Coast-to-Coast

Aaron Cook, S

2012-02-03

Cook confident he can win job: SP Aaron Cook, who's coming off an injury-plagued year in which he went 3-10 with a 6.03 ERA for the Rockies, was willing to accept a minor-league deal with the Red Sox as opposed to a major-league deal with another club in part because he's confident in his ability to bounce back, according to WEEI.com. "I feel like, if I can go to spring training and be who I am, it’s not going to matter that I’m on a minor-league deal, that I can go out there, win a spot and help us win some baseball games,” said Cook. And what makes him so confident? “This is the first offseason that I’ve had in about two or three years where I was completely healthy and I was able to do all the work I needed to do,” said Cook. “I’ve put on another 10 pounds of muscle. I feel strong. I feel like my arm is in the best shape it’s been in in a long time." (Updated 02/03/2012)

Fantasy Analysis As we approach spring training and the regular season, Cook won't be the last player to say he's in the best shape of his career, but his willingness to accept a minor-league deal when he apparently had major-league offers on the table does given his claims some credibility. Unfortunately, even in his best years with the Rockies, he was still a hittable pitcher who might not have arsenal to survive in the AL East. With Daniel Bard, Alfredo Aceves, Vicente Padilla, Carlos Silva, Andrew Miller and Felix Doubront also in the running for the final two rotation spots, the job is hardly Cook's to lose. He's a low-end AL-only option at best. (Updated 02/03/2012).

Adam Dunn, 1B

2012-01-29

Dunn ready for new season: White Sox DH Adam Dunn said at the team's SoxFest on Saturday that he is ready to put behind him a dreadful 2011 campaign, which he batted a career-low .159. "Hopefully I’m going in this year feeling as good as I’ve felt in a long time and just ready to get started and quit talking about it," Dunn told reporters. “I thought it’d be a lot easier. I thought I’d be able to go through the offseason like ‘Whatever, it’s over,’ like I do everything else. I wasn’t quite able to do that because, for one, you couldn’t go anywhere without people like, ‘What happened? What’s wrong?’ Basically looking for me to make an excuse or something. That ain't happening. It doesn’t matter where you go, everyone is talking about [last year]. I realize that comes with that, but I really can’t wait for opening day.” (Updated 01/29/2012)

Fantasy Analysis CSN Chicago reports Dunn didn't divulge his weight, but it appeared he lost a lot, especially in his mid-section. He also has a goal of winning comeback player of the year honors in 2012. We sure hope that happens since Dunn was a 40-homer, 100-RBI threat in his prime. We all know the type of potential Dunn brings to the table, but he is coming off a very poor season, so you can't invest in him the same way you did before the 2011 season. Consider Dunn more of a late-round Fantasy option and hope you grab a Draft Day steal if Dunn returns to his previous form. (Updated 01/29/2012).

Chone Figgins, 3B

2012-01-29

Figgins to play INF and OF: The Sports Xchange reports Mariