Coast-to-Coast

Bryce Harper, of

2012-02-07

Harper 'positive' going into spring: MLB.com reports Nationals manager Davey Johnson has lobbied GM Mike Rizzo to strongly consider prospect Bryce Harper for the opening day roster. The 19-year-old Harper isn't short on confidence heading into spring training. "I feel really positive about going to spring training this year," Harper said. "I really feel I have a legit shot at making the club. We have a lot of guys coming in -- veteran guys that could really teach me how to approach the game. ... I'm really excited for this year. I've been working my butt off this offseason, getting ready to go out there and doing outfield stuff, working on running and jumping -- everything that consists of trying to make this team. To have Davey on my side, that a very big plus going in there." (Updated 02/07/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Harper has arguably been the most hyped athlete since LeBron James had his rise to stardom. We all know his story and it's not hard to see why the Nationals selected him first overall in the 2010 draft. Harper made it to Double-A in 2011 and then had an outstanding stint in the Arizona Fall League. Johnson feels Harper is ready for the majors, but this decision appears to be Rizzo's call. Harper is suddenly worth drafting even in shallower seasonal Fantasy formats. Harper has as much upside as any prospect in baseball and is obviously a must-have in long-term keeper leagues. (Updated 02/07/2012).

Robinson Cano, 2B

2012-02-06

Cano might hit third for Yanks: The Sports Xchange reports Yankees manager Joe Girardi said no final decisions have been made, but it seems like he's leaning toward using 2B Robinson Cano as the No. 3 hole hitter this year. 1B Mark Teixeira had been hitting third, but Girardi put Cano there late last season. "Those are things that we'll talk about in spring training," Girardi said. "But you know, we had moved Robbie at the end. Robbie's an interesting guy, because you can hit him so many different places. We have a lot of guys like that. We'll definitely look at Robbie in the 3-hole." (Updated 02/06/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Although it is a small sample, Cano has performed well hitting third in his career. He has a .326 average with two homers and 13 RBI in 12 games batting third. Cano is going to have lineup protection no matter where hit hits in the lineup, but putting him third in front of guys like Teixeira and Alex Rodriguez, and even possibly hitting behind Curtis Granderson would be ideal. Cano remains an early-round Fantasy pick in all formats. (Updated 02/06/2012).

Trevor Plouffe, SS

2012-01-30

Plouffe the next Cuddyer?: The Star-Tribune reports Twins manager Ron Gardenhire has said INF Trevor Plouffe will see time in left field this year, but he was careful not to call it a platoon with Ben Revere, who hits left-handed. Gardenhire wants to find ways to play the right-handed hitting Plouffe after he slugged 23 homers between the minors and majors in 2011. The Twins hope Plouffe develops like former Twin Michael Cuddyer, when he became an option in the outfield and infield. "[Cuddyer] told me he wasn't stressed about playing the infield, and he was able to focus," Plouffe said. "Not only on offense, but it freed up his mind a little bit. I don't know if it'll be a major transition. I felt comfortable [in the outfield last year], and that was something that surprised me when I got thrown out there in Triple-A." (Updated 01/30/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Plouffe finished with a .238 average in 81 games last season but at one point had a fairly impressive slugging percentage, .438 after 40 games before his power dropped with his poor defense (12 errors at shortstop and second base). Plouffe will likely also get some at-bats at DH this season, so he could end up as a regular for Minnesota. Plouffe will keep his SS eligibility this season, so that helps his Fantasy value. Still, he is nothing more than a late-round flier and should be left primarily for AL-only formats. (Updated 01/30/2012).

Grady Sizemore, CF

2012-01-30

Indians love Sizemore's 'upside': MLB.com reports Indians GM Chris Antonetti is very confident in Indians OF Grady Sizemore, who has been plagued by knee injuries the last few seasons. "We saw that ability is still there in Grady," said Antonetti, referring to Sizemore's strong start in April before injuring his right knee. "We're confident that he can overcome the injury he had in the middle of last year and it's a guy that represents as much upside as any player out there." (Updated 01/30/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Sizemore missed most of the 2010 season following microfracture surgery on his left knee. While he avoided any setbacks with that knee last year, he injured his other knee and eventually needed arthroscopic surgery in October. He is expected to be ready for the start of spring training, and the Indians still feel Sizemore has the talent to bounce back. We all know what Sizemore can do at 100 percent, but these injuries might have taken its toll on him. Consider Sizemore at best a late-round, injury-risk Fantasy sleeper. (Updated 01/30/2012).

