|
Weekly 2 Start Pitchers - Week 22
By Scott Mickels
August 28, 2005, 9:11 pm
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
INJURIES
- Jeremy Bonderman is trying to make his start Monday against the Indians. He took a line drive off of his wrist in his last start against the A’s. He’s still questionable for Monday, but he and the Tigers are confident he can make the start. Keep a close eye on this situation before setting your lineup. Bonderman will qualify for 2-start status if he’s able to start Monday.
- Roy Halladay will not pitch again this season. After a Kevin Mench line drive broke his leg last month, the Blue Jays have pulled the plug on his season. Bummer for Halladay owners hoping for a return. Keeper leaguers are the only ones that should hang on to him.
- Cory Lidle slightly pulled his oblique while taking a practice swing during the game of his last start. He’s shown improvement, but will still probably miss his next start which would negate his 2-start status this week. When he does come back, you might want to see how he pitches in his next start before confidently placing him in your starting lineup.
- Ben Sheets could miss the rest of the season with a torn muscle back. After leaving against the Braves in the 8th inning, Sheets felt discomfort in his back next morning. An MRI showed a torn latissimus dorsi, which is the muscle in the upper back that moves the shoulder. Another bummer! Hopefully you’re not an owner out there that owned both Halladay and Sheets. Like Roy, only keeper leaguers should hang on to Ben from here on out.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
American League
Last 3 starts: (W-L, ERA, IP, K)
NO-BRAINERS
Mark Buehrle, CHW: @ TEX, vs. DET (1-2, 4.50, 22.0, 15)
Bartolo Colon, LAA: vs. OAK, vs. SEA (3-0, 1.94, 23.2, 12)
Jon Garland, CHW: @ TEX, vs. DET (0-2, 3.15, 20.0, 12)
Mike Mussina, NYY: @ SEA, @ OAK (1-1, 5.93, 18.2, 19)
Barry Zito, OAK: @ LAA, vs. NYY (1-2, 2.36, 19.1, 17)
HOT
Shawn Chacon, NYY: @ SEA, @ OAK (3-0, 2.25, 20.0, 16)
Scott Kazmir, TB: @ BOS, @ TOR (1-1, 3.19, 14.1, 20)
Seth McClung, TB, @ BOS, @ TOR (3-0, 2.36, 19.1, 13)
COLD
Joaquin Benoit, TEX: vs. CHW, @ KC (0-3, 5.00, 16.2, 12)
D.J. Carrasco, KC: vs. MIN, vs. TEX (0-2, 8.34, 15.1, 5)
Scott Elarton, CLE: vs. DET, @ MIN (0-2, 8.18, 13.2, 10)
Ryan Franklin, SEA: vs. NYY, @ LAA (0-3, 11.32, 15.1, 8 )
Curt Schilling, BOS: vs. TB, vs. BAL (1-2, 7.94, 17.0, 20)
KEEP IN MIND
Erik Bedard, BAL: vs. OAK, @ BOS
Jeremy Bonderman, DET: @ CLE, @ CHW
David Bush, TOR: vs. BAL, vs. TB
Matt Clement, BOS: vs. TB, vs. BAL
Juan Dominguez, TEX, vs. CHW, @ KC
Jeff Harris, SEA: vs. NYY, @ LAA
Jose Lima, KC: vs. MIN, vs. TEX
Rodrigo Lopez, BAL: @ TOR, @ BOS
Mike Maroth, DET: @ CLE, @ CHW
Joe Mays, MIN: @ KC, vs. CLE
Kirk Saarloos, OAK: @ BAL, vs. NYY
National League
Last 3 starts: (W-L, ERA, IP, K)
NO-BRAINERS
A.J. Burnett, FLA: vs. STL, vs. NYM (2-1, 1.29, 21.0, 20)
Chris Carpenter, STL: @ FLA, @ HOU (2-0, 2.88, 25.0, 17)
John Patterson, WAS: @ ATL, vs. PHI (2-1, 1.95, 23.1, 17)
Jake Peavy, SD: vs. ARI, @ MIL (1-2, 2.05, 22.0, 24)
Mark Prior, CHC: vs. LAD, @ PIT (2-1, 3.96, 18.2, 24)
HOT
Brandon Claussen, CIN: @ HOU, @ ATL (2-0, 2.98, 18.1, 15)
Jae Woeng Seo, NYM: vs. PHI, @ FLA (3-0, 1.17, 23.0, 13)
COLD
Livan Hernandez, WAS: @ ATL, vs. PHI (1-1, 7.88, 16.0, 9)
Russ Ortiz, ARI: @ SD, vs. SF (0-2, 14.02, 12.2, 4)
John Thomson, ATL: vs. WAS, vs. CIN (0-2, 10.99, 13.1, 9)
KEEP IN MIND
Ezequiel Astacio, HOU: vs. CIN, @ ATL
Matt Cain, SF: vs. COL, @ ARI
D.J. Houlton, LAD: @ CHC, @ COL
Byung Hyun Kim, @ SF, vs. LAD
Tomo Ohka, MIL: vs. PIT, vs. SD
Ramon Ortiz, CIN: @ PIT, @ ATL
Jorge Sosa, ATL: vs. WAS, vs. CIN
Kip Wells, PIT: vs. CIN, vs. CHC
Woody Williams, SD: vs. ARI, @ MIL
Mailbag
John in Pittsburgh: I'm in a relatively shallow 12-team mixed roto league where some of the guys haven't checked their rosters in months, so there are some quality players available on waivers. I'm currently in 1st place by a few points, and my only weakness is ERA and WHIP. The following guys are available, who would you recommend picking up, and why? Chacin, Penny, Bedard, Kazmir, Silva, Blanton, Seo. I've been leaning towards Blanton, Bedard or Seo, but Chacin and Penny have pitched pretty well of late, as has Kazmir.
Mickels: My top 3 would be in this order: Silva, Seo and Bedard. All of these guys are very efficient pitchers. They rarely walk a lot of batters, and all have very respectable ERA’s. In fact, Silva has only walked 8 hitters in over 170 innings this season. (a fact not many people know) Any of those pitchers will help you in ERA and WHIP. I would avoid Blanton as the A’s are in the middle of the wild card race and they have the Yankees coming up.
