Coast-to-Coast

Jason Hammel, S

2012-02-06

Hammel headed back to AL East: 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 Hammel is headed back to the AL East as he began his career with the Rays. However, Hammel's pro career really took off with the Rockies once he joined them in 2009. Hammel was never an ace in Colorado, but he had a 4.95 ERA at Coors Field. The fact he is being shipped out of the thin air could only help. Still, we aren't expecting Hammel to light the world on fire. He remains nothing more than a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day. (Updated 02/06/2012).

Charlie Morton, S

2012-02-06

Morton long tossing from 175 feet: The Sports Xchange reports Pirates SP Charlie Morton, who is recovering from hip surgery, has extended his long tossing to 175 feet. He and the team remain guardedly optimistic he will be ready to open the season. Even if he isn't, the schedule affords the Pirates a chance to skip a fifth starter in early April. (Updated 02/06/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Morton went 10-10 with a 3.83 ERA last season, taking a big step forward from 2010, when he went 2-12 with a 7.57 ERA. But despite the improvement, his WHIP was still an ugly 1.53 WHIP, which suggests he had some good luck along the way. He's a hittable pitcher, so he can't afford to walk as many batters as he does. Factor in the injury risk, and Morton is an option better left for NL-only leagues on Draft Day. (Updated 02/06/2012).

Drew Pomeranz, lhp

2012-02-06

Pomeranz ready to move forward: The Sports Xchange reports Drew Pomeranz's first professional season was hectic, tumultuous and ultimately a great learning experience. The 23-year-old went 2-1 with a 5.40 ERA in four September starts with the Rockies and will be trying to win a place in their rotation this spring. "I didn't really have my curveball," Pomeranz said. "My changeup was all right. I didn't have my best fastball. Surely, I learned a lot from the pitching side of it, having to go out there and pitch when I didn't have my best stuff. Last year is the first year that I had a ball that was running a little bit and cutting. I was still throwing a lot of fastballs, but they weren't straight. That helped me out." (Updated 02/06/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The Rockies acquired Pomeranz in the July 30 deal that sent Ubaldo Jimenez to the Indians. But because baseball rules prohibit a player from being traded until one calendar year after he signs his first pro contract, Pomeranz officially couldn't be traded until Aug. 17 and in the interim had to go to the Indians' spring training complex and throw bullpen sessions and face hitters who were restricted from swinging. After taking a perfect game into the seventh inning of his debut in the Rockies organization on Aug. 17 at Double-A Tulsa, Pomeranz underwent an emergency appendectomy. He recovered quickly and threw three hitless innings Sept. 4 in Tulsa's final regular-season game, then joined the Rockies. Pomeranz threw five scoreless innings Sept. 11 in his major league debut against the Reds and pitched well in three of his four starts. But he was topping out at 91 mph with his velocity after hitting 94-95 mph in the Futures Game. Pomeranz still has a very high ceiling and is expected to be a frontline starter in the majors. He just might need some time to develop. Consider him more of a late-round Fantasy option in the deepest formats, if he wins a rotation spot this spring. (Updated 02/06/2012).

Devin Mesoraco, C

2012-01-30

Mesoraco has '50-50' chance to start: The Dayton Daily News reports Reds GM Walt Jocketty said during a stop on the team's winter caravan Sunday that catcher Devin Mesoraco has a "50-50" chance of being the team's opening day starting catcher. Mesoraco will battle Ryan Hanigan for the honors. “Hopefully this year I can hit the ground running,” Mesoraco said. “I want to be someone the fans, the coaches, my teammates ... everyone ... can count on.” (Updated 01/30/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The Reds let veteran Ramon Hernandez walk in free agency this offseason because it appears they are ready to trust Mesoraco. However, the former 2007 first-round pick has just 18 MLB games under his belt. It seems unlikely that Mesoraco will be a full-time catcher come the start of the season. He could very well split catching duties with Hanigan, much like Hanigan did the last few years with Hernandez. Mesoraco still needs to learn how to handle a major-league pitching staff and the Reds are likely going to ease Mesoraco into action. He could very well emerge as the starter this season, but like all young catchers there will be a learning curve. His offensive upside warrants drafting Mesoraco as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy catcher. (Updated 01/30/2012).

