tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45301096895228262682010-03-11T05:57:41.947-08:00The latest news, prospects &amp; injuries in Fantasy Baseball.The Scouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02037774369663687811noreply@blogger.comBlogger287125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-6457292696143186382010-03-11T05:47:00.000-08:002010-03-11T05:57:42.110-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Kendry_Wood-720121.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 143px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Kendry_Wood-720118.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><div>A talked about prospect who hasn't put it together in the bigs yet. That sentence could be used for a lot of players. Last year, that was what could have been said (and no doubt was) for Kendry Morales, 1B, Angels. He finally lived up to the hype and became a stud in fantasy. Yes, there are better 1B then Morales, but that list got dramatically shorter. And how good was it for you who grabbed him late or off the waiver wire? This year, we have someone on the same team who could do the same thing. Brandon Wood.</div> <div>Brandon Wood has been the future SS or 3B for the Angels for what feels like many years now. Well, the future is now, barring injury or a terrible spring, he will be the starting 3B this year. Third base, like first base, is a position that demands attention in fantasy sports. These are positions that teams count on for production. So any starting player at these positions, even unknowns, should be watched closely. Wood, however, is not a complete unknown.</div> <div>Wood's minor league stats shows great talent, with a good AVG (.280+), and above average power (30 HR potential). But in his 224 big league at-bats over the last 3 years he has only managed a .192 AVG, 7 HR, and 19 RBIs - not very exciting. But his playing time was sporadic at best, not the way to get into a groove. Being an everyday player, he has the potential to start to put it together and be the guy the Angels have been looking for. Which is exactly what happened with Morales last year.</div> <div>Having two guys breakout in a big way, in back to back years, is unlikely, but not impossible. Even if Wood doesn't reach his full potential, he can still have good value as a late round pick (It's worth noting that Woods has already gone deep in spring training). He's not worth overpaying for, but is worth a bench spot in moderately deep leagues. These are the type of guys that can make your fantasy year - a late pick that produces like a high one. Learn from Morales and take a chance on Wood.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-645729269614318638?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-82376965004484129522010-03-10T16:25:00.000-08:002010-03-10T17:12:03.592-08:00Senior Beisbol (@HoffyBeisbol) Seniorbeisbol@gmail.com www.profantasybaseball.com It looks like 2010 will be a lost season for Joe Nathan. An MRI has revealed a torn Ulnar Collateral Ligament in his throwing elbow. He will rest the arm for two weeks before trying to throw through the pain. It is more likely that he will undergo Tommy John surgery and miss the entire season. With Nathan gone, the closer role in Minnesota goes from being crystal clear, to very cloudy. As I said on Sunday, Jon Rauch is the only pitcher in the bullpen that has any extended closing experience. Of course that experience was a half season with Washington two years ago. Standing nearly seven feet tall, he certainly has the look of an intimidating closer, but does he have the stuff? If not Rauch, then maybe Matt Guerrier. Guerrier had an outstanding 2009 as a set-up man, his ratios mirrored the now injured Nathan. He walked only 16 hitters in over 70 innings, had an ERA of 2.36 and a WHIP under 1.00. Those numbers may scream 'closer material,' but does Twins manager want to weaken two positions at once by moving his best set-up guy to closer? The other option that the Twins have is to look outside the organization for a closer. There are a few closers out there that could be had, but the price might be a bit high for the thrifty Twins. While they have bulked up their payroll dramatically this year to ensure a good on-field product as they open up their new stadium, I do not see them going out to get Kerry Wood and his $11 million salary from Cleveland. If the Blue Jays were willing to part ways with Scott Downs or Jason Frasor, I am sure the Twins could nab one of them. As a strong believer in not paying for saves, this is a situation that I will be monitoring closely. A lot of times all it takes to become a solid fantasy closer is a manager that gives him the ball in the ninth, and one lucky Twin will be given an opportunity soon.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-8237696500448412952?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Scout Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17782092985053668162SeniorBeisbol@gmail.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-19542558382484392622010-03-09T05:39:00.000-08:002010-03-09T05:44:58.473-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Daniel_Murphy_Love-751031.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 131px; height: 200px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Daniel_Murphy_Love-751029.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><div>Last year I loved Daniel Murphy. I saw Murphy as a tremendous sleeper. I saw a young guy who already had some success in the majors the previous year and who loves to spend time in the batting cages to work on his hitting. I respected the hard work he was putting in. However, he had a bad year for the Mets, and for me.</div> <div>This year, my view of him has changed dramatically. But he still has value.</div> <div>The Mets have already said that Murphy will be the starting first baseman. This hurts his value some as he is not a typical slugger and he plays in a pitchers park - he is not going to be a 40 HR guy, I would be shocked if he hit 30.</div> <div>If he struggled last year and is not going to put up typical first base numbers, why do I think he has value this year? A starting first baseman for any team needs attention (Last year, those who paid attention to Kendry Morales were greatly rewarded). Murphy will be counted on as an RBI hitter. He will be used in the heart of the lineup. With David Wright and Jason Bay hitting somewhere around him, he should get pitches to hit. There were also some positive signs last year that Murphy was getting over his struggles at the plate. After an abysmal start, he hit at a .280+ avg the rest of the way. Murphy ended the year with a .266 AVG, 63 RBIs, and 12 HRs.</div> <div>This year, I will give Murphy the .280 avg, I will give him around 20 HRs, and 80 RBIs. There is room for improvement on these numbers (he had a .300+ AVG in his first 50 games in the bigs). He should not be drafted in a shallow league, and would be a fairly late pick in deep leagues. I think Murphy can be a great fill-in for an injured starter on your team or even a UTL guy depending on match-ups. If his average approaches .300, he could turn out to be a solid late round/waiver wire pick. Last year I loved him, this year we'll just be friends.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-1954255838248439262?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-79996157179038331562010-03-07T14:34:00.000-08:002010-03-08T07:42:36.251-08:00Senior Beisbol (@HoffyBeisbol) seniorbeisbol@gmail.com www.profantasybaseball.com Spring Training baseball is finally here. Unfortunately, so are Spring Training injuries. I never understand why people would draft a month before the season starts, too many things can happen over the six weeks spent leading up to the moment when games start to count. Players win and lose position battles and rotation spots, the last few free-agents finally find teams, and most importantly, players get hurt. In the first week of games there have already been a few notable injuries. None of these guys are fantasy superstars, but all three find themselves on fantasy rosters. Now they find themselves in the infirmary. <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Alex Gordon - 3B/Kansas City Royals</span> Gordon missed most of 2009 after having hip surgery, but looked fully recovered when camp opened last week. He was looking forward to regaining his job as the everyday 3rd baseman when broke his thumb sliding head first into 2nd base on Saturday and will now be out 3-4 weeks. His status for opening day is in doubt, but he should be back sometime in April. So far in his baseball career, Gordon has been mostly hype and potential. He has not yet displayed on the field what made him the number two overall pick in the 2005 Amateur Draft. A lot of experts were calling him a 'post-hype sleeper,' and were looking for him to post a 15/15 season this year. His thumb injury does not seem to be serious, but any kind of hand injury usually has a lingering effect on power numbers. I would guess the best thing we see out of Gordon is a .250/10/70/15 line. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joe Nathan - CL/Minnesota Twins</span> Nathan has not been diagnosed with anything yet, but when a pitcher leaves camp to have his elbow examined, doctors rarely seem to give positive news. He had surgery last October to remove bone spurs and recently complained of elbow soreness after a throwing session. As a closer, Joe Nathan is one of the best in the game. A model of consistency since joining the Twins six years ago, he has averaged over 40 saves with an ERA of under 2.00 and a WHIP of under 1.00. We should hear more on his elbow in the next few days, but if he is out for any period of time Jon Rauch would make a good speculative add as he is the only guy in the bullpen with any closing experience. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Russel Martin - C/Los Angeles Dodgers</span> Martin will miss up to six weeks after an MRI revealed a pulled groin. Martin posted his worst numbers as a pro in 2009, sporting career lows in HR, RBI, R, AVG, and was one above his career low in stolen bases. He was primed for a bounce-back year, coming into camp after gaining nearly 20 pounds of muscle in the offseason. Groin injuries are tricky things. The only way to get better is to rest, and even then they are prone to reoccur. I would guess that this might limit Martin on the basepaths when he returns. This injury should drop him a few slots on the draft board at an already very thin catching position. His backups are Brad Ausmus and AJ Ellis, neither of whom are rosterable even if Martin misses any extended time. With less than four weeks to Opening Day there will assuredly be more Spring Training news. Keep checking back here for more updates.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-7999615717903833156?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Scout Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17782092985053668162SeniorBeisbol@gmail.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-121094130907186882010-03-07T09:01:00.000-08:002010-03-07T09:06:34.069-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Big_Papi_Matrix-736727.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 231px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Big_Papi_Matrix-736723.