-Scott Mickels, FPM Staff Writer/Editor, Member of the Fantasy Sports Writers Association
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
Weekly 2 Start Pitchers - Week 21
By Scott Mickels
August 21, 2005, 6:43 pm
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
INJURIES
- Daniel Cabrera was scratched from his last start on Wednesday because of back stiffness while he was warming up. Unless he shows dramatic improvement before Tuesday, he’s expected to miss that start as well. Eric DuBose will replace him in the rotation.
- Noah Lowry seems confident he’ll make his start Monday at home against the Phillies. He had to leave his last due to a blister on his finger. Provided Lowry changes his mind, he’s scheduled for two starts at home this week, where his ERA is over a run less than his ERA on the road. A decent start this week.
- Odalis Perez will miss his next start with a strained right oblique. Perez has been pitching poorly of late anyway. A minor leaguer will be called up to replace him in the rotation.
- Tim Wakefield was hit by a line drive in his last start around his lower shin, almost to his ankle. Wakefield will get pushed back to a probable Tuesday start against the Royals. David Wells will start on Monday in Wakefield’s place. Getting pushed back a day won’t affect Wake’s two-start status. If he’s able to start on Tuesday, he’ll still get two starts this week. Make sure the Red Sox plan on using him by at least Tuesday before putting him in your lineup. Wakefield owners have to hope he’ll be back in time to face the hapless Royals.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
American League
Last 3 starts: (W-L, ERA, IP, K)
NO-BRAINERS
Freddy Garcia, CHW: @ MIN, @ SEA (0-1, 2.86, 22.0, 12)
Johan Santana, MIN: vs. CHW, @ TEX (2-0, 1.56, 23.1, 21)
HOT
Josh Towers, TOR: @ NYY, vs. CLE (2-1, 1.70, 21.2, 7)
Chris Young, TEX: vs. SEA, vs. MIN (2-0, 2.50, 18.0, 14)
COLD
Jarrod Washburn, ANA: @ BAL, @ TB (0-2, 4.05, 20.0, 11)
KEEP IN MIND
Scott Downs, TOR: @ NYY, vs. CLE
Eric DuBose, BAL: vs. ANA, vs. OAK
Zack Greinke, KC: vs. BOS, @ NYY
Mark Hendrickson, TB: vs. CLE, vs. ANA
Al Leiter, NYY: vs. TOR, vs. KC
Kevin Millwood, CLE: @ TB, @ TOR
Jamie Moyer, SEA: @ TEX, vs. CHW
Nate Robertson, DET: vs. OAK, @ BOS
Doug Waechter, TB: vs. CLE, vs. ANA
David Wells, BOS: @ KC, vs. DET
Jake Westbrook, CLE: @ TB, @ TOR
Jaret Wright, NYY: vs. TOR, vs. KC
National League
Last 3 starts: (W-L, ERA, IP, K)
NO-BRAINERS
Josh Beckett, FLA: @ MIL, @ CHC (2-0, 1.23, 22.0, 16)
Tim Hudson, ATL: @ CHC, @ MIL (2-1, 2.86, 22.0, 17)
Mark Mulder, STL: @ PIT, @ WAS (2-1, 3.60, 20.0, 9)
Roy Oswalt, HOU: @ SD, @ LA (0-2, 4.71, 21.0, 12)
Dontrelle Willis, FLA: vs. LA, @ CHC (2-1, 0.36, 25.0, 12)
Carlos Zambrano, CHC: vs. ATL, vs. FLA (2-1, 1.58, 17.1, 17)
HOT
Tony Armas, Jr., WAS: vs. CIN, @ PIT (2-1, 1.69, 16.0, 11)
Tom Glavine, NYM: @ ARI, @ SF (2-1, 2.86, 22.0, 7)
Jon Lieber, PHI: @ SF, @ ARI (3-0, 2.84, 19.0, 15)
Noah Lowry, SF: vs. PHI, vs. NYM (3-0, 0.81, 22.2, 21)
Claudio Vargas, ARI: vs. NYM, vs. PHI (3-0, 2.25, 20.0, 12)
COLD
Josh Fogg, PIT: vs. STL, vs. CIN (1-2, 6.32, 17.1, 9 )
Jason Marquis, STL: @ PIT, @ WAS (0-3, 7.03, 19.2, 6 )
Woody Williams, SD: vs. HOU, vs. COL (1-1, 6.11, 16.2, 15)
Jamey Wright, COL: @ LA, @ SD (0-3, 5.65, 19.1, 13)
KEEP IN MIND
Chris Capuano, MIL: vs. FLA, vs. ATL
Zach Duke, PIT: vs. STL, vs. CIN
Luke Hudson, CIN: @ WAS, vs. STL
Jeff Weaver, LA: vs. COL, @ CHC
Brandon Webb, ARI: vs. NYM, vs. PHI
Victor Zambrano, NYM: @ ARI, vs. FLA
-Scott Mickels, FPM Staff Writer/Editor, Member of the Fantasy Sports Writers Association
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
Weekly 2-Start Pitchers - Week 20
By Scott
August 14, 2005, 2:54 pm
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
INJURIES
- Mark Redman is recovering from back and neck stiffness. In his first start back, he gave up 5 earned runs at Colorado . Granted, it was at Coors Field, but on a positive note he did record a strikeout an inning. Redman wasn’t pitching well before the stiffness, as he’s given up at least 6 earned runs in 3 of his last 4 outings, so he should probably be benched in your lineup if you have better options.
