backfield. And if Carr is as good as we thought he was, then you better watch out for some monster second half stats!
...But, in order to take your team to the top, you need to be that squad that grabs the all important sleeper turned fantasy stud. Last year we were treated to a plethora of them in Marques Colston, Maurice Jones-Drew, Joseph Addai and many others.
This season it appears that the sleeper options in your draft might be toned down just a little bit when compared to 2006. So, without further adieu, let's look at who might be that breakout player that takes you to the promised land.
Sleeper Quarterbacks:
There really isn't much going on here in terms of sleepers. Vince Young can no longer be considered a sleeper, and in my opinion neither can Matt Leinart nor Jay Cutler. We have been expecting things out of them, thus we are aware of their immediate upsides.
There are two names that stand out to me that most others may just glance over and not given a second thought to. The first; Joey Harrington.
I know, I know. We're talking about Joey "Friggin" Harrington here. He of the completely inept Detroit Lions. Believe it or not, Joey held his own down on South Beach last season despite a pathetic offense around him (which he can thank much in part to Ronnie Brown). Harrington is now the man in the ATL and actually might have some weapons around him.
With the newly acquired Joe Horn becoming a primary target, Harrington will have someone to look for on deep routes assuming Horn can stay healthy (that is a big assumption, I know). Couple that with the tremendously talented young RB, Jerious Norwood and the equally versatile Warrick Dunn (who should be back in action beginning in Week 4) and you all of a sudden have a fairly dynamic offense to work within.
Bobby Petrino's system was not meant for Michael Vick anyway. Petrino prefers your stereotypical pocket passing quarterback, something that Harrington very much fits the mold of (despite showing running abilities at times in Detroit, that was merely him running for his life - he'd much prefer to just sit in the pocket).
Now, don't get me wrong here. Harrington is not going to blow you away by dropping stats of 30 TD's and 4,000 yards passing on you. But, he is going to be far more a productive backup than you might think. He is a perfect guy to use a final round draft pick on in order to have some security if your first-stringer goes down in a heap.
The other quarterback I have my eye on is surprisingly very similar to Harrington; however, far more talented. David Carr of the Carolina Panthers is anything but washed up. Many Texans fans wanted Carr to pay some of his signing bonus back because they felt he was sitting on his ass too much. The fact is though that he was only lying down on the job because he could barely ever stand up straight for more than 40 seconds at a time before getting pummeled by the opposing defensive line.
Let's put it this way...if the U.S. Government put the detainees at Guantanamo Bay through the same inhumane punishment that the Texans offensive line put David Carr through, we'd be asking for Dubya's resignation speech tomorrow!
But now Carr is in a better place...a place where he can enjoy a growing city while sipping Mint Juleps and enjoying "Southern Hospitality". Well, he might not be able to relax too much, as Jake Delhomme might be on the hot seat this season. Delhomme is, in my opinion, the second most overrated quarterback in the NFL (the first was Michael Vick, but we don't have to worry about that anymore, now do we!). Delhomme just doesn't get it done and this year more than ever leaves no excuses for him.
With a solid offensive line, a new zone blocking scheme that will allow DeAngelo Williams and Deshaun Foster to flourish, Steve Smith running down one sideline and the sure-handed Trojan Dwayne Jarrett on the other, Delhomme better have one helluva year if he wants to keep his job. My guess is that by Week 8 Carr is making noise while being at the helm in the Panther backfield. And if Carr is as good as we thought he was, then you better watch out for some monster second half stats!
What To Watch Tonight...
If you have ESPN-U, consider yourself lucky (I don't, unfortunately).
Thursday night at 8:00 p.m. "U" is showing a Summer League Baseball matchup between the Battle Creek Bombers and host Rochester. While this game itself might not sound entirely intriguing, I ask that you look out for one player who I believe will make major waves in MLB in the years to come.
David Sappelt, left fielder for the Coastal Carolina University Chanticleers, leads Battle Creek with a .329 batting average this season in 45 games. He also has 13 doubles and 10 stolen bases for the Bombers. Essentially, Sappelt is a 5-tool player and those are not easy to come by.
While this Chanticleer might not hear his name called in the first five rounds or so come draft day next season, I have no doubt in my mind that he has all the ability in the world to become a superstar within the game's highest level.
