Coast-to-Coast

Tim Lincecum, S

2012-02-06

Lincecum focusing on first-pitch strikes: The San Francisco Chronicle reports Giants SP Tim Lincecum said his first order of business this spring is to work on throwing more first-pitch strikes. "First strikes are huge," Lincecum said. "I struggled a lot last year with that." Manager Bruce Bochy is on board with Lincecum's plan of action. "That's one of the things we really preach here," Bochy said. "We're in a ballpark where pitchers should have that confidence to throw first-pitch strikes." (Updated 02/06/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Lincecum had his first losing season as a pro in 2011, but he still won 13 games, posted a 2.74 ERA and struck out a batter per inning. Even in his worst campaigns, Lincecum is still one of the best pitchers in the majors. It's good to see that he still has some areas to improve and remains motivated. Continue to view Lincecum as a top 10 Fantasy SP. (Updated 02/06/2012).

Roy Oswalt, S

2012-02-05

GM: Reds not courting Oswalt: It appears the sweepstakes for free-agent SP Roy Oswalt has decreased by one team -- the Cincinnati Reds. General manager Walt Jocketty said the team would need to move payroll in order to sign the veteran right-hander, a move that is unlikely at this point in the offseason. "We had discussions with them a while ago," Jocketty told the Cincinnati Enquirer. "The last we heard he was going to Texas. That was on Monday. I don't know if that deal is still in place." (Updated 02/05/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Oswalt has drawn the interest of several teams, including the Phillies, who he recorded 35 starts with in 2010-11. However, he was hampered by a back injury last season and finished with a lowly 3.69 ERA -- the second-highest mark of his career -- in only 23 starts. Health will be a large concern for the 34-year-old at this point in his career, but he still has enough to offer to be worth a middle- to late-round pick in Fantasy mixed leagues. (Updated 02/05/2012).

Rafael Perez, R

2012-02-02

Indians settle with Perez: The Indians signed RP Rafael Perez to a one-year deal worth $2,005,000 on Thursday, avoiding arbitration, according to MLB.com. The lefty made 71 appearances last season, posting a 3.00 ERA. (Updated 02/02/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Perez is an effective reliever, but he's a lefty specialist who pitches to contact. Neither of those qualities will endear him to Fantasy owners, and he can be ignored in nearly all formats. (Updated 02/02/2012).

Chase Utley, 2B

2012-01-31

Phillies have a plan for Utley: Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said at Monday's Philadelphia Sports Writers' Association banquet that the team will monitor Chase Utley's workload this spring. Utley has dealt with knee issues in the past. "He's doing good. He's feeling well," Amaro said. "We have to keep an eye on his health, and monitor him and make sure we're cautious with how we handle him in spring training. Charlie (Manuel) and I have talked about that a little bit to make sure he stays fresh for the season." (Updated 01/31/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Utley missed about six weeks to start the 2011 season dealing with patellar tendinitis in his right knee. While Utley had some hot streaks during the season, he definitely didn't hit like the All-Star second baseman we have come to know. He finished with a .259 average, 11 homers and 44 RBI in 103 games. Perhaps it will be a different story in 2012 if he can make it through spring training and stay off the DL this year. Utley might not be the must-have Fantasy option he once was, but he still passes as a Fantasy starter, worth an early-to-mid-round Fantasy pick. (Updated 01/31/2012).

Nick Castellanos, 3b

2012-01-30

Tigers keeping prospect Castellanos: The Detroit News reports the Tigers haven't changed their stance about 3B prospect Nick Castellanos now that Miguel Cabrera will be playing third base in the wake of the Prince Fielder signing. "We're not looking to trade him," Tigers president and general manager Dave Dombrowski said of Castellanos at Prince Fielder's unveiling at Comerica Park. "He'll fit in great, eventually, with this lineup." (Updated 01/30/2012)

Fantasy Analysis This isn't surprising seeing how Castellanos is just 19 years old and about to entire his second full season as a pro. A lot could change by the time he gets to the majors, so Detroit doesn't have to do any knee-jerk reactions to moving Cabrera to third base. Castellanos hit .312 in 135 games at Class A last year. He showed great contact abilities and gap power, but now he needs to work on his home run swing. Castellanos hit just seven homers last season, but the team is hoping the power will come with time. Castellanos remains a viable long-term Fantasy keeper. (Updated 01/30/2012).