- Jaret Wright has returned from a right shoulder sprain that’s kept him sidelined since April 24th. Wright is scheduled to make his first start back on Monday at Tampa Bay . Barring any setbacks, Wright is scheduled for two starts this week. Although facing the Devil Rays right out of the gate is a very favorable match-up, don’t put too much stock into that start—especially if he has a good game. When he faces the White Sox later in the week, that start should give you more of a realistic idea as to what to expect from him.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
American League
Last 3 starts: (W-L, ERA, IP, K)
NO-BRAINERS
Brad Radke, MIN: @ CHW, vs. SEA (1-0, 2.57, 21.0, 15)
Kenny Rogers, TEX : @ CLE, @ TB (0-1, 6.00, 18.0, 13)
Barry Zito, OAK: vs. BAL, vs. KC (2-0, 3.86, 21.0, 15)
HOT
Paul Byrd, ANA: vs. TOR, vs. BOS (0-0, 2.37, 19.0, 10)
Felix Hernandez, SEA: vs. KC, @ MIN (1-1, 0.69, 13.0, 10)
Ervin Santana, ANA: vs. TOR, vs. BOS (1-1, 1.88, 19.1, 16)
COLD
Casey Fossum, TB: vs. NYY, vs. TEX (1-1, 7.78, 16.2, 9)
Zach Greinke, KC: @ SEA, @ OAK (0-2, 6.35, 17.0, 13)
Rodrigo Lopez, BAL: @ OAK, @ CLE (2-1, 8.40, 15.0, 8 )
Nate Robertson, DET: vs. BOS, vs. TOR (0-2, 8.00, 18.0, 10)
KEEP IN MIND
Bronson Arroyo, BOS: @ DET, @ ANA
Gustavo Chacin, TOR: @ ANA, @ DET
Jose Contreras, CHW: vs. MIN, vs. NYY
Kyle Lohse, MIN: @ CHW, vs. SEA
Joel Pineiro, SEA: vs. KC, @ MIN
C.C. Sabathia, CLE: vs. TEX , vs. BAL
Jaret Wright, NYY: @ TB, @ CHW
National League
Last 3 starts: (W-L, ERA, IP, K)
NO-BRAINERS
Livan Hernandez, WAS: @ PHI, @ NYM (1-1, 5.16, 19.2, 11)
Brett Myers, PHI: vs. WAS, vs. PIT (2-0, 4.95, 20.0, 21)
Andy Pettitte, HOU: vs. CHC, vs. MIL (2-1, 1.96, 23.0, 19)
Jason Schmidt, SF: @ CIN, @ STL (2-1, 3.00, 21.0, 20)
Ben Sheets, MIL: @ COL, @ HOU (2-1, 1.33, 27.0, 24)
- Two unfavorable starts, but Sheets is pitching too well to sit.
John Smoltz, ATL: vs. LA, vs. SD (1-1, 4.89, 22.1, 16)
HOT
Eric Milton, CIN: vs. SF, vs. ARI (2-1, 2.97, 18.2, 13)
COLD
Ryan Drese, WAS: @ PHI, @ NYM (0-3, 6.56, 15.1, 8 )
Mark Redman, PIT: @ NYM, @ PHI (0-2, 13.39, 12.1, 8 )
AVOID
Aaron Cook, COL : vs. MIL, vs. CHC
Glendon Rusch, CHC: @ HOU, @ COL
Victor Santos, MIL: @ COL, @ HOU
KEEP IN MIND
Kris Benson, NYM: vs. PIT, vs. WAS
Kevin Correia, SF: @ CIN, @ STL
Brad Halsey, ARI: @ STL, @ CIN
Aaron Harang, CIN: vs. SF, vs. ARI
Brian Lawrence, SD: @ FLA, @ ATL
Cory Lidle, PHI: vs. WAS, vs. PIT
Derek Lowe, LA: @ ATL, @ FLA
Brian Moehler, FLA : vs. SD, vs. LA
Wandy Rodriguez, HOU: vs. CHC, vs. MIL
Jeff Suppan, STL: vs. ARI, vs. SF
MAILBAG
Surge: Is Jaret Wright even worth a look?
Mickels: Yes, but probably only worth actually starting in AL-only leagues. Mixed leaguers should definitely take a flier on Wright and stash him on your rosters if you have room, provided he’s still available. I don’t expect Wright to pitch like he did in Atlanta last season, but he does have great support behind him in New York that will give him a good chance to succeed. I’d wait until he has a start against someone besides the Devil Rays before making an accurate judgment on him; at the White Sox this coming Saturday should do nicely.
ArizonaSportsFan22: What do expect from Claudio Vargas for the rest of the season, and the future?
Mickels: Vargas has had 7 quality starts in a row, but I wouldn’t go crazy over him because of the last 2 months. Vargas is still supporting an ERA over 4.5 and a WHIP over 1.3. There’s also the chance Vargas could be bumped from the rotation when Shawn Estes returns. At the same time, he’s been pitching so well he could just as easily bounce someone from the D’Backs’ rotation. His success this year is quite unexpected and those of you intuitive enough to grab him are reaping the benefits, but Vargas hardly has the track record to put too much stock into. Ride the hot streak while you can, but don’t think you’ll get this kind of production from him consistently if he becomes a starter full-time. He has yet to prove he can hold up as a starter for a full season. If he does become a starter next year, because of his success this season, he could be a nice sleeper to keep an eye on.
-Scott Mickels, FPM Staff Writer/Editor, Member of the Fantasy Sports Writers Association
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
Weekly 2 Start Pitchers - Week 19
By Scott Mickels
August 7, 2005, 11:53 am
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
Injuries
- Roy Halladay should be activated this week by the Blue Jays. They held off on activating Halladay Sunday for his start against the Yankees. Exactly when he’ll be active is unknown, but it is expected he’ll return to the team this week. He should be worth starting in Week 20.
- Wade Miller continues to have trouble with a sore shoulder. He’s scheduled to make 2 starts this week, but with his shoulder giving him trouble, and his recent return from tendonitis in his bicep, it might be wise to sit him. Miller is scheduled to face the big-hitting Rangers and White Sox this week.
- Carl Pavano will not qualify for 2 starts this week as originally thought. The Yankees have decided to have Pavano make one more rehab start next week before joining the team. Keep him reserved.
