Coast-to-Coast

Jeremy Guthrie, S

2012-02-06

Guthrie on his way to Colorado: The Rockies acquired starter Jeremy Guthrie from the Orioles on Monday in exchange for pitchers Jason Hammel and Matt Lindstrom. Clay Rapada was designated for assignment by Baltimore to make room for Lindstrom and Hammel. CBSSports.com baseball insider Jon Heyman reports Guthrie also signed a one-year, $8.2 million contract with Colorado to avoid arbitration. (Updated 02/06/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Although Guthrie went 9-17 with a 4.33 ERA in 2011 for Baltimore, there is little argument that he was still the team's most consistent starter. He has gone at least 190 innings in four straight seasons, so he gives the Rockies a reliable arm. However, his biggest transition from the AL to the NL will be how he handles the thin air in Colorado. This trade doesn't really elevate Guthrie's Fantasy appeal on Draft Day. He remains a late-round Fantasy option. (Updated 02/06/2012).

Hong-Chih Kuo, R

2012-02-06

Kuo signs on with Mariners: The Los Angeles Times reports free agent RP Hong-Chih Kuo signed a one-year contract with the Mariners, according to a source. (Updated 02/06/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Kuo definitely showed promise during his tenure with the Dodgers from 2005-11. However, he had a rocky career that was filled with arm injuries and inconsistencies. He won't close for Seattle, but the Mariners hope he can be a setup man for closer Brandon League. Kuo remains just a low-end Fantasy RP in leagues that use middle relievers. (Updated 02/06/2012).

Buster Posey, C

2012-02-04

Bochy thinking about using Posey at first: According to the Oakland Tribune, Giants catcher Buster Posey said he's uncertain how his ankle will responded to playing again. He suffered a gruesome leg/ankle injury last May, ending his season. The Giants missed his bat in the lineup, as well as his leadership behind the plate. Manger Bruce Bochy is also thinking about playing Posey once a week at first base, possibly more, to keep him in the lineup. "The work's been done," general manager Brian Sabean said. "(Trainer Dave) Groeschner has been pleased with where they are. But we'll be very conscious and diligent about what his schedule will be gamewise. At the finish line is to get him ready to be the opening-day catcher and then to figure from there how many games he can catch." Posey has acknowledged that he's not 100 percent yet and hopes to get his timing back this spring. (Updated 02/04/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The Giants aren't going to rush Posey back, but the pitchers can't wait for him to get back behind the plate. "He's really pumped to get out there," pitcher Tim Lincecum said. "I feel he's had that itch longer than anybody." Posey said he's less concerned with how his ankle will react in a game than how it will feel the next day. Posey played in just 45 games last season for the Giants, so he couldn't help Fantasy owners much. Continue to monitor his progress heading into spring training. Posey should still be considered a top-10 catching option, worthy of a pick in the first seven rounds on Draft Day. (Updated 02/04/2012).

Anthony Ranaudo, rhp

2012-02-01

Ranaudo likely pegged for Double-A: Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington told WEEI.com on Wednesday that pitching prospect Anthony Ranaudo will likely open the 2012 campaign in Double-A. Ranaudo went 9-6 with a 3.97 ERA in 26 starts between two levels of Class A last season. (Updated 02/01/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Ranaudo, a first-round pick in the 2010 draft out of LSU, has a ton of upside at age 22 but his numbers last season shows that he is at least a few years away from making an impact in the majors. Owners in long-term keeper leagues should be the only ones keep an eye on the right-hander at this point. (Updated 02/01/2012).

Ryan Braun, LF

2012-01-29

Skipper upbeat about Braun situation: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports Brewers manager Ron Roenicke is well aware of the predicament his MVP outfielder Ryan Braun faces. Braun could be suspended 50 games if his appeal of testing positive for a banned substance isn't overturned. However, Roenicke seems upbeat about Braun's appeal. "The Braun thing, we'll see what happens with that. But right now we're planning on having Ryan," Roenicke said. (Updated 01/29/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The entire baseball world awaits anxiously to see what happens with Braun. A decision on his appeal could still be weeks away, but we will keep you up to date on his situation. If Braun avoids a suspension, then he remains a first-round Fantasy pick. If he is suspended 50 games, then he is going to tumble down draft boards a bit, but Braun would still be an early-round Fantasy selection based on potential once he becomes active. (Updated 01/29/2012).