Ryan Raburn, 2B

2012-01-29

Injury to blame for Raburn's struggles: The Sports Xchange reports Tigers 2B/LF Ryan Raburn might have had a poor first half to the 2011 season because he had a "V-shaped" break in his left index finger suffered when he slid into second base at Target Field on May 11 at Minnesota. Raburn was batting .253 with four home runs in April before a .113 May with no home runs. He went on his usual second-half tear about the time his finger healed, batting .275 in July, .323 in August, and .383 in September. "I don't know how to explain it," said Raburn, who probably will platoon at second with INF Ramon Santiago this year. The injury originally went undiagnosed, and by the time it was discovered the healing process was nearly complete. "It's just injuries," Raburn said. "Everyone plays with them." (Updated 01/29/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Raburn hit .285 with a .348 OBP and .846 OPS in 226 games from 2009-10. If he shows that kind of prowess for the entire season in 2012, then it might be tough for Detroit to sit him. But he has to prove he is a better everyday option than Santiago, who the Tigers like for his defense and veteran presence. Look to Raburn as more of an AL-only Fantasy option on Draft Day. (Updated 01/29/2012).

Hunter Pence, RF

2012-01-27

Pence avoids arbitration: The Phillies reached an agreement with OF Hunter Pence on a one-year deal worth $10.4 million, avoiding arbitration, according to CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman. Pence has one more year of arbitration left before becoming a free agent prior to the 2014 season. (Updated 01/27/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Though Pence had surgery on a sports hernia last October, he is expected to be ready for spring training. He may have a hard time following up last season's career-best performance, but owners should still look to Pence as a No. 2 Fantasy OF in mixed leagues. (Updated 01/27/2012).

Don Kelly, 3B

2012-01-24

Kelly to be utility man for Tigers: MLive.com reported that Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera confirmed that he will shift to third base in 2012. That means infielder Brandon Inge and Don Kelly will have an even more limited role this season. (Updated 01/24/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Kelly and Detroit agreed to a one-year deal earlier this month to keep him in the mix at third. Kelly has played at least 113 games the last two seasons for the Tigers, but won't be getting many starts at the hot corner with Miggy sliding across the diamond. He may get some starts in the outfield, but he won't have much of an impact in 2012. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end reserve option in AL-only formats this season. (Updated 01/24/2012).

Carlos Santana, C

2012-01-23

Santana can handle heavy workload: Coming off a major knee injury in 2010, Indians C Carlos Santana appeared in 155 games in 2011, but he appeared at catcher in only 95 games. "What he was able to demonstrate last year is he's capable of handling the volume," GM Chris Antonetti said. "He led our team in games played last year while producing at a high level, and also continuing to develop and emerge as a quality receiver behind the plate." Santana produced 27 homers, 35 doubles, 79 RBI and 97 walks. Although, he hit just .239. "We didn't make that much out of the batting average," Cleveland manager Manny Acta said during the Winter Meetings in December. "He walked 97 times. These people sometimes get caught up in the old batting average stat, but the old batting average is only relevant if you don't walk at all. And the fact that he kept his on-base percentage above .350, that was good enough for us. If you go and look into the statistics, this guy, he was in a very select group." (Updated 01/23/2012)

Fantasy Analysis We agree with Acta's assessment that Santana is in a select group and could only get better. "We know how scary things are going to be," Acta said of Santana's potential. Antonetti added that the Indians have talked about potentially moving Santana to first base on a more full-time basis if it benefits the team, but as of now Santana will see most of his starts behind the plate. "Right now, our plans are for Carlos to catch," Antonetti said. "There are a variety of different ways we can go at first base, depending upon how things go in spring training. I think we've considered all the way through Plan Q." Fantasy owners will want Santana to stay at catcher, so he keeps his catcher-eligibility beyond the 2012 season. He has much more Fantasy value as a catcher than a first baseman. Santana is easily a top 5 Fantasy catcher and early-round Fantasy selection. (Updated 01/23/2012).