- Kip Wells is struggling as he tries to pitch through a cracked fingernail on his pitching hand. It’s obviously affecting him as he’s pitched horrible as of lately. Consider reserving him until he turns it around.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
(Last 3 starts; W-L, ERA, IP, K)
American League
NO-BRAINERS
Rich Harden, OAK: vs. ANA, vs. MIN (2-0, 4.74, 17.1, 16)
Mike Mussina, NYY: vs. CHW, vs. TEX (1-2, 4074, 19.0, 16)
HOT
David Bush, TOR: vs. DET, @ BAL (2-0, 3.13, 20.1, 7)
Scott Kazmir, TB: @ BAL, @ CLE (2-0, 3.60, 20.0, 23)
John Lackey, ANA: @ OAK, @ SEA (2-0, 1.80, 20.0, 23)
COLD
Erik Bedard, BAL: vs. TB, vs. TOR (0-3, 7.75, 15.1, 16)
Gil Meche, SEA: vs. MIN, vs. ANA (0-2, 7.61, 14.2, 11)
KEEP IN MIND
Joaquin Benoit, TEX: @ BOS, @ NYY
Sean Douglass, DET: @ TOR, @ KC
Felix Hernandez, SEA: vs. MIN, vs. ANA
Orlando Hernandez, CHW: @ NYY, @ BOS
Cliff Lee, CLE: @ KC, vs. TB
Dustin McGowan, TOR: vs. DET, @ BAL
Mike Maroth, DET: @ TOR, @ KC
Wade Miller, BOS: vs. TEX, vs. CHW
Ricardo Rodriguez, TEX: @ BOS, @ NYY
Carlos Silva, MIN: @ SEA, @ OAK
National League
NO-BRAINERS
Josh Beckett, FLA: @ COL, vs. SF (2-0, 4.45, 18.2, 20)
A.J. Burnett, FLA: vs. ARI, vs. SF (3-0, 1.23, 22.0, 14)
Pedro Martinez, NYM: @ SD, @ LA (1-0, 4.09, 22.0, 20)
Matt Morris, STL: @ MIL, @ CHC (1-2, 6.75, 20.0, 10)
Mark Prior, CHC: vs. CIN, vs. STL (0-1, 6.25, 17.2, 17)
HOT
Robinson Tejada, PHI: @ LA, @ SD (1-0, 1.58, 17.1, 15)
Javier Vazquez, ARI: @ FLA, @ ATL (1-1, 2.67, 20.2, 20)
COLD
Chan Ho Park, SD: vs. NYM, vs. PHI
KEEP IN MIND
Brandon Claussen, CIN: @ CHC, @ MIL
Brad Hennessey, SF: @ ATL, @ FLA
Brad Penny, LA: vs. PHI, vs. NYM
Horacio Ramirez, ATL: vs. SF, vs. ARI
Victor Santos, MIL: vs. STL, vs. CIN
Jeff Suppan, STL: @ MIL, vs. ARI
Ismael Valdez, FLA: @ COL, vs. SF
Jerome Williams, CHC: vs. CIN, @ STL
AVOID
Jose Acevedo, COL: vs. PIT, vs. WAS
Tony Armas Jr, WAS: @ HOU, @ COL
Ezequiel Astacio, HOU: vs. WAS, vs. PIT
Byung Hyun Kim, COL: vs. FLA, vs. WAS
Sun-Woo Kim, COL: vs. FLA, vs. WAS
David Williams, PIT: @ CO, @ HOU
MAILBAG
Kenny: Who is a better to keep in your fantasy baseball league if you had to choose one or the other, Zack Duke or Felix Hernandez?
Mickels: Well, first off, a lot depends on what kind of league you’re in. Without knowing that, I’ll try to give you the best overall answer I can provide. At this point, I’d take Duke over Hernandez for a few reasons. Hernandez is still very new to the major leagues and hasn’t really proven too much at this point. Duke is older and bit more mature than Hernandez, meaning fewer chance of making mistakes. Duke also has more major league starts under his belt and has shown great poise in every one of them. Hernandez was obviously a bit overwhelmed by his first major league start and had some control problems early on, but did seem to settle down as the game went on. The book is out on Duke, and teams are starting to adjust. However, he’s shown he’s able to adjust each game as well.
-Scott Mickels, FPM Staff Writer/Editor, Member of the Fantasy Sports Writers Association
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
Weekly 2 Start Pitchers - Week 18
By Scott Mickels
July 31, 2005, 2:30 pm
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
Injuries
Sidney Ponson left Thursday’s start against the Rangers with a bruised right thumb. His status for his next start is unclear. At the same time, his next start may not be in an Orioles’ uniform. If he’s able to make his next start, and hasn’t been traded to another team by then, he’s scheduled for two starts this week.
Roy Halladay hopes to start Tuesday at Chicago. He had been out with a broken bone in his leg, which has healed quicker than expected. If he can’t go Tuesday, he’ll start this weekend at home against the Yankees on August 6th or 7th. Josh Towers would get the start on Tuesday, and get two starts this week, if Halladay is unavailable. However, if Halladay is able to start on Tuesday, he’ll have two starts this week, with his second being the aforementioned start against New York. Watch this situation closely.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
(Last 3 starts; W-L, ERA, IP, K)
American League
NO-BRAINERS
Mark Buehrle, CHW: @ BAL, vs. SEA (1-1, 5.68, 19.0, 9)
Bartolo Colon, ANA: vs. BAL, vs. TB (1-1, 5.68, 19.0, 13)
Jon Garland, CHW: vs. TOR, vs. SEA (2-0, 1.41, 19.2, 9)
Johan Santana, MIN: vs. OAK, vs. BOS (3-0, 1.89, 19.0, 11)
HOT
Jamie Moyer, SEA: @ DET, @ CHW (1-0, 2.86, 22.0, 13)
COLD
Bruce Chen, BAL: vs. CHW, @ TEX (0-1, 7.31, 16.0, 9)
Joe Mays, MIN: vs. OAK, vs. BOS (0-3, 8.33, 16.2, 11)
Sidney Ponson, BAL: @ ANA, @ TEX (0-2, 4.80, 15.0, 8 )
Chris Young, TEX: vs. TB, vs. BAL (0-1, 8.36, 14.0, 11)
KEEP IN MIND
Joe Blanton, OAK: @ MIN, @ KC
Scott Elarton, CLE: vs. NYY, @ DET
Roy Halladay, TOR: @ CHW
Dan Haren, OAK: @ MIN, @ KC
Runelvys Hernandez, KC: @ BOS, vs. OAK
Jason Johnson, DET: vs. SEA, vs. CLE
Al Leiter, NYY: @ CLE, @ TOR
Seth McClung, TB: @ TEX, @ ANA
Josh Towers, TOR: @ CHW, vs. NYY
Tim Wakefield, BOS: vs. KC, @ MIN
National League
NO-BRAINERS
Chris Carpenter, STL: vs. FLA, vs. ATL (2-0, 1.44, 25.0, 17)
Roger Clemens, HOU: @ ARI, @ SF (2-1, 1.35, 20.0, 15)
Tim Hudson, OAK: vs. PIT, @ STL (1-0, 1.89, 19.0, 10)
Jake Peavy, SD: @ PIT, @ WAS (1-1, 4.05, 20.0, 22)
Carlos Zambrano, CHC: @ PHI, @ NYM (1-0, 1.49, 24.1, 20)
HOT
Zach Duke, PIT: @ ATL, vs. LA (2-0, 0.00, 17.0, 10)
Jorge Sosa, ATL: @ CIN, @ STL (2-0, 1.69, 16.0, 13)
COLD
Dontrelle Willis, FLA: @ STL, @ CIN (1-0, 8.88, 15.2, 11)
Jamey Wright, COL: @ SF, @ ARI (0-2, 9.56, 16.0, 12)
KEEP IN MIND
Esteban Loiaza, WAS: vs. LA, vs. SD
Jason Marquis, STL: vs. FLA, vs. ATL
Ramon Ortiz, CIN: vs. ATL, vs. FLA
Vincente Padilla, PHI: vs. CHC, vs. MIL
Victor Santos, MIL: @ NYM, @ PHI
Brett Tomko, SF: vs. COL, vs. HOU
Ismael Valdez, FLA: @ STL, @ CIN
Claudio Vargas, ARI: vs. HOU, vs. COL
Jeff Weaver, LA: @ WAS, @ PIT
Kip Wells, PIT: vs. SD, vs. LA
Victor Zambrano, NYM: vs. MIL, vs. CHC
MAILBAG
Gdawg: Chris Young was an early favorite pitcher of mine this fantasy season, being 6-8, playing for the Rangers, and having a ton of potential made him likeable to me for many of my fantasy leagues. I thought he could easily run away with rookie of the year, but he has never played a full season and is now declining horribly each game. Would you recommend dropping him in a non-keeper league, or at least benching him his next few starts until he plays good again? Or should I risk it on him to pitch 5 solid innings and get the win with that Texas offense?
