Coast-to-Coast

Austin Jackson, CF

2012-02-06

Jackson 'key' to Tigers offense: The Sports Xchange reports Tigers manager Jim Leyland told Detroit radio station WDFN that CF Austin Jackson "is the biggest key to our offense this year." "The big boys (Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder) are keys, obviously, but if Jackson cuts down on his strikeouts and gets on base a lot, we're going to have one heck of an offense," Leyland said. "It sounds crazy, but Jackson (at leadoff) is the biggest key as it stands today. If he gets on base, Brennan Boesch can pull the ball through the hole -- and with great speed, Jackson can always go first to third. If it doesn't go the way we want, we might have to make an adjustment." (Updated 02/06/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Jackson reached base on 34 percent of balls put in play last season, but that was off from his rate of nearly 40 percent his rookie season. His strikeouts increased to 181 from 170. Jackson hit just .209 after 0-1 counts and .151 with two strikes and any count. He also hit more flyballs than in his rookie campaign. Jackson is making changes in his batting stance in an effort to cut down his swing and his strikeouts. Much of the work involves reducing Jackson's leg kick, which has made him late on fastballs and unable to adjust to two-strike breaking balls. The strikeouts didn't affect Jackson's batting average and OBP as a rookie, but it played a big part in both of those numbers dropping in 2011. Jackson has drawn Curtis Granderson comparisons, and every Fantasy owner would love for that to happen. But Jackson isn't close Granderson's numbers at this juncture of his career. However, the addition of Prince Fielder makes it imperative for Jackson to cut down on his strikeouts and get on base more. Look to Jackson as a mid-round Fantasy option on Draft Day. (Updated 02/06/2012).

Kevin Gregg, C

2012-01-30

Gregg aiming to reclaim role: Orioles RP Kevin Gregg may have had to defer to Jim Johnson in save opportunities late last season, but according to the Baltimore Sun, he isn't giving up the closer role without a fight. He aims to win back the role this spring and bounce back from a season in which he posted a 4.37 ERA and 1.64 WHIP. "I think my experience speaks for itself," Gregg said Friday. "Last year was definitely not the most notable year I could have, but the majority of our team can also say the same thing. As a group, when you lose that many games, you all have something to improve on." Manager Buck Showalter isn't willing to give Gregg any sort of edge but says he still has confidence in the right-hander. "Whatever role he ends up being in, I have the expectations of him pitching late in close ballgames," Showalter said. (Updated 01/30/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Gregg has five straight seasons with at least 20 saves, but he has been in and out of the closer role during that stretch, often losing ninth-inning duties to younger, more talented pitchers. That seems to be what happened to him last year in Baltimore as well. Even if Gregg is able to win back the closer role this spring, he's hardly guaranteed to keep it. Given his marginal stuff, he'd be one of the last closers to target on Draft Day. (Updated 01/30/2012).

Brent Morel, 3B

2012-01-29

Morel maturing as hitter: CSN Chicago reports White Sox 3B Brent Morel, who hit eight homers and sported a .340 OBP in his final 27 games in 2011, is maturing as an MLB hitter. "You kinda go through your ups and downs there throughout the year. It's an elite level of competition, so I'm never going to feel truly at home there," Morel said. "But I just learned a little bit about myself, my approach and getting comfortable in the major leagues, getting used to pitching what they're trying to do to me." (Updated 01/29/2012)

Fantasy Analysis New manager Robin Ventura lauds Morel for his defensive abilities at the hot corner, which is why he will open the 2012 season as the team's starter. Now, the White Sox truly hope Morel is developing as a hitter and doesn't remain an offensive liability. If he performs like he did last September all season, then he is headed for a breakout campaign in 2012. However, Morel is nothing more than a late-round Fantasy reserve in mixed leagues on Draft Day. (Updated 01/29/2012).

Brad Lidge, C

2012-01-26

Nats add Lidge to bullpen: MLB.com reports that the Nationals have an agreement to sign free agent RP Brad Lidge to a one-year deal. The one-time closer appeared in 25 games for the Phillies last season after he returned from a shoulder injury midseason. Lidge compiled a 1.40 ERA, but he ultimately lost the ninth-inning role to Ryan Madson. (Updated 01/26/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Lidge will probably help to set up for Nationals closer Drew Storen. While Lidge doesn't figure to get many saves, he is still a good source of strikeouts and can be used in leagues that utilize middle men. (Updated 01/26/2012).