Daric Barton, 1B

2012-01-29

Barton will be limited at outset of camp: The San Jose Mercury News reports A's 1B Daric Barton, who is recovering from September shoulder surgery, will not be full strength at the start of spring training. He said he should be able to DH by the time exhibition games start. Barton added he should be throwing at 100 percent by mid-March and is aiming to be ready for opening day. (Updated 01/29/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Barton missing time in spring training isn't going to help him as he battles for the 1B job with the likes of Brandon Allen, Chris Carter and Kila Ka'aihue. However, the A's know Barton's strengths and limitations. Barton is only 26 years old, but he is just a career. 252 hitter in the majors and has shown little pop as a corner infielder. The other first-base candidates might have more potential, so if Oakland is comfortable with any of them this spring, then Barton could be headed for a bench role. Even if he wins a starting job, Barton will be at best an AL-only Fantasy option. (Updated 01/29/2012).

Carlos Beltran, RF

2012-01-29

Beltran might play in center field: The Sports Xchange reports right knee surgery two years ago helped force Carlos Beltran to be exclusively a right fielder last year. But Beltran, who signed with the Cardinals in the offseason, said he would play center field if asked. "Right now I feel good," Beltran said. "Last year I played in the outfield and the games I missed, it wasn't because of the knee. It was because of an injury to my wrist." New manager Mike Matheny, asked how he might deploy Beltran, either as a right fielder with Allen Craig recovering from knee surgery, or to challenge Jon Jay in center, said: "It's going to be a juggling act to see how (Beltran) progresses through the spring. Spring is really a good test. That tells you a lot about how their bodies are going to be able to hold up through the strain of a season. In a perfect world, I'd love to see him healthy. And when he's healthy, we have options." (Updated 01/29/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Beltran played 142 games in 2011 for the Mets and Giants, the most he has played since appearing in 161 games in 2008. Beltran had a productive season, batting .300 with 22 homers, 39 doubles and 84 RBI. However, he had only four stolen bases and is not the offensive threat he was during his prime. Beltran is still a very productive Fantasy option, but look to him more as a top 35 Fantasy OF on Draft Day and not the top 10 player he used to be in his heyday. (Updated 01/29/2012).

Ben Revere, CF

2012-01-28

Revere likely starting in left: The Minnesota Twins have had a crowded outfield for several seasons. That's not the case this year, with Ben Revere, Denard Span and Josh Willingham settled in their spots before spring training. Delmon Young, Jason Kubel and Michael Cuddyer have moved on. The Twins haven't even left open any questions about who will play where. Manager Ron Gardenhire said this weekend as the team's annual fan festival began that Span is his leadoff hitter and center fielder. Revere played there last season when Span was hurt. Willingham hasn't played much right field, but that's where he'll be with the Twins. Revere will be in left, where his weak throwing arm is better suited. Revere says he's been working on strength by doing long-toss drills with a football. (Updated 01/28/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Revere now sounds like a lock for the left field spot, though he'll likely still have to show something in the spring. Although he broke the Twins' rookie record for stolen bases with 34, Revere finished the season batting .267 with a .310 OBP. He proved last season that he has a bright future in the majors, but the Twins still want him to develop and having some competition in the spring should keep the pressure on. Consider Revere nothing more than a late-round Fantasy option, with a little more value in Rotisserie formats. (Updated 01/28/2012).

Jason Motte, R

2012-01-25

Cards sign Motte for one year: The Cardinals and closer Jason Motte avoided arbitration on Wednesday, as they agreed to a one-year deal worth $1.95 million plus incentives, according to CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman. Motte finished last season as the Cardinals' closer, and he went 5-2 with a 2.25 ERA and nine saves. (Updated 01/25/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Motte has been a closer candidate for some time now, but he will enter spring training as the closer for the first time in his career. He will be worth targeting as a No. 2 RP in all mixed league formats on draft day. (Updated 01/25/2012).