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><div>Sporting my favorite nick name in baseball, David 'Big Papi' Ortiz is a bit of a mystery for this fantasy season. Are we going to get the injury bug version, the slump version, or the clutch hitting monster? Let's listen in on this conversation:</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> I think Big Papi has some real sleeper potential this year.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> Wait. Isn't he that kid from the Keanu Reeves little league movie, 'Hard Ball'? Boy, that Keanu Reeves can act!</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> Um... Uh... Wow! No, I'm talking about David Ortiz, DH for the Boston Red Sox. He has the nickname 'Big Papi'.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> Oh. My mistake. Do you think Keanu Reeves has the nickname 'Big Matrix'? Or how about 'Big Excellent Adventure'?</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> I'm about to be 'Big Vomit' if you don't stop. Look, David Ortiz was one of the most clutch hitter I've ever seen. He hit for high average and great power. But the last time he did that was two years ago.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> How do you know this? Did Rufus come visit you with a time travelling phone booth?</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> No, I have a memory. The point I'm trying to make is that he has had two bad years since he last was a dominant player. Although he still had 99 RBIs last year, his AVG has gone way down (.238 in 2009) and his power numbers have lowered (28 HR in 2009). But injury has played a big part of that. I think we just may see a healthy David Ortiz this year and he will be a nice surprise for fantasy teams.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> Talk about a nice surprise. How about Keanu Reeves in 'A Walk in the Clouds'? So sensitive. Or what about Keanu doing Shakespeare? He was brilliant in 'Much Ado About Nothing'. Is there anything this guy can't do?</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> I'm pretty sure he can't hit a curveball <span style="font-style: italic;">*cough*</span> or act <span style="font-style: italic;">*cough*</span>. Anyway, Ortiz is not going to be picked very high in any draft (unless someone is really biased). His value drops a little more as he only qualifies as a DH.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> 'What do you do?' 'What do you do?'</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> You draft him late. You accept that he is not going to hit .300, probably more like .260, and you accept that he will not be hitting 45 HRs, probably more like 30 (with a reasonable chance of 35+). View him as a classic slugger, low AVG, good HR, and good RBIs. He will never be a top pick again, but I'm not ready to write him off to obscurity.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> Strange things are afoot at Fenway Park. You know, Keanu helped 'Big Papi' on that little league team, imagine what he could do as a coach for 'Big Papi' on the Red Sox. Also imagine what valuable life lessons we could all learn in the process.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> You make me sad. I'm leaving now.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> Alright. Party on dude!</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-12109413090718688?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-51084709385689038032010-03-06T11:40:00.000-08:002010-03-06T11:50:30.500-08:00</span>Fantasy Baseball - Mixed 5x5 (20 game eligibility)<br /> <br /> <strong>Participants:</strong><br /> <br /> 1.Dan <br /> 2.Real Chance <br /> 3.Andrea <br /> 4.Smokin' Balls <br /> <strong>5.Bay State Scout (PFB Writer)</strong><br /> 6.thetrueguru <br /> 7.Clean Streets <br /> 8.chata <br /> 9.Horton's Who's on First <br /> <strong>10.Pro Fantasy Baseball</strong> <strong>(Sin City Scout)</strong><br /> 11.Fireman68 <br /> 12.Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;">Round One</span></strong><br /> <br /> R1 P1 Dan Pujols, Albert 1B STL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R1 P2 Real Chance Ramirez, Hanley SS FLA AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R1 P3 Andrea Braun, Ryan OF MIL 12s <br /> <br /> R1 P4 Smokin' Balls Rodriguez, Alex 3B NYY AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R1 P5 Bay State Scout Utley, Chase 2B PHI 25s</strong> <br /> <br /> R1 P6 thetrueguru Kemp, Matt OF LA 11s <br /> <br /> R1 P7 Clean Streets Howard, Ryan 1B PHI 10s <br /> <br /> R1 P8 chata Fielder, Prince 1B MIL 16s <br /> <br /> R1 P9 Horton's Who's on First Cabrera, Miguel 1B DET 38s <br /> <br /> <strong>R1 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Teixeira, Mark 1B NYY 16s </strong><br /> <br /> R1 P11 Fireman68 Crawford, Carl OF TB 9s <br /> <br /> R1 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Lincecum, Tim SP SF 26s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Two</span></strong><br /> <br /> R2 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Tulowitzki, Troy SS COL 38s <br /> <br /> R2 P2 Fireman68 Holliday, Matt OF STL 5s <br /> <br /> <strong>R2 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Sizemore, Grady OF CLE 17s</strong> <br /> <br /> R2 P4 Horton's Who's on First Longoria, Evan 3B TB 33s <br /> <br /> R2 P5 chata Borbon, Julio OF TEX Predrafted <br /> <br /> R2 P6 Clean Streets Ellsbury, Jacoby OF BOS 15s <br /> <br /> R2 P7 thetrueguru Kinsler, Ian 2B TEX Predrafted <br /> <br /> <strong>R2 P8 Bay State Scout Mauer, Joe C MIN 20s </strong><br /> <br /> R2 P9 Smokin' Balls Wright, David 3B NYM AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R2 P10 Andrea Martinez, Victor C, 1B BOS 7s <br /> <br /> R2 P11 Real Chance Reynolds, Mark 3B, 1B ARI AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R2 P12 Dan Rollins, Jimmy SS PHI AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <span style="color: #990000;"><strong>Round Three</strong></span><br /> <br /> R3 P1 Dan Bay, Jason OF NYM AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R3 P2 Real Chance Reyes, Jose SS NYM AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R3 P3 Andrea Upton, Justin OF ARI 3s <br /> <br /> R3 P4 Smokin' Balls Sabathia, CC SP NYY AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R3 P5 Bay State Scout Gonzalez, Adrian 1B SD 16s</strong> <br /> <br /> R3 P6 thetrueguru Votto, Joey 1B CIN 11s <br /> <br /> R3 P7 Clean Streets Youkilis, Kevin 1B, 3B BOS 16s <br /> <br /> R3 P8 chata Phillips, Brandon 2B CIN 6s <br /> <br /> R3 P9 Horton's Who's on First Pedroia, Dustin 2B BOS 34s <br /> <br /> <strong>R3 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Hernandez, Felix SP SEA 30s</strong> <br /> <br /> R3 P11 Fireman68 Sandoval, Pablo 3B, 1B SF 13s <br /> <br /> R3 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Zimmerman, Ryan 3B WAS 7s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Four</span></strong><br /> <br /> R4 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Halladay, Roy SP PHI 22s <br /> <br /> R4 P2 Fireman68 Haren, Dan SP ARI 7s <br /> <br /> <strong>R4 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Granderson, Curtis OF NYY 5s</strong> <br /> <br /> R4 P4 Horton's Who's on First Werth, Jayson OF PHI 42s <br /> <br /> R4 P5 chata McCann, Brian C ATL 9s <br /> <br /> R4 P6 Clean Streets Greinke, Zack SP KC 23s <br /> <br /> R4 P7 thetrueguru Morales, Kendry 1B ANA 14s <br /> <br /> <strong>R4 P8 Bay State Scout Upton, B.J. OF TB 15s</strong> <br /> <br /> R4 P9 Smokin' Balls Suzuki, Ichiro OF SEA AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R4 P10 Andrea Verlander, Justin SP DET 5s <br /> <br /> R4 P11 Real Chance Roberts, Brian 2B BAL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R4 P12 Dan Morneau, Justin 1B MIN AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Five</span></strong><br /> <br /> R5 P1 Dan Santana, Johan SP NYM AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R5 P2 Real Chance Jeter, Derek SS NYY AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R5 P3 Andrea Wainwright, Adam SP STL 3s <br /> <br /> R5 P4 Smokin' Balls Lind, Adam OF TOR AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R5 P5 Bay State Scout Hamilton, Josh OF TEX 15s <br /> <br /> R5 P6 thetrueguru Cruz, Nelson OF TEX 24s <br /> <br /> R5 P7 Clean Streets Choo, Shin-Soo OF CLE 10s <br /> <br /> R5 P8 chata Cano, Robinson 2B NYY 6s <br /> <br /> R5 P9 Horton's Who's on First Lester, Jon SP BOS 33s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="color: black;">R5 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Nathan, Joe RP MIN</span> </span></strong><br /> <br /> R5 P11 Fireman68 Abreu, Bobby OF ANA 18s <br /> <br /> R5 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Lee, Cliff SP SEA 31s <br /> <br /> <span style="color: #990000;"><strong>Round Six</strong></span><br /> <br /> R6 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Dunn, Adam OF, 1B WAS 24s <br /> <br /> R6 P2 Fireman68 Peavy, Jake SP CHW 5s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: black;">R6 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Hill, Aaron 2B TOR 3s</span></strong> <br /> <br /> R6 P4 Horton's Who's on First Lee, Derrek 1B CHC 39s <br /> <br /> R6 P5 chata Ramirez, Manny OF LA 5s <br /> <br /> R6 P6 Clean Streets Zobrist, Ben 2B, OF TB 42s <br /> <br /> R6 P7 thetrueguru Ethier, Andre OF LA 5s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: black;">R6 P8 Bay State Scout Ramirez, Aramis 3B CHC 8s</span></strong> <br /> <br /> R6 P9 Smokin' Balls Markakis, Nick OF BAL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R6 P10 Andrea Vazquez, Javier SP NYY 14s <br /> <br /> R6 P11 Real Chance Berkman, Lance 1B HOU AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R6 P12 Dan Victorino, Shane OF PHI AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Seven</span></strong><br /> <br /> R7 P1 Dan Papelbon, Jonathan RP BOS AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R7 P2 Real Chance Rivera, Mariano RP NYY AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R7 P3 Andrea Pena, Carlos 1B TB 11s <br /> <br /> R7 P4 Smokin' Balls Broxton, Jonathan RP LA AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: black;">R7 P5 Bay State Scout Figgins, Chone 3B SEA 40s</span></strong> <br /> <br /> R7 P6 thetrueguru Lee, Carlos OF HOU 38s <br /> <br /> R7 P7 Clean Streets McLouth, Nate OF ATL 18s <br /> <br /> R7 P8 chata Pence, Hunter OF HOU 12s <br /> <br /> R7 P9 Horton's Who's on First McCutchen, Andrew OF PIT 19s <br /> <br /> <strong>R7 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Quentin, Carlos OF CHW 24s</strong> <br /> <br /> R7 P11 Fireman68 Soria, Joakim RP KC 2s <br /> <br /> R7 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Bourn, Michael OF HOU 5s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Eight</span></strong><br /> <br /> R8 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Johnson, Josh SP FLA 21s <br /> <br /> R8 P2 Fireman68 Beckett, Josh SP BOS 4s <br /> <br /> <strong>R8 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Wieters, Matt C BAL 33s</strong> <br /> <br /> R8 P4 Horton's Who's on First Hanson, Tommy SP ATL 35s <br /> <br /> R8 P5 chata Butler, Billy 1B KC 8s <br /> <br /> R8 P6 Clean Streets Hunter, Tommy SP TEX 45s <br /> <br /> R8 P7 thetrueguru Bailey, Andrew RP OAK Predrafted <br /> <br /> <strong>R8 P8 Bay State Scout