Chris Carter, 1B

2012-01-29

Carter in mix for roster spot: A's assistant GM David Forst denied reports that signing Jonny Gomes doomed OF prospects Michael Taylor and Chris Carter to the minors. "That is not true," he said. "There is a fifth outfield spot and the DH spot. They have an opportunity to be on the 25-man roster." (Updated 01/29/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Carter can also play first base, so his versatility might help him make the team. Carter has a ton of power potential, but he hasn't hit for average in his brief stints in the majors and strikes out way too much. He could be a Fantasy sleeper in deeper formats with regular at-bats, but it appears Carter might shape up to be more of an AL-only Fantasy option on Draft Day. (Updated 01/29/2012).

Carlos Gonzalez, LF

2012-01-27

CarGo says he pressed in 2011: Rockies OF Carlos Gonzalez told the Denver Post that he is more focused in his preparations for this season compared to a year ago. Gonzalez said that he was distracted by the attention that came with winning a batting title and contending for the National League MVP award in 2010. "It was difficult to do anything -- to train and work out without all the attention and (media) always asking me questions. I forget what I was doing. This winter, it was a lot easier to be normal. I don't miss the craziness." Gonzalez also said that his poor April last season, during which he batted .228 with one home run, was due in part to trying too hard. (Updated 01/27/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Even with his early struggles, Gonzalez was one of the more valuable outfielders in Fantasy last season. As long as he can stay healthy, owners should count on him to be a No. 1 OF in Fantasy, even if he doesn't get back to his 2010 levels. If his preparation does pay off, he could be one of the most productive hitters overall, but he can probably be had with a late first-round pick. (Updated 01/27/2012).

Joey Votto, 1B

2012-01-26

Reds hoping to lock up Votto: Prince Fielder's nine-year, $214 million deal with the Tigers earlier this week hasn't deterred the Reds from trying to sign 1B Joey Votto to a long-term extension, according to MLB.com. "I think that's a challenge, but we've got a lot of challenges," Reds CEO Bob Castellini said Thursday. "It's certainly something we would want to do." Though reports earlier in the offseason suggested the Reds might be open to trading Votto, whose contract expires after the 2011 season, GM Walt Jocketty has repeatedly shot down those claims. (Updated 01/26/2012)

Fantasy Analysis This report would seem to confirm that Votto isn't going anywhere this year, as would the Reds' recent decision to trade up-and-coming 1B Yonder Alonso to the Padres. As productive as Votto has been with the Reds over the last two seasons, Fantasy owners would be happy if he just stayed put. He took a step back with the power numbers last year, but he led the NL in on-base percentage for the second straight season and remains an OPS monster. He's clearly one of the five best first baseman in Fantasy and is a candidate to go off the board in the first round of mixed-league drafts. (Updated 01/26/2012).

Alexi Ogando, S

2012-01-25

Ogando to return to relieving: MLB.com reports that the Rangers plan to use Alexi Ogando out of the bullpen this season. Since the Rangers were not interested in using a six-man rotation, someone had to be bumped from the rotation to make room for Yu Darvish, who was signed last week. Ogando will join Mike Adams and Mark Lowe as the one of the set-up men for closer Joe Nathan. Last season, Ogando made 29 of his 31 appearances as a starter, and he went 13-8 with a 3.51 ERA. (Updated 01/25/2012)

Fantasy Analysis This is a huge blow to Ogando's Fantasy value, as he will not be in line for many wins or saves, and his innings total will drop substantially. He showed two seasons ago that he can be a highly effective reliever, and he will still be worth a look in Fantasy leagues that use middle men. (Updated 01/25/2012).

Matt Thornton, R

2012-01-25

Ventura sees Thornton as closer: White Sox manager Robin Ventura told the Chicago Tribune on Wednesday that he views Matt Thornton as his closer heading into 2012. Thornton posted a 3.32 ERA in 62 appearances last season, including going 3 for 7 in save chances. (Updated 01/25/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Thornton began last year as the closer in Chicago but after posting an 8.64 ERA over the first month of the season, the White Sox looked elsewhere for their ninth-inning guy. It looks as though he will get another shot at the job, however, which will help his Fantasy value. The left-hander posted a 2.70 ERA with 245 strikeouts in 200 1/3 innings from 2008-10 before a down campaign last season so the potential is there. Consider Thornton as more of a late-round selection in mixed leagues on Draft Day if he is the closer in Chicago. (Updated 01/25/2012).