Ryan Zimmerman, 3B

2012-01-25

Zimmerman eager to get deal done: Though Nationals 3B Ryan Zimmerman is disappointed the team wasn't able to sign free agent 1B Prince Fielder, he still wants a long-term extension, according to the Washington Post. “I don’t think this really affects me one way or another,” he said. “We’ve kind of talked the whole time and agreed both sides would be creative. We want to do a deal so it helps me and the team at the same time, so they can go out and sign guys like Prince Fielder or other free agents." Though Zimmerman, who is under contract for two more years, would likely test free agency if he entered next spring without an extension, he's invested in the Nationals for the long haul. “The reason I want to be here, I’ve been here for the bad times, and I hope to be here for the good times," he said. "If they’re going to have a couple guys that are going to make a ton of money and make it so they can’t sign other guys, that’s not what I want." (Updated 01/25/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Zimmerman's loyalty is nice to see, but it doesn't have a huge impact on his Fantasy value. More than anything, Fantasy owners would like to see him stay healthy, which this push for a contract should motivate him to do. He played only 101 games last year, missing two months because of abdominal surgery, and is averaging just 126.5 games over his last four seasons. When at 100 percent, he's one of the elite third basemen in Fantasy, capable of hitting for both average and power, but his injury risk will likely drop him to the fourth or fifth round on Draft Day. (Updated 01/25/2012).

Martin Perez, lhp

2012-01-18

Perez could start off in relief: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Rangers pitching prospect Martin Perez could reach the major leagues this season, but it would probably be as a reliever. The Rangers' rotation is full, but their bullpen lacks a lefty, with the possible exception of Michael Kirkman. Perez has said that he is willing to pitch in relief it that will allow him to get to the majors more quickly. The 20-year-old finished last season at Triple-A Round Rock, and he went 4-4 with a 6.43 ERA in 10 starts. (Updated 01/18/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Despite a difficult stint at Triple-A, Perez remains a top pitching prospect. However, he is unlikely to make an impact in Fantasy in 2012, especially given that if he does pitch in the majors, it could be as a left-handed relief specialist. Perez should continue to be a target in long-term keeper leagues, but otherwise, owners can pass on him on draft day. (Updated 01/18/2012).

Cole Hamels, S

2012-01-17

Hamels gets $15 million deal: CBSSports.com baseball insider Jon Heyman reports Phillies SP Cole Hamels avoided arbitration Tuesday by agreeing to a $15 million contract for the 2012 season. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Hamels will be a free agent in 2013, so the Phillies could still work on a long-term contract for the left-hander. Regardless, Hamels will still be highly motivated to have a big season in 2012. Hamels had one of his best seasons in 2011, throwing for a career-low 2.79 ERA and winning at least 14 games for the third time in his career. He also had a career-high three complete games. Hamels continues to pitch as well as fellow Phillies aces Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee, so feel confident with drafting him as the ace of your Fantasy staff. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Luke Hochevar, S

2012-01-17

Hochevar lands $3.51 million deal: CBSSports.com baseball insider Jon Heyman reports Royals SP Luke Hochevar avoided arbitration by signing a one-year, $3.51 million contract on Tuesday. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Hochevar had a career-high 11 wins in 2011, but he still hasn't pitched like the No. 1 overall pick in the 2006 draft. Hochevar did post a career-best 1.28 WHIP last year, so maybe there is still hope for the 28-year-old hurler. But you can leave Hochevar pretty much for AL-only Fantasy leagues on Draft Day. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Edward Mujica, R

2012-01-17

Mujica settles on one-year deal: Marlins RP Edward Mujica avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year deal Tuesday. Terms of the deal were not immediately released. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Mujica won a career-high nine games in 2011 for Florida. He also posted a 2.96 ERA and 1.03 WHIP. While Mujica won't close games, he will once again be a key arm for Florida. Consider him a viable Fantasy RP in leagues that use true middle men. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Lance Berkman, RF

2012-01-15

Berkman not worried about 1B: St. Louis OF Lance Berkman said Sunday that he is prepared to handle the rigors of first base after spending last year in the outfield for the Cardinals. Berkman is slated to take over the position for Albert Pujols, who departed to the Angels as a free agent. "It's just different," Berkman told MLB.com. "The outfield, you have more straight-line running. First base, there is a lot more lateral stops and starts, side-to-side, that kind of thing, a little more agility involved there. The wear and tear, it's probably not going to be a lot worse." (Updated 01/15/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Despite the position change, Berkman said he has kept a similar training regimen during the offseason. The veteran appeared in 145 games for St. Louis last season after having left knee surgery in 2010 and belted 31 home runs -- his best output in the past four years. "I think as you age, you learn that you have to be a little bit more conscious of how you prepare for the season," Berkman told MLB.com. "I'll be ready to go when we open camp." Fantasy owners should view Berkman as a solid OF option in the middle rounds of 2012 drafts. (Updated 01/15/2012).