Treat yourself to his quality of play this evening. You won't be disappointed.
Thursday night at 8:00 p.m. "U" is showing a Summer League Baseball matchup between the Battle Creek Bombers and host Rochester. While this game itself might not sound entirely intriguing, I ask that you look out for one player who I believe will make major waves in MLB in the years to come.
David Sappelt, left fielder for the Coastal Carolina University Chanticleers, leads Battle Creek with a .329 batting average this season in 45 games. He also has 13 doubles and 10 stolen bases for the Bombers. Essentially, Sappelt is a 5-tool player and those are not easy to come by.
While this Chanticleer might not hear his name called in the first five rounds or so come draft day next season, I have no doubt in my mind that he has all the ability in the world to become a superstar within the game's highest level.
Treat yourself to his quality of play this evening. You won't be disappointed.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Bronx Bombers Living Up to Their Name
The New York Yankees let the long ball fly again Wednesday evening, seeing jack jobs from seemingly every player in the lineup for a 2nd night in a row. While the Yanks hit 8 homers last night against the ChiSox, they had a little bit of a power outage with only 5 this evening.
Fan souvenirs tonight came by courtesy of Derek Jeter, Robinson Cano, Shelley Duncan and Jorge Posada (who was doubly generous).
Interesting Fact of the Night: Shelley Duncan became only the third player in the last 50 years to hit 5 homeruns in his first 8 games. So, that leads us to the obvious question -- Kevin Maas or Shane Spencer?
Fan souvenirs tonight came by courtesy of Derek Jeter, Robinson Cano, Shelley Duncan and Jorge Posada (who was doubly generous).
Interesting Fact of the Night: Shelley Duncan became only the third player in the last 50 years to hit 5 homeruns in his first 8 games. So, that leads us to the obvious question -- Kevin Maas or Shane Spencer?
Hasta Luego, Senor Santana?
ESPN is reporting that Minnesota Twins ace Johan Santana was notably upset that not only did the Twinkies deal off 2B Luis Castillo to save $2 million, but neglected to bolster the team in any way, shape or form despite only being 5 games behind Cleveland in the Wild Card and 6 games behind Detroit in the Division.
This poor decision making and continual focus on the future, as opposed to winning right now, led Santana to make a comment that suggested he would be leaving the team following the expiration of his contract at the completion of the 2008 season.
This poor decision making and continual focus on the future, as opposed to winning right now, led Santana to make a comment that suggested he would be leaving the team following the expiration of his contract at the completion of the 2008 season.
3rd Oldest Man on Earth Released by Braves
The unconfirmed 3rd oldest human on the face of the Earth, Julio Franco, has been released by the Braves. Rumor has it that he may sign on with the Pentagon Genetic Laboratories Beer League team. Supposedly they are willing to waive his $65 league fee for a blood sample and skin graft.
Strahan Astray
Michael Smith of ESPN is stating that Giants Defensive End Michael Strahan is holding out for a new contract based on a promise from the Giants prior GM. Apparently this "holdout" was not about whether Strahan was contemplating retirement, but purely about the dollar signs. The Giants continue to affirm that they will not renegotiate Strahan's deal.
My Take: One of the biggest babies in football is crying again. Between complaining that practices were 'too hard' the last few seasons and now bitching about his contract, Strahan just needs to retire. Is he still a talented DE? Of course he is. But this Giants roster is full of self-proclaimed greats and they need to begin cleaning house at some point...why not start now?
Hopefully Strahan calls a tremendous career quits and simply moves on. The Giants will be worse in talent for it but better in team camaraderie.
My Take: One of the biggest babies in football is crying again. Between complaining that practices were 'too hard' the last few seasons and now bitching about his contract, Strahan just needs to retire. Is he still a talented DE? Of course he is. But this Giants roster is full of self-proclaimed greats and they need to begin cleaning house at some point...why not start now?
Hopefully Strahan calls a tremendous career quits and simply moves on. The Giants will be worse in talent for it but better in team camaraderie.
Match Made In Heaven?
If you had to pick one team that would have still had interest in Mr. Sex Cruise himself, what team would that have been?
Well, it should have took you about as long to figure that team out as it takes for Daunte to fumble the ball. The Raiders have signed Daunte Culpepper to a one-year deal where he will battle Josh McCown for the Raiders starting job.