Gallardo, Yovani SP MIL 19s</strong> <br /> <br /> R8 P9 Smokin' Balls Soriano, Alfonso OF CHC AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R8 P10 Andrea Rios, Alex OF CHW 18s <br /> <br /> R8 P11 Real Chance Rodriguez, Francisco RP NYM AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R8 P12 Dan Beltran, Carlos OF NYM AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Nine</span></strong><br /> <br /> R9 P1 Dan Carpenter, Chris SP STL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R9 P2 Real Chance Jones, Adam OF BAL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R9 P3 Andrea Cain, Matt SP SF 11s <br /> <br /> R9 P4 Smokin' Balls Uggla, Dan 2B FLA AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R9 P5 Bay State Scout Jimenez, Ubaldo SP COL 6s</strong> <br /> <br /> R9 P6 thetrueguru Street, Huston RP COL 19s <br /> <br /> R9 P7 Clean Streets Hunter, Torii OF ANA 5s <br /> <br /> R9 P8 chata Kershaw, Clayton SP LA 8s <br /> <br /> R9 P9 Horton's Who's on First Nolasco, Ricky SP FLA 33s <br /> <br /> <strong>R9 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Ramirez, Alexei SS CHW 39s</strong> <br /> <br /> R9 P11 Fireman68 Young, Michael 3B TEX 8s <br /> <br /> R9 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Soriano, Rafael RP TB 36s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Ten</span></strong><br /> <br /> R10 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Hamels, Cole SP PHI 42s <br /> <br /> R10 P2 Fireman68 Ibanez, Raul OF PHI 14s <br /> <br /> <strong>R10 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Beckham, Gordon 3B CHW 36s</strong> <br /> <br /> R10 P4 Horton's Who's on First Valverde, Jose RP DET 19s <br /> <br /> R10 P5 chata Garza, Matt SP TB Predrafted <br /> <br /> R10 P6 Clean Streets Suzuki, Kurt C OAK 40s <br /> <br /> R10 P7 thetrueguru Drew, Stephen SS ARI 10s <br /> <br /> <strong>R10 P8 Bay State Scout Bartlett, Jason SS TB 17s </strong><br /> <br /> R10 P9 Smokin' Balls Bell, Heath RP SD AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R10 P10 Andrea Stewart, Ian 3B, 2B COL 35s <br /> <br /> R10 P11 Real Chance Cordero, Francisco RP CIN AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R10 P12 Dan Hawpe, Brad OF COL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Eleven</span></strong><br /> <br /> R11 P1 Dan Fuentes, Brian RP ANA AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R11 P2 Real Chance Kubel, Jason OF MIN AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R11 P3 Andrea Damon, Johnny OF FA 30s <br /> <br /> R11 P4 Smokin' Balls Posada, Jorge C NYY AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R11 P5 Bay State Scout Bruce, Jay OF CIN 7s</strong> <br /> <br /> R11 P6 thetrueguru Aardsma, David RP SEA 12s <br /> <br /> R11 P7 Clean Streets Shields, James SP TB 9s <br /> <br /> R11 P8 chata Billingsley, Chad SP LA Predrafted <br /> <br /> R11 P9 Horton's Who's on First Wilson, Brian RP SF 20s <br /> <br /> <strong>R11 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Span, Denard OF MIN 38s</strong> <br /> <br /> R11 P11 Fireman68 Lopez, Jose 2B SEA 9s <br /> <br /> R11 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Morgan, Nyjer OF WAS 9s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Twelve</span></strong><br /> <br /> R12 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Marmol, Carlos RP CHC 15s <br /> <br /> R12 P2 Fireman68 Martin, Russell C LA 7s <br /> <br /> <strong>R12 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Webb, Brandon SP ARI</strong><br /> <br /> R12 P4 Horton's Who's on First Andrus, Elvis SS TEX 14s <br /> <br /> R12 P5 chata Cuddyer, Michael OF, 1B MIN 6s <br /> <br /> R12 P6 Clean Streets Anderson, Brett SP OAK 5s <br /> <br /> R12 P7 thetrueguru Davis, Rajai OF OAK 3s <br /> <br /> <strong>R12 P8 Bay State Scout Wagner, Billy RP ATL 3s</strong> <br /> <br /> R12 P9 Smokin' Balls Furcal, Rafael SS LA AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R12 P10 Andrea Lackey, John SP BOS 37s <br /> <br /> R12 P11 Real Chance Burnett, A.J. SP NYY AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R12 P12 Dan Jones, Chipper 3B ATL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Thirteen</span></strong><br /> <br /> R13 P1 Dan Guerrero, Vladimir DH TEX AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R13 P2 Real Chance Gonzalez, Carlos OF COL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R13 P3 Andrea Soto, Geovany C CHC 35s <br /> <br /> R13 P4 Smokin' Balls Tejada, Miguel SS BAL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R13 P5 Bay State Scout Baker, Scott SP MIN 42s</strong> <br /> <br /> R13 P6 thetrueguru Jones, Garrett OF, 1B PIT 11s <br /> <br /> R13 P7 Clean Streets Qualls, Chad RP ARI 38s <br /> <br /> R13 P8 chata Rodriguez, Wandy SP HOU 9s <br /> <br /> R13 P9 Horton's Who's on First Montero, Miguel C ARI 40s <br /> <br /> <strong>R13 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Stubbs, Drew OF CIN 37s</strong> <br /> <br /> R13 P11 Fireman68 Hoffman, Trevor RP MIL 4s <br /> <br /> R13 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Iannetta, Chris C COL 6s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Fourteen</span></strong><br /> <br /> R14 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Davis, Chris 1B TEX 21s <br /> <br /> R14 P2 Fireman68 Dempster, Ryan SP CHC 18s <br /> <br /> <strong>R14 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Zambrano, Carlos SP CHC 38s</strong> <br /> <br /> R14 P4 Horton's Who's on First Ludwick, Ryan OF STL 25s <br /> <br /> R14 P5 chata Weaver, Jered SP ANA 4s <br /> <br /> R14 P6 Clean Streets Escobar, Yunel SS ATL 6s <br /> <br /> R14 P7 thetrueguru Franklin, Ryan RP STL 7s <br /> <br /> <strong>R14 P8 Bay State Scout Francisco, Frank RP TEX 22s</strong> <br /> <br /> R14 P9 Smokin' Balls Scherzer, Max SP DET AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R14 P10 Andrea Kendrick, Howie 2B ANA 26s <br /> <br /> R14 P11 Real Chance Lilly, Ted SP CHC AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R14 P12 Dan Jurrjens, Jair SP ATL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Fifteen</span></strong><br /> <br /> R15 P1 Dan Molina, Bengie C SF AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R15 P2 Real Chance Jenks, Bobby RP CHW AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R15 P3 Andrea Reimold, Nolan OF BAL 23s <br /> <br /> R15 P4 Smokin' Balls Oswalt, Roy SP HOU AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R15 P5 Bay State Scout Rasmus, Colby OF STL 44s</strong> <br /> <br /> R15 P6 thetrueguru Jackson, Edwin SP ARI 7s <br /> <br /> R15 P7 Clean Streets Napoli, Mike C ANA 4s <br /> <br /> R15 P8 chata Rivera, Juan OF ANA 6s <br /> <br /> R15 P9 Horton's Who's on First Cabrera, Asdrubal SS, 2B CLE 42s <br /> <br /> <strong>R15 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Gonzalez, Mike RP BAL 22s</strong> <br /> <br /> R15 P11 Fireman68 Cabrera, Orlando SS CIN 4s <br /> <br /> R15 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Nunez, Leo RP FLA 13s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Sixteen</span></strong><br /> <br /> R16 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Loney, James 1B LA 10s <br /> <br /> R16 P2 Fireman68 LaRoche, Adam 1B ARI 8s <br /> <br /> <strong>R16 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Peralta, Jhonny 3B, SS CLE 9s</strong> <br /> <br /> R16 P4 Horton's Who's on First Wood, Kerry RP CLE 45s <br /> <br /> R16 P5 chata Aybar, Erick SS ANA 5s <br /> <br /> R16 P6 Clean Streets Gutierrez, Franklin OF SEA 2s <br /> <br /> R16 P7 thetrueguru McGehee, Casey 3B, 2B MIL 29s <br /> <br /> <strong>R16 P8 Bay State Scout Hardy, J.J. SS MIN 18s</strong> <br /> <br /> R16 P9 Smokin' Balls Danks, John SP CHW AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R16 P10 Andrea Wolf, Randy SP MIL 12s <br /> <br /> R16 P11 Real Chance Dye, Jermaine OF FA AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R16 P12 Dan Hudson, Orlando 2B MIN AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Seventeen</span></strong><br /> <br /> R17 P1 Dan Feliz, Neftali SP TEX AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R17 P2 Real Chance Kazmir, Scott SP ANA AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R17 P3 Andrea Headley, Chase OF, 3B SD 31s <br /> <br /> R17 P4 Smokin' Balls Price, David SP TB AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R17 P5 Bay State Scout Doumit, Ryan C PIT 28s</strong> <br /> <br /> R17 P6 thetrueguru Howell, J.P. RP TB 24s <br /> <br /> R17 P7 Clean Streets Dotel, Octavio RP PIT 3s <br /> <br /> R17 P8 chata de la Rosa, Jorge SP COL 7s <br /> <br /> R17 P9 Horton's Who's on First Hart, Corey OF MIL 31s <br /> <br /> <strong>R17 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Happ, J.A. SP PHI 20s</strong> <br /> <br /> R17 P11 Fireman68 Capps, Matt RP WAS 3s <br /> <br /> R17 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Ortiz, David DH BOS 9s <br /> <br /> <span style="color: #990000;"><strong>Round Eighteen</strong></span><br /> <br /> R18 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Harden, Rich SP TEX 11s <br /> <br /> R18 P2 Fireman68 Escobar, Alcides SS MIL 35s <br /> <br /> <strong>R18 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Posey, Buster C SF 3s</strong> <br /> <br /> R18 P4 Horton's Who's on First Pierzynski, A.J. C CHW 30s <br /> <br /> R18 P5 chata Cueto, Johnny SP CIN 11s <br /> <br /> R18 P6 Clean Streets Beltre, Adrian 3B BOS 1s <br /> <br /> R18 P7 thetrueguru Molina, Yadier C STL 2s <br /> <br /> <strong>R18 P8 Bay State Scout Cameron, Mike OF BOS 21s</strong> <br /> <br /> R18 P9 Smokin' Balls Wells, Vernon OF TOR AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R18 P10 Andrea Gordon, Alex 3B KC 26s <br /> <br /> R18 P11 Real Chance Cantu, Jorge 1B, 3B FLA AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R18 P12 Dan Floyd, Gavin SP CHW AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Nineteen</span></strong><br /> <br /> R19 P1 Dan Weeks, Rickie 2B MIL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R19 P2 Real Chance Matsuzaka, Daisuke SP BOS AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R19 P3 Andrea Rodney, Fernando RP ANA 15s <br /> <br /> R19 P4 Smokin' Balls Helton, Todd 1B COL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R19 P5 Bay State Scout Liriano, Francisco SP MIN 3s</strong> <br /> <br /> R19 P6 thetrueguru Scutaro, Marco SS BOS 10s <br /> <br /> R19 P7 Clean Streets Johnson, Kelly 2B ARI 18s <br /> <br /> R19 P8 chata Prado, Martin 2B, 1B, 3B ATL 3s <br /> <br /> R19 P9 Horton's Who's on First Correia, Kevin SP SD 25s <br /> <br /> <strong>R19 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Porcello, Rick SP DET 39s</strong> <br /> <br /> R19 P11 Fireman68 Ross, Cody OF FLA 25s <br /> <br /> R19 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Cabrera, Everth SS SD 11s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Twenty</span></strong><br /> <br /> R20 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Cust, Jack OF OAK 20s <br /> <br /> R20 P2 Fireman68 Ordonez, Magglio OF DET 6s <br /> <br /> <strong>R20 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Izturis, Maicer 2B, SS ANA 31s</strong> <br /> <br /> R20 P4 Horton's Who's on First Konerko, Paul 1B CHW 36s <br /> <br /> R20 P5 chata Sanchez, Jonathan SP SF 14s <br /> <br /> R20 P6 Clean Streets Buchholz, Clay SP BOS 