Ryan Ludwick, LF

2012-01-23

Baker excited about Ludwick signing: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Reds manager Dusty Baker is excited about the signing of outfielder Ryan Ludwick. “He’s a guy I’ve always liked," Baker said. "I think he’s a great addition to the outfield. He helps with Drew Stubbs, Jay Bruce and especially Chris Heisey. (Ludwick) can play all three outfield spots. He’s had a couple of down years. But he’s a guy who will benefit from playing in our ballpark.” The Reds have regular at-bats available in left field, but Baker is still trying to figure out what to do with the position. "Ludwick is going to play. But I don’t want to thwart the progress on Chris Heisey," Baker said. "I had a long talk with Ludwick. I told him everybody on my team plays. Heisey has earned to the chance to play.” (Updated 01/23/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Ludwick was a breakout Fantasy star in 2008 when he slugged a career-high 37 homers and 113 RBI with the Cardinals. Unfortunately, he has been in decline in every season since '08 and Ludwick might no longer be an everyday outfielder, which is why he was signed to just a one-year deal. Clearly, the Reds signed him as insurance in case Heisey struggles as the primary left fielder. Consider Ludwick more of an NL-only Fantasy option on Draft Day. (Updated 01/23/2012).

Michael Pineda, S

2012-01-23

Pineda officially dons pinstripes: The Mariners and Yankees finally completed the Jesus Montero/Michael Pineda trade on Monday. The Mariners traded Pineda and Jose Campos to the Yankees in exchange for Montero and Hector Noesi. (Updated 01/23/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Every Fantasy owner is looking toward Pineda in pinstripes. Had he been on a contender as a rookie in 2011, then he might have had a better record. He went 9-10 in 28 starts. Ivan Nova went 16-4 with the Yankees in 28 outings (27 starts) last season, which Fantasy owners would take any day given Pineda's upside. Consider Pineda a top 25 Fantasy SP on Draft Day. He was already a must-own Fantasy SP, but joining the Yankees makes him that much more valuable. (Updated 01/23/2012).

Ty Wigginton, 3B

2012-01-18

Wigginton to start at 1B for Phillies: Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. told ESPN.com on Wednesday that Ty Wigginton will start at first base until Ryan Howard is ready to return from a torn left Achilles' tendon. Jim Thome will serve as his backup. Wigginton, who was acquired from the Rockies during the offseason, batted .242 with 15 home runs and 47 RBI in 2011. (Updated 01/18/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Wigginton can play all over the field, but with Howard potentially out for the first month or two, the Phillies will roll with the utility player at first base. Wigginton has enough power potential to make an impact in mixed leagues and could earn more playing time if he hits well in Howard's absence. But since he is not guaranteed everyday at-bats for the entire 2012 campaign, target Wigginton in NL-only formats and deeper mixed leagues on Draft Day. (Updated 01/18/2012).

Felipe Paulino, S

2012-01-17

Paulino gets pay raise from K.C.: Royals SP Felipe Paulino avoided arbitration Tuesday by agreeing to a one-year, $1.9 million contract, according to The Kansas City Star. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Paulino gets a nice pay raise after making $790,000 in 2011. However, he proved to be a stable, yet unspectacular rotation arm for the Royals following his acquisition from Colorado. Paulino has always had good strikeout potential, but he has proven to be wild at times and very hittable. He will primarily be an AL-only Fantasy SP on Draft Day. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Lonnie Chisenhall, 3B

2012-01-13

Chisenhall not guaranteed 3B job?: Indians general manager Chris Antonetti told MLB.com Friday that Lonnie Chisenhall and Jack Hannahan will compete for the starting third base job during spring training. Chisenhall batted .255 with seven homers and 22 RBI in 66 games for Cleveland last season. (Updated 01/13/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Chisenhall is widely considered as one of the better prospects on the Indians and is expected to man the hot corner for many years to come. He did not overwhelm during his call-up last season, however, so Cleveland will give Hannahan a chance to win the starting gig. Keep an eye on how things shake out during the spring as the 23-year-old has a lot of upside in Fantasy. If Chisenhall wins out, he will be worth taking in deeper mixed legaues on AL-only formats on Draft Day. (Updated 01/13/2012).