Mickels: Actually, he’s listed at 6-10, but who’s counting? Like you said, he’s never played a full season and it’s starting to show. Fatigue is setting in, and the dog days of summer are getting to Young. He has only one quality start in his last 5 outings, and has given up at least 4 earned runs in all but one of those 5 starts. To no surprise the only game he didn’t give up 4 earned runs was that one quality start against Oakland; after an extra day of rest. Texas would be wise to give Young an extra day off more often. I’d highly recommend benching Young for now. He’s still striking people out so I wouldn’t just drop him, but with him being able to hold up the rest of the season in question, I’d get decent value for him if you can.
-Scott Mickels, FPM Staff Writer/Editor, Member of the Fantasy Sports Writers Association
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
Weekly 2 Start Pitchers - Week 17
By Scott Mickels
July 24, 2005, 10:14 am
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
Injuries
Livan Hernandez retracted his comments about shutting down his season because of pain in his right knee. His injury is something that will bother him the rest of the season. Look for him to have surgery in the off-season.
The Rockies have placed Jason Jennings on the DL with a fractured finger. His season is over. Jose Acevedo will take his spot in the rotation. Acevedo has no fantasy value.
The Cubs have said Kerry Wood could go on the DL (again) if his shoulder doesn’t improve soon. What else is new? Keep an eye on this situation.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
(Last 3 starts; W-L, ERA, IP, K)
American League
NO-BRAINERS
Randy Johnson, NYY: vs. MIN, vs. ANA (3-0, 4.24, 19.1, 26)
Barry Zito, OAK: vs. CLE, vs. DET: (3-0, 0.82, 22.0, 17)
HOT
Daniel Cabrera, BAL: vs. TEX, vs. CHW (2-0, 2.49, 18.1, 21)
Rodrigo Lopez, BAL: vs. TEX, vs. CHW (2-0, 2.57, 21.0, 13)
COLD
Mark Hendrickson, TB: vs. BOS, vs. KC (1-2, 16.88, 8.0, 4)
J.P. Howell, KC: vs. CHW, @ TB (0-1, 9.82, 11.0, 4)
C.C. Sabathia, CLE: @ OAK, @ SEA (0-3, 7.75, 15.1, 15)
John Wasdin, TEX: @ BAL, @ TOR (0-1, 10.45, 11.2, 6)
KEEP IN MIND
Joaquin Benoit, TEX: @ BAL, @ TOR
Paul Byrd, ANA: @ TOR, @ NYY
Gustavo Chacin, TOR: vs. ANA, vs. TEX
Ryan Franklin, SEA: vs. DET, vs. CLE
Freddy Garcia, CHW: @ KC, @ BAL
Jose Lima, KC: vs. CHW, @ TB
Joel Pineiro, SEA: vs. DET, vs. CLE
Brad Radke, MIN: @ NYY, @ BOS
Nate Robertson, DET: @ SEA, @ OAK
Jake Westbrook CLE: @ OAK, @ CLE
National League
NO-BRAINERS
Mark Mulder, STL: @ SD, @ LA (2-0, 0.82, 22.0, 7)
Roy Oswalt, HOU: vs. PHI, vs. NYM (2-1, 2.99, 21.1, 17)
John Smoltz, ATL: vs. WAS, vs. PIT (2-0, 2.45, 22.0, 14)
HOT
Jason Schmidt, SF: @ CHC, @ MIL (1-1, 3.15, 20.0, 22)
COLD
Josh Fogg, PIT: @ FLA, @ ATL (0-2, 7.86, 17.2, 7)
Brandon Webb, ARI: @ MIL, @ CHC (0-2, 8.45, 18.1, 9)
Woody Williams, SD: vs. STL, vs. CIN (1-1, 6.67, 16.2, 10)
AVOID
Jose Acevedo, COL: vs. NYM, vs. PHI
Jeff Francis, COL: vs. NYM, vs. PHI
Tom Glavine, NYM: @ COL, @ HOU
Kazu Ishii, NYM: @ COL, @ HOU
Cory Lidle, PHI: @ HOU, @ COL
Jon Lieber, PHI: @ HOU, @ COL
Kerry Wood, CHC: vs. SF, vs. ARI
KEEP IN MIND
Chris Capuano, MIL: vs. ARI, vs. SF
Aaron Harang, CIN: @ LA, @ SD
Livan Hernandez, WAS: @ ATL, @ FLA
Derek Lowe, LA: vs. CIN, vs. STL
Noah Lowry, SF: @ CHC, @ MIL
Greg Maddux, CHC: vs. SF, vs. ARI
Eric Milton, CIN: @ LA, @ SD
Brian Moehler, FLA: vs. PIT, vs. WAS
Odalis Perez, LA: vs. CIN, vs. STL
Andy Pettitte, HOU: vs. PHI, vs. NYM
Ben Sheets, MIL: vs. ARI, vs. SF
Javier Vazquez, ARI: @ MIL, @ CHC
MAILBAG
ThePriceisWright: I have a pitching dilemma on my hands. Do I start the ever struggling Brandon Webb this week, which has two starts, or bench him for Aaron Harang, who also starts twice this week?