30s <br /> <br /> R20 P7 thetrueguru Thornton, Matt RP CHW 19s <br /> <br /> <strong>R20 P8 Bay State Scout Matsui, Hideki DH ANA 7s</strong> <br /> <br /> R20 P9 Smokin' Balls Chamberlain, Joba SP NYY AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R20 P10 Andrea Lidge, Brad RP PHI 7s <br /> <br /> R20 P11 Real Chance Gomez, Carlos OF MIL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R20 P12 Dan Hairston, Scott OF SD AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Twenty-One</span></strong><br /> <br /> R21 P1 Dan Pettitte, Andy SP NYY AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R21 P2 Real Chance Hudson, Tim SP ATL AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R21 P3 Andrea Pierre, Juan OF CHW 14s <br /> <br /> R21 P4 Smokin' Balls Snider, Travis OF TOR AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R21 P5 Bay State Scout Santana, Ervin SP ANA 5s</strong> <br /> <br /> R21 P6 thetrueguru Baker, John C FLA 31s <br /> <br /> R21 P7 Clean Streets Drew, J.D. OF BOS 2s <br /> <br /> R21 P8 chata Olivo, Miguel C COL 24s <br /> <br /> R21 P9 Horton's Who's on First Sheets, Ben SP OAK 7s <br /> <br /> <strong>R21 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Lindstrom, Matt RP HOU 5s</strong> <br /> <br /> R21 P11 Fireman68 Harang, Aaron SP CIN 24s <br /> <br /> R21 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Barmes, Clint 2B COL 5s <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Twenty-Two</span></strong><br /> <br /> R22 P1 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Scott, Luke OF BAL 18s <br /> <br /> R22 P2 Fireman68 Blanton, Joe SP PHI 26s <br /> <br /> <strong>R22 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Coghlan, Chris OF FLA 18s</strong> <br /> <br /> R22 P4 Horton's Who's on First DeRosa, Mark 3B, OF SF 29s <br /> <br /> R22 P5 chata Niemann, Jeff SP TB 7s <br /> <br /> R22 P6 Clean Streets Slowey, Kevin SP MIN 4s <br /> <br /> R22 P7 thetrueguru Bedard, Erik SP SEA 13s <br /> <br /> <strong>R22 P8 Bay State Scout Davis, Wade SP TB 12s</strong> <br /> <br /> R22 P9 Smokin' Balls Feldman, Scott SP TEX AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R22 P10 Andrea Theriot, Ryan SS CHC 5s <br /> <br /> R22 P11 Real Chance Ruiz, Carlos C PHI AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R22 P12 Dan Buehrle, Mark SP CHW AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong><span style="color: #990000;">Round Twenty-Three</span></strong><br /> <br /> R23 P1 Dan Varitek, Jason C BOS AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R23 P2 Real Chance Hernandez, Ramon C, 1B CIN AutoSelect <br /> <br /> R23 P3 Andrea Hanrahan, Joel RP PIT 26s <br /> <br /> R23 P4 Smokin' Balls Torrealba, Yorvit C SD AutoSelect <br /> <br /> <strong>R23 P5 Bay State Scout Kuroda, Hiroki SP LA 3s</strong> <br /> <br /> R23 P6 thetrueguru Moylan, Peter RP ATL 5s <br /> <br /> R23 P7 Clean Streets Lowe, Derek SP ATL 31s <br /> <br /> R23 P8 chata Teahen, Mark 3B, OF CHW Predrafted <br /> <br /> R23 P9 Horton's Who's on First Arroyo, Bronson SP CIN 28s <br /> <br /> <strong>R23 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Saunders, Joe SP ANA AutoSelect</strong> <br /> <br /> R23 P11 Fireman68 Santana, Carlos C CLE 4s <br /> <br /> R23 P12 Jason Swist (FantasyBaseballSearch.com) Shoppach, Kelly C TB 14s <br /> <br /> &nbsp; <br /> <strong><span style="color: blue;">Pro Fantasy Baseball Final Team</span></strong> <br /> <strong><span style="color: blue;"></span></strong>&nbsp; <br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R1 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Teixeira, Mark 1B NYY </span><br /> <br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R2 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Sizemore, Grady OF CLE </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R3 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Hernandez, Felix SP SEA </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R4 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Granderson, Curtis OF NYY </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R5 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Nathan, Joe RP MIN </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R6 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Hill, Aaron 2B TOR </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R7 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Quentin, Carlos OF CHW </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R8 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Wieters, Matt C BAL </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R9 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Ramirez, Alexei SS CHW </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R10 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Beckham, Gordon 3B CHW </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R11 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Span, Denard OF MIN </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R12 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Webb, Brandon SP ARI </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R13 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Stubbs, Drew OF CIN </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R14 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Zambrano, Carlos SP CHC </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R15 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Gonzalez, Mike RP BAL </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R16 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Peralta, Jhonny 3B CLE </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R17 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Happ, J.A. SP PHI </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R18 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Posey, Buster C SF </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R19 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Porcello, Rick SP DET </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R20 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Izturis, Maicer 2B ANA </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R21 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Lindstrom, Matt RP HOU </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R22 P3 Pro Fantasy Baseball Coghlan, Chris OF FLA </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /> </span><br /> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">R23 P10 Pro Fantasy Baseball Saunders, Joe SP ANA</span> <br /> <br /> &nbsp; <br /> <strong><span style="color: #073763;">Bay State Scout Final Team</span></strong> <br /> <span style="color: #073763;"></span>&nbsp; <br /> <span style="color: #073763;"><span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R1 P5 Bay State Scout Utley, Chase 2B PHI </span></span><strong><span style="color: #073763;"></span></strong><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;"></span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R2 P8 Bay State Scout Mauer, Joe C MIN </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R3 P5 Bay State Scout Gonzalez, Adrian 1B SD </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R4 P8 Bay State Scout Upton, B.J. OF TB </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R5 P5 Bay State Scout Hamilton, Josh OF TEX </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R6 P8 Bay State Scout Ramirez, Aramis 3B CHC </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R7 P5 Bay State Scout Figgins, Chone 3B SEA </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R8 P8 Bay State Scout Gallardo, Yovani SP MIL </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R9 P5 Bay State Scout Jimenez, Ubaldo SP COL </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R10 P8 Bay State Scout Bartlett, Jason SS TB </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R11 P5 Bay State Scout Bruce, Jay OF CIN </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R12 P8 Bay State Scout Wagner, Billy RP ATL </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R13 P5 Bay State Scout Baker, Scott SP MIN </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R14 P8 Bay State Scout Francisco, Frank RP TEX </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R15 P5 Bay State Scout Rasmus, Colby OF STL </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R16 P8 Bay State Scout Hardy, J.J. SS MIN </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R17 P5 Bay State Scout Doumit, Ryan C PIT </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R18 P8 Bay State Scout Cameron, Mike OF BOS </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R19 P5 Bay State Scout Liriano, Francisco SP MIN </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R20 P8 Bay State Scout Matsui, Hideki DH ANA </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R21 P5 Bay State Scout Santana, Ervin SP ANA </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: black;">R22 P8 Bay State Scout Davis, Wade SP TB </span><br /> <span style="color: black;"><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: #d0e0e3;"><span style="color: black;">R23 P5 Bay State Scout Kuroda, Hiroki SP LA</span> </span><br /> <br /> <div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-5108470938568903803?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>The Scouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02037774369663687811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-64081179196938914802010-03-05T09:05:00.000-08:002010-03-05T10:14:09.466-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Mock_Drft-786559.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 219px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Mock_Drft-786558.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><div>As the 2010 baseball season approaches, and just as important, your 2010 fantasy draft approaches, it is nice to get in some practice with mock drafts. However, there are some dangers that you must be aware of when you do your mock drafts. Mock drafting can be both good and bad. Read the below points to get some ideas of how to use mock drafts to your advantage.</div> <div>Here's the skinny:</div> <div style="font-weight: bold;">The Good:</div> <ul><li>Mock drafting gets you thinking in 'draft Mode'. 'Draft Mode' is the ability to make smart decisions according to your game plan in the allotted time. This is usually not done well on the first couple of drafts, but as you continue to mock draft, your game plan and approach gets stronger. This is a big plus.</li><li>Mock drafting gives you a feel for where players will go in the draft. After a few drafts, you should kinda know who's going in the top rounds and who will be around later. This is a good time to see who might be over and under rated.</li><li>Mock drafting is a good time to try out different strategies. Try different things and see how your team comes out in the end. May come across a new strategy!</li><li>Mock drafting is fun.</li></ul> <div style="font-weight: bold;">The Bad:</div> <ul><li>Being that the draft is not real, people may not take it too seriously. If they are not taking it too seriously, their picks may not reflect 'real' picks.</li><li>Just like you, others may be trying out different strategies. You could end up with a false sense of how the draft went due to someone trying something bizarre.