Matt Holliday, LF

2012-01-15

Holliday: Wrist fully healed: St. Louis OF Matt Holliday said Sunday that his wrist is "100 percent" healthy, according to MLB.com. Holliday injured his right wrist during the World Series against Texas and was forced to miss Game 7 as a result. He finished with 22 homers and 75 RBI while hitting .296 last season. (Updated 01/15/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Holliday was limited to just 124 games during the regular season as he was hampered by injuries that stunted his production. His homer total was his lowest since the 2005 season with Colorado -- his second major league campaign (19). The 32-year-old could be affected by the departure of 1B Albert Pujols from the St. Louis lineup, but he remains a strong option for solid power numbers and batting average. Fantasy owners should consider Holliday worthy of a selection in the early rounds of 2012 drafts. (Updated 01/15/2012).

Gio Gonzalez, S

2012-01-15

Gonzalez, Nats come to terms: The Nationals announced Sunday that they avoided arbitration with SP Gio Gonzalez by agreeing to a contract extension through the 2016 season, with options for the 2017 and 2018 seasons. Gonzalez was acquired from Oakland in a late December trade. (Updated 01/15/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The Nationals gave up a lot of quality prospects to get Gonzalez, so signing him long-term was a priority. Now, he can focus on pitching and won't have to worry about his contract. Gonzalez has won 31 games his last two seasons and has gone at least 200 innings in two straight years as well. While he does walk a lot of batters, Gonzalez makes up for that by striking out 8.6 batters per nine innings in his career. Look to Gonzalez as a No. 3 Fantasy SP on Draft Day. (Updated 01/15/2012).

Jack Wilson, 2B

2012-01-13

Wilson sticking with Braves: Veteran 2B Jack Wilson signed a one-year deal on Friday to remain with the Braves, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Wilson, who was acquired from Seattle last August, is expected to serve as the team's backup shortstop for the upcoming season. (Updated 01/13/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Wilson appeared in just 17 games with the Braves as he dealt with a bruised left heel. He posted just nine hits, including one extra-base hit, in 41 at-bats. He isn't expected to see many at-bats again this year and should not be viewed as a worthwhile option in 2012 Fantasy drafts. (Updated 01/13/2012).

Carlos Gomez, CF

2012-01-10

Gomez avoids arbitration: The Brewers inked OF Carlos Gomez to a one-year deal worth approximately $2 million on Tuesday, according to FOXSports.com. Gomez, who still has one more year of arbitration left, avoided the process for the 2012 season with his new deal. (Updated 01/10/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Gomez started 59 games in center field last year, and he could wind up being the lesser half of a platoon with Nyjer Morgan again in 2012. Should the Brewers sign Norichika Aoki this offseason, however, Gomez's playing time will likely be reduced. Even in the best-case scenario, Gomez is merely a low-end option for owners in NL-only leagues. (Updated 01/10/2012).

Kyle Farnsworth, C

2012-01-08

Farnsworth expected to remain closer: The Sports Xchange reports Kyle Farnsworth is expected to remain in his role as the Rays' closer despite the signing of Fernando Rodney. Farnsworth saved 25 games for the Rays last season, including five of four or more outs, but was sidelined in September because of elbow tenderness. Rodney is more likely to team with RHP Joel Peralta to provide a solid setup crew. (Updated 01/08/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Farnsworth proved to be a real steal for the Rays and Fantasy owners in 2011. He finished with a 2.18 ERA in 63 outings and even won five games. The Rays might have some viable fallback options if Farnsworth falters, but look to him as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy RP on Draft Day. (Updated 01/08/2012).