Kevin Youkilis, 3B

2012-01-26

Youkilis cleared for baseball activities : Red Sox 3B Kevin Youkilis has been cleared to resume full baseball activities, according to the Boston Herald. Youkilis had sports hernia surgery back on Oct. 4, 2011, and has been focusing on his flexibility this offseason instead of his strength. “For the past two weeks, I’ve felt great,” Youkilis said. “There are little things here and there, this time of year, you have to get going and ramp it up. I’ve started ramping up as much as I can, and I feel great, healthy, lifting, with no restrictions.” (Updated 01/26/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Youkilis was limited to 120 games in 2011 as he dealt with a few injuries -- sports hernia and bursitis in his hip. He had trouble finding his stroke last spring, so he's hoping this offseason's plan pans out for him. His injury risk might even make him something of a bargain pick in the fourth or fifth round of Fantasy drafts this year. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on him to see how he looks entering the season. (Updated 01/26/2012).

Mark Trumbo, 1B

2012-01-23

Trumbo to meet with doctor next week: The Orange County Register reports while Angels infielder Mark Trumbo was only recently cleared to begin baseball activities as he recovers from a stress fracture in his foot, Trumbo said he has been fielding grounders with a third baseman's glove. "The running has not come yet but that's not what I'm terribly worried about. The baseball stuff is more important," said Trumbo, who will be re-examined by foot-and-ankle specialist Dr. Phillip Kwong next week in anticipation of getting fully cleared for spring training. "I'm done putting timelines on it. I know how I feel. I feel great. In my mind, I absolutely feel I could play. I could play now. But it's not entirely up to me and I need to trust the professionals." (Updated 01/23/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The arrival of Albert Pujols puts Trumbo out of a job at first base, so most of his at-bats could come at DH. However, if Kendrys Morales gets back to 100 percent, then Trumbo will have more competition for at-bats, which is why Los Angeles wants to see if playing third base is an option. However, the team isn't expecting Trumbo to be its everyday 3B. "Our intention is not to put him out there 120 times next year," GM Jerry Dipoto said. "The introduction to third base -- it's not as if we were looking to turn him into an every-day third baseman. That was not the goal. But if Mark can become comfortable enough there to be an option at times along with first base when Albert needs a blow, DH and the corner outfield spots ... it puts Mark in position to make his impact on our roster." Though Trumbo has obvious power potential, his questionable role will likely make him more of a late-rounder than a middle-rounder on Draft Day. (Updated 01/23/2012).

Jordan Walden, C

2012-01-23

Walden still Angels closer: The Sports Xchange reports Angels RP Jordan Walden remains the incumbent at closer, despite persistent speculation that the Angels will sign a free-agent reliever like Francisco Cordero or Brad Lidge to replace him in that role. Angels general manager Jerry Dipoto said the team is willing to be "opportunistic" about any more free-agent signings, but "not now nor has it ever been" his intention to replace Walden this winter. (Updated 01/23/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Walden might have had 10 blown saves as first-year closer in 2011, but he still fared pretty well for the most part. He posted a 2.98 ERA and struck out 67 batters in 60 1/3 innings. Everyone sees the potential he has in the ninth-inning role, but it couldn't hurt Los Angeles to have a backup plan just in case Walden struggles. As long as Walden remains a closer heading into 2012, he's worth drafting as a No. 2 Fantasy RP. (Updated 01/23/2012).

Carl Crawford, LF

2012-01-17

Crawford undergoes wrist surgery: The Red Sox announced OF Carl Crawford had arthroscopic surgery on left wrist Tuesday. However, GM Ben Cherington said it was a "routine procedure" and Crawford is expected to be "hitting at some point in spring training." Cherington won't rule out Crawford for opening day, but he isn't putting a timetable on his recovery. Crawford began experiencing soreness on the outside of his left wrist when he began hitting a few weeks ago. "Carl will be our everyday leftfielder for the bulk of the 2012 season," Cherington said. "Carl will be ready exactly when he's ready. There's no one who works harder than Carl. We're confident he'll be back and playing soon. We just don't know when." (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis This is not the news we wanted to hear regarding Crawford after his disappointing performance with the Red Sox last year. He could make it back in time for the season opener, but whether or not he'll be swinging at 100 percent at that point is anybody's guess. Though Crawford is still in the prime of his career and has a potential for a bounce-back season, he clearly has an uphill battle ahead of him now. He's still a top-25 Fantasy outfielder, but this news likely drops him out of top-15 territory. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Nick Hundley, C

2012-01-17

Hundley settles before arbitration: Padres C Nick Hundley avoided arbitration by signing a one-year deal Tuesday. Terms of the contract were not immediately released. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Hundley could have been in for a monster year in 2011 had he not been slowed by oblique and elbow problems. The Padres want Hundley to be the everyday catcher, but clearly he is having durability issues. Hundley has a lot of potential, but you can't view him as more than a late-round Fantasy sleeper on Draft Day. (Updated 01/17/2012).