My Take: Ugh! Spare me the future police blotter headlines. I don't know who is more pathetic; Daunte for falling this far off the cliff after having one of the best seasons in NFL history just a few years ago, or the fact that Al Davis and the Raiders just don't get it. They miss the boat (pun intended) every single time with the players they bring in.
The Raiders' thug mentality will get the better of them and they'll opt for the lesser of these two QB's in Culpepper. What this really says though is that the Raiders and JaMarcus Russell are lightyears apart in contract negotiations. If Russell were anywhere near close to signing, there is no way in hell Culpepper's name would have even been mentioned, as the rookie would be immediately thrown into the Raiders system as their starting QB.
In 2008 Free Agency Newz: The Raiders have signed Pacman Jones and traded for Chris Henry. If Rae Carruth were available, I'm sure they'd go after him too...pathetic.
Well, it should have took you about as long to figure that team out as it takes for Daunte to fumble the ball. The Raiders have signed Daunte Culpepper to a one-year deal where he will battle Josh McCown for the Raiders starting job.
My Take: Ugh! Spare me the future police blotter headlines. I don't know who is more pathetic; Daunte for falling this far off the cliff after having one of the best seasons in NFL history just a few years ago, or the fact that Al Davis and the Raiders just don't get it. They miss the boat (pun intended) every single time with the players they bring in.
The Raiders' thug mentality will get the better of them and they'll opt for the lesser of these two QB's in Culpepper. What this really says though is that the Raiders and JaMarcus Russell are lightyears apart in contract negotiations. If Russell were anywhere near close to signing, there is no way in hell Culpepper's name would have even been mentioned, as the rookie would be immediately thrown into the Raiders system as their starting QB.
In 2008 Free Agency Newz: The Raiders have signed Pacman Jones and traded for Chris Henry. If Rae Carruth were available, I'm sure they'd go after him too...pathetic.
Prima Donna Quinn Out of the Running?
Patrick McManamon of the Akron Beacon Journal reports that the Browns are determined to name their starting QB within the next few days. The goal is to finally allow a single quarterback to work with the first team and take additional snaps, as opposed to the 50/50 split that Charlie Frye and Derek Anderson are currently working in. The Browns open up their preseason on August 11th and want to make sure whomever their man at the helm ends up being is familiar with the starting squad.
What this means is that the Queen of all Prima Donna's, Brady Quinn, is out of the running to become the Browns starting quarterback. And with a contractual compromise nowhere in site, it appears that Quinn is quickly falling out of the graces of Head Coach Romeo Crenell.
My Take: Quinn pulls a Leinart and holds out until the last possible moment before the fans begin to turn on him. This kid was a #22 pick, yet wants #1 pick money. I guess Notre Dame Business School isn't too good, because he would understand that this wish just ain't coming true.
In the end, local Akron product Charlie Frye will be the man in charge while Quinn is left holding the clipboard all season long. I can't wait for him to take that shot to the ego! I'm calling it right here and now...I see Ryan Leaf Jr.
What this means is that the Queen of all Prima Donna's, Brady Quinn, is out of the running to become the Browns starting quarterback. And with a contractual compromise nowhere in site, it appears that Quinn is quickly falling out of the graces of Head Coach Romeo Crenell.
My Take: Quinn pulls a Leinart and holds out until the last possible moment before the fans begin to turn on him. This kid was a #22 pick, yet wants #1 pick money. I guess Notre Dame Business School isn't too good, because he would understand that this wish just ain't coming true.
In the end, local Akron product Charlie Frye will be the man in charge while Quinn is left holding the clipboard all season long. I can't wait for him to take that shot to the ego! I'm calling it right here and now...I see Ryan Leaf Jr.
Moulds Not Moldy
According to Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean, Eric Moulds is looking phenomenal in Titans training camp. He notes that while he has obviously lost a step and lost some strength, his route running is impeccable.
Beyond that, he can serve as a mentor for many of the younger receivers on this team and prove to be a proven option for the young and exciting Vince Young this season. With David Givens still recovering from injuries, Moulds has a clear path to grab hold of the #2 WR spot...and possibly even become the #1 option. Either way, working opposite Brandon Jones is a beneficial option for both of them.