Mickels: Webb is a sinker ball pitcher who can’t seem to get his pitches down, and hitters are taking advantage. Although both pitchers’ starts are on the road, I would have to recommend Harang right now. Despite being on the road, Harang’s starts are at pitcher-friendly stadiums, Dodger Stadium and Petco Park. And like you said, Webb is struggling. I don’t expect Webb to pitch like this the rest of the year, but you should definitely reserve him until he gets things turned around.
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
Weekly 2 Start Pitchers - Week 16
By Scott Mickels
July 16, 2005, 1:10 am
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
Surge: Is Zach Day or Joe Kennedy worth a pickup? As a sinkerballer, Day may fit in well in Coors. Kennedy is out of Coors, only 26, and had some solid stuff last year.
Mickels: Right now, neither is worth a pickup. Day has no value pitching for the Rockies and Kennedy will start out in the A’s bullpen. However, on the bright side, there’s a good chance Kennedy will break into Oakland’s rotation. After stints in Tampa Bay and Colorado, two teams not exactly known for their winning ways, the move to Oakland should help his confidence, which will in turn help his stuff. Unless you have room on your roster to stash him, I’d hold off on Kennedy until he is in the rotation and has a quality start or two. At this point, Kennedy only has value as a starter, and only when the match up is favorable.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
(Last 3 starts; W-L, ERA, IP, K)
American League
NO-BRAINERS
Rich Harden, OAK: @ ANA, @ TEX (2-1, 1.88, 16.0, 10)
Mike Mussina, NYY: @ TEX, @ ANA (1-0, 5.21, 19.0, 16)
HOT
Jeremy Bonderman, DET: @ CHW, vs. MIN (2-1, 3.91, 23.0, 19)
Jose Contreras, CHW: vs. DET, vs. BOS (2-1, 3.16, 17.1, 10)
Ted Lilly, TOR: vs. SEA, @ KC (2-1, 1.35, 20.0, 16)
Kirk Saarloos, OAK: @ ANA, @ TEX (2-1, 2.45, 22.0, 11)
Jarrod Washburn, ANA: vs. OAK, vs. NYY (2-1, 3.38, 16.0, 10)
COLD
Zack Greinke, KC: @ CLE, vs. TOR (1-2, 6.75, 16.0, 6)
Orlando Hernandez, vs. DET, vs. BOS (2-1, 7.78, 16.2, 12)
J.P. Howell, KC: @ CLE, vs. TOR (0-1, 13.50, 10.0, 3)
Cliff Lee, CLE: vs. KC, vs. SEA (1-1, 7.00, 18.0, 11)
Ervin Santana, ANA: vs. OAK, vs. NYY (1-2, 9.75, 12.0, 9)
KEEP IN MIND
Bronson Arroyo, BOS: vs. TB, @ CHW
Kevin Brown, NYY: @ TEX, @ ANA
Ryan Franklin, SEA: @ TOR, @ CLE
Scott Kazmir, TB: @ BOS, vs. BAL
Kyle Lohse, MIN: vs. BAL, @ DET
Mike Maroth, DET: @ CHW, vs. BOS
Wade Miller, BOS: vs. TB, @ CHW
Kevin Millwood, CLE: vs. KC, vs. SEA
Chan Ho Park, TEX: vs. NYY, vs. OAK
Ricardo Rodriguez, TEX: vs. NYY, vs. OAK
Carlos Silva, MIN: vs. BAL, @ DET
NOTE: Erik Bedard is scheduled to start Monday for the Orioles at Minnesota. If he makes that start, he would qualify for two starts this week, with his second being at Tampa Bay. Even if he makes the Monday start, I’d still be hesitant to start him until he has a couple of starts under his belt to prove himself after returning from his injury. Keep an eye on the situation, as his start Monday still isn’t a sure thing.
National League
NO-BRAINERS
Matt Morris, STL: vs. MIL, vs. CHC (2-1, 2.05, 22.0, 13)
Brett Myers, PHI: vs. LA, vs. SD (2-1, 3.77, 19.1, 17)
Mark Prior, CHC: @ CIN, @ STL (1-0, 4.71, 17.2, 22)
HOT
Doug Davis, MIL: @ STL, @ CIN (0-0, 2.57, 21.0, 21)
Byung Hyun Kim, COL: @ WAS, @ PIT (1-1, 2.22, 16.2, 16)
John Patterson, WAS: vs. COL, vs. HOU (0-0, 1.89, 19.0, 24)
Brad Penny, LA: @ PHI, @ NYM (2-0, 1.05, 17.2, 13)
COLD
Ezequiel Astacio, HOU: @ PIT, @ WAS (0-3, 9.59, 12.2, 11)
Shawn Chacon, COL: @ WAS, @ PIT (0-2, 7.80, 15.0, 6)
Luke Hudson, CIN: vs. CHC, vs. ARI (0-3, 18.66, 8.2, 4)
Kazu Ishii, NYM: vs. SD, vs. LA (0-2, 7.02, 14.1, 11)
Mark Redman, PIT: vs. HOU, vs. COL (0-3, 7.88, 16.0, 9)
Victor Santos, MIL: @ STL, @ CIN (0-2, 7.02, 14.1, 9)
David Williams, PIT: vs. HOU, vs. COL (1-1, 8.25, 12.0, 13)
KEEP IN MIND
Tony Armas Jr., WAS: vs. COL, vs. HOU
Brandon Backe, HOU: @ PIT, @ WAS
Brandon Claussen, CIN: vs. CHC, vs. MIL
Kevin Correia, SF: vs. ATL, vs. FLA
Kyle Davies, ATL: @ SF, @ ARI
Mike Gosling, ARI: vs. FLA, vs. ATL
Brian Lawrence, SD: @ NYM, @ PHI
Jeff Suppan, STL: vs. MIL, vs. CHC
Jason Vargas, FLA: @ ARI, @ SF
Jerome Williams, CHC: @ CIN, @ STL
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
Weekly 2 Start Pitchers - Week 15
By Scott Mickels
July 10, 2005, 5:00 pm
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
With only 4 games taking place next week, there are no pitchers that qualify for 2 starts. Enjoy the All-Star Game!