J.A. Happ, S

2012-01-17

Happ, Astros settle on one-year deal: Astros SP J.A. Happ avoided arbitration on Tuesday by signing a one-year, $2.35 million contract. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis We are left to wonder the career that could have been for Happ had he not gotten injured in 2010. He was a standout arm for Philadelphia in 2009 and started the year well in 2010 before developing forearm problems. He hasn't bounced back and suffered to a 6-15 record in 2011 with Houston. Happ did finish the 2011 season pitching well, going 2-1 with a 2.43 ERA in his final six starts. Still, you don't want to invest anything more than a late-round Fantasy flier on Happ. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Jeff Karstens, S

2012-01-17

Karstens, Pirates agree to deal: The Pirates announced Tuesday that they agreed to a one-year deal with SP Jeff Karstens, avoiding arbitration. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Karstens struggled down the stretch in 2011, but overall he was a success as a starter. He went 8-8 with a 3.43 ERA and 1.21 WHIP in 26 starts last season. Unfortunately, Karstens didn't strike out a ton of batters, so he was more of a low-end Fantasy start. Karstens is nothing more than a late-round Fantasy flier. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Garrett Jones, RF

2012-01-15

Jones knows what is at stake: The Sports Xchange reports Garrett Jones and Casey McGehee probably will platoon for the Pirates at first base, but management would dearly love it if Jones could step up. This much is certain: Jones isn't about to wait to find out. He was among 38 major leaguers who reported to the team's voluntary five-day minicamp, and he made it clear he wasn't about to take any opportunity for granted. "It's definitely a big year for me," Jones said. "I need to show I can be out there regularly and help the team on a consistent basis. I definitely think I can do that. I'm just trying to be relaxed and play the game. I don't want to overdo anything or over-think anything. Just play, have fun and win." (Updated 01/15/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Jones, 30, was maddeningly inconsistent last season and wound up batting .243 with 16 home runs and 58 RBI. The power numbers are decent, but he would go through interminable stretches of striking out, and the Pirates don't have the kind of lineup to hide that. Some were surprised that he ended up back in Pittsburgh, though it certainly appeared he was a default choice. Management's preference was to re-sign Derrek Lee, who was outstanding after being acquired at the deadline, but he wouldn't return. Other first base options weren't there, so McGehee, a natural third baseman, was signed instead with the hope of converting. The key stat: Jones has a .199 career average against lefties. "When it's time for spring training, I've got to show them I'm better than the next guy," Jones said. Unless Jones has an outstanding spring, leave him primarily for NL-only Fantasy formats on Draft Day. (Updated 01/15/2012).

Carlos Lee, LF

2012-01-11

Astros hearing offers on Lee : FOXSports.com reports that the Astros have been hearing offers for 1B/OF Carlos Lee but no deal is imminent. Lee batted .275 with 18 homers and 94 RBI in 155 games for Houston last season. (Updated 01/11/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Lee posted his fewest homers since 1999 last season but still drove in a ton of runs while keeping a respectable average. The Astros have started playing the 35-year-old at first base more over the last two years and it appears that will be his main position in 2012. A move to a more potent lineup would equal a higher Fantasy value for Lee but even if he stays in Houston, he should be considered a viable option in all Fantasy formats on Draft Day. (Updated 01/11/2012).

Brian Roberts, 2B

2012-01-04

Roberts won't be ready for season?: The Sports Xchange reports Orioles 2B Brian Roberts may not be ready for the start of the 2012 season, according to multiple media reports. He didn't play after mid-May due to headaches that sprung up as a result of a concussion. The club has a variety of contingencies at second base, but none is appealing for the leadoff spot as Roberts. Robert Andino would be the leading candidate to start at second base for the Orioles if Roberts is unable to start the 2012 season (Updated 01/04/2012)

Fantasy Analysis This is definitely not a promising report with spring training right around the corner. But Roberts still has time to get ready for the start of the season, so we shall see how he progresses in the coming weeks. A healthy Roberts would be a viable Fantasy 2B on Draft Day. But his uncertain status puts him more as a late-round option as a reserve in the event he bounces back from his concussions problems. (Updated 01/04/2012).