Tyler Clippard, R

2012-01-17

Nats, Clippard come to terms: Nationals RP Tyler Clippard avoided arbitration Tuesday by agreeing to a one-year deal. Terms of the deal weren't immediately released. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Clippard has been one of the majors' best setup relievers since 2010. He is 14-8 with a 2.46 ERA and 1.03 WHIP in 179 1/3 innings the last two seasons. He also has 216 strikeouts in that span. Clippard is one of the most valuable non-closers in Fantasy and worth the flier in the late rounds of deep formats on Draft Day. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Mike Minor, S

2012-01-17

Minor controls own destiny?: Braves GM Frank Wren said on MLB Network Radio on Tuesday that if healthy Atlanta's rotation heading into the 2012 season should feature Tim Hudson, Tommy Hanson, Jair Jurrjens, Brandon Beachy and Mike Minor, with prospects Julio Teheran and Randall Delgado providing depth at Triple-A. As of mid-January, Hudson's the only question mark for the start of the season coming off back surgery. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Obviously a lot can happen between now and opening day, but it seems the Braves want Minor to open the year as the fifth starter. Minor kind of disappointed in 15 starts in 2011. In fact, he has just a 4.74 ERA in 24 outings (23 starts) as a major leaguer and hasn't shown the same type of dominance he did in the minors. Still, the Braves have high hopes for the lefty and aren't giving up on him just yet. If Minor does make the rotation this spring, then look to him as a late-round Fantasy option in deep formats. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Peter Moylan, R

2012-01-17

Moylan going back to ATL: The Braves signed RP Peter Moylan to a minor-league contract on Tuesday. The deal will pay the right-hander $1 million prorated for time in the majors, plus incentives. Moylan, who is coming off shoulder surgery, went 2-1 with a 3.24 ERA in 13 appearances for Atlanta last season. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Moylan missed most of last season recovering from surgery to repair a bulging disc in his back, and when he finally returned in September, he wound up with a torn rotator cuff that required season-ending surgery. He has been a solid setup man in the past, but with his status uncertain for the start of 2012, he should go undrafted in Fantasy. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Rick Porcello, S

2012-01-16

Porcello avoids arbitration: Detroit RP Rick Porcello agreed to a one-year, $3.1 million contract on Monday to avoid salary arbitration, according to MLB.com. Porcello posted a 14-9 record with a 4.75 ERA in 31 starts last season. He also fanned a career-high 104 batters in 182 innings for the Tigers. (Updated 01/16/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Porcello also appeared in four postseason games with two starts for Detroit, but was roughed up for a lackluster 4.80 ERA. The right-hander was hampered by consistency issues throughout the 2011 campaign, but turned just 23 years old during the offseason and is still developing into a major league pitcher. Fantasy owners should look to him as a late-round selection with upside in drafts for the upcoming season. (Updated 01/16/2012).