Andrew McCutchen, CF

2012-01-24

McCutchen working on being 'great hitter': MLB.com reports despite Andrew McCutchen's batting average dropping to .259 in 2011, his strike zone discipline improved and he is no longer considered a hidden gem. "He has as quick [of] hands as anyone in baseball," general manager Neal Huntington said. "He generates explosiveness off the bat. The extra-base hits are going to be where his power is. He has shown he can leave to every part of the ballpark. Now it is getting him to be a great hitter." (Updated 01/24/2012)

Fantasy Analysis His average was down, but McCutchen still posted career-highs in homers (23) and RBI (89) last season. He also walked a career-high 89 times. McCutchen has a career .365 OBP and .822 OPS. On top of his developing power, McCutchen also brings speed on the base paths to the table. He really helps Fantasy owners across the board and remains a top 10 Fantasy OF on Draft Day. (Updated 01/24/2012).

Nick Markakis, RF

2012-01-21

Markakis targeting opening day: Orioles OF Nick Markakis (abdominal) said Saturday that he expects to be ready for opening day, but could be limited during spring training, according to The Baltimore Sun. Markakis had surgery earlier this month to repair a torn abdominal muscle and has been doing rehab work to build up strength in his core. "It's not being able to do certain things I want to do," Markakis said. "It seems like a long recovery, but I know it's going to be over before I know it. Then we'll be rolling." (Updated 01/21/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Markakis said he might only be slowed during the first week of spring training, but isn't expected to need many at-bats during March. He is hoping the time off will assist him during the regular season. "I'm not saying I'm expecting to go out there and have my best year, but we'll see how things play out and we'll go from there," said Markakis, who batted .284 last season with 15 homers and 73 RBI. Fantasy owners should continue to consider the durable 28-year-old a solid option in the early middle rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts. (Updated 01/21/2012).

Sergio Romo, R

2012-01-20

Romo, Giants agree to terms: The Giants and RP Sergio Romo agreed to a one-year, $1.575 million deal on Friday, avoiding arbitration. Romo posted a 1.50 ERA and 0.71 WHIP for the Giants last season, recording 70 strikeouts in 48 innings. (Updated 01/20/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Romo has proven to be one of the top setup men in baseball over the last couple years, but he has trouble staying healthy, missing three weeks in August last year because of inflammation in his right elbow. Because he's not in line for saves, his Fantasy value is limited, but his low ERA and WHIP make him a worthwhile option in Rotisserie formats. (Updated 01/20/2012).

Erick Aybar, SS

2012-01-17

Aybar signs one-year deal: CBSSports.com baseball insider Jon Heyman reports Angels SS Erick Aybar avoided arbitration Tuesday by signing a one-year, $5.07 million contract. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis If Aybar doesn't sign a long-term contract this season, then he is headed for free agency following the 2012 campaign. Aybar had a nice bounce-back season in 2011 and will be motivated by free agency to keep the momentum going in 2012. Consider him a top 10 Fantasy SS on Draft Day, worth a flier in the middle rounds. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Edinson Volquez, S

2012-01-17

Volquez inks deal, avoids arbitration: The Padres avoided arbitration with SP Edinson Volquez on Tuesday by signing him to a one-year deal. Terms of the deal were not immediately released. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Volquez is in his first season with San Diego after being a key piece in the trade that sent Mat Latos to Cincinnati. Volquez struggled after returning from Tommy John surgery and is just 9-10 with a 5.20 ERA in 32 starts since the 2010 season. Moving to PETCO Park should help, but Volquez remains just a late-round Fantasy option. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Colby Rasmus, CF

2012-01-15

Rasmus, Jays come to terms: CBSSports.com baseball insider Jon Heyman reports the Blue Jays have avoided arbitration with OF Colby Rasmus by agreeing on a $2.7 million contract for 2012. (Updated 01/15/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Rasmus is coming off a very disappointing season in 2011, but the Blue Jays still believe in the 25-year-old outfielder, which is why he got a favorable one-year deal. He hit just .173 in 35 games after coming over in a trade from St. Louis, but Rasmus hit .276 and 23 homers in 2010, so the potential is there. Consider Rasmus more of a late-round Fantasy pick with upside. (Updated 01/15/2012).