Justin Smoak, 1B

2012-01-13

Smoak aims to be in top shape: According to the team's official Twitter account, Mariners general manager Jack Zduriencik said 1B Justin Smoak has made a point to build up his upper body strength this offseason. He has lost weight overall, though, checking in at 224 pounds. (Updated 01/13/2012)

Fantasy Analysis After a mostly disappointing rookie season, Smoak had an uneven sophomore season. He got off to a great start, hitting .315 with five homers and a .989 OPS over his first 92 at-bats. His batting average then plummeted to .220 until September, when he hit .301 with three homers in 73 at-bats. Smoak has an intriguing combination of patience and power, but he'll need to hit with more consistency to become a viable mixed-leaguer. His work this offseason is obviously a positive step, so consider him a worthwhile late-round flier. (Updated 01/13/2012).

Paul Maholm, S

2012-01-10

Maholm officially joins Cubs: SP Paul Maholm finalized his one-year, $4.25 million deal with the Cubs on Tuesday. The deal includes a one-year, $6.5 million option for 2013. Maholm posted a 4.36 ERA in seven seasons with the Pirates. He went 6-14 with a 3.66 ERA in 26 starts last year. (Updated 01/10/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The shoulder strain that limited Maholm late last season doesn't seem to be an issue anymore, so the finesse lefty is expected to have a rotation spot in Chicago to begin the 2012 season. He had a couple of good years in Pittsburgh -- last year included -- but he didn't get enough run support to make much of a Fantasy impact. That won't necessarily change with the Cubs, but at least Maholm will be pitching in a familiar division. He's worth drafting as a middle-of-the-road option late in NL-only leagues. (Updated 01/10/2012).

Yorvit Torrealba, C

2011-12-26

Torrealba booted from winter league: According to the Venezuelan newspaper Meridiano, Rangers C Yorvit Torrealba has been suspended from the Venezuelan Winter League for the remainder of the season. Torrealba received a 66-game suspension, which covers the length of the entire winter league season, for shoving the home plate umpire in the face after an at-bat in a game last Friday. As reported by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Texas general manager Jon Daniels is looking into the possibility of Torrealba facing disciplinary action from the Rangers as well. (Updated 12/26/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Torrealba was probably looking at a reduction in playing time next season, due to the emergence of Mike Napoli as the Rangers' first-string catcher, but this incident won't do anything to boost his value. Regardless of what occurs going forward, Torrealba will merely be an option for owners in deeper AL-only leagues. (Updated 12/26/2011).

Derek Norris, c

2011-12-22

Norris on his way to Oakland: The Nationals sent C Derek Norris along with SP Brad Peacock, SP A.J. Cole and SP Tommy Milone to the Athletics on Thursday in exchange for SP Gio Gonzalez and SP Robert Gilliam. Norris was considered one of the organization's top hitting prospects. He hit .210 with 20 homers and a .367 on-base percentage for Double-A Harrisburg last season. (Updated 12/22/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Norris walks like crazy, which is an attribute the Athletics appreciate. He has also proven to be a good power hitter in the minor leagues. His low batting average is a concern and reason why he likely won't push Kurt Suzuki for playing time this season, but Norris is still expected to hit enough to be a starting catcher in the majors someday. This move makes his path to the majors a little easier since he no longer has Wilson Ramos blocking him, but he was a quality option in long-term keeper leagues regardless. (Updated 12/22/2011).

Allen Craig, LF

2011-12-19

Craig hoping for speedy recovery: St. Louis OF Allen Craig said there is an outside chance that he could be ready for the start of the 2012 season after having knee surgery in November. Craig was expected to need four to six months to recover from surgery to repair damage to his right knee. "I think the organization always has to plan for the worst and the worst case was six months,” Craig told FOX Sports Midwest. "But I asked the doctor directly, when he thought I’d be playing and he said in 4-to-5 months I should be playing, which is right around opening day." (Updated 12/19/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Craig was the Cardinals' postseason hero as he recorded three home runs and five RBI during the team's World Series victory over Texas. He could be an option at first base for the upcoming season following the departure of Albert Pujols -- once he returns. "I’m going to be working hard every day and not taking any days off with that, and whenever I come back that will be what the timetable was," Craig said. Fantasy owners should track Craig's status while considering the 27-year-old an option in the later rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts. (Updated 12/19/2011).