Beyond that, he can serve as a mentor for many of the younger receivers on this team and prove to be a proven option for the young and exciting Vince Young this season. With David Givens still recovering from injuries, Moulds has a clear path to grab hold of the #2 WR spot...and possibly even become the #1 option. Either way, working opposite Brandon Jones is a beneficial option for both of them.
Trade Deadline's Big Winners
The question everybody is asking -- Who exactly were the big winners following the conclusion of the Trade Deadline yesterday? Well, here are your answers...from my perspective, anyway!
THE WINNERS:
1) Boston Red Sox -- I don't care whether you love them or hate them, the Red Sox were the only team that made a draft day trade that was intended to have a payoff in the playoffs, and not merely a payoff in getting them to the playoffs. The BoSox acquisition of Eric Gagne was brilliant, with GM Theo Epstein taking a hard stance against trading mega-prospects Jacoby Ellsbury, Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz. Instead, Texas had to settle for a trio of average prospects in Kason Gabbard, David Murphy and 17-year old OF Engel Beltre.
I have a hard time believing that Texas didn't have a better deal out there than that. Hell, the Mariners were offering stud power-prospect Wlademir Balentien in exchange for Octavio Dotel! I have to imagine that at least that deal must have been on the table for Gagne. But Theo worked his magic and in turn, put the BoSox in the pole position to win another World Series. Major kudos to the Red Sox front office management for this deal! Between Okajima, Gagne and Papelbon, Red Sox opponents just had their opportunity to win a game limited to 6 innings, at the most.
2) New York Yankees -- It might seem odd that I have them here in second place, but this isn't so much because of what they traded for, but what they did not trade away. As the 4:00 p.m. deadline came and went, Phil Hughes, Joba Chamberlain, Ian Kennedy, Alan Horne, Tyler Clippard, Humberto Sanchez, Russ Ohlendorf, Darrel Rasner, Jeff Karstens and Delin Betances (phew!) were all still future Pinstripers.
While I do see this as a bit of an overload, there was no player on the market that would make a legitimate enough of a difference in order to part with any of those players. Instead, the Yankees still have the minor league's best pitching staff. That is pretty amazing to say for a team who had an all but non-existent farm system just two years ago.
Couple that with the departure of an overrated Scott Proctor for powerful switch-hitting utility man Wilson Betemit and the Yankees did a fantastic job, even if it doesn't result in a 13th consecutive season in the playoffs. The Yankees would prove to be even smarter if they allow Betemit to have everyday at bats, as he has immense talent that the Dodgers chose to never let flourish. With that short porch in right, Betemit can quickly become a 35+ homerun-a-year threat if he reaches his prospective ceiling.
3) Atlanta Braves -- You know, I really have a hard time putting them on the Winners list. And it isn't because they didn't get quality players...they did. But they left their farm system ravaged in the process of doing it. Parting with Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Elvis Andrus, Neftali Feliz, Kyle Davies, and Matt Harrison is just too much in my book. Essentially, the Braves were the antithesis of the Red Sox -- they made deals that would "lead" them to the playoffs, but did not look any further than that. Sure, Teixeira and Dotel will prove to be critical pieces in their winning down the road, but if they don't sign Teixeira to an extension and he moves on elsewhere, how are they going to recoup this loss of talent? At this point, aside from Brandon Jones, the Braves' minor league cupboard is pretty damn bare!
Regardless, the move was one that will alter the race in the NL East, as desperate of a move as it was. The Braves now have an offense and bullpen that can outslug and shutdown the opposition. The big question now is whether the back end of their rotation can hang on in games long enough to get to that point. There are leads that are insurmountable, you know.
In the end, the Red Sox found that final piece to punch their ticket to the Promise Land in October...The Braves made moves that will get them into the first round, but unless the offense goes on an absolutely massive tear come playoff time, this squad doesn't have enough pitching to progress through the postseason...and finally, the Yankees were able to concentrate on the future, in both acquiring potential stud Wilson Betemit and not allowing anyone else to acquire their slew of talented young pitching.