Everth Cabrera, SS

2012-01-15

Cabrera angling for utility infield job?: The Sports Xchange reports SS Everth Cabrera, who has struggled with injuries while in the minor leagues the last two seasons after a strong debut with the Padres as a Rule 5 draftee in 2009, could be moving to the head of the list of players seeking a utility infield role. With Jesus Guzman available to back both Chase Headley at third and Yonder Alonso at first, the Padres utility infielder needs to play only short and second, both being positions where Cabrera has started in the past. (Updated 01/15/2012)

Fantasy Analysis There was speculation earlier this offseason that the Padres were looking to clear a spot for Cabrera to play every day, but the team held onto shortstop Jason Bartlett and second baseman Orlando Hudson. Unless either of those players are traded before the season, then Cabrera might have to settle for a backup infield job. Cabrera was still limited by injury in the minors in 2011, but when he was active he was productive. Cabrera got on base at a .370 clip and stole 29 bases in 58 games. Fantasy owners would love that production at the major-league level, and so would the Padres. Track Cabrera's progress this spring. If he lands on the MLB roster, then he might be a sleeper in deeper Rotisserie formats. (Updated 01/15/2012).

David Wright, 3B

2012-01-13

Wright prepared for trade rumors: Though 3B David Wright appears to have avoided getting traded this offseason as the Mets enter rebuilding mode, he's preparing for the trade rumors to continue into the regular season as he enters the final guaranteed year of his contract. "It’s going to be a pain. I saw Jose Reyes everyday had to answer questions about trade rumors and what was going to happen to him. Frankly, it would be nice to not have to go through that, but I’m going to do my best to answer those questions hopefully in spring training and not everyday have to answer to this rumor or that rumor," Wright told Sirius XM radio on Friday. "It’s not something that I am looking forward to, going out there and have to deal with the rumors. Because that’s what they are, there’s a million rumors out there and that’s what they are -- rumors -- until something happens. But, again, I have no control over it. That’s out of my hands, so if it happens, it happens." (Updated 01/13/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Wright is coming off an injury-plagued year in which he missed two-plus months with a stress fracture in his lower back. Even when he was healthy, his numbers weren't up to their usual standards, and quite frankly, they haven't been since the Mets moved to Citi Field in 2009. We'll see how much his decline is related to the ballpark now that the Mets have moved in and lowered the fences. Regardless of whether or not he gets traded, Wright will be in a situation for more favorable numbers in 2012, making him a potential bounce-back candidate. His combination of power and speed at a relatively weak position makes him worth an early-round pick on Draft Day still. (Updated 01/13/2012).

Manny Parra, S

2012-01-12

Parra avoids arbitration: The Brewers signed RP Manny Parra to a one-year deal on Thursday, according to MLB.com, avoiding arbitration. Parra missed all of the 2011 season, and he had season-ending surgery on his left elbow in August. (Updated 01/12/2012)

Fantasy Analysis If Parra can return to form, he could have some appeal in deeper formats as a swingman, or at least as a reliever who can deliver strikeouts. However, until he can prove that he is fully recovered from his elbow surgery, he can go undrafted in the vast majority of Fantasy formats. (Updated 01/12/2012).

Yonder Alonso, LF

2012-01-06

Trade benefits Padres' Alonso: The Padres traded 1B Anthony Rizzo to the Cubs on Friday. Part of the reason for the trade was because GM Josh Byrnes said he wanted to avoid the "quarterback controversy" that the team was facing heading into spring training if Rizzo was still around to compete with Yonder Alonso, who was pretty much named the starting 1B after his December acquisition from Cincinnati. Byrnes said it's a "fair debate" whether Alonso or Rizzo is the better player, but Byrnes feels Alonso's hitting style is a better fit for PETCO Park. (Updated 01/06/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Alonso was one of the Reds' top prospects before being traded to San Diego. It's not like Cincinnati was down on him, but his path to the majors at first base was blocked by former MVP Joey Votto. After a failed attempt to make Alonso a left fielder, he then became expendable in a trade. Now, Alonso will get to play first base regularly. PETCO Park isn't a favorable hitter's park, but the Padres are confident in Alonso's skills as a hitter. Consider him more of a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day. (Updated 01/06/2012).