Derek Holland, S

2011-12-15

Rangers looking to extend Holland: The Rangers and SP Derek Holland are working on a five-year contract extension, according to the Dallas Morning News. Holland will not be arbitration eligible until 2013, so a five-year deal would cover the coming season, all of his arbitration years, and the first year in which he could otherwise become a free agent. The 25-year-old southpaw posted a 16-5 record with a 3.95 ERA this season. (Updated 12/15/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Though his ERA doesn't reflect it, Holland took a step forward in 2011, increasing his velocity and ground ball rate while improving his control. Though he still can be maddeningly inconsistent, Holland has earned his way into being trusted on draft day by standard mixed league owners. As a viable No. 4 or 5 SP, he can be targeted in the later rounds. (Updated 12/15/2011).

Jeremy Hermida, RF

2011-12-07

Hermida designated for assignment: The Padres designated OF Jeremy Hermida for assignment on Wednesday. He batted .190 with two homers and nine RBI in 30 games between San Diego and Cincinnati last season. (Updated 12/07/2011)

Fantasy Analysis There were rumors earlier this offseason that Hermida could be headed to Japan and this move could lead to that. The 27-year-old has been very disappointing since being taken in the first round of the 2002 draft and has not been a viable Fantasy option for awhile now. Unless he earns a starting job somewhere in the majors next season, plan on ignoring him entirely on Draft Day. (Updated 12/07/2011).

Asdrubal Cabrera, SS

2011-12-06

Cabrera trying to build endurance: Indians SS Asdrubal Cabrera, who hit .293 with a .836 OPS in the first half last season before slumping to .244 and .729 in the second half, will participate in the Dominican Winter League as part of a plan to help him avoid such a drop-off in 2012, according to MLB.com. "We've talked to Asdrubal about, 'OK, how do we help you prepare for the duration of the season, and hopefully playing another month beyond September?'" GM Chris Antonetti said. "That's an important part as we look to his preparation for the season and what he does this offseason to keep him strong in the second half." (Updated 12/06/2011)

Fantasy Analysis The extra offseason work could backfire for Cabrera if it tires him out rather than builds his endurance, but the Indians have no doubt done their homework and think this is the best course of action. Cabrera's power surge last year will elicit some skepticism from Fantasy owners, but the Indians seem to think it's sustainable. And it's not like such a breakout is unreasonable for a player in his age-25 season. The prudent course of action is to expect some decline in power from Cabrera in 2012, but not enough for him to perform like less than a top-five Fantasy SS. (Updated 12/06/2011).

Chris Iannetta, C

2011-12-06

Scioscia sold on Iannetta: Angels manager Mike Scioscia, who has been hesitant to use offensive-minded catchers in the past, seems to be a fan of new acquisition Chris Iannetta, according to the Providence Journal. "Chris Iannetta is going to be a great fit for us," Scioscia said. "He's going to bring a lot of what Jeff [Mathis] brought behind the plate with the ability to bring offense -- and to bring durability. We'll plan on catching him 100-plus games, and that's going to be important to us." (Updated 12/06/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Fantasy owners have no problem with Scioscia comparing Iannetta's defense to Jeff Mathis', but he better bring more to the table offensively than Mathis did. Most likely, he will. Iannetta has shown the ability to draw walks and hit homers throughout his major-league career. But he hit only .238 last year, including .172 away from Coors Field. His adjustment to a pitcher's park could be a painful one, but Iannetta still has enough upside for you to target him as a No. 2 Fantasy C on Draft Day. (Updated 12/06/2011).