THE WINNERS:
1) Boston Red Sox -- I don't care whether you love them or hate them, the Red Sox were the only team that made a draft day trade that was intended to have a payoff in the playoffs, and not merely a payoff in getting them to the playoffs. The BoSox acquisition of Eric Gagne was brilliant, with GM Theo Epstein taking a hard stance against trading mega-prospects Jacoby Ellsbury, Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz. Instead, Texas had to settle for a trio of average prospects in Kason Gabbard, David Murphy and 17-year old OF Engel Beltre.
I have a hard time believing that Texas didn't have a better deal out there than that. Hell, the Mariners were offering stud power-prospect Wlademir Balentien in exchange for Octavio Dotel! I have to imagine that at least that deal must have been on the table for Gagne. But Theo worked his magic and in turn, put the BoSox in the pole position to win another World Series. Major kudos to the Red Sox front office management for this deal! Between Okajima, Gagne and Papelbon, Red Sox opponents just had their opportunity to win a game limited to 6 innings, at the most.
2) New York Yankees -- It might seem odd that I have them here in second place, but this isn't so much because of what they traded for, but what they did not trade away. As the 4:00 p.m. deadline came and went, Phil Hughes, Joba Chamberlain, Ian Kennedy, Alan Horne, Tyler Clippard, Humberto Sanchez, Russ Ohlendorf, Darrel Rasner, Jeff Karstens and Delin Betances (phew!) were all still future Pinstripers.
While I do see this as a bit of an overload, there was no player on the market that would make a legitimate enough of a difference in order to part with any of those players. Instead, the Yankees still have the minor league's best pitching staff. That is pretty amazing to say for a team who had an all but non-existent farm system just two years ago.
Couple that with the departure of an overrated Scott Proctor for powerful switch-hitting utility man Wilson Betemit and the Yankees did a fantastic job, even if it doesn't result in a 13th consecutive season in the playoffs. The Yankees would prove to be even smarter if they allow Betemit to have everyday at bats, as he has immense talent that the Dodgers chose to never let flourish. With that short porch in right, Betemit can quickly become a 35+ homerun-a-year threat if he reaches his prospective ceiling.
3) Atlanta Braves -- You know, I really have a hard time putting them on the Winners list. And it isn't because they didn't get quality players...they did. But they left their farm system ravaged in the process of doing it. Parting with Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Elvis Andrus, Neftali Feliz, Kyle Davies, and Matt Harrison is just too much in my book. Essentially, the Braves were the antithesis of the Red Sox -- they made deals that would "lead" them to the playoffs, but did not look any further than that. Sure, Teixeira and Dotel will prove to be critical pieces in their winning down the road, but if they don't sign Teixeira to an extension and he moves on elsewhere, how are they going to recoup this loss of talent? At this point, aside from Brandon Jones, the Braves' minor league cupboard is pretty damn bare!
Regardless, the move was one that will alter the race in the NL East, as desperate of a move as it was. The Braves now have an offense and bullpen that can outslug and shutdown the opposition. The big question now is whether the back end of their rotation can hang on in games long enough to get to that point. There are leads that are insurmountable, you know.
In the end, the Red Sox found that final piece to punch their ticket to the Promise Land in October...The Braves made moves that will get them into the first round, but unless the offense goes on an absolutely massive tear come playoff time, this squad doesn't have enough pitching to progress through the postseason...and finally, the Yankees were able to concentrate on the future, in both acquiring potential stud Wilson Betemit and not allowing anyone else to acquire their slew of talented young pitching.
Fantasy Impact : Braves & Rangers Trade
Well, by now we all have seen the headlines pasted across every sports website and periodical in the nation regarding Teixeira coming to Atlanta in order to make the Braves a legitimate playoff force to reckon with.
But in regards to fantasy baseball, what kind of an impact are we looking at here with the pieces involved in this deal?
Let's start with the obvious;
Mark Teixeira, 1B
Big Tex is one of those rare players in the big leagues who can just about do it all. While he is not the most fleet of foot on the basepaths, he is golden in everything else. A multiple-time Gold Glove winner that also happens to be a power hitting switch hitter...those don't come around every day.