Adam Wainwright, S

2012-01-15

Wainwright remains on track: MLB.com reports Cardinals SP Adam Wainwright, who missed the 2011 season following Tommy John surgery last spring, is on track to carry a full workload during spring training. Wainwright recently moved his rehab to the team's spring training complex in Florida and threw his first session off a mound Thursday. He has also been throwing breaking pitches and has reported no setbacks in his recovery. "[I got] a great report from his first bullpen [session] the other day," general manager John Mozeliak said. "[It's] very encouraging." (Updated 01/15/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The Cardinals are expecting just 150-170 innings from Wainwright in 2012, but the veteran right-hander isn't exactly in line with those plans. "One hundred and fifty innings sounds like half a season to me," Wainwright said. "Any pitcher that is out there competing [his] tail off and is decent at what he does should throw more than 150 innings. That would never ever be a goal of mine. I kind of refrain from setting inning goals, especially this year." Most pitchers do have their struggles initially when they come back from Tommy John surgery, so there is definitely some risk to drafting Wainwright in Fantasy. However, we know he has Cy Young potential, which is why he will be scooped up in every Fantasy format this spring. Just view him more as a mid-round Fantasy pick with upside since he is coming off a major injury. (Updated 01/15/2012).

Anthony Rizzo, 1B

2012-01-06

Cubs acquire 1B Rizzo: The Cubs made a splash Friday by acquiring 1B Anthony Rizzo and pitcher Zach Cates from the Padres in exchange for pitcher Andrew Cashner and OF Kyung-Min Na. Cubs GM Jed Hoyer said that Rizzo will start the year at Triple-A and Bryan LaHair is still expected to be the opening day first baseman. (Updated 01/06/2012)

Fantasy Analysis This could be a great deal for the Cubs and Rizzo, who struggled after his promotion to the majors in 2011. Wrigley Field will be much more favorable for the left-handed slugger, and Rizzo is a big upgrade over the Cubs' current option at first base -- LaHair. However, the Cubs still feel Rizzo needs to develop a little more in the minors, so LaHair will keep the 1B job warm until Rizzo is ready. Rizzo still will likely be recalled in 2012, so if you can afford to draft and stash Rizzo, then consider doing so on Draft Day in larger formats. (Updated 01/06/2012).

Sean Marshall, R

2011-12-23

Marshall officially a Red: The Cubs and Reds finalized their deal on Friday that sent RP Sean Marshall to Cincinnati in exchange for SP Travis Wood, OF Dave Sappelt and minor-league infielder Ronald Torreyes. Marshall is expected to serve as a setup man for the Reds. (Updated 12/23/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Cincinnati still has an opening at closer, but because Marshall throws left-handed, the Reds wouldn't want to restrict him to the ninth inning if they don't have to. Marshall has emerged as one of the better middle relievers in the game in recent years, posting career lows in ERA (2.26) and WHIP (1.10) last year, but he has minimal appeal in standard mixed leagues if he's not in the running for saves. (Updated 12/23/2011).

Heath Bell, C

2011-12-05

Bell deal becomes final: The Marlins finalized their three-year, $27 million deal with RP Heath Bell on Monday. The two sides initially agreed to terms on Thursday. Bell will take over as the team's closer after holding the same role for the Padres since 2009. (Updated 12/05/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Bell is coming off three straight 40-save seasons, posting a 2.36 ERA and 1.16 WHIP during that stretch. His strikeout rate took a hit last season, which could signal the beginning of a decline for the 34-year-old, but he was still one of the most reliable closers in the game. With the big-spending Marlins, Bell will remain a No. 1 Fantasy RP entering 2012. (Updated 12/05/2011).

Justin Verlander, S

2011-11-21

Verlander adds MVP to Cy Young: Less than one week after winning the American League's Cy Young award, Tigers SP Justin Verlander was voted as the winner of his league's Most Valuable Player award. Verlander took 13 out of the 28 first place votes, becoming the first AL starting pitcher to win the honors since Roger Clemens won the award in 1986. Red Sox OF Jacoby Ellsbury, Blue Jays 3B Jose Bautista, Yankees OF Curtis Granderson and Tigers 1B Miguel Cabrera finished behind Verlander, and all received first-place votes. (Updated 11/21/2011)

Fantasy Analysis It's a rarity for a pitcher to be rewarded with an MVP, but that's just how dominant Verlander's season was. Despite being voted the best player overall in the American League, he is not a shoo-in to be the first pitcher taken off the board in next year's drafts. While Clayton Kershaw and Roy Halladay can make a case for being the most valuable pitcher in Fantasy for the coming year, Verlander is likely to be taken in many drafts before the end of the first round. (Updated 11/21/2011).