Howie Kendrick, 2B

2012-01-07

Kendrick earns extension: All-Star 2B Howie Kendrick signed a four-year contract extension Saturday to stay with the Angels, according to CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman. The deal is pending a physical and eliminates the final year of arbitration for Kendrick while also covering three years of potential free agency. Kendrick, 28, is coming off a breakthrough season in terms of power, as he hit .285 with 18 home runs, 63 RBI and 86 runs scored. (Updated 01/07/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Kendrick had been an asset for Los Angeles with his versatility, having played first base, second base, third base, left field and center field thus far in his career. But with Albert Pujols now manning first base and highly touted prospect Mike Trout on the way in the outfield, it appears Kendrick will be used pretty exclusively at second base now. Consider him an option in the early middle rounds of most 2012 Fantasy drafts. (Updated 01/07/2012).

Aubrey Huff, 1B

2012-01-04

Huff working hard to bounce back: In his first interview since his disastrous 2011 season ended, Giants veteran Aubrey Huff told the San Francisco Chronicle on Tuesday that he deserved all the criticism he faced last season, including harsh comments from GM Brian Sabean. "I heard it. I read it. It's warranted," Huff said. "When you had the year I had before, finishing seventh in the league in MVP voting, and then being one of the worst players the next year, I've got to get the blame." The Giants blamed Huff's lack of dedication to working out for his awful offensive campaign in 2011, but Huff sees it a bit different. "I don't think I was that out of shape. I was just so mentally in the toilet," he said. "I just never turned it around. It just kept snowballing. I got into a rut. Then it got compounded, and it became more mental. It kind of got rough there at the end. I lost a lot of confidence last year. You guys saw it in the clubhouse. I wasn't the same guy. It's hard to be so confident when you're so bad. I've got to go to spring training and prove myself and basically win a job, because I've got two young kids (Brandon Belt and Brett Pill) breathing down my neck." (Updated 01/04/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Although Huff doesn't believe he was out of shape last season, he is still making it a point to come to spring training in great shape this year. He has been working out at Athletes Performance Institute in Arizona since mid-November and has re-introduced a regimen to his workout that he feels will help him get on track in 2012 -- Pilates. Huff said he was "mentally fried, and my body was tired as hell" following the 2010 season, so he stopped doing Pilates. He said that was a mistake because he believes Pilates contributed to his well-being and success in 2010. Fantasy owners would sure love it if Huff returned to the form he displayed in 2010, when he hit .290 with 26 homers. Huff might split his time between the outfield and first base in 2012 if Belt or Pill prove they are ready for the majors. This is an encouraging report, but Huff is still more of a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day. (Updated 01/04/2012).

Eric Patterson, 2B

2012-01-04

Tigers ink Patterson to minors deal: The Tigers announced Wednesday that OF/INF Eric Patterson was signed to a minor-league contract. (Updated 01/04/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Patterson has hit just .217 in five MLB seasons for four teams -- Cubs, A's, Red Sox and Padres. He will get a chance to earn a roster spot this spring, but it will most likely be as a utility player. It's safe to ignore Patterson until further notice. (Updated 01/04/2012).

Joel Peralta, R

2011-12-20

Rays re-sign Peralta: The Rays avoided arbitration with RP Joel Peralta, signing him to a one-year deal on Tuesday. According to the St. Petersburg Times, Peralta's deal is worth $2.175 million with no incentives. Peralta entered the 2011 season with a chance to become the Rays' closer, but that role eventually went to Kyle Farnsworth. He did earn six saves, along with 19 holds, posting a 2.93 ERA mostly out of a setup role. (Updated 12/20/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Peralta will likely reprise his setup role in 2012. He is an excellent choice for owners in deeper leagues that use non-closers to fill RP slots. Peralta has very good command, so he can be a strong contributor in the ERA and WHIP categories. (Updated 12/20/2011).

Guillermo Mota, R

2011-12-14

Mota to stay with Giants: CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman reports that the Giants reached an agreement to re-sign RP Guillermo Mota to a one-year deal on Wednesday. Mota registered a 3.81 ERA over 80 1/3 innings with San Francisco in 2011. (Updated 12/14/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Mota is a reliable middle reliever, and while he saw a boost in his strikeout rate this past season, he is not one of the better non-closer options in Fantasy. Mota should be drafted only in the deepest of leagues that use middle men. (Updated 12/14/2011).

Dontrelle Willis, S

2011-12-14

Phillies to try Willis in relief: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that the Phillies intend to use recently-signed Dontrelle Willis out of the bullpen. The Phillies inked Willis to a one-year deal worth approximately $1 million on Tuesday. Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. wanted to sign a left-handed reliever at the winter meetings, but brought Willis on board leaving the meetings without a lefty arm. Willis will probably be used as a specialist against left-handed batters, freeing up fellow southpaw Antonio Bastardo for the set-up role. (Updated 12/14/2011)

Fantasy Analysis While Willis has struggled in recent years as a starter, this is not good news for him from a Fantasy perspective. As a lefty relief specialist, he won't pitch enough innings to make an impact, even in very deep leagues. Barring a change in his forecasted role, owners can skip over Willis in next spring's drafts. (Updated 12/14/2011).