Shelby Miller, rhp

2012-01-05

Could Miller debut in 2012?: The Sports Xchange reports Shelby Miller, named the Cardinals' minor league pitcher of the year for the second consecutive season, figures to get a shot to start several Grapefruit League games with the major league club before likely going to Triple-A Memphis. (Updated 01/05/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Miller might have to open the year at Triple-A, but if he continues to progress at the rate he has, then he is likely to debut in 2012. Miller dominated in the Florida State League (Class A) to start last season before moving onto the hitter-friendly Texas League (Double-A). He was equally impressive, if not better, at Double-A. Overall, he finished 11-6 with a 2.77 ERA, 1.18 WHIP and 170 strikeouts in 25 starts (139 2/3 innings). Miller is striking out 11.4 batters per nine innings in his career and is one of the best pitching prospects in baseball. That probably will mean the Cardinals will continue to treat Miller with kid gloves for a bit longer, but he is still worth drafting in the late rounds in 2012 because he has the ability to be an impact player. (Updated 01/05/2012).

Aaron Rowand, CF

2011-12-12

Rowand gets minor league deal: The Marlins signed OF Aaron Rowand to a minor league contract on Monday. Rowand played 108 games with the Giants last season and batted .233 with four homers and 21 RBI. (Updated 12/12/2011)

Fantasy Analysis The 34-year-old Rowand will have to impress in spring training to make the Marlins club this season. Rowand had one of his worst years last year and that followed an even worse season in 2010. At this point, Rowand is not a player worth targeting on Draft Day. (Updated 12/12/2011).

Huston Street, C

2011-12-07

Street is San Diego-bound: The Rockies traded RP Huston Street to the Padres on Wednesday, with San Diego paying all but $1 million of Street's $7.5 million contract, according to CBSSports.com Senior Baseball Writer Scott Miller. In exchange, the Rockies will receive a player to named later. The Padres will use Street as their closer, replacing Heath Bell, who signed with Miami. (Updated 12/07/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Street was a more effective closer when he was with Oakland, at least in terms of ERA, and not coincidentally, he gave up far fewer home runs before coming to Colorado. A move to PETCO Park could work wonders for Street, so his stock in Fantasy will likely rise. With the Padres, Street would be a solid option as a No. 2 Fantasy RP. (Updated 12/07/2011).

Kyle Lohse, S

2011-12-06

Lohse on the trading block: The Chicago Tribune reports that the Cardinals are shopping SP Kyle Lohse on the trade market. They are interested in moving the 33-year-old righty in order to free up salary, possibly to attract free agent SP Mark Buehrle. Lohse went 14-8 with a 3.39 ERA in 2011. (Updated 12/06/2011)

Fantasy Analysis The Cardinals could be making a wise move to sell high on Lohse after a 14-win season, and Fantasy owners can learn from the Cards' example. With his high win total and low ERA from this past season, Lohse looks like a possible mid-to-late round option in standard mixed leagues, but apparent good luck on balls in play (.275 BABIP) likely played a role in his improved stats. Save Lohse for your deeper mixed league and league-specific format drafts. (Updated 12/06/2011).

Derrek Lee, 1B

2011-12-05

D. Lee considering retirement: According to the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, the Pirates are waiting to hear back from 1B Derrek Lee about whether or not he'll accept their arbitration offer this offseason. Lee could instead choose to test the free agent market or perhaps even retire, as he is reportedly contemplating. (Updated 12/05/2011)

Fantasy Analysis The injury-prone Lee had a resurgent season in 2009, hitting .306 with 35 homers, but he has been a below-average first baseman in the two years since. At age 36, his power is only a fraction of what it once was, and he's unlikely to play more than 120 games. Because he's no guarantee to be an everyday player even if he returns to the Pirates, you wouldn't want to draft him outside of NL-only leagues. (Updated 12/05/2011).

