Coast-to-Coast

Rick Ankiel, CF

2012-02-06

The Nationals have agreed to a minor league contract with Ankiel.(Updated 2/6/12) STATS LLCAdvice If added to the 40-man roster, Ankiel would have a $1.25 million, one-year contract and could make $1.5 million in performance bonuses. The performance bonuses are the same as his deal last year with the Nationals, plus an additional $250,000 for 400 plate appearances. The 32-year-old Ankiel batted .239 with nine home runs and 37 RBIs in 122 games last season with Washington. He gives the Nationals depth at center field.

Fantasy Analysis Ankiel could see some starts with Washington, which currently has Mike Cameron and Roger Bernadina as its options in center field. However, that could change if top prospect Bryce Harper makes the team out of spring training and shifts Jayson Werth to center. Regardless, Fantasy owners should not consider Ankiel more than a late-round reserve option in NL-only drafts for the 2012 season. (Updated 02/05/2012).

Jose Reyes, SS

2012-02-03

Along with a new uniform, Jose Reyes has a new, close-cropped look. The All-Star shortstop had his dreadlocks trimmed during a nationally televised haircut Friday on the MLB Network.(Updated 2/3/12) STATS LLCAdvice Reyes left the New York Mets in December for a $106 million, six-year contract with the Miami Marlins. Reyes' new team has a rule prohibiting hair below the helmet line. man who would identify himself only as Jordan from Jordan's Barber Shop in the Bronx performed the haircut at the MLB Network studios. Network spokeswoman Lorraine Fisher said the trim will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida, which planned to auction the hair on eBay.

Fantasy Analysis Reyes has now officially joined a Marlins squad that could look substantially different by the time spring training rolls around. Even though he played in only 126 games in 2011, Reyes is coming off of what was arguably his best season, and he looks to be an elite shortstop option in 2012. Target him within the first two rounds of all drafts next spring. (Updated 12/07/2011).

Jason Heyward, RF

2012-02-02

Heyward's swing '90 percent' rebuilt: Braves OF Jason Heyward, who readily admits he altered his swing in an attempt to play through a shoulder injury last year, has been working all offseason to rebuild it, beginning two weeks after the 2011 season ended by reuniting with personal hitting coach C.J. Stewart. “I was working on my stance, working on my load,” Heyward told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “Basically all the things I need to have as far as a foundation to allow my swing to work.” Since then, Heyward has spent time hitting in the batting cages with Chipper Jones, who likes what he's seen. “He’s 90 percent back,” said Jones. “When he got to spring training in 2010 and on into the season when the ball jumped off his bat, it was a sound and a sight unlike you had ever heard before or seen." And now? "The ball is jumping off the bat now close to what it was in spring training 2010," Jones said. (Updated 02/02/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Heyward has also taken steps to improve his physique this offseason, working out five days a week and eliminating junk foods to bring his weight down from 256 last spring to 235 now. Clearly, Heyward is leaving no stone unturned in his efforts to bounce back from a miserable sophomore season in which he hit .227 with a .708 OPS, and so far, so good. “Everybody that’s seen Jason swing the bat so far is excited about where he is,” new hitting coach Greg Walker said. Heyward was the top prospect in baseball entering 2010 and was vote into the All-Star game that year, so if he can get back on the proper trajectory, he has a good chance to take a big step forward this year. He comes with some risk, of course, but he's a potential steal outside the top 30 outfielders on Draft Day. (Updated 02/02/2012).

Prince Fielder, 1B

2012-01-26

Fielder formally introduced by Tigers: The Tigers introduced newly-signed 1B Prince Fielder at a press conference on Thursday. Speaking to reporters, owner Mike Ilitch confirmed what had been suspected: that discussions with Fielder began after the team discovered that DH Victor Martinez would be lost for all or most of the 2012 season due to a knee injury. The Tigers' involvement in the pursuit of Fielder was not reported until his signing, as they entered the field as a "mystery team." CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman reported that the Dodgers were a second "mystery team," and that they had been in discussions with Fielder even before the Tigers had been. (Updated 01/26/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Fielder will bat cleanup for the Tigers, hitting behind Miguel Cabrera, and that should provide him with plenty of run production opportunities. Even though Fielder may miss the homer-happy dimensions of Miller Park and several other NL Central parks, he will remain as one of the top five Fantasy options at first base. (Updated 01/26/2012).

Clay Hensley, S

2012-01-26

Hensley picked up by Giants: According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the Giants signed RP Clay Hensley. The deal is pending a physical and his contract is non-guaranteed. (Updated 01/26/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Hensley split 2011 between the rotation and the bullpen, posting a 5.19 ERA and 1.36 WHIP with the Marlins last season. He'll have to win a job during spring training, but he is back with the team that drafted him back in 2002. If Hensley lands a spot in the 'pen, he should be viewed as a serviceable RP option in deeper Rotisserie leagues. (Updated 01/26/2012).

Nick Punto, 2B

2012-01-25

Punto likely in shortstop mix: The Red Sox have not yet determined who will replace recently-traded Marco Scutaro as the team's starting shortstop, but Nick Punto is preparing himself for an expanded role. Punto told WEEI.com, “As of right now, on paper, it looks like there’s definitely some playing time so I’ll prepare for that and I’m excited about the opportunity,” Punto got the majority of the starts at third base for the Twins in 2006 and 2007, but he has started 234 games at shortstop in his career. (Updated 01/25/2012)

Fantasy Analysis In recent years, Punto has been a utility player, and he could still wind up in that role this season. However, he has a legitimate chance to be Boston's starting shortstop, as he is a solid defender. Punto is not known for his bat, though, and even with regular starts, he will merely be an AL-only option. (Updated 01/25/2012).

Nick Masset, R

2012-01-25

Masset gets two-year extension: The Reds signed RP Nick Masset to a two-year deal worth $5.5 million, according to CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman. Masset appeared in 75 games for the Reds last season and went 3-6 with a 3.71 ERA. (Updated 01/25/2012)

Fantasy Analysis It was something of a down season for Masset in 2011, but he is still a highly effective middle reliever and set-up man. With Ryan Madson and Sean Marshall in the fold for Cincinnati, Masset won't get many save opportunities, but he will still be valuable in deep Fantasy leagues that use middle men. (Updated 01/25/2012).

Scott Olsen, R

2012-01-25

Olsen picked up by White Sox: The White Sox signed SP Scott Olsen to a minor league deal on Wednesday, according to ESPN.com. Olsen's deal includes a major league option for the 2013 season. Olsen did not pitch last season, as he dealt with hamstring and shoulder issues, and the Pirates released him in May. (Updated 01/25/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Olsen has never lived up to the promise of his minor league career and 2006 rookie season. If he can turn things around and make the White Sox's rotation, Olsen would have some appeal in AL-only leagues. It is a big risk to assume that this will happen, though, so for now, owners in all formats should plan on avoiding Olsen on draft day. (Updated 01/25/2012).

Kevin Slowey, S

2012-01-24

Slowey likely to replace Hernandez: The Cleveland Indians manager says the pitcher known as Fausto Carmona won't be making it to spring training. Indians manager Manny Acta told the Associated Press late Monday the team is trying to speed up Carmona's arrival. Carmona is accused of using a false identity to play baseball in the U.S. and faces a judicial process in the Dominican Republic. He was released from jail on Friday. Carmona's real name is Roberto Hernandez Heredia. He's 31, three years older than he had claimed. Acta says it's likely Kevin Slowey may replace Carmona, who won 13 games in 2010 and went 7-15 last season. (Updated 01/24/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The Indians acquired Slowey from the Rockies over the weekend just in case they needed another arm in the wake of Hernandez's situation. It appears, however, that Slowey will be pressed into the rotation, unless a better option comes along. Slowey struggled last season with Minnesota, but he went 13-6 in 2010 and had won 10-plus games from 2008-10. He is not an overpowering pitcher and will likely post an ERA above 4.00. Therefore, consider him more of an AL-only Fantasy SP on Draft Day. (Updated 01/24/2012).