Kelly Shoppach, C

2011-12-13

Shoppach joins the Red Sox: The Red Sox and C Kelly Shoppach agreed to a one-year, $1.35 million deal on Tuesday. Shoppach, who was one of several catchers used by the Rays in 2011, hit .176 with 11 homers for the season. (Updated 12/13/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Shoppach has some pop, but he's batting .197 over the last three years. Clearly, he's valued more for his defense than his offense. He'll likely serve as Jarrod Saltalamacchia's backup in Boston, so he should go undrafted outside of deeper AL-only leagues. (Updated 12/13/2011).

Alex Gonzalez, SS

2011-12-08

Brewers snap up Sea Bass: The Brewers agreed to sign free agent SS Alex Gonzalez to a one-year deal with a vesting option on Thursday, according to FOXSports.com. Gonzalez was one of the few remaining free agent shortstop options left, especially with Jimmy Rollins believed to be staying with the Phillies. He hit .241 with 15 home runs for the Braves this season. (Updated 12/08/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Gonzalez still has some power, though it was somewhat thwarted playing his home games at Turner Field this past year. He should enjoy hitting in Miller Park, and with everyday at-bats, he is worth a look in deeper mixed leagues. (Updated 12/08/2011).

Josh Wilson, 2B

2011-11-22

Wilson joins up with Braves: The Braves signed IF Josh Wilson to a minor league deal on Tuesday, according to Baseball America. Wilson spent the 2011 season with the Brewers and Diamondbacks, batting .224 in 60 games. (Updated 11/22/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Wilson is a versatilie utility player, but he doesn't get on base much or hit for power. He can be ignored in all but the deepest of NL-only leagues. (Updated 11/22/2011).

Randy Wolf, S

2011-10-13

Wolf stymies Cardinals : Milwaukee SP Randy Wolf pitched a solid game against St. Louis in Game 4 of the NLCS on Thursday night. He gave up two earned runs on six hits over his seven innings of work. Wolf struck out six and issued just one walk in the Brewers 4-2 win. Both runs he gave up were solo homers -- one to Matt Holliday and the other to Allen Craig. (Updated 10/13/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Even though Wolf pitched well on Thursday, that doesn't mean his stock has gone up that much in Fantasy leagues. The 35-year-old finished the regular season going 13-10 with a 3.69 ERA. He also posted a 134-to-66 strikeout-to-walk ratio over his 212 1/3 innings of work. Fantasy owners should view him as a low-end SP option in deeper leagues heading into the 2012 season. (Updated 10/13/2011).

Jon Lester, S

2011-09-29

Lester gives his all as Sox eliminated: Boston SP Jon Lester gave all he had on Wednesday in the regular-season finale at Baltimore with the Red Sox needing a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Lester left the game after six innings with a 3-2 lead thanks to a rain delay in the top of the seventh. Lester, after throwing 93 pitches, could not come out after the delay. Boston closer Jonathan Papelbon blew the save and took the loss in the ninth inning, however, giving Lester the no-decision and eliminating the Red Sox from playoff contention with Tampa Bay winning against the Yankees. Lester's season finished at 15-9 as he finished up with a 3.47 ERA. Lester allowed two earned runs on four hits and four walks over his six innings. He struck out five and gave up a two-run homer to J.J. Hardy in the third inning. (Updated 09/29/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Lester, who had allowed eight earned runs over 2 2/3 innings in a loss his last time out and had dropped three straight starts entering Wednesday, gave a gritty gutsy effort against the Orioles. Unfortunately, his closer couldn't get him his 16th win and ultimately got the Red Sox evicted from the playoffs. Lester finished his season with 15 wins and a solid ERA despite allowing four or more runs in three of his final four outings. Still, he rebounded Wednesday and will enter next season once again as a high-end Fantasy SP to be taken early in drafts. (Updated 09/29/2011).