</li><li>Take into account how many people are in the draft. Seems straight forward, but it's easy to overlook. If your real draft is 12 people but your mock drafts are 10 people, the results simply won't match up very well. It's not pointless, as you can still see who the popular picks are, but it can't be used as a guideline for what round a player will go in.</li></ul> <div>Keeping these points in mind should help you have effective and safe mock drafts. Have fun!</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-6408117919693891480?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-27411333310818234742010-03-03T10:03:00.000-08:002010-03-03T10:05:43.153-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Brett_And-758142.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 155px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Brett_And-758139.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><div>After doing a lot of research on Brett Anderson, I have come to the conclusion that he is a middle round pick that is going to pay off. He's too young to be a top pick (22). His numbers are not good enough to be a top pick (11-11, 4.06 ERA, 150 Ks in 175 innings). His flashes of dominance show that he could perform as a top pick.</div> <div>His 'stuff' has impressed a lot of people. Not only is it good, it is accurate. It's one thing to throw a slider, quite another to throw a slider that catches the black. Anderson has shown he can do this. He has the ability to strike out a batter an inning, and has the ability to minimizes any damage by getting a lot of ground balls. Nice combo.</div> <div>So what is the bad news (there is always bad news)? <span style="font-weight: bold;">1)</span> Brett Anderson is only 22 years old and young pitchers can struggle. <span style="font-weight: bold;">2)</span> His team is not great. I think he will pitch well enough to win plenty of games, but his team may not give him run support. <span style="font-weight: bold;">3)</span> He threw 175 innings last year - that is a solid work load for a 21 year old rookie. I haven't seen any talk of a pitch count, so he may get worn down this year. However, at 6'4" and 235 pounds, he may have a frame that can handle it - we'll see, but it's worth mentioning.</div> <div>Anderson should be picked up in most all formats. He will not be there too late, but if you can grab him after the middle round, he could really give your team a nice boost. Keep in mind, some think he can be an elite pitcher THIS year! I love potential, but I'm not riding that band-wagon yet. However, he should easily perform above (perhaps way above) his draft position making him a great 'Bargain'.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-2741133331081823474?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-38005558393021432632010-03-01T10:01:00.001-08:002010-03-01T11:12:11.119-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/mlb_a_borbon_300-735408.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 174px; height: 200px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/mlb_a_borbon_300-735404.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><div>Juan Pierre with a touch more power. That is how I would describe Julio Borbon, CF for the Texas Rangers.</div> <div>Borbon is young, only 24, but has shown some serious talent at the major league level. Last year, 46 games, he batted .312, 30 Runs, 20 RBIs, 4 HRs, and 19 Stolen Bases. Solid. The next time Juan Pierre hits that many homeruns in less then 50 games will be the first time.</div> <div>If we calculate that Borbon played a 1/3 of a season, that would mean that over a full season he would have 90 Runs, 60 RBIs, 12 HRs, and 50+ Stolen Bases. That would be pretty sweet! Can he continue at this pace for a full year? Not sure. But he will get his chance.</div> <div>Texas has made it clear that he is the starting center fielder and want him as their leadoff hitter. So what we have in Borbon is a starter with good potential, a nice sample of big league games, and plays on an offensive minded team. There is a lot to like here.</div> <div>I would value Juan Pierre a little higher then Borbon just because of his stellar track record, but Borbon could out perform him - especially with a little more power. Julio Borbon is another good young outfielder that can be had late in the draft.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-3800555839302143263?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-30977472464114510862010-03-01T05:50:00.000-08:002010-03-01T06:18:16.511-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Spring_Fever-714899.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 275px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Spring_Fever-714897.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><div>With baseball players reporting to camps, spring training games about to start, and outside temperatures creeping towards tolerable, spring is here! Officially spring doesn't start until March 20th, but I'm not a slave to what 'The Man' says, it's here in my book. However, you can't talk about spring without mentioning the dreaded spring fever.</div> <div>Spring fever manifests itself it several ways, but to fantasy baseball fans it often shows up with bad decisions. How so? For those who have had their draft, or are in keeper leagues, the desire to 'play' takes over. Since the season is still some time off, 'playing' happens in the form of trades. When you make a trade, your playing. This desire to play/trade is strong, so strong that bad offers are made in order to make a deal. For some reason we forget how good this player was, or how average that player performed and we offer lopsided trades, generally not in our favor. It's possible to 'play' your way right out of the post season without the season even starting! For those who haven't had a draft yet, you are protected as there is no bad decisions to be made... yet.</div> <div>The bright side is that you are not alone. This fever affects other owners as well and this knowledge can be used to your advantage. To win the battle of spring fever and maybe come out ahead, follow these steps:</div> <div>1) Know your team. There is nothing like making a trade for a player that fills a position that you already have nicely filled. Trades should always have the purpose of making your team better.</div> <div>2) Research your trades. Do not be quick to pull the trigger. There is nothing wrong with offering trades this time of year, even lots of them, just do not be too hasty.</div> <div>3) Test the waters. Send out trades that favor you (within reason, let's stay in the realm of fair) and see if you get any bites. Chances are, the fever is hitting someone and you can make some nice deals for yourself. Perhaps target some guys who are good but didn't perform well last year due to injuries, such as Jose Reyes, or Chien-Ming Wang.</div> <div>Baseball is not too far off. The fever will subside. Until then, follow closely the above remedy and keep your yourself and your team healthy.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-3097747246411451086?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-64394088975733120002010-02-26T06:03:00.000-08:002010-02-26T07:06:59.519-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/JP-752127.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 140px; height: 200px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/JP-752124.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></a> <DIV>Here is another outfielder who will be available late in your draft that can give you some good numbers. Juan Pierre.</DIV> <DIV>Pierre has been stuck in obscurity while in LA because they simply had too many outfielders. The Dodgers had to play Manny, Kemp, and Ethier ahead of him. However, he will not have any problems getting playing time on the White Sox. I think it was a strong/smart move for them to pick up Pierre.</DIV> <DIV>What do you get with Juan Pierre? Most notably, stolen bases. Outside of his rookie year, he has never stolen less then 30 bags (even while playing part time for the Dodgers). He has stolen more then 60 bags in a season twice. Bottom line is that this guy is fast and knows how to steal (more then speed is involved with base thieving). As a full time player, expect an easy 40+ swipes. What else do you get with Pierre? You get a career .301 hitter, a guy that should give you around 90 runs, and kick in about 40 RBIs. You will NOT get the long ball. Pierre hit 13 homeruns, not last year, but in the last 10 years total. Nuff said.</DIV> <DIV>As with many other outfielders, Pierre is not a high draft pick and can be had late in your draft - hence the Juan 'Not Gone' nickname.</DIV> <DIV>So repeat after me, I will fill in my shallow positions before I fill in my outfield.</DIV> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-6439408897573312000?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-48498222860884933342010-02-25T08:36:00.000-08:002010-02-25T09:15:36.950-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/F_Gut-795626.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 132px; height: 200px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/F_Gut-795623.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><DIV>One of the best words you want to hear for fantasy baseball is 'Underrated'. This means a player is not viewed as being as good as he is. This means he will be available late in your draft or even on the FA list. I have a hard time thinking of anyone who this word applies to more then Franklin Gutierrez, CF, Seattle Mariners (Although, Placido Polanco is a perennial underrated player).</DIV> <div>Gutierrez is known for his defense, but he's even underrated with that as he was robbed of a Gold Glove last year. But that's beside the point (for fantasy). The guy can really hit. This 'defensive' player, put up a strong line last year - .283 AVG, 18 HR, 70 RBIs, 85 Runs, and 16 Stolen Bases. All of this in his first year as a full time starter. He just turned 27 (on Feb. 21) and there is no reason to think that he can't improve on all of those numbers.</div> <div>Honestly, Gutierrez is not going to light the world on fire this year, but how would you like a .290+ AVG, 20 HR, 80 RBI, 90 Runs, and 20 SB from a guy you can get very late in your draft? Frankly (no pun intended), I would love it. I'm planning on it.</div> <div>I've said it before, and it bears repeating, with so much young and underrated talent in the OF this year, focus your high draft picks on the shallower positions. Franklin Gutierrez is probably going to be a 'left over' that can be readily had once you fill your other needs.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-4849822286088493334?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-34074127460521012232010-02-24T21:32:00.000-08:002010-02-28T17:21:01.279-08:00<a href="http://blog.cleveland.com/tribe_impact/2008/02/small_branyan0308crow.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://blog.cleveland.com/tribe_impact/2008/02/small_branyan0308crow.