Rafael Soriano, R

2011-11-01

Soriano officially back for 2012: As expected, Yankees RP Rafael Soriano choose not to opt out of his contract Tuesday. He has two years and $25 million remaining. (Updated 11/01/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Soriano would have been crazy to opt out of such a lucrative deal, which he earned by saving 46 games for the Rays in 2010. He's not saving games anymore, instead serving as a setup man for Mariano Rivera. He had some issues with his velocity early in 2011, but he settled down to produce a 3.47 ERA over the final two months. He's a good enough middle reliever to deserve a look in deeper AL-only leagues. (Updated 11/01/2011).

Evan Longoria, 3B

2011-10-01

Longoria goes deep in loss: Rays 3B Evan Longoria tried his best to get his team a lead in the ALDS against the Rangers, but he didn't get enough help. He would hit a three-run homer in the seventh inning, bringing his team within one run, but they would not get any closer. Longoria went 1 for 3 on the day, with a walk and a strikeout. The Rays lost the game, 8-6, to the Rangers as the series now heads to Tampa Bay. (Updated 10/01/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Longoria is batting .333 in the postseason, but is going to need more help if the Rays want to make if far into the playoffs. He finished the regular season with 31 home runs and 99 RBI, while batting .244. Not bat for someone who missed most of the first month of the season. Fantasy owners should once again take him with an early-round pick on Draft Day. (Updated 10/01/2011).

Dustin Pedroia, 2B

2011-09-29

Pedroia set for minor surgery: According to the Providence Journal, Red Sox 2B Dustin Pedroia will have surgery Friday to remove a screw from his left foot, which was surgically repaired last offseason. Pedroia hit .307 with 21 homers and 26 stolen bases (both career-highs) in 2011. (Updated 09/29/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Pedroia regained his elite standing in 2011 following an injury-shortened 2010, so clearly the screw wasn't a hindrance. He should be just fine without it as well. The former AL MVP is likely an early second-rounder in 2012 given his across-the-board performance this year. At age 28, he should still have plenty of good years left. (Updated 09/29/2011).

Brett Myers, S

2011-09-28

Myers rocked by Cards: Houston SP Brett Myers struggled on Wednesday against St. Louis in his last start of the season. He was tagged for seven runs -- six earned -- off 10 hits in his five innings of work. Myers struck out three and issued one walk before handing the ball over to the bullpen. He finished the year with a 4.46 ERA and going 7-14. (Updated 09/28/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Myers was a bit more productive in the second half of the season as he won four games compared to just three before the All-Star break. He racked up over 200 innings for the third time in his career, but didn't get much run support this season. While he'll have a spot in the rotation in 2012, Myers should be targeted in the later rounds on Draft Day. (Updated 09/28/2011).

Donnie Murphy, SS

2011-09-14

Murphy ready to showcase skills: Florida 3B Donnie Murphy was activated from the 60-day disabled list last week and is now using the final month as an audition. The 28-year-old infielder is arbitration-eligible after the season. With Hanley Ramirez out of action, Murphy has been seeing regular time at shortstop. With his wrist not being an issue, Murphy is focusing on the game and what he can do to return to Florida next year. "Everything is good. I haven't felt anything," Murphy told MLB.com on Wednesday. "I'm not really worried about it. I'm not doing treatment on it. Every day I come in here knowing that I'm healthy. It's exciting, for once. But you can't prepare yourself for four months off and then come in and facing Kimbrel, who is throwing 100 mph." (Updated 09/14/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Murphy said he is going to show the Marlins that he is the same player that he was in the second half of 2010. "Every opportunity I get from here on out, I just have to take it and try to show that I'm the same player as last year," Murphy said. "And just throw out the window my first month of the season. Don't worry about it. Just finish strong and make it a tough decision for them." For now, Fantasy owners should view Murphy as an NL-only option. (Updated 09/14/2011).

Brian McCann, C

2011-09-11

McCann feels he's coming around: Braves C Brian McCann was out of the lineup for Sunday's game at St. Louis after going 13 for 82 (.159) with five homers in 23 games since returning from a strained oblique. Despite the low batting average during that stretch, McCann feels like he's regaining his stroke, according to MLB.com. "I'm feeling a lot better," McCann said. "My swing is back." (Updated 09/11/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Sunday's absence was just a routine day off for McCann, so you shouldn't have any reservations about starting him in Fantasy Week 24 (Sept. 12-18). The slump is frustrating, but even at less than his best, McCann is one of the top three or four players at the weak catcher position. And hey, if he thinks he's on the verge of turning it around, he might have a hot streak just around the corner. Keep McCann active in all Fantasy formats. (Updated 09/11/2011).