Jerry Hairston Jr., 3B

2011-12-05

Hairston signs with Dodgers: The Los Angeles Dodgers continued to fill out their roster and agreed to terms with utility player Jerry Hairston, pending a physical, CBSSports.com senior writer Danny Knobler has learned. The deal is expected to be worth $6 million over two years. Hairston, 35, will now join his ninth team in nine seasons. (Updated 12/05/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Hairston spent the first seven seasons of his career with Baltimore before never spending more than one full season elsewhere. He posted a .270 batting average last season between Washington and Milwaukee, playing five different defensive positions. While he may not start everyday, he could see several at-bats with Los Angeles next year. Consider him a low-end option in NL-only Fantasy formats during 2012 drafts. (Updated 12/05/2011).

Aaron Crow, R

2011-11-25

Crow excited for opportunity: According to the Kansas City Star, Royals pitcher Aaron Crow believes he can provide his team with a solid starter in 2012. The Royals added Jonathan Sanchez this offseason to compete for a rotation spot as well. “I’ve already started this off-season,” he said. “By coming in here (Kauffman Stadium) five days a week in order to get ready for the season. I want to do everything I can to win one of those spots. I’m comfortable with (starting). I’ve done that my whole life. Whatever happens happens, but I’m going into spring training with the goal of making the rotation. I hope that works out.” (Updated 11/25/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Crow was selected to the All-Star game last season as a reliever. He was drafted in 2009 as a starter, so he doesn't anticipate any difficulty switching back to a starter. “I don’t really think I have to develop more pitches,” he said. I’ve got a two- and four-seam fastball, and a (slider). It would be nice to develop a changeup and to make my curveball better. But I think the biggest thing for a starter is to keep your pitch count low, pound the strike zone and get quick outs. Obviously, you have to be better conditioned if you’re going seven innings instead of just one.” Crow remains a viable long-term Fantasy keeper and is worth keeping an eye on during spring training to see if he lands a rotation spot. (Updated 11/25/2011).

John Lackey, S

2011-11-01

Lackey undergoes TJ surgery: Red Sox SP John Lackey underwent Tommy John surgery on Tuesday. The procedure was performed by Dr. Lewis Yocum. (Updated 11/01/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Lackey will miss the entire 2012 season, as the recovery time for Tommy John surgery is 12 months at the shortest. He can be ignored in all single-season formats and in the vast majority of keeper formats as well. (Updated 11/01/2011).

Javier Lopez, R

2011-10-31

Giants lock up Lopez: The Giants signed RP Javier Lopez to a two-year contract worth $8.5 million on Sunday, as reported by SI.com. Lopez appeared in 70 games for the Giants this season, posting a 2.72 ERA. (Updated 10/31/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Lopez has become a superb ground ball pitcher, but as a left-handed relief specialist, he doesn't have much value in Fantasy. He can be ignored in all drafts next spring. (Updated 10/31/2011).

Grant Green, ss

2011-10-17

Green tinkering to improve power: According to Baseball America, Athletics outfield prospect Grant Green, formerly a shortstop, has made some changes to his stance in the Arizona Fall League after slumping from 20 homers in 2010 to nine in 2011. "We've widened out my stance dramatically," Green said, "to get a little bit more load into my approach and get a little more power." As for his transition to the outfield, it's still a work in progress. "[I'm] definitely not feeling as comfortable as I'd like to be," Green said. "What I feel I really need to do is work on those jumps. It's a little bit different ... first step back as compared to the first step in as an infielder ... seeing the ball off the bat and getting the angles down on pop flies." (Updated 10/17/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Though Green's adjustment to the outfield -- he played 47 of his 127 games there at Double-A Midland -- has been a relatively slow one, in the long run, it should get him to the majors faster. "They told me that this was the quickest way for me to get there," Green said, "the best position for me athletically and with the bat and glove-wise. If that's what they truly believe and are wholeheartedly with it, then let's roll with it." Green, a first-round pick in 2009, clearly has some offensive potential, but because he isn't a particularly disciplined hitter and doesn't have much base-stealing ability, he'll need to hit for power to develop into a useful Fantasy option, especially since he's now playing a deeper position. He has some value in long-term keeper leagues, but he's not a must-own option. (Updated 10/17/2011).