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 186px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 150px;" /></a>Manny Acta has Stated that newly signed Russell Branyan who hit 31 HR's for Seattle last season will start at First base this season for the Indians. Well So much for Michael Brantley or Matt Laporta being full time or even major league players this year. Laporta looked like the starting first baseman until this news, and Brantley looked to be starting in left until now. <br /> <br /> My personal opinion is that Laporta will be with the Big club playing left and should still be on your radar. Expect some struggles from Laporta as this will be his first full season in the big leagues.(temper expectations) The Biggest loser in all of this is Michael Brantley, who I have seen tout<a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/105241/148095_twins_indians_baseball.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="99" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/105241/148095_twins_indians_baseball.jpg" style="float: right; height: 169px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 341px;" width="200" /></a>ed all over the Internet as a sleeper. I have even heard people say they think he will put up Kemp like numbers from <span style="color: yellow;"><span style="color: black;">Kemp's</span> </span>rookie campaign.(Kemp's first year as a full time starter 2008: 606, AB's, 290 avg, 340 obp, 18 hr's, 76 rbi, and 35 steals).<br /> <br /> Although I think Brantley could do this in a couple years I do not think he is ready to do that this season. Now, he won't even have the chance. Brantley will get full time AB's but not with the Big club. My personal opinion is that Brantley will start the year in AAA barring an injury in Spring ball. All that said, I am buying Branyan as a late round utility pick for his 30-40 hr potential. If Branyan can stay healthy I see no reason why he can't repeat what he did last year. <strong></strong><strong>Branyan Projection: 260 avg 60 runs 35 hrs 96 rbi and 1 SB.</strong> <br /> <br /> The Bay State Scout (<a href="mailto:Bay_state_scout@comcast.net">Bay_state_scout@comcast.net</a>) <br /> It has been confirmed by a report in the Cleveland Plain dealer (<a href="http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2010/02/cleveland_indians_sign_russell.html">http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2010/02/cleveland_indians_sign_russell.html</a>)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-3407412746052101223?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Jason Zavaskyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01380949141074265802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-20939447020584996592010-02-24T17:42:00.000-08:002010-02-25T08:14:48.709-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Nolan_Reimold-720185.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 172px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Nolan_Reimold-720182.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><DIV>Nolan Reimold, the 27 year old outfielder for the Baltimore Orioles, had a great rookie year in 2009. For a first year player to put up a .279 AVG, 15 HRs, and sprinkle in 8 SBs in about 100 games is solid. Now a year older, 2010 can be a year for him to shine.</div> <div>The book on Reimold is that he has a good combination of speed and power. Playing a full year, I think it would be a safe guess to put him at 25 HRs and 20 SBs. If he can keep his AVG up, say in the .280s, then he will be a great late round pick. You have to like a guy who can give you good numbers across the board, Runs, HRs, RBIs, AVG, SBs. I think Reimold can be a poor man's Matt Kemp.</div> <div>We all know the big names when it comes to the outfield, and we know that if we want them, we need to spend a high pick. But with so many good young players, you should be able to spend your high picks on the weaker/shallower positions (like 2B), and use guys like Reimold to fill in your outfield in the later rounds.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-2093944702058499659?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-21859876617163704392010-02-23T14:05:00.000-08:002010-02-28T17:14:59.691-08:00<a href="http://onseattlewa.com/images/assets/0101/0389/figgins1215_20025-thumb-608x456-10139.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="172" src="http://onseattlewa.com/images/assets/0101/0389/figgins1215_20025-thumb-608x456-10139.jpg" style="float: left; height: 287px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 332px;" width="200" /></a> It, was reported earlier today that Chone Figgins and Jose Lopez were spotted in a bit of a role playing exercise. <br /> <br /> <div></div><div>Figgins was playing the role of second baseman and Lopez covered third. This could be Huge for Fantasy owners. Figgins is a lower tier 3rd Baseman in my opinion due to his extreme lack of power potential. But put Figgins at&nbsp;second base&nbsp;and watch out he immediately becomes a top-six option and possibly top-five depending how you feel about Aaron Hill (who I think will hurt a lot of teams).<br /> </div><div>I put Figgins 5th in a&nbsp;second base ranking behind Utley, Kinsler, Cano, Pedroia and <strong>Figgins</strong>. I have Figgins ranked 9th in my&nbsp;third baseman rankings behind A-ROD, Longoria, Reynolds, Wright, Youk, Zimmerman, Sandoval, Ramirez, and <strong>Figgins.</strong><br /> </div><div>I am buying Figgins at&nbsp;second and I think if it is confirmed that he will be the full-time second&nbsp;baseman he should now move into the second-round any lower makes him a great value pick.</div><div>Projections: .290 BA, 80-90 runs, 40 RBI's, 1 HR and 35 steals.<br /> </div><div></div><div>The Bay State Scout </div><div>(<a href="mailto:Bay_State_Scout@comcast.net">Bay_State_Scout@comcast.net</a>)</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-2185987661716370439?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Jason Zavaskyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01380949141074265802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-13282951773767357302010-02-23T10:16:00.000-08:002010-02-23T11:18:09.831-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/andre_1-775865.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 124px; height: 200px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/andre_1-775862.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a>When talking about the outfield for the L.A. Dodgers, two names come straight to mind, Manny Ramirez and Matt Kemp. Manny is an established super-star (although his star is fading), and Kemp has shown that he is an elite outfielder and will be for years to come. What about that other guy? Listen in on this brief conversation. <div></div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> I'm really looking forward to the another season of Dodger baseball! Their outfield is jammed with talent!</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> I know, with Manny in left center and Kemp in right center, they are loaded!</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> Left center and right center?</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> Yea, how else would they play their two outfielders?</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> What are you talking about? The Dodgers have three outfielders like everyone else.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> I can only remember them playing two last year. Are you sure you are not thinking of a mascot or something?</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> I'm quite sure. You seem to be forgetting about Andre Ethier. He plays right field.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> Andre Ethier? That's a weird name for a mascot. Anyway, mascots aren't real players.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> You're killing me Smalls. Andre Ethier is the Dodger's everyday right fielder and was last year. I know Manny and Kemp get a lot of attention, and for good reason, but Ethier is fantastic. Lets do a little comparison.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> Alright. Which do you like better, Jam or Jelly?</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> Just stop talking. I want to compare Ethier with Kemp. Kemp had a .297 avg last year, Ethier had .272. Kemp - 26 HRs, Ethier - 31. Kemp - 101 RBIs, Ethier - 106. Kemp - 97 Runs, Ethier - 92. Kemp is much faster and had 34 SBs, while Ethier had more walks and less Ks. All in all, Ethier's fantasy value is very comparable to Kemp! </div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> Color me impressed.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> Kemp is still the more valuable of the two, but Ethier is only just behind him. In fact, in my Yahoo H2H league, Kemp was the 8th best point getter (for outfielders) and Ethier was 12th. I think that he will be a steal in most leagues. Kemp will go in the top couple of rounds, while Ethier will go much later and yet perform like a high end pick.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> This is good advice, and good news for the Dodgers!</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> Glad you agree.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friend:</span> The Padres should pay attention, all they have is one infielder.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me:</span> Sigh. </div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-1328295177376735730?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-55548942748762223342010-02-22T14:11:00.000-08:002010-02-28T17:16:35.506-08:00Scout Hoffman (@hoffybeisbol) seniorbeisbol@gmail.com <a href="http://www.profantasybaseball.com/">http://www.profantasybaseball.com/</a> <br /> <br /> Last week I discussed a few pitchers that are returning from an injury plagued 2009 season that are coming off draft boards at a bargain price. Drafting pitchers with injury risks is not for the faint of heart, a little tweak in the elbow or shoulder and you go from draft day genius to a GM scrambling to fill a roster spot. The recovery process for a hitter is not as daunting as the return for a pitcher. <br /> <br /> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jose Reyes SS/NYM</span> - The last thing you want from a speedster is a bad leg. Reyes was a top five pick in most leagues last year, and spent most of the year on the DL with a slightly torn hamstring. The best way to repair a torn muscle is rest, which Reyes has been doing since May. He claims to be back to 100% and could be a great bargain as he is currently going as the 22nd pick. If he is healthy you should see a .300/15HR/65RBI/100R/60SB line, which is worthy of a top five pick. Reyes is only 26 years old and has had sufficient time to recover from his injury, I expect big things from him this year. <br /> <br /> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Josh Hamilton OF/TEX</span> - If you are looking for a guy who knows a thing or two about comebacks, Hamilton is your guy. Out of baseball and battling some inner demons for years, Hamilton burst back onto the scene in 2007 and put up MVP caliber numbers in 2008. In 2009 he was basically non-factor, missing time with various ailments and playing in only 89 games. At 28, Hamilton is still in his prime, and we have seen what he can do when he is healthy, but his health is not a sure thing. He is currently being drafted in the 5-6 round range, with an ADP of 53. He has the upside of a number one outfielder, but I still see some DL time in his future, with 130 games played being about what to expect. If you can get him as your number three outfielder and have the bench space for an injury replacement he could be a bargain in the 6th round. <span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rickie<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Wee</span>ks 2B/MIL - </span>Rickie Weeks started 2009 looking like he was going to finally put to use all of his potential. That was until late May when he tore a tendon sheath in his wrist. This is a similar injury to what Weeks went through on his other wrist in 2006. It may take him some time to regain his stroke, but could be an intriguing late pick if he rounds into form in the second half. He is being drafted around pick 200 so there is not much of an investment for the possibility of a good player at a thin position. I would not take him as my only 2nd baseman, but he would be a good guy to stash on your bench.