Travis Wood, S

2011-12-23

Wood officially traded to Cubs: The Cubs and Reds finalized their deal on Friday that sent SP Travis Wood to Chicago in exchange for RP Sean Marshall. The Cubs also received OF Dave Sappelt and minor-league infielder Ronald Torreyes. (Updated 12/23/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Wood struggled in his second season with the Reds, going 6-6 with a 4.84 ERA, getting demoted to the minors in June and pitching out of the bullpen when he returned later in the season. He will likely take over the Cubs' fifth-starter role. His strong flyball tendencies were part of his problem in 2011, as evidenced by his 5.86 ERA at homer-friendly Great American Ball Park, and they could hurt him a little less at Wrigley Field. If the lefty can rediscover the pinpoint control that he showed in the minors and in his rookie season, he could be a real find for the Cubs and for Fantasy owners. He is worth drafting in deeper mixed leagues and NL-only formats. (Updated 12/23/2011).

Adam Jones, CF

2011-12-21

Orioles stand firm on A. Jones: Though Orioles GM Dan Duquette suggested earlier this offseason that he hadn't decided whether to trade or build around OF Adam Jones, his actions so far seem to indicate the latter. According to the Balitmore Sun, he turned down an offer from the Braves earlier this offseason that would have sent Jones to Atlanta for Jair Jurrjens, Martin Prado and a pitching prospect. A source with knowledge of the negotiations later denied the report, according to MLB.com, saying that the talks never progressed that far. (Updated 12/21/2011)

Fantasy Analysis One way or another, the Braves found out that Jones wasn't available, so chances are the 26-year-old outfielder is staying in Baltimore. Though not a star, Jones has been a solid contributor over the last three years and hit a career-high 25 homers last year. Considering his age, he still has the potential for more, but his poor plate discipline limits his upside to that of a No. 2 Fantasy OF. He'll probably be more like a No. 3 on Draft Day. (Updated 12/21/2011).

Tyler Colvin, RF

2011-12-09

Colvin to Colorado : The Chicago Cubs and Colorado Rockies announced a two-for-two deal on Thursday that would see three former first-round picks switch teams, as the Rockies acquired outfielder Tyler Colvin and infielder DJ LeMahieu for infielder Ian Stewart and pitching prospect Casey Weathers. (Updated 12/09/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Colvin had a 20 home run season in a part time roll 2010, but suffered a late injury and was never able to find his stroke last season, as he hit .204 with six home runs in 80 games. The move to Coors’ Field could help the 26-year old find his swing again, and if there’s any place to find Fantasy relevance, it’s in the hitter’s paradise in Denver. It’s not clear if he will be able to find a spot in the outfield for the Rockies, and they might just be acquiring him as organizational depth. Obviously his Fantasy value would be dependent on finding a starting spot, but if he does, he could be an intriguing sleeper in NL-only leagues. (Updated 12/09/2011).

Zach Britton, S

2011-12-09

Britton to be better prepared for 2012: After going 5-1 with a 2.63 ERA over the first six starts of his career, Orioles SP Zach Britton struggled during the rest of the 2011 campaign. He told MLB.com on Friday that the rigors of a 162-game season left him wore down towards the end but thanks to a new offseason plan, he hopes to stay strong in 2012. "I was so tired every day," Britton said. "Not necessarily just [from] throwing, but I was like, 'Gosh, my body is so tired.' Now I know what it's like to go through the whole season. I know that I need to add strength -- total body strength." (Updated 12/09/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Britton went 11-11 with a 4.61 ERA over 28 starts last season after breaking camp with the big club. He missed time due to a shoulder injury but otherwise was able to hold his own in a tough division. Hopefully his new workout regimen, which includes beginning his throwing program later, will help him in his second full season in the majors. The 23-year-old still has a ton of upside so keep an eye on how he looks during the spring. Since he will likely have a spot in the rotation again in 2012, target Britton in deeper mixed leagues on Draft Day. (Updated 12/09/2011).