Jose Iglesias, ss

2012-01-24

Red Sox turning to Iglesias?: With Boston's trade of SS Marco Scutaro to Colorado, the Red Sox will have a vacancy at shortstop heading into spring training. One candidate who could potentially fill the position is highly touted prospect Jose Iglesias. The 22-year-old appeared in 10 games for Boston last season, getting two hits in six at-bats. A slick fielder who has struggled at the plate, he batted .235 with a homer and 31 RBI in 101 games for Triple-A Pawtucket last year. Other options at the position for Boston include versatile veterans Mike Aviles and Nick Punto. (Updated 01/24/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Shortstop has been a trouble spot in Boston since Nomar Garciaparra was traded during the World Series championship season of 2004. Orlando Cabrera filled the position the rest of that year, but he was followed by a host of other players, including Scutaro. In two minor league seasons since he defected from Cuba, Iglesias has a paltry .308 on-base percentage and .316 slugging percentage. Still, his defense is considered outstanding and the Red Sox have been grooming him as their shortstop of the future. If Iglesias earns the starting job, he could be worth a selection in the later rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts. (Updated 01/24/2012).

J.P. Arencibia, C

2012-01-23

Arencibia motivated for 2012: The Sports Xchange reports J.P. Arencibia entered last season with questions about whether he was ready to be the No. 1 catcher for the whole season. Arencibia was coming off an MVP season with Triple-A Las Vegas and a dynamic two home run game in his major league debut in August of 2010. He did well enough in 2011, hitting 23 home runs, a franchise record for a catcher despite a .219 batting average. He drove in 78 runs and had an OPS of .720. Arencibia threw out 17.1 percent of potential stealers, but his throwing showed some improvement later in the season. He opens this season as No. 1 catcher again and has a full season of major league experience to draw on in 2012. "I've never been more motivated in my life," Arencibia said. "Just knowing that I'm the catcher and another year of experience gives you that comfort that, 'Hey, this is my staff, these are the guys I'm going to work with, that's my job.' So it's cool." (Updated 01/23/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Arencibia had some low batting averages in the minors as well, but for the most part he hit for a decent average, so we still have faith in the 26-year-old catcher. His power potential goes a long way at catcher. However, until he starts providing better numbers across the board, then Arencibia is more of a low-end Fantasy starter on Draft Day. You would be surprised at how much deeper the catcher position is getting in Fantasy. (Updated 01/23/2012).

Darwin Barney, 2B

2012-01-23

Barney learns from rookie year: The Sports Xchange reports Cubs 2B Darwin Barney won the full-time job last year and wound up playing 143 games in his first full major league season. Barney batted .276 overall, but he tailed off in the second half, batting .238 after the All-Star break. "First of all, you learn how long the year is," Barney said. "And in knowing that and looking back, it'll maybe help you through the times that are hard. And maybe those times that aren't so hard will last a little longer." (Updated 01/23/2012)

Fantasy Analysis While Barney hit for a decent average for most of last year, he didn't hit for much power. He had a .353 slugging percentage and it probably isn't going to get much better with time. Barney's strength are his contact abilities and defense. Consider Barney more of a late-round Fantasy option in NL-only and deeper mixed leagues on Draft Day. (Updated 01/23/2012).

Brad Hawpe, 1B

2012-01-20

Rangers sign Hawpe to minors deal: The Rangers signed 1B Brad Hawpe to a minor league deal on Friday, according to CBSSports.com Senior Baseball Writer Scott Miller. Hawpe also received an invite to the Rangers' major league spring training camp. He appeared in 62 games with the Padres last season, batting .231 with four home runs. (Updated 01/20/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Hawpe will likely provide the Rangers with organizational depth, though he could figure into the first base picture if he can regain his form from two seasons ago. At best, he is a low-end option for owners in deeper AL-only leagues. (Updated 01/20/2012).