Yovani Gallardo, S

2011-10-13

Early struggles doom Gallardo: Brewers SP Yovani Gallardo struggled out of the gates in Game 3 of the NLCS, but would settle down after the first inning. Gallardo gave up for earned runs (all in the first inning) and the Brewers would not be able to recover. Milwaukee would lose the game to St. Louis, 4-3. Gallardo struck out two batters and issued five free passes in his five innings of work. He was tagged with the loss. (Updated 10/13/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Gallardo went 17-10 with a 3.52 ERA during the regular season, while striking out 207 batters in his 207 1/3 innings on the mound. He allowed just two earned runs in his two starts in the NLDS against Arizona, but had his troubles with the Cardinals. Heading into 2012, Fantasy owners should view Gallardo as a No. 2 SP option, worth grabbing in the early rounds on Draft Day. (Updated 10/13/2011).

Travis Hafner, DH

2011-09-30

Hafner to return to Cleveland: According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Indians general manager Chris Antonetti said DH Travis Hafner would return to the team in 2012, despite playing in just 94 games because of injuries. "What Travis has continued to demonstrate is that, when he's healthy and on the field, he's a productive hitter," said Antonetti. "So when we look to next year's team, we think Travis is going to be healthy and if he is, he'll be a productive player for us." (Updated 09/30/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Hafner hit .280 with 16 doubles, 13 homers and 57 RBI for the Indians. He continues to slide further and further out of Fantasy relevance since his shoulder troubles began in 2007, but it seems he did enough this year to give him one more chance. He's entering the final year of his contract for $13 million, so if they do decide to cut ties with him they'll have to find a new DH. Fantasy owners should view him as more of an AL-only option on Draft Day in 2012. (Updated 09/30/2011).

Alex Gordon, LF

2011-09-28

Gordon sits out season finale: Royals OF Alex Gordon was out of the lineup for a sixth straight game because of an illness Wednesday at Minnesota. He finishes the year batting .303 with 23 homers, 17 steals and an .879 OPS in 611 at-bats. (Updated 09/28/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Gordon, who was the second overall pick in the 2005 draft, finally had the breakout season everyone expected him to have when he first broke into the majors in 2007. Granted, it took longer than anybody thought, but an adjustment made by hitting coach Kevin Seitzer prior to the season finally did the trick. Gordon's batting average is at risk of declining a little in 2011 just because he's such a free-swinger, but because he's a viable contributor in the other four categories, he'll be worth drafting as a No. 2 Fantasy OF in 2012. (Updated 09/28/2011).

Rich Harden, S

2011-09-21

Harden beat up for fourth loss: A's SP Rich Harden did not last long in his outing against the Rangers on Tuesday. He allowed six runs (five earned) on seven hits over three innings of work in the 7-1 loss. The right-hander surrendered a three-run homer to Adrian Beltre in the first before allowing a run to score on a wild pitch the following frame. Then in the third, he gave up a two-spot and was done after throwing 71 pitches, 48 for strikes. Harden also struck out three and walked one while taking his fourth loss of the season. (Updated 09/21/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Harden has his worst outing in awhile on Tuesday and is now 0-2 with a 7.99 ERA over his last five starts. He sure isn't ending the 2011 campaign on a good note but hopefully he will be able to finish strong in his season finale. He is scheduled to pitch again on Sunday against the Angels so consider Harden as more of an AL-only option for that outing. (Updated 09/21/2011).

Casey Janssen, R

2011-09-03

Janssen available for Jays: Toronto RP Casey Janssen (lat muscle) threw a successful bullpen session on Friday. Janssen was available out of the bullpen on Saturday against the Yankees, reports MLB.com. (Updated 09/03/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Janssen has posted a 0.51 ERA in 16 outings since coming off the DL in mid-July. He even has a save in that span. Janssen is one of the Blue Jays' most versatile and valuable relievers. Unfortunately, he has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy since he is not the team's regular closer. (Updated 09/03/2011).

Luke French, R

2011-08-18

French back at Triple-A: Mariners pitcher Luke French was outrighted to Triple-A Tacoma on Thursday after clearing waivers. (Updated 08/18/2011)

Fantasy Analysis French was taken off the 40-man roster to clear a spot for Wily Mo Pena. He has pitched at Triple-A all season and hasn't done well. Continue to ignore him in all Fantasy formats. (Updated 08/18/2011).