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-5554894274876222334?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Scout Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17782092985053668162SeniorBeisbol@gmail.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-44127639871076680822010-02-22T07:18:00.000-08:002010-02-23T10:13:55.010-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/kick_2-757798.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 131px; height: 200px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/kick_2-757795.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a>I can't imagine how difficult it must be to be a prospect on the cusp of making it to the bigs and then your team signs a veteran at your position. Gotta be like a kick to the Groin. <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Austin Jackson</span>, OF, Tigers - He was the main piece of the Curtis Granderson trade and was going to be the starting center fielder for the Tigers. That is until the Tigers just signed Johnny Damon. The Tigers no longer need to rush Jackson, and can field a solid outfield with Magglio Ordonez, Johnny Damon, and Carlos Guillen. To add insult to injury, Damon will probably be the leadoff guy, the spot that the Tiger's were looking to put Jackson in. As far as Damon goes, expect similar numbers to last year, with a few less HRs (he is in a pitchers park now as opposed to the New Yankee Launch Pad). Austin Jackson's value takes a hit. His playing time will probably be cut some, and his position in the lineup will probably be in the latter half. You have to keep an eye on him, but his big contributions may not come until next year.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Josh Thole</span>, C, Mets - A double insult here. Thole is one of the best prospects that the Mets have, catcher or otherwise, but with TWO catcher signings, he probably won't sniff the bigs this year. The recent signing of Rod Barajas, and the past signing of Henry Blanco shows that the Mets are clearly not looking for Thole to make an impact this year. Thole is still a good prospect, but don't even look his way until 2011. Barajas is the epitome of average (when it comes to hitting), should hit around .250 with 15-20 HRs, and around 60 RBIs. Nothing here to get too excited about.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-4412763987107668082?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-16481051545770117832010-02-19T07:13:00.000-08:002010-02-28T17:18:11.067-08:00Last year many players that had all the pre draft hype may have failed miserably. What does that mean to me, you ask? Well it means you can get these guys much cheaper in the draft this year and ride them to glory. <br /> <div></div><div>Here are two of my Favorites that I feel are going to out produce many players taken before them.<br /> </div><div><img alt="" border="0" src="http://mysportsrumors.com/blog/wp-content/themes/revolution-sports/images/francisco_liriano.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 260px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 234px;" />1. <strong>SP Francisco Liriano: </strong>Liriano is coming off a season where he just fell off the map going 5-13 with a 5.80 ERA. He was in and out of the rotation with arm issues and just couldn't put it together. I know his 2ND half last year was not good going 1-4 with a +6 ERA and everyone is backing off because of it. That is good for you, according to Mockdraftcentral.com his current ADP has him being drafted at 215 as the 57Th pitcher off the board and he is being undrafted in about 14% of leagues. <br /> </div><div>Am I inspiring you to take him yet? I should be because he was at times Dominant in winter league ball. In his last game for his Dominican winter league club he struck out 10 over 5 well allowing just 1 hit and was consistently hitting 95 MPH with his fastball and showing a tight break on his slider.<br /> <br /> Grab him as a number 3 and by mid year you will have a Fantasy ACE.</div><br /> <div><a href="http://nbcsportsmedia4.msnbc.com/j/apmegasports/200909171913691886621-pf.h2.jpg" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://nbcsportsmedia4.msnbc.com/j/apmegasports/200909171913691886621-pf.h2.jpg" style="float: right; height: 270px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 251px;" /></a>2. <strong>SP Ervin Santana:</strong> Santana is another player who destroyed many a fantasy team last year. He finished 8-8 with a 5.10 ERA and battled arm issues all season. His current ADP is also in the 200's at number 227 the 63rd pitcher off the board. <br /> </div><div>The angels lost Lackey and to be competitive this guy needs to pitch like he did in 2008 and I think he will. He finished last year very strong going 7-3 with a 3.90 ERA 77 K's in 99 innings and 2 CG while allowing a 260 BA Against for the Angels.</div><div></div><div><strong>I think Santana, like Liriano, should be drafted as a potential fantasy ACE.</strong><br /> </div>The Bay State Scout<br /> (<a href="mailto:bay_state_scout@comcast.net">bay_state_scout@comcast.net</a>)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-1648105154577011783?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Jason Zavaskyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01380949141074265802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-28247478832337394892010-02-19T06:06:00.000-08:002010-02-19T06:23:53.418-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/jose_julio_ruiz_2-737892.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 200px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/jose_julio_ruiz_2-737890.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><DIV>Jose Julio Ruiz was unknown to me until recently when his name popped up in an article about an impending signing. Since reading that article and several others, I'm a little surprised that I'm only starting to know about him now. The attention he is receiving from major league clubs shows that he is definitely not unknown around baseball circles.</DIV> <DIV>Jose Julio Ruiz is a 25 year old Cuban ball player who defected and appears nearly ready for the bigs. Generally listed as a first baseman, he has the athleticism to play the outfield. Not bad a for a guy who is 6'3" and weighs around 230 (Arod size). Not bad indeed as he has been known to steal 30+ bases in a season. Can he hit? Playing for Cuba, he has a lifetime average of .330 (5 years), and has decent power (I would put him at 20 to 25 a year). I think he could be a slightly stronger, faster version of James Loney.</DIV> <div>Ruiz believes he is ready to start very soon. In fact, that is a huge part of his decision as to where to sign (which is believed to happen in the next week or so). He feels he is ready to go (expect at least some time in AAA, but who knows). Regardless of how he is listed on your fantasy site (1B or OF or whatever), consider him a very strong prospect and draft accordingly. Being that there is a very good possibility that he will contribute sooner then later, he should definitely be considered in most formats that aren't too shallow. I imagine that he will be drafted rather late due to the 'unknown factor' - be ready to pounce. Now it is true that Ruiz is unproven when it comes to MLB, but the talent in Cuba is very good, so the transition shouldn't be too bad (I expect a much faster transition then Kendry Morales).</div> <div>Jose Julio Ruiz may have been unknown to you, his playing position may be unknown, and how good he will be in the majors is still unknown, but don't be scared. Unknown Jose Julio Ruiz will not be unknown for too long.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-2824747883233739489?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-33280790777546427702010-02-17T08:48:00.000-08:002010-02-17T09:57:18.147-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/dice_K-786088.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 137px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/dice_K-786087.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a> <div>Time to cash in on a wasted season.</div> <div>Target Dice-K in your draft for good reason.</div> <div>Dice-K was side tracked by injuries last year,</div> <div>Now with no WBC, and better prep, there is nothing to fear.</div> <div>He will not be valued too high,</div> <div>others will just pass him by.</div> <div>But, a mid to late round decision</div> <div>should give you strength at this position.</div> <div>In 2008 he pitched rather great.</div> <div>Lost only 3 and won 10 plus 8.</div> <div>A 2.90 ERA kept the hitters at bay,</div> <div>striking out about 1 an inning along the way.</div> <div>The Red Sox are good and should give him plenty of support.</div> <div>15+ wins, 3.40 ERA, and 150+ Ks sounds like a reasonable 2010 report.</div> <div>Despite a soar back,</div> <div>Dice-K remains on track.</div> <div>He should be ready by the opening bell.</div> <div>Have him on your fantasy team and you should do well.</div> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-3328079077754642770?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-91230957812156314082010-02-16T09:25:00.000-08:002010-02-16T09:56:26.050-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/t1_wang2-700541.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 169px; height: 200px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/t1_wang2-700539.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <div>Chien-Ming Wang has signed with the Washington Nationals. It's hard to believe, but I like how the Nationals are shaping up! With the latest addition of Wang, they could have a good rotation, dare I say excellent (especially with the potential of Strasburg).</div> <div>What should we expect from Wang? I am willing to overlook his unbelievably bad stats from last year and just chalk it up to injuries (9.64 ERA, 1W, 6L). If I am right, then he will be back to his old form - ace (or near ace) capabilities! Prior to injury, he pitched stongly in a very tough AL division (2007 - 3.70 ERA, 104 Ks, 199.1 innings). Now he is in the NL, still a good division, but he will now have the advantage of no DH to go up against. Also, lets face it, in general the NL is a weaker hitting league (I hate to say it, I'm an NL guy, but it is what it is).</div> <div>Now you still have to be concerned about run support, but I believe the Nationals will be alright, after all, it wasn't their biggest problem last year. *cough*bullpen*cough*</div> <div>I can't really say that you should draft Wang as a top pitcher (especially since he will miss at least a month recovering from surgery), but he has the potential to be that, especially if he keep his pitches down. A mid to late round pick could deliver in a big way. Do I hear come-back player of the year?