Trent215: Which rookie with a hot start will have more value from here on out, Zach Duke or Scott Olsen?
Mickels: Great question! Both of these guys are pitching extremely well, so there’s no chance of them getting pulled from their team’s rotations any time soon. Both are top prospects and have put up great numbers in K’s, ERA and WHIP. And both are in the majors because of two different reasons; Duke, because of an injury to Oliver Perez and Olsen, because of bad pitching by Al Lieter. However, Duke’s minor league history shows he won’t keep up striking hitters out at the pace he has been, but if he’s still pitching like this when Perez gets back, the Pirates would be foolish to pull him from the rotation. Olsen, on the other hand, has been a strikeout machine in the minors—and now the majors. And, Olsen has a better supporting cast around him in Florida. The Marlins have a better bullpen than the Pirates, and he’ll benefit from talking with and being around pitchers like Beckett, Burnett and Willis. There’s talk that Lieter may retire or get traded, you’ve got to love that if you’re an Olsen owner. I’m going with Olsen on this one, but both are fine NL-only options, and should get noticed in mixed leagues.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
American League
NO-BRAINERS
NONE
HOT
NONE
COLD
NONE
AVOID
NONE
KEEP IN MIND
NONE
National League
NO-BRAINERS
NONE
HOT
NONE
COLD
NONE
AVOID
NONE
KEEP IN MIND
NONE
NOTE: (Last 3 starts; W-L, ERA, IP, K)
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
Weekly 2 Start Pitchers - Week 14
By Scott Mickels
July 4, 2005, 6:43 pm
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
The article is evolving yet again. I haven’t got much feedback from the 7-game schedules feature, so I’m going to lose that until further notice. You’ll still be getting 2-start pitcher of course, and I’ll be adding some pitchers stats over their last 3 starts—such as W-L, ERA, IP and K’s. Suggestions for the article are always welcome, so feel free to send any ideas you may to help me make this a more complete article.
avsfan4ever33: What’s your opinion on the Rockies’ Jeff Francis?
Mickels: Francis is a young pitcher with great potential. He has good composure, is fearless against hitters and will only get better. However, his fantasy value is pummeled by playing half of his games at Coors Field. There’s not a much of a list of successful Colorado pitchers. In fact, there’s not a list at all. I recommend starting him all leagues, only if he’s not pitching at home. For some reason, if he ever gets dealt to another team, watch out.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
American League
NO-BRAINERS
NONE
HOT
Joe Blanton, OAK: @ TOR, @ CHW (3-0, 1.55, 23.2, 15)
John Lackey, ANA: vs. MIN, vs. SEA (1-0, 3.30, 19.1, 25)
Tim Wakefield, BOS: @ TEX, @ BAL (2-0, 0.82, 22.0, 14)
Jake Westbrook CLE: vs. DET, @ NYY (3-0, 3.27, 22.0, 14)
COLD
Mark Hendrickson, TB: @ CHW, vs. DET (1-2, 6.92, 18.2, 8)
J.P. Howell, KC: vs. SEA, vs. MIN (0-2, 8.94, 14.1, 6)
Mike Maroth, DET: @ CLE, @ NYY (0-2, 4.45, 18.2, 5)
Brandon McCarthy, CHW: vs. TB, vs. OAK (0-1, 8.44, 16.0, 9)
Gil Meche, SEA: @ KC, @ ANA (2-1, 6.00, 15.0, 15)
Ervin Santana, ANA: vs. MIN, vs. SEA (1-2 10.31, 13.1, 14)
AVOID
NONE
KEEP IN MIND
D.J. Carrasco, KC: vs. SEA, vs. MIN
Bruce Chen, BAL: @ NYY, vs. BOS
Jason Davis, CLE: vs. DET, @ NYY
Ryan Franklin, SEA: @ KC, @ ANA
Jason Johnson, DET: @ CLE, @ TB
Wade Miller, BOS: @ TEX, @ BAL
Hideo Nomo, TB: @ CHW, vs. DET
Ricardo Rodriguez, TEX: vs. BOS, vs. TOR
Carlos Silva, MIN: @ ANA, @ KC
Josh Towers, TOR: vs. OAK, @ TEX
Chien-Ming Wang, NYY: vs. BAL, vs. CLE
NOTE: Brad Radke was scheduled to be a 2-start pitcher this week, but because of neck and shoulder pain his start was pushed back to Friday.
National League
NO-BRAINERS
Josh Beckett, FLA: vs. MIL, vs. CHC (1-2, 5.50, 18.0, 13)
Pedro Martinez, NYM: @ WAS, @ PIT (2-1, 3.60, 20.0, 16)
Matt Morris, STL: @ ARI, @ SF (2-1, 3.50, 18.0, 12)
Roy Oswalt, HOU: vs. SD, vs. LA (3-0, 1.22, 22.1, 12)
HOT
Chris Capuano, MIL: @ FLA, @ ATL (3-0, 2.62, 17.2, 10)
Noah Lowry, SF: vs. CIN, vs. STL (2-1, 2.62, 17.2, 13)
COLD
Kyle Davies, ATL: vs. CHC, vs. MIL (1-0, 7.15, 15.1, 6)
Kazu Ishii, NYM: @ WAS, @ PIT (1-2, 6.51, 15.2, 8)
Al Leiter, FLA: vs. MIL, vs. CHC (1-0, 5.56, 16.2, 11)
Greg Maddux, CHC: @ ATL, @ FLA (2-1, 5.82, 17.0, 10)
Ramon Ortiz, CIN: @ SF, @ ARI (1-2, 8.36, 14.0, 10)
Kip Wells, PIT: vs. PHI, vs. NYM (0-3, 10.50, 12.0, 9)
AVOID
Brandon Backe, HOU: vs. SD, vs. LA
Adam Eaton, SD: @ HOU, @ COL
Jeff Francis, COL: vs. LA, vs. SD
Byung-Hyun Kim, COL: vs. LA, vs. SD
Brian Lawrence, SD: @ HOU, @ COL
Odalis Perez, LA: @ COL, @ HOU
Jeff Weaver, LA: @ COL, @ HOU
KEEP IN MIND
Roman Colon, ATL: vs. CHC, vs. MIL
Shawn Estes, ARI, vs. STL, vs. CIN
Cory Lidle, PHI: @ PIT, vs. WAS
Esteban Loiaza, WAS: vs. NYM, @ PHI
Eric Milton, CIN: @ SF, @ ARI
John Patterson, WAS: vs. NYM, @ PHI
Kirk Rueter, SF: vs. CIN, vs. STL
Ben Sheets, MIL: @ FLA, @ ATL
Jeff Suppan, STL: @ ARI, @ SF
Brandon Webb, ARI: vs. STL, vs. CIN
David Williams, PIT: vs. PHI, vs. NYM
Kerry Wood, CHC: @ ATL, @ FLA
NOTE: (Last 3 starts; W-L, ERA, IP, K)
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
Weekly 2 Start Pitchers - Week 13
By Scott Mickels
June 26, 2005, 6:33 pm
This column deals with pitchers with two starts each week. However, if you own pitchers with only one start, as we all do, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two similar pitchers, or whether you should go with the starter or the closer. If you have any kind of dilemmas like those staring you in the face each week, don’t hesitate to email me with them. I’m more than happy to help you out and get your team’s rotation pointed in the right direction.