Joakim Soria, C

2011-11-29

Soria will remain the closer: Even though the Royals acquired Jonathan Broxton on Tuesday, GM Dayton Moore confirmed to MLB.com that Joakim Soria will remain the team's closer. The Royals currently have no plans to move him to the starting rotation. "Joakim Soria is our closer, and Jonathan Broxton knows what our situation is prior to signing here," Moore said. (Updated 11/29/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Of course, the Broxton signing could be a precursor to the Royals shopping Soria, but Moore hasn't indicated anything along those lines. With the team seemingly on the verge of contending, a move to strengthen the back end of the bullpen is logical, so Fantasy owners are better off taking Moore's comments at face value. The situation is worth monitoring, of course, but for now, Soria is still worth targeting as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy RP in the middle rounds of standard mixed-league drafts. (Updated 11/29/2011).

Jose Molina, C

2011-11-28

Molina officially joins Rays: The Rays completed their one-year, $1.8 million deal with C Jose Molina on Monday. Molina hit .281 with a .757 OPS in 171 at-bats for the Blue Jays last season. (Updated 11/28/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Molina will get his share of starts for the Rays, but the career backup is unlikely to become the team's No. 1 catcher at age 36. Assuming he remains in more of a backup role, he won't get enough at-bats to make a relevant Fantasy contribution. (Updated 11/28/2011).

Wade LeBlanc, S

2011-11-22

Marlins acquire LeBlanc: According to CBSSports.com senior writer Matt Snyder, Miami has agreed to trade C John Baker to San Diego for SP Wade LeBlanc, the Marlins announced Tuesday night. LeBlanc, a 27-year-old lefty, made only 14 starts during the 2011 season and finished 5-6 with a 4.63 ERA and 1.41 WHIP. During his four-year career, LeBlanc has made 52 starts and owns a 17-22 record with a 4.54 ERA. (Updated 11/22/2011)

Fantasy Analysis LeBlanc closed the season on a strong note, posting a 2.25 ERA with 17 strikeouts over 20 innings during his last three starts. Miami has been rumored to be looking to trade both SPs Ricky Nolasco and Chris Volstad, while also reportedly pursuing free agents C.J. Wilson and Mark Buehrle. It's unclear what LeBlanc's role will be with the Marlins as he could be moved to the bullpen. If he stays in the starting rotation, Fantasy owners should target him with a late-round selection in NL-only drafts for 2012. (Updated 11/22/2011).

Jon Jay, CF

2011-11-14

Jay an everyday player in 2012?: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak sees OF Jon Jay as the team's everyday center fielder in 2012 and doesn't think he needs to be part of a lefty-righty platoon. Jay started the majority of the team's games in center field after the Cardinals traded Colby Rasmus to the Blue Jays midway through 2011. (Updated 11/14/2011)

Fantasy Analysis In part-time at-bats, Jay has proven to be a solid offensive player, hitting for a high batting average with at least serviceable pop. His splits against lefties and righties last year weren't dramatically different, so he can probably handle a full-time role. Assuming the Cardinals stick with the plan heading into 2012, Jay will be an intriguing late-round sleeper in standard mixed leagues. (Updated 11/14/2011).

Nick Swisher, RF

2011-10-29

Swisher staying in New York: The Yankees picked up options on 2B Robinson Cano and OF Nick Swisher on Saturday. Cano is slated to earn $14 million next season and Swisher will make $10.25 million. Swisher hit .260 with 23 home runs and 85 RBI for the Yankees this season. “This is my favorite thing to do in the world and my favorite place to do it," Swisher told the New York Daily News. To have another yr in pinstripes, I couldn’t be happier.” (Updated 10/29/2011)

Fantasy Analysis There were rumors of the Yankees being interested in Carlos Beltran, which they could always add in free agency, but Swisher is looking the like starting right fielder for next year. Swisher should still be considered as a potential middle-round option on Draft Day in 2012. Keep tabs on the Yankees offseason moves as it could affect Swisher's value. (Updated 10/29/2011).