Teixeira immediately gets plugged into the middle of that lineup, sitting in either the four or five-hole (my guess is he will bat 5th so as to not make Andruw Jones any more disgruntled than he is on a daily basis). With the likes of Jones Boys, Kelly Johnson, Brian McCann and others around him, you can expect a fairly significant jump in Teixeira's numbers, despite leaving the hitter friendly confines of Arlington. While Teixeira's first half numbers were nothing to scoff at, they weren't up to the Big Man's standards that we have come to expect. He will get back on track in the upcoming two weeks as he settles in, allowing you to expect him to nearly double his output on the year in the final two months of the season.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia, C
Ahhh...truly one of my favorites, as everyone else's as well. Salty is a truly uncommon commodity, following in the power switch hitting footsteps of Jorge Posada, except while offering phenomenally better defense than Jorge could ever dream of giving. Salty will be splitting his time between First Base and Catcher over the final months, giving Fantasy Owners around the country a chance to witness his work with the bat on a nightly basis. Look for the Rangers to attempt to move incumbent Catcher Laird in the offseason. While Laird offers some of the best defense in the majors, Salty's isn't far behind...and when comparing their talents at the plate, you cannot even speak of the two in the same breath.
Pickup Salty immediately in all leagues if he is still available, especially in Keeper Leagues where he will be a valuable player / trading chip for years to come.
Elvis Andrus, SS
Rafael Furcal, Jr....errr...I mean, Elvis Andrus, was a very interesting piece in this deal. Besides having a really cool name, Elvis is an 18-year old defensive phenom. He has yet to show that he can handle professional pitching, struggling during his time at High Class-A Myrtle Beach. However, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans play at a ballpark that is known throughout the minors as the toughest park to score runs in (I should know...I live there). The engineering geniuses who designed Coastal Federal Field (soon to be BB&T Ballpark) faced homeplate directly at the Atlantic Ocean, which is only a few hundred yards away. The winds from the ocean make anything that is hit in the air hang for what feels like an eternity. Nice job designing that one, guys!
So, if the Pelicans play in such a tough stadium, then Elvis' splits should be a telling sign of that, right? Well, indeed they are. Elvis bats .112 points higher while AWAY from Coastal Federal Field, has an OBP .105 points higher, a SLUG .167 points higher and an OPS .273 points higher! Talk about night and day...or, home and away, more appropriately.
It is safe to say that with Elvis leaving the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, so too will he leave those horrendous home stats behind.
Matt Harrison, LHP
The Braves top pitching prospect, Harrison has fallen on some tough luck this season. While Harrison has not put up stats much different than what he did last season, his team has not been able to score runs for him making his record at Double-A Mississippi being anything but indicative of the level of quality that he has pitched with all season long. While you cannot hide the fact that Harrison was a beneficiary of the "Coastal Federal Field Effect", just as Andrus has been victimized by it, Harrison is a high ceiling and should crack the Rangers rotation by the latter half of 2008.
Reports stated that the Rangers were weary of Harrison's shoulder, which later led to the additions of Beau Jones and Neftali Feliz in the Teixeira deal, but the Rangers obviously did not see Harrison's shoulder as so worrisome that they chose to take him out of the deal altogether. Keep an eye on Harrison, as he should be had on all Keeper League rosters that allow for minor-league players to be stashed away.
Conclusion:
In the end, the Rangers added far more players that will impact their roster from a Fantasy perspective. Each of the major players added (Salty, Elvis and Harrison) should be looked upon as high-end prospects, with Salty being able to produce through the end of the year for your squad. Beau Jones is a below-average roster filler, while Neftali Feliz still has the ability to become an above-average pitcher, yet will have many years left of polishing off his raw talents in the lower depths of the minors.
Teixeira will surely get back on track and will more than likely be able to contribute around 15 homeruns and 40 RBI's the rest of the way. Chances are his stock is not quite as low now as it was just three days ago, as stocks (and hopes) often rise for Fantasy Owners following blockbuster deals; however, if you see an owner that you can pry him away from, by all means attempt to do so.
But in regards to fantasy baseball, what kind of an impact are we looking at here with the pieces involved in this deal?
Let's start with the obvious;
Mark Teixeira, 1B
Big Tex is one of those rare players in the big leagues who can just about do it all. While he is not the most fleet of foot on the basepaths, he is golden in everything else. A multiple-time Gold Glove winner that also happens to be a power hitting switch hitter...those don't come around every day.