Kyle Gibson, rhp

2011-09-09

Gibson undergoes surgery: According to MLB.com, Twins prospect Kyle Gibson underwent successful Tommy John surgery on Wednesday. Twins general manager Bill Smith made the announcement on Friday. Gibson is scheduled to go to Fort Myers, Fla. to rehab for the next year. "It went well," Smith said. "He will start the standard rehab protocol, which is a good thing. There was nothing that came out of the surgery that will make it unusual about the rehab." (Updated 09/09/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Gibson was placed on the minor-league DL back on Aug. 3. The 23-year-old pitcher is the No. 2 arm in the Twins' farm system, according to MLB.com, so he has plenty of potential. He didn't fare too well at Triple-A Rochester this year, posting a 3-8 record and 4.81 ERA. He was expected to debut in 2011 and challenge for a rotation spot next spring, but now his career is on hold. It usually takes pitchers 12-18 months to recover post-Tommy John surgery, so he may make his debut in 2013 for Minnesota. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a long-term keeper option. (Updated 09/09/2011).

Drew Sutton, 3B

2011-09-08

Sutton heading to Pawtucket: After clearing waivers, Boston INF Drew Sutton was outrighted to Triple-A Pawtucket on Thursday. (Updated 09/08/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Sutton was DFA'd to make room on the 40-man roster for Nate Spears and the fact no one claimed him off waivers says a lot. Fantasy owners should continue to ignore Sutton in all formats. (Updated 09/08/2011).

Alcides Escobar, SS

2011-09-05

Escobar returns for Royals: Royals SS Alcides Escobar (ankle) returned to the starting lineup on Monday in Oakland. Escobar, who had missed the previous two games with a left ankle sprain, finished 1 for 4 with a single and a run scored in the 11-5 victory. He is now batting .247 on the season. (Updated 09/05/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Escobar was able to get back in the lineup on Monday and showed no ill-effects from his ankle injury. While the 25-year-old has been an iron man in Kansas City for the most part this season, he remains in the lineup more for his defense than offense. Fantasy owners should consider Escobar a low-end option in deeper mixed formats over the final few weeks of the season. (Updated 09/05/2011).

Andy Pettitte, S

2011-08-26

Pettitte plans to stay retired: According to the New York Post, retired pitcher Andy Pettitte plans to stay that way. "Right now, I don't think I'll ever play again," Pettitte said, according to the report. "If something changes in my heart and I feel differently, who knows? But I retired to be at home, and I'm absolutely loving it. Whatever today's date is, I can tell you I don't plan on playing again." Yankees general manager Brian Cashman had left if open for Pettitte if he wanted to return to the team after a season off. "I have no doubt Pettitte could come back and be a successful pitcher for us or anybody else next year," Cashman said. (Updated 08/26/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Pettitte seems content staying retired, which means Fantasy owners in all formats can continue to ignore him. "When I retired, I retired to be at home with my family, and it's been awesome to be home, and be able to basically spend every day that I want to right there with them," Pettitte said. (Updated 08/26/2011).

Christian Colon, ss

2011-06-09

Colon's average rising at Double-A: Royals SS Christian Colon's batting average at Double-A Northwest Arkansas continues to rise. After batting .208 in April, Colon hit .256 in May and is now batting .296 in eight June games. On the season, he is batting .243 with a .315 on-base percentage in 51 games. He has 22 runs, four doubles, one triple, three homers, 28 RBI and 10 stolen bases. (Updated 06/09/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Colon hasn't really hit as well in the minors as he did in college at Cal State-Fullerton, but the scouts still believe he has decent power if he remains at shortstop. He has been lauded for his consistent contact, but we are still waiting to see that on a bigger sample size in the minors. The Royals haven't rushed prospects since GM Dayton Moore took over, so we doubt Colon will be sped through the minors this season. He remains more of a long-term Fantasy keeper. (Updated 06/09/2011).

Josh Fields , 3B

2011-05-25

Brewers add Fields: Milwaukee claimed 3B Josh Fields off waivers from Colorado on Wednesday, according to MLB.com. Fields, 28, was batting .391 with seven homers and 33 RBI for the Rockies' Triple-A affiliate before the release. He was acquired from Pittsburgh during spring training. (Updated 05/25/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Fields is expected to be in uniform Friday night for the Brewers' game against San Francisco. Milwaukee transferred RP Takashi Saito to the 60-day disabled list to clear a spot on the 40-man roster for Fields, who is expected to serve off the bench. Consider him a marginal reserve option in deeper NL-only formats if he starts off well at the plate. (Updated 05/25/2011).