Ramon Ramirez, R

2012-01-17

Ramirez inks $2.65 million deal: The Star-Ledger reports Mets RP Ramon Ramirez avoided arbitration on Tuesday by agreeing to a one-year, $2.65 million contract. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Ramirez has quietly gotten the job done the last few years as he has bounced around from K.C. to Boston to San Francisco. Since 2008, Ramirez has a 2.77 ERA and 1.22 WHIP in 279 1/3 innings. Ramirez will be a workhorse for the Mets this season, but he isn't expected to get many chances to close out games. He is merely a Fantasy RP for leagues that use true middle men. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Alberto Callaspo, 3B

2012-01-16

Callaspo earns raise for 2012: According to ESPN.com, Angels 3B Alberto Callaspo signed a one-year deal worth $3.15 million on Monday to avoid salary arbitration. Callaspo, who made $2 million last season, registered a .288 batting average with six home runs and 46 RBI in 141 games during the 2011 campaign. (Updated 01/16/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Callaspo saw consistent playing time with Los Angeles last year and finished with a career-high .366 on-base percentage. However, the 28-year-old doesn't have a lot of power and his speed has kept him to fewer than 10 stolen bases in each of his six major league seasons. Fantasy owners should consider him a quality option in AL-only formats during the later rounds of drafts for the upcoming season. (Updated 01/16/2012).

Kevin Kouzmanoff, 3B

2012-01-14

Royals add 3B Kouzmanoff: The Royals signed 3B Kevin Kouzmanoff to a minor league contract on Saturday. The deal has a max value of $1 million, reports ESPN.com. Kouzmanoff can opt out of the contract if he's not in the majors by May 1. (Updated 01/14/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The Royals added Kouz as insurance for Mike Moustakas in spring training. Kouzmanoff could see some time with the club this season, but will have to prove his worth in the spring. He has low-end Fantasy value at this time. (Updated 01/14/2012).

Aaron Heilman, R

2012-01-10

M's give Heilman minors deal: The Mariners have agreed to sign RP Aaron Heilman to a minor league contract with a spring training invite, according to ESPN.com. After posting a 6.88 ERA in 32 games with Arizona, Heilman was released by the Diamondbacks last July. He finished out the year with a pair of minor league stints -- first with the Phillies and then with the Pirates. (Updated 01/10/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Heilman was hit extremely hard during his final half-season with Arizona, and it has been several years since he has been a viable Fantasy option, even in leagues that use middle relievers. He can be ignored in all formats heading into draft day. (Updated 01/10/2012).

Jason Frasor, R

2012-01-01

Jays get Frasor back in bullpen: The White Sox traded RP Jason Frasor to the Blue Jays on Sunday, according to multiple sources. In return, Chicago received minor league pitchers Myles Jaye and Daniel Webb. Frasor had been acquired by the White Sox from Toronto last July as part of the three-team deal that sent OF Colby Rasmus from the Cardinals to the Blue Jays. (Updated 01/01/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Frasor will likely fill a middle relief or set-up role for Toronto. He will be a decent option for owners in leagues that use middle relievers, as he can help with strikeouts, holds and ERA. (Updated 01/01/2012).

Jarrod Parker, rhp

2011-12-09

Parker traded to Oakland: The Diamondbacks traded SP Jarrod Parker, OF Collin Cowgill and RP Ryan Cook to the A's on Friday in exchange for SP Trevor Cahill and RP Craig Breslow. Parker, the No. 9 overall pick in the 2007 draft, went 11-8 with a 3.79 ERA in 26 starts for Double-A Mobile last season. (Updated 12/09/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Parker made one start in the majors last season and pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings. He was considered one of the better prospects in the Diamondbacks' system and will now get a chance to start for Oakland. The 23-year-old has some tremendous upside and will be heading to a pitcher's park so keep an eye on how he fares during spring training. Parker remains a solid option in long-term keeper leagues and might be worth a look in deeper formats on Draft Day, if he starts the year in the majors. (Updated 12/09/2011).