Andrew G.: Is Mark Prior being rushed back into the pitching rotation? How effective can he be in the early going after not having a rehab start? Also, there has been news that Curt Schilling could be back for Boston if all goes well as early as July 9? Is there a realistic chance of him coming back then?
Mickels: Prior has a trend of pitching well when coming off of an injury. I personally think he’s getting rushed back a bit in the long-term scheme of things, but of course, I’m not the Cubs’ trainer either. I do expect him to have a good outing his next start though. As for Schilling, he’s right on schedule to return around the All-Star break. He’s scheduled for a rehab start at Triple-A Pawtucket on June 29
818 Ballers: Ervin Santana or Scott Olsen? In a dynasty league, assuming only one could be picked up at the moment who would you take? All of the normal pitching categories (K, W, ERA, WHIP, SV). I'm leaning towards Ervin Santana, but I'd love a second opinion.
Mickels: Well, neither is that great of an option. Santana has had just as many good starts (2) as he’s had bad ones (2). However, he’ll be more of a fixture in the Angels’ rotation with Kelvim Escobar possibly done for the year. Olsen had a decent start in place of Josh Beckett, but Beckett could be back before next weekend. I’d recommend Santana, but not too highly.
NOTE: These starts are not set in stone. They can change for any variety of reasons; managerial moves, injuries, rain-outs, etc. Please keep in mind they are probable.
American League
NO-BRAINERS
Bartolo Colon, ANA: @ TEX, @ KC
Mark Buehrle, CHW: @ DET, @ OAK
HOT
Cliff Lee, CLE: @ BOS, @ BAL
Jamie, Moyer, SEA: @ OAK, vs. TEX
Jarrod Washburn, ANA: @ TEX, @ KC
COLD
Daniel Cabrera, BAL: vs. NYY, vs. CLE
Zack Greinke, KC: @ MIN, vs. ANA
Joe Mays, MIN: vs. KC, vs. TB
Sidney Ponson, BAL: vs. NYY, vs. CLE
KEEP IN MIND
Bronson Arroyo, BOS: vs. CLE, vs. TOR
Scott Kazmir, TB: vs. TOR, vs. MIN
Kevin Millwood, CLE: @ BOS, @ BAL
Carl Pavano, NYY: @ BAL, @ DET
Nate Robertson, DET: vs. CHW, vs. NYY
Ricardo Rodriguez, TEX: vs. ANA, @ SEA
Kenny Rogers, TEX: vs. ANA, @ SEA
Pete Walker, TOR: @ TB, @ BOS
Barry Zito, OAK: vs. SEA, vs. CHW
National League
NO-BRAINERS
Roger Clemens, HOU: @ COL, @ CIN – Although he’s pitching in two hitter’s parks this week, he’s facing Jamey Wright and Aaron Harang.
Dontrelle Willis, FLA: vs. ATL, @ NYM
HOT
Brandon Claussen, CIN: @ STL, vs. HOU
Jason Schmidt, SF: @ ARI, @ SD
COLD
Doug Davis, MIL: @ CHC, vs. PIT
Brad Halsey, HOU: vs. SF, @ LA
Mark Mulder, STL: vs. CIN, vs. COL
Carlos Zambrano, CHC: vs. MIL, vs. WAS
AVOID
Jason Jennings, COL: vs. HOU, @ STL
Wandy Rodriguez, HOU: @ COL, @ CIN
Jamey Wright, COL: vs. HOU, @ STL
KEEP IN MIND
Josh Fogg, PIT: @ WAS, @ MIL
Brian Moehler, FLA: vs. ATL, @ NYM
John Patterson, WAS: vs. PIT, @ CHC
Horacio Ramirez, ATL: @ FLA, @ PHI
Jorge Sosa, ATL: @ FLA, @ PHI
Tim Stauffer, SD: @ LA, vs. SF
Robinson Tejada, PHI: @ NYM, vs. ATL
Victor Zambrano, NYM: vs. PHI, vs. FLA
7-Game Schedules
Anaheim Angels
Atlanta Braves
Baltimore Orioles
Cleveland Indians
Colorado Rockies
Houston Astros
Florida Marlins
Texas Rangers
POSSIBLE FREE-AGENTS
Garrett Atkins, COL, 3B
Casey Blake, CLE, OF
Aaron Boone, CLE, 3B
Coco Crisp, CLE, OF
David Delluci, TEX, OF
Darin Erstad, ANA, 1B
Jay Gibbons, BAL, OF
Richard Hildalgo, TEX, OF
Jason Lane, HOU, OF
Adam LaRoche, ATL, 1B
Bengie Molina, ANA, C
Rafael Palmeiro, BAL, 1B
Willy Taveras, HOU, OF
Support FPM! You can send your questions and comments to Scott at scottmickels@fantasyplaymakers.com
View Comments (0)
|
|
Sorry, your account does not have access to post comments.