Teixeira immediately gets plugged into the middle of that lineup, sitting in either the four or five-hole (my guess is he will bat 5th so as to not make Andruw Jones any more disgruntled than he is on a daily basis). With the likes of Jones Boys, Kelly Johnson, Brian McCann and others around him, you can expect a fairly significant jump in Teixeira's numbers, despite leaving the hitter friendly confines of Arlington. While Teixeira's first half numbers were nothing to scoff at, they weren't up to the Big Man's standards that we have come to expect. He will get back on track in the upcoming two weeks as he settles in, allowing you to expect him to nearly double his output on the year in the final two months of the season.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia, C
Ahhh...truly one of my favorites, as everyone else's as well. Salty is a truly uncommon commodity, following in the power switch hitting footsteps of Jorge Posada, except while offering phenomenally better defense than Jorge could ever dream of giving. Salty will be splitting his time between First Base and Catcher over the final months, giving Fantasy Owners around the country a chance to witness his work with the bat on a nightly basis. Look for the Rangers to attempt to move incumbent Catcher Laird in the offseason. While Laird offers some of the best defense in the majors, Salty's isn't far behind...and when comparing their talents at the plate, you cannot even speak of the two in the same breath.
Pickup Salty immediately in all leagues if he is still available, especially in Keeper Leagues where he will be a valuable player / trading chip for years to come.
Elvis Andrus, SS
Rafael Furcal, Jr....errr...I mean, Elvis Andrus, was a very interesting piece in this deal. Besides having a really cool name, Elvis is an 18-year old defensive phenom. He has yet to show that he can handle professional pitching, struggling during his time at High Class-A Myrtle Beach. However, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans play at a ballpark that is known throughout the minors as the toughest park to score runs in (I should know...I live there). The engineering geniuses who designed Coastal Federal Field (soon to be BB&T Ballpark) faced homeplate directly at the Atlantic Ocean, which is only a few hundred yards away. The winds from the ocean make anything that is hit in the air hang for what feels like an eternity. Nice job designing that one, guys!
So, if the Pelicans play in such a tough stadium, then Elvis' splits should be a telling sign of that, right? Well, indeed they are. Elvis bats .112 points higher while AWAY from Coastal Federal Field, has an OBP .105 points higher, a SLUG .167 points higher and an OPS .273 points higher! Talk about night and day...or, home and away, more appropriately.
It is safe to say that with Elvis leaving the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, so too will he leave those horrendous home stats behind.
Matt Harrison, LHP
The Braves top pitching prospect, Harrison has fallen on some tough luck this season. While Harrison has not put up stats much different than what he did last season, his team has not been able to score runs for him making his record at Double-A Mississippi being anything but indicative of the level of quality that he has pitched with all season long. While you cannot hide the fact that Harrison was a beneficiary of the "Coastal Federal Field Effect", just as Andrus has been victimized by it, Harrison is a high ceiling and should crack the Rangers rotation by the latter half of 2008.
Reports stated that the Rangers were weary of Harrison's shoulder, which later led to the additions of Beau Jones and Neftali Feliz in the Teixeira deal, but the Rangers obviously did not see Harrison's shoulder as so worrisome that they chose to take him out of the deal altogether. Keep an eye on Harrison, as he should be had on all Keeper League rosters that allow for minor-league players to be stashed away.
Conclusion:
In the end, the Rangers added far more players that will impact their roster from a Fantasy perspective. Each of the major players added (Salty, Elvis and Harrison) should be looked upon as high-end prospects, with Salty being able to produce through the end of the year for your squad. Beau Jones is a below-average roster filler, while Neftali Feliz still has the ability to become an above-average pitcher, yet will have many years left of polishing off his raw talents in the lower depths of the minors.
Teixeira will surely get back on track and will more than likely be able to contribute around 15 homeruns and 40 RBI's the rest of the way. Chances are his stock is not quite as low now as it was just three days ago, as stocks (and hopes) often rise for Fantasy Owners following blockbuster deals; however, if you see an owner that you can pry him away from, by all means attempt to do so.
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Welcome to the newly established Fantasy Newz Headquarters.
In the coming days, weeks and months, this blog will come to be one of your premier sources for Fantasy Sports info and insights.
In the coming days, weeks and months, this blog will come to be one of your premier sources for Fantasy Sports info and insights.
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