</div> Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-9123095781215631408?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-69419616211191830572010-02-16T05:36:00.000-08:002010-02-16T10:25:36.485-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Laura_Lapo_Art_5-729785.bmp"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Laura_Lapo_Art_5-729745.bmp" alt="" border="0" /></a><DIV>On the farm, some things take longer to grow then others. Baseball players are no different. Part 3 of this series is going to focus on some players that will more then likely be late call ups at best but are still considered top prospects. You want to know these names as they may surprise us this year, and should be on your radar for next (especially those of you in keeper leagues).</DIV> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Justin Smoak</span>, 1B, Texas Rangers - I must admit, I am very impressed with what the Rangers have going. They have some good young pitchers (including some real studs in their farm), and they continue to have great hitting. It's almost unfair that they have Justin Smoak. Smoak is a switch hitting 1B - ala Mark Texeira. At 23 he has nice power which should keep increasing. The only thing that has slowed him down is good AAA pitching. Before AAA he had a .320+ AVG, but it took a dip down to .244 in 54 games when he reached the Pacific Coast League. As talented a hitter as he is, expect him to adjust. Another concern is that his strikeout rate is about 25% (in AAA). Not too good (but better then Texas' current 1B, Chris Davis). Again, he needs some adjustments. If/when he adjusts, it will be hard for the Rangers to not bring him up - but they just don't have a spot for him yet. However, unless Davis improves, Smoak may overtake him as soon as this year.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pedro Alvarez</span>, 3B, Pittsburgh Pirates - Alvarez is all about power. It is easy to see him as a 40 HR guy. It was much easier to see that before last year. His fast track to the majors took a major detour to the tune of a .234 AVG. Not sure why he struggled so much, but assuming he turns it around in the minors this year, he could be huge in 2011. At 23, it's also not far fetched to see him contribute this year, but not likely until after the All-Star break, and even then not likely as an everyday player. With all that said, the potential of Alvarez commands our attention.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Madison Bumgarner</span>, SP, San Francisco Giants - Of the three guys mentioned in this article, Bumgarner has the best chance to play the most in the majors. He is a left handed pitcher who throws in the low 90's (he's been clocked above 95, but did not show that kind of velocity for much of the year). He got a taste of the bigs last year with a spot start and faired well (but one start is not much to gauge). He has a chance to make the rotation, but he will have a serious innings limit (he is only 20 years old). My guess is that they will wait to bring him up and use him for a late fall push (or at least to get his feet wet for 2011). How good is he? In the last two years (AA and A+), he has an ERA of 1.65 and strikes out almost a batter an inning (8.4 per nine). You have to imagine that those numbers will not be that good against big league hitting, but the potential for success is there. Depending where he ends up when camp breaks, he may just be a guy to keep an eye on, or he may be worth a late round flier.</DIV> -Scout Monkey <div><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-6941961621119183057?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-89763565048412115942010-02-15T19:55:00.000-08:002010-03-01T18:04:16.767-08:00<span style="font-family: inherit;">Fantasy baseball tends to be a ‘what have you done for me lately’ game. If a player puts together a few good games in a row he will be added by thousands of leagues across the country, but if he goes hitless in two games he will be tossed back into the free agent pool. Same goes for a fringe pitcher who throws seven shutout innings followed by a rough four inning outing. </span><br /> <br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ask any owner who drafted Chris Carpenter in the 17^th round last year, taking a late round flier on a player coming off injury can pay off big. Of course, if you nabbed Francisco Liriano in the 7^th round last year, you know that it is no sure thing for a pitcher to regain his form post surgery. </span></div><br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">These three pitchers started a combined eight games in 2009, but are all expected to be healthy to begin 2010. If they can stay healthy they could provide a great bargain in the later rounds.</span></div><br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Brandon Webb (Arizona Diamondbacks)</b> – A former Cy Young award winner, Webb started only one game last year before having minor shoulder surgery last August. Webb was a top ten pitcher from 2006-08, compiling 56 wins and 555 Ks during that span. He threw off a mound last week for the first time since surgery and declared himself pain free. The Diamondbacks have every reason to be cautious with Webb as he returns from injury, but he insists he will be ready to go by opening day. Right now his ADP is 127 (28^th pitcher). If he proves healthy after a few Spring Training outings I would find it hard to believe that there will be 27 pitchers better by the end of the season. </span></div><br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Ben Sheets (Oakland A's) </b>– Sheets did not don a uniform for all of 2009 after having surgery on his throwing elbow. The <city st="on"><place st="on">Oakland</place></city> A’s gave him a very healthy contract for a guy who has had trouble staying healthy over the past few years. Sheets is a career .500 pitcher spending his entire career on a Brewers team that has usually been below that mark. His WHIP, ERA, and K/9 rate are solid when he is healthy, but health is not a sure bet for a power pitcher coming off major surgery. He is being drafted as the 51^st pitcher overall, meaning he is a 5^th starter on most fantasy teams, with the upside of being a solid number 3 starter. </span></div><br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tim Hudson</b><span style="font-weight: bold;"> (Atlanta Braves) </span>– The Braves were so confident in <place st="on"><city st="on">Hudson</city></place>’s return from Tommy John surgery that they gave him a three-year extension this offseason. Although pitchers return in as little as nine months after Tommy John surgery, they tend to need at least 18 months before a full recovery. Hanson went under the knife in August of 2008, putting him at 20 months to start this season. 2009 saw him start only seven games down the stretch for the Braves, finishing with a 2-1 record and never allowing more than 4 ER in any start. <city st="on"><place st="on">Hudson</place></city> has never piled up the strikeouts, but should be a good source of ratios and get 11-14 wins in 2010. Not bad for a guy who is being drafted 203^rd overall in recent drafts. </span></div><br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">While pitchers tend to be much more risky when it comes to returning from injury, hitters can just as easily be draft day bargains. Next week I will review three hitters coming back from injuries that could produce some solid return on investment. </span><br /> <br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">www.profantasybaseball.com</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">seniorbeisbol@gmail.com</span></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-8976356504841211594?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Scout Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17782092985053668162SeniorBeisbol@gmail.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4530109689522826268.post-19206723326743144542010-02-15T04:13:00.000-08:002010-02-15T04:21:19.560-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Laura_Lapo_Art_5-790987.bmp"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="http://profantasybaseball.com/uploaded_images/Laura_Lapo_Art_5-790951.bmp" alt="" border="0" /></a><div>The prospects growing in the farm systems are a must know for your fantasy team. Not all will make the majors, and some that do will not produce well - that said, some will be the next stars.</div> <div>In part one of 'Harvesting the Farm' I brought your attention to the top of the top of prospects, Stephen Strasburg, Aroldis Chapman, and Jason Heyward. The next three are still highly touted and nearly guaranteed to play this year.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Neftali Feliz</span>, SP/RP, Texas Rangers - A young right hander who throws some serious heat (in the area of 98 MPH). The Rangers could always hit, but now are adding some good young pitching to the mix. Feliz has already pitched well in the big leagues, albeit in the bullpen (31 innings, 39 Ks, 1.74 ERA). Texas would like him to be a starter, but hasn't made any final decisions. He could be a great starter, an excellent late innings guy, or even a closer this year. He is worth a mid to late draft pick as long as he is a starter or a closer.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Alcides Escobar</span>, SS, Milwakee Brewers - Not every prospect is going to hit like Pujols, but that doesn't mean they can't help your team, even significantly. Escobar falls into that category. He is a speedy hitter with excellent defense. His defense will keep him as a starter for the Brewers, but his bat is where he needs to show he can be their new leadoff guy. If all things go to plan, count on a .280 hitter, 40 SB, and around 80 runs - there is so much potential for more SBs and runs with his speed. If you miss out on the top tier SS in your draft, Escobar should be available in the later rounds.</div> <div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Austin Jackson</span>, OF, Detroit Tigers - The corner stone in the Curtis Granderson trade, Jackson's time is now. He has been the top prospect for the Yankees for awhile, and now he is going to actually start for Detroit (what Yankee fans were hoping the Yanks would do for much of last year). With his speed and what he has shown as a contact hitter, the initial plan is for him to be their leadoff man. However, his bat has not been as consistent as one would like. He really seems to be a streaky hitter so far. If he is able to show a little more consistency he will deliver in a big way. If he increases his power some, he could be a super-star. The ceiling is high on Jackson and is definitely worth a late round pick.</div> -Scout Monkey <span style="font-size:85%;"></span><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>(</em><a href="mailto:scout_monkey@gmx.com"> <em>scout_monkey@gmx.com</em></a><em>)</em></span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4530109689522826268-1920672332674314454?l=profantasybaseball.com%2Ffantasy-baseball-blog-news-2' alt='' /></div>Mark Kinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13007785157026237370noreply@blogger.com0