Alejandro De Aza, RF

2011-09-22

De Aza hitting well for ChiSox: White Sox OF Alejandro De Aza entered Thursday's series finale against the Indians batting .350 with 10 doubles, three triples, three homers, 20 RBI and 21 runs scored over his last 32 games. His recent play could earn him a starting role in 2012, but De Aza told MLB.com that he is not thinking that far ahead. "I just try to play and try to do my little things day by day. I don't think about next year," De Aza said. "When next year comes, then I will think about it more. Right now, I'm just trying to play the game." (Updated 09/22/2011)

Fantasy Analysis De Aza has been seeing some solid playing time with Carlos Quentin out and should continue to down the stretch. With Juan Pierre expected to leave Chicago in the offseason, the 27-year-old could slide over to left field for the White Sox in 2012. His speed and ability to hit for average would make him relevant in Fantasy but as far as 2011 goes, continue to view De Aza as more of an AL-only option. (Updated 09/22/2011).

Nolan Reimold, LF

2011-09-19

Reimold gets power swing going: Orioles OF Nolan Reimold went 2 for 4 with a solo home run in the first game of Monday's doubleheader at Boston. He entered play hitless in his previous two games and just 2 for 12 (.167) at the plate in his previous five games. (Updated 09/19/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Reimold isn't hitting particularly well, but he is hitting the ball hard. The two hits he had coming in over his previous five games were homers and he is showing enough pop to consider activating in deeper AL-only daily formats. (Updated 09/19/2011).

Carlos Ruiz, C

2011-09-13

Ruiz goes deep in ninth inning: Philadelphia C Carlos Ruiz homered in the top of the ninth inning in Tuesday's loss at Houston. Ruiz brought the Phillies one run closer, but the team couldn't complete the comeback in the 5-2 loss. Ruiz homered for the sixth time this season and he finished 1 for 3 with a walk. He's batting .285 on the year. (Updated 09/13/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Ruiz has hit in six straight games for the Phillies as he continues to provide solid offense from the catcher spot. As long as he gets everyday playing time, Ruiz can be used in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues. (Updated 09/13/2011).

Joaquin Benoit, R

2011-08-19

Benoit in lock-down mode: Detroit RP Joaquin Benoit (3-3) hurled a perfect inning of relief in the Tigers' 4-1 victory over Cleveland on Friday night. Benoit recorded a strikeout during his 52nd appearance of the season as he climbed into a tie for fourth place in the American League with 20 holds. (Updated 08/19/2011)

Fantasy Analysis After surrendering three runs against Texas on Aug. 2, Benoit has reeled off 8 1/3 scoreless innings and permitted an astounding one hit during that span. The hard-throwing right-hander has served as an excellent setup man to Jose Valverde and is now boasting a manageable 3.80 ERA. With solid strikeout totals, Fantasy owners should view Benoit as a worthwhile option in AL-only formats. (Updated 08/19/2011).

Brad Bergesen, S

2011-08-03

Bergesen unlikely to start Saturday: Baltimore SP Brad Bergesen was a candidate to start on Saturday against Toronto for the Orioles but that is highly unlikely to happen now. Bergesen pitched in Wednesday's game in relief as he came on for Jeremy Guthrie in the eighth inning. Bergesen didn't pitch well as he managed only one out and three hits allowed before leaving and giving way to Jo-Jo Reyes. Reyes saved Bergesen of allowing any earned runs as he got out of the jam. Bergesen's ERA is at 5.76 on the year. (Updated 08/03/2011)

Fantasy Analysis The Orioles will likely turn to Chris Tillman on Saturday, with Bergesen remaining in the bullpen. That is exactly where he belongs as Bergesen has been simply awful for some time now for Baltimore. He has just low-end Fantasy value as someone who could get a few more starts before the year is over. (Updated 08/03/2011).

Aaron Hicks, of

2011-07-18

Hicks will remain switch hitter: The Star Tribune reports the Twins have no intentions of having OF prospect Aaron Hicks drop his switch-hitting approach despite batting just .233 against right-handed pitchers as opposed to hitting .310 against lefties in 2011 for Class A Fort Myers. "It's been brought up,'' Twins assistant GM Rob Antony said, "but there wasn't enough concern to as ask him to bat right-handed only. I think he's been swinging better. I think he's come a million miles this year. He's starting to look like a guy who knows what he needs to do.'' (Updated 07/18/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Hicks has good plate discipline and is a great defensive center fielder. However, he is still developing offensively, which is why he hasn't lit the world on fire down in the minors. The scouts are still high on this kid and it appears the Twins are going to give the former first-round pick time to develop. Hicks remains just a long-term Fantasy keeper. (Updated 07/18/2011).