Omar Infante, 2B

2011-09-27

Infante officially signs extension : The Marlins officially reached an agreement with 2B Omar Infante on a two-year $8 million extension. Infante passed a physical on Tuesday to complete the deal. That's what I wanted," said Infante, who will earn $4 million each of the next two seasons. "We're going to have a new stadium, a new manager, and I think things are going to change next year. We're going to have high expectations." Infante left Wednesday's season finale in the sixth inning with a left calf contusion as his season came to an end with the injury. Infante hit .276 on the year for the Marlins. (Updated 09/27/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Infante was to be a free agent this offseason, but decided to avoid the process by re-signing with the Marlins. The 30-year-old has really helped sure up Florida's defense this season, compiling a .989 fielding percentage. However, his production at the plate remains minimal. While Infante did start to heat up in the second half of the season, he still isn't much of a run producer, which makes him more low-end option. Continue to view him as such heading into 2012. (Updated 09/27/2011).

Edgar Renteria, SS

2011-09-03

Renteria swinging hot bat: Cincinnati SS Edgar Renteria finished 3 for 4 with a double and an RBI during the Reds' 6-4 loss to St. Louis on Saturday. Renteria recorded a run-scoring double in the first inning to push his hitting streak to three games. It was the second straight game he has driven in a run. (Updated 09/03/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Renteria has improved his batting average 14 points since the beginning of September as he's collected a hit in each game this month. The veteran infielder has registered two doubles during his modest hitting streak to already match his output from August. Fantasy owners shouldn't rely on him for much power, but he could make for a decent option in deeper NL-only Fantasy formats if he stays hot at the plate. (Updated 09/03/2011).

Tony Sipp, R

2011-08-17

Sipp tossed for arguing : Cleveland RP Tony Sipp was ejected from Tuesday's game in Chicago in the 10th inning for arguing a safe call. With one out and one on, White Sox batter Alejandro De Aza singled on a bunt ground ball to first baseman Matt LaPorta. Replays indicate LaPorta's path was blocked by Sipp, but was still able to apply the tag to De Aza prior to De Aza reaching first base. When Sipp was tossed, the game was tied at seven. (Updated 08/17/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Sipp entered Tuesday's contest with 20 holds, six wins and a 2.68 ERA. Fantasy owners in deeper leagues that value true middle men should keep an eye on him to see if he gets a suspension. If he doesn't owners in those formats should continue to use the lefty. (Updated 08/17/2011).

Daniel Schlereth, R

2011-07-29

Schlereth back in Tigers bullpen: The Tigers recalled LHP Daniel Schlereth from Triple-A Toledo on Friday. To make room on the roster, RHP Chance Ruffin was sent to Toledo. (Updated 07/29/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Schlereth will provide a fresh arm to the team's bullpen, but will not be of much assistance to Fantasy owners as an expendable middle reliever. He went 0-1 with a 4.91 ERA in 29 appearances earlier this season at the major league level. (Updated 07/29/2011).

Chris Archer, rhp

2011-07-07

Archer still having command issues: Rays SP prospect Chris Archer opened July with a loss after coming off his best month of the season for Double-A Montgomery. Archer posted a season-best 3.60 ERA in June with a season-high two wins in five starts, but he took the loss on July 2 after allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits and five walks in five innings against Mobile. Archer is 3-4 with a 5.12 ERA and 1.69 WHIP in 16 starts. He has 77 strikeouts and 44 walks in 82 2/3 innings. (Updated 07/07/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Archer has run into a lot of trouble this season because of the walks. He is falling behind in counts and offering up plenty of good pitches to hit, which is why the opposition is batting .294 off of the right-hander. Archer came to Tampa Bay as the key piece in the Matt Garza trade, but he certainly is letting down the Rays and Fantasy owners. Luckily for Tampa Bay they have plenty of other pitching prospects ready for the majors, so Archer can continue to hone his craft in the minors. Archer remains just a long-term Fantasy keeper. (Updated 07/07/2011).