Mike Leake, S

2011-12-03

Leake looking to go deep into 2012: Reds SP Mike Leake saw his first two big league seasons cut short because of an inning limit. "I don't tend to set goals, but if I were to, I'd like to get to 30 starts and 200 innings," Leake told MLB.com on Saturday. Leake is already working out and looking ahead to spring training. "I felt strong last year coming off of the end of the year," Leake said. "I'm sticking to the same routine. I'm throwing about a half a month earlier this time. Last year ended with a little bit of tightness." (Updated 12/03/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Leake went 12-9 with a 3.86 ERA in 29 games (26 starts) for the Reds in 2011. He led his team in wins and with 118 strikeouts. Leake pitched 167 2/3 innings last year and 138 1/3 innings in his 2010 rookie campaign. Fantasy owners should view Leake as a late-round selection on Draft Day in 2012. Leake has some upside, but he still has something to prove in Fantasy leagues. (Updated 12/03/2011).

Bronson Arroyo, S

2011-12-03

Arroyo working on velocity: Reds SP Bronson Arroyo changed his offseason routine this year after having arguably the worst season of his major league career. “All I’m looking for is more velocity,” Arroyo told the Cincinnati Enquirer. “They can say all they want that velocity doesn’t mean anything. But there’s world of difference between 86 and 91. I’m not going to lose the ability to get people out and the feel for my breaking ball. I’m trying to my body strong and get that velocity back.” Arroyo is doing exercises he's never done in the past in an effort to shore up his back, which bother him at times during the season. "I’ve been really tight in my hips. I’m just doing a bunch of tedious small things that take a lot of time, trying to keep myself healthy,” he said. “We’ll see if that translates to more velocity.” (Updated 12/03/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Arroyo went 9-12 with a 5.07 ERA in 2011. He allowed a major league-leading 46 home runs as well. He said he's doing everything he can to get ready for spring training. Arroyo started the 2011 season recovering from mononucleosis, and he was never able to find his form. He is only one year removed from a very good season, when he posted a 3.88 ERA and 1.15 WHIP. At 34, Arroyo could still have a few good years left in him, but after his numbers from last year he'll likely go undrafted in 2012. If he can return to the level he was at prior to this season, Arroyo should have some low-end appeal in mixed league formats (Updated 12/03/2011).

Mitch Talbot, S

2011-12-02

Talbot shipping overseas: Former Indians SP Mitch Talbot signed a one-year deal with the Samsung Lions in Korea, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. The Indians removed Talbot from the 40-man roster in October after he spent much of the 2011 season battling injuries. (Updated 12/02/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Talbot opened the season in the starting rotation, but went on the disabled list shortly after with soreness in his throwing arm. He finished 2-6 with a 6.64 ERA in 12 starts for the Indians and also had a stint in the minors. Fantasy owners should ignore him in all 2012 drafts. (Updated 12/02/2011).

Adam Kennedy, 2B

2011-12-01

Kennedy officially a Dodger: The Dodgers finalized their one-year deal with 1B Adam Kennedy on Thursday, according to CBSSports.com Senior Baseball Writer Danny Knobler. The deal is reportedly worth $800,000. Kennedy batted .234 with seven homers and 38 RBI in 114 games for the Mariners last season. (Updated 12/01/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Kennedy will play the same utility role that he played for Seattle this past season. With injury-prone Mark Ellis and Juan Uribe occupying half of the Dodger infield, Kennedy could get plenty of chances to play next year, making him a viable option in NL-only leagues. (Updated 12/01/2011).

Jonathan Broxton, C

2011-11-29

Royals reel in Broxton: The Royals signed RP Jonathan Broxton to a one-year contract worth $4 million on Tuesday, pending a physical. Broxton spent his entire seven-year career with the Dodgers, serving as the team's closer for much of that time. He's not expected to have that role with the Royals, though. "He'll be one of our setup guys with [Greg] Holland and others," GM Dayton Moore said. Broxton went 1-2 with a 5.68 ERA and seven saves this past season. (Updated 11/29/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Though the plan is for Broxton to be a setup man, he could still end up closing at some point if the Royals elect to trade Joakim Soria or move him to the starting rotation. In such an event, Broxton would be worth drafting as a No. 2 RP in mixed leagues. Otherwise, he only has value in deeper leagues that use setup men and middle relievers. (Updated 11/29/2011).