Jeremy Hellickson, S

2011-11-14

Hellickson is AL's top rookie: The BBWAA voted Rays SP Jeremy Hellickson as the American League Rookie of the Year for 2011. The 24-year-old righty posted a 13-10 record with a 2.95 ERA in 29 starts. Hellickson's ERA was good for eighth-best in the AL rankings among starters. He captured 17 of the 28 first-place votes, as he beat out Angels 1B Mark Trumbo, Royals 1B Eric Hosmer, Yankees SP Ivan Nova and Mariners SP Michael Pineda in the voting. (Updated 11/14/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Hellickson had a triumphant first full year in the big leagues, though many have questioned whether he will be able to repeat his success next season. Hellickson's low ERA and 1.15 WHIP were partly a product of a .224 batting average on balls in play (BABIP), which was the lowest in the major leagues and could have resulted from some good luck. He also posted mediocre strikeout and walk rates, though he was very proficient at inducing popouts. It's not the most conventional formula for success, but Hellickson is still worth taking in the middle rounds of standard mixed league drafts. Just don't bank on a repeat of his 2011 performance, or you may wind up taking him too early. (Updated 11/14/2011).

Craig Kimbrel, C

2011-11-14

Kimbrel unanimous pick for top rookie: Braves closer Craig Kimbrel, whose NL-leading 46 saves broke the rookie record of 40 set by Rangers RP Neftali Feliz one year earlier, was the unanimous choice for NL Rookie of the Year on Tuesday, receiving all 32 first-place votes. (Updated 11/14/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Thanks both to a ridiculous strikeout rate and a league-leading number of saves, Kimbrel was the top closer in Fantasy last season, dominating to the tune of a 2.10 ERA. And that number is even more impressive considering he collapsed from overuse during the season's final three weeks, posting a 7.36 ERA in eight appearances. The workload is really the only concern you should have about the 23-year-old entering 2012. His stuff is second to none, and his control issues are a thing of the past. Considering he's in an ideal situation for save opportunities on a team with a deep pitching staff, he's worth targeting as the No. 1 overall reliever on Draft Day. (Updated 11/14/2011).

Willie Bloomquist, SS

2011-11-09

D'backs give Bloomquist new deal: According to CBSSports.com Senior Baseball Writer Scott Miller, SS Willie Bloomquist has re-signed with the Diamondbacks on a two-year deal worth $3.8 million. He had also received an offer from the Giants, as reported by SI.com. Bloomquist played all of this season with the Arizona, hitting .266 and stealing 20 bases in 97 games. (Updated 11/09/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Bloomquist will enter the 2012 season as an NL-only option for Fantasy owners. Even in a utility role, he will have value in those formats, especially in Rotisserie leagues, given his ability to steal bases. (Updated 11/09/2011).

Travis Buck, LF

2011-11-09

Astros give Buck minor-league deal: The Astros signed OF Travis Buck to a minor-league deal on Wednesday. Buck spent 2011 in the Indians organization and was even a part-time starter at times because of injuries to Grady Sizemore and Shin-Soo Choo. He hit .228 with two homers in 149 at-bats. (Updated 11/09/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Buck used to be a pretty good prospect in the Athletics organization, but he has squandered countless opportunities over the years and is strictly a reserve at age 27. Don't bother with him in Fantasy. (Updated 11/09/2011).

Barry Zito, S

2011-11-08

Zito will be back in S.F. rotation: Giants manager Bruce Bochy has already made a decision about who his fifth starter will be going into season, now that Jonathan Sanchez has been dealt to the Royals. Bochy told KNBR on Tuesday, "I'm not gonna hide from it: Barry Zito is our fifth starter next year." Zito missed much of the 2011 season with foot and ankle injuries, and when he returned from the disabled list in September, he pitched out of the bullpen. The lefty finished the year with a 3-4 record and a 5.87 ERA. (Updated 11/08/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Zito had experienced a mild resurgence in 2009 and 2010, but he regressed badly this year, though much of his difficulty could be tied to injuries. Should Zito hang onto his fifth starter's role and stay healthy, he could be worth a late draft pick in deeper mixed leagues. (Updated 11/08/2011).