Dellin Betances, rhp

2011-11-25

Betances hopes to be factor: According to the New York Post, pitcher Dellin Betances wants to be given a chance in 2012. The Yankees haven't made too many moves regarding the rotation yet, which gives Betances some hope. "I feel like next year is a big year for me," Betances said. "There are definitely spots that are going to be open, and I need to show what I can do in spring training." Betances didn't do too well in his two appearances with the Yankees at the end of the 2011 season. He said he's focusing on what Ivan Nova did and is going to try to follow in his footsteps. "I learned a lot this year," Betances said on Friday. "I have a lot more to prove." (Updated 11/25/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Betances said he is confident that the worst is behind him and that he's going to work on his balance and conditioning during the offseason. Betances posted a 6.75 ERA during his stint with the Yankees in 2011. Chances are the Yankees will add some veterans, which means Betances will have to wait a bit longer to show he's ready for the big time. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a long-term keeper option, but he could make another appearance in the majors in 2012. (Updated 11/25/2011).

Clint Barmes, SS

2011-11-21

Barmes officially a Pirate: MLB.com reports that SS Clint Barmes has finalized his deal with the Pirates. The former Astro and Rockie signed a two-year, $10.5 million contract to be Pittsburgh's starting shortstop. (Updated 11/21/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Barmes has not produced much over the last two seasons, but in 2009, he hit 23 home runs for the Rockies. The potential for power, if not batting average, is still there, making Barmes a potential target in deeper mixed leagues and NL-only formats. (Updated 11/21/2011).

Gerald Laird, C

2011-11-17

Laird to back up Avila: FOXSports.com reports that C Gerald Laird has an agreement with the Tigers on a one-year deal, pending a physical. Laird played for St. Louis this past season, but he was with the Tigers for the previous two years. He will assume the backup role to starting C Alex Avila, as Victor Martinez will become a full-time designated hitter, abandoning his catching duties. (Updated 11/17/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Though Laird won't have to contend with Martinez for playing time, his at-bats will still be scarce, as Avila has proven to be a durable and productive starter. Laird should only be targeted in the deepest of AL-only leagues in next year's drafts. (Updated 11/17/2011).

Ivan Nova, S

2011-11-17

Cashman has high hopes for Nova: According to ESPN.com, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman "expects" both Ivan Nova and Phil Hughes to be in the starting rotation in 2012. "They have to continue earning that spot,'' Cashman said. "I won't say every day, but you have to show enough on a consistent basis that you ward off any competition.'' Plainly said, if they don't pitch up to the expected standards Cashman has, thinks will likely change. (Updated 11/17/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Nova was cleared to pitch in the beginning of November after an MRI in the postseason revealed a forearm strain. After getting off to a slow start in 2011, Nova finished the season strong, rattling off a string of 16 straight starts without a loss. Nova posted a 12-0 record with a 3.25 ERA over that stretch, as he overcame the serious control issues that plagued him during the first two months of the season. Owners won't need to be concerned about Nova's health, so he can be drafted with confidence in the middle rounds in standard mixed leagues next spring. (Updated 11/17/2011).

Alexis Rios, CF

2011-11-15

Rios eager to put '11 behind him: White Sox OF Alex Rios, who hit .227 with 13 homers, 11 steals and a .613 OPS in 537 at-bats last year, is looking to bounce back in a big way in 2012, according to ESPN.com. "[Rios] was very frustrated this year and I think the stress it showed on him,” said Rios' agent Paul Kinzer. “I think it just got to be more of a mental issue where it just kept mushrooming. If it would had just been him [that’s one thing], but he and Adam Dunn and some other guys all struggled. It was just all that focus on them. I think mentally it beat him up more than physically.” (Updated 11/15/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Well, that's easy for Rios' agent to say. Kinzer is looking to prop up the value of his client, so of course he's going to make excuses for him. That said, Rios has shown the ability to bounce back from bad seasons in the past. His 2010 season, which was arguably the best of his career, came one year after he hit a career-low (at the time) .247 with a .691 OPS. You wouldn't want to overpay for Rios in Fantasy, but you wouldn't want to dismiss him either. Given his combination of power and speed, he's still worth a look in the late rounds. (Updated 11/15/2011).

J.J. Hardy, SS

2011-09-22

Hardy approaching 30 homers: Orioles SS J.J. Hardy took one step closer to the first 30-homer campaign of his career on Thursday night against the Tigers. He went 2 for 5 with a home run in the 6-5 win. He singled in his first at-bat before launching a solo shot off starter Jacob Turner in the third inning. It was his 29th long ball of the season. (Updated 09/22/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Hardy continues to have a resurgent campaign in his first season with the O's as his .488 slugging percentage is over 50 points above his career mark. While his batting average and on-base percentage leave much to be desired, his power is outstanding for a player at the typically weak-hitting SS position. Keep Hardy active in all formats down the stretch and consider him a solid early-round pick on Draft Day in 2012. (Updated 09/22/2011).

Ryan Hanigan, C

2011-09-21

Hanigan's season all but over: Cincinnati C Ryan Hanigan is unlikely to get back on the field again this season, reports MLB.com on Wednesday. Hanigan is dealing with back issues as he's had some spasms recently and an MRI taken Tuesday revealed some inflamed discs. Hanigan is scheduled for an epidural Thursday. The backstop still wants to play again this season, though he's listed as just the third catcher anyway. "We'll see," Hanigan said. "I'm going to try and get it calmed down, and will see how it feels after I get an injection. There is no damage, nothing long-term." (Updated 09/21/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Hanigan will travel on the final road trip of the season to Pittsburgh and New York, though all indications say he's not going to play. "They're part of the team," manager Dusty Baker said. "If you're part of the team, I believe you should be with the team. This isn't football, where if you're hurt you don't travel with the team and don't even hang around the team." Hanigan's year for Fantasy purposes is over and he hit .267 with six homers, 31 RBI and 27 runs scored over 91 games and 266 at-bats. He is not someone to target heading into next season. (Updated 09/21/2011).

Dustin Ackley, 2B

2011-09-19

Ackley takes a breather: Seattle 2B Dustin Ackley did not start on Monday in Cleveland for the first time since July 3, reports MLB.com. The rookie, who was just receiving a day off, has played in every game for a month straight and it might be grinding on him, according to manager Eric Wedge. "He's been playing more than anybody, really," Wedge said. "He's been going at it every day. That's the type of player he needs to be. He has to fight through all this, but we still need to give him a day. With the travel, where we're at, this is a good day to give it to him." (Updated 09/19/2011)

Fantasy Analysis The wear and tear of major league life has been bringing down Ackley's batting average as he's hitting just .103 (4 for 39) over his last 11 games with 15 strikeouts. That said, Ackley is batting .278 overall with six homers and 34 RBI over just 81 games. "For a young hitter, he's really good at getting the barrel of the bat and squaring up the baseball," Wedge said. "He has good plate coverage, he has an idea up there. He's still learning and he's still fighting to make the adjustments to the league, but he's hanging in there." Fantasy owners should consider him a quality option in deeper mixed leagues and AL-only formats during the remainder of the season and should be a top 10 Fantasy 2B heading into next season. (Updated 09/19/2011).

Kevin Correia, S

2011-09-06

Correia confirmed to be out for year: Pirates SP Kevin Correia, who has been out since Aug. 19 with a strained left oblique, was transferred from the 15- to the 60-day DL on Tuesday, effectively ending his season. (Updated 09/06/2011)

Fantasy Analysis The Pirates had a feeling this injury would sideline Correia for the year. He could maybe recover in time to make a relief appearance or two, but with the Pirates out of the playoff race, what's the point? The 31-year-old right-hander had a solid first season in Pittsburgh, even earning an All-Star nod. But he struggled down the stretch and finished with a disappointing 4.79 ERA. Though he has been a serviceable mixed-league option at times, Correia will likely go undrafted in standard Fantasy leagues next year, given his lack of upside. (Updated 09/06/2011).

Scott Linebrink, R

2011-08-14

Linebrink activated off DL: The Braves activated RP Scott Linebrink (back) from the 15-day DL on Sunday, optioning RP Anthony Varvaro to Triple-A Gwinnett to make room on the roster. (Updated 08/14/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Linebrink sported a 2.95 ERA before going on the DL. He is one of the Braves' top right-handed relievers and appears to have reverted to his form during his prime. Linebrink is merely a Fantasy RP in leagues that use true middle men since he doesn't get many save chances. (Updated 08/14/2011).

Marc Rzepczynski, R

2011-07-29

Rzepczynski fans four in Cards debut: New St. Louis RP Marc Rzepczynski permitted one hit in two scoreless innings of relief during his first outing with the Cardinals in a 5-3 loss to Houston on Thursday. Rzepczynski, who was acquired from Toronto earlier this week, had four strikeouts and no walks. (Updated 07/29/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Rzepczynski, a former starter with the Blue Jays, will likely be utilized over several innings during the middle of the game for St. Louis. The left-hander needed a whopping 36 pitches to complete his outing Thursday and should remain a marginal option in deeper Fantasy formats. (Updated 07/29/2011).