Jason Kendall , C

2011-10-31

Kendall becomes a free agent: C Jason Kendall filed for free agency on Sunday, but he's more likely to retire than sign with a team in 2012 after undergoing two operations on his shoulder in 2011. He was initially rehabilitating a rotator cuff injury before suffering a setback and needing another surgery in July. "It's more a quality-of-life surgery so he can at least have function in his shoulder," Royals manager Ned Yost said at the time, implying that baseball was no longer an option for the 37-year-old. (Updated 10/31/2011)

Fantasy Analysis If Kendall does indeed retire, he'll finish with 2,195 career hits for a .288 batting average -- pretty good numbers for a catcher. His lack of pop was always a hindrance to his Fantasy value, though, especially when he stopped stealing bases in his late 20s. You have no reason to bother with Kendall in Fantasy. (Updated 10/31/2011).

Travis Snider, LF

2011-10-24

Snider in mix to start in left field: According to MLB.com, Blue Jays OF Travis Snider is in the mix to start in left field in 2012 even though Eric Thames got the majority of the starts there down the stretch in 2011. The two will likely compete for the starting job in spring training, with Rajai Davis coming off the bench. (Updated 10/24/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Snider ended the 2011 season with tendinitis in his right wrist, which is part of the reason why he didn't make a return trip to the big leagues in September. Still, another split season between the majors and the minors isn't an encouraging sign for the former first-round pick, who now has 799 career big-league at-bats. He hit an impressive .327 at Triple-A Las Vegas, but with only four homers in 248 at-bats, suggesting he's still not quite a finished product. At age 23, he still has time to salvage his career, but you shouldn't target him as more than a late-round pick in 2012, especially since he isn't even guaranteed a starting job. (Updated 10/24/2011).

Ian Kennedy, S

2011-10-07

Team gets Kennedy off hook: Diamondbacks SP Ian Kennedy was in line for the loss in Game 5 of the NLDS against the Brewers, but his teammates rallied in the ninth inning to tie the game at two. Kennedy gave up two earned runs off five hits in his six innings of work. He also fanned five batters and issued two walks. Manager Kirk Gibson took him out after throwing 85 pitches. While Kennedy would get the no-decision, the Diamondbacks would end up losing the game, 3-2, in the 10th inning. (Updated 10/07/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Kennedy worked his way into the NL Cy Young award discussion, but owners should be cautious about drafting him as one of the top pitchers in drafts next spring. He finished 2011 with 21 wins, a 2.88 ERA and 198 strikeouts in 222 innings of work. Fantasy owners should view him as a No. 2 SP option on Draft Day in 2012. (Updated 10/07/2011).

Josh Beckett, S

2011-09-26

Beckett with another poor outing: After giving up six runs over 7 1/3 innings his last time out, Red Sox SP Josh Beckett did not look much better on Monday night against the Orioles. He pitched six innings, allowing six runs on seven hits over six innings of work in the 6-3 loss. The right-hander gave up just two runs over his first five frames before surrendering a four-spot in the sixth. He threw 108 pitches, 71 for strikes. Beckett also struck out five and walked four while taking his seventh loss of the year. (Updated 09/26/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Beckett ended the 2011 season allowing six earned runs in back-to-back starts and could have cost Boston a chance at the playoffs. Despite his recent slumping, he finished the year with 13 wins and a career-best 2.89 ERA. He should be considered a solid option in all formats if he pitches in the playoffs and should be off the board by the middle rounds on Draft Day in 2012. (Updated 09/26/2011).

Scott Sizemore, 3B

2011-09-23

Sizemore back in lineup: Oakland 2B Scott Sizemore was in the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Angels after resting his shoulder Thursday. Sizemore was been bothered by a mild case of tendinitis and was limited to pinch-hitting duties in his previous game against Texas. He finished 0 for 2 with a sacrifice during the Athletics' 3-1 win on Friday night. (Updated 09/23/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Sizemore has gone hitless over his past three games as a result of the minor setback to drop his batting average to .237 this season. The 26-year-old is still struggling to be a consistent producer at the plate and has recorded four extra-base hits this month, though three have been home runs. Fantasy owners should view him as a low-end option in deeper AL-only formats when he's in the starting lineup. (Updated 09/23/2011).

Drew Stubbs, CF

2011-09-21

Stubbs a late scratch: The Reds scratched Drew Stubbs from their starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Astros. Replacing him in center field was Chris Heisey, who in turn was replaced by Dave Sappelt in left field. Manager Dusty Baker cited Stubbs' recent struggles as the reason for the benching. Baker told MLB.com, "It looks like he's a little lost right now. We'll give him some time off and hope he finds his way the next couple of days with today and tomorrow's off-day. Sometimes, you go through a period when you're lost." Stubbs is batting .179 with no home runs for the month of September. (Updated 09/21/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Stubbs has had a down season overall, but his production has really ground to a halt in recent weeks. He can still help owners with stolen bases and runs scored, so Stubbs should remain active in deeper mixed leagues and NL-only formats. (Updated 09/21/2011).

Jameson Taillon, rhp

2011-08-21

Taillon shows progress in minors: Pittsburgh just signed top draft pick Gerrit Cole, while last year's top pick Jameson Taillon is closing in on the end of his first professional season, reports MLB.com on Sunday. Taillon went four innings on Friday and has logged 79 2/3 innings over 20 starts at Class A West Virginia this year. Without stellar numbers, the Pirates can say that Taillon has shown progress since beginning the year in extended spring training. "Jameson has had an interesting year," general manager Neal Huntington said of the 2010 No. 2 overall Draft pick. "At about any time, Jameson can blow away just about any low-A hitter with his breaking ball. It's been a bigger focus on, for the big picture: Command the fastball, command the fastball, command the fastball. Don't rely on the breaking ball to get a weak hitter out." (Updated 08/21/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Taillon continues to develop, but has pitched to a 4.52 ERA with 83 hits allowed this season. "As a result," Huntington continued, "Jameson will get hit. The 19- and 20-year-olds, they can hit a fastball. And so it's about a bigger-picture development for Jameson." Taillon has some of the most electric stuff in the minors and remains a viable long-term Fantasy keeper. That said, he's not going to help anyone's Fantasy team this year. (Updated 08/21/2011).

Ryan Webb, R

2011-08-17

Webb ready to spin for Marlins: The Marlins activated RP Ryan Webb (shoulder) from the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday. In a corresponding move, they moved RP Brian Sanches (elbow) to the 15-day DL. Webb has appeared in 35 games with Florida this season, posting a 1-4 record and a 3.67 ERA. (Updated 08/17/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Webb, who was part of the haul in the deal that sent Cameron Maybin to San Diego last offseason, doesn't get many strikeouts, but he still has value in leagues that use middle relievers. As an extreme ground ball pitcher, Webb can help owners with ERA, and he is a strong candidate to earn holds. (Updated 08/17/2011).

Zach Braddock, R

2011-07-22

Braddock shut down again: Brewers RP Zach Braddock has been shut down again due to problems with his sleep disorder, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. "All i can say is that he is undergoing treatment for previously diagnosed issues," assistant general manager Gord Ash said. Braddock was optioned to Triple-A Nashville last week after he struggled out of the bullpen. (Updated 07/22/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Braddock was placed on the DL for about a month in May with this sleep disorder, so this seems like an on going issue. Braddock owned a 0-1 record and a 7.27 ERA in 25 appearances overall for the Brewers. With him not pitching and not in the majors, Braddock can be ignored in all Fantasy formats as the season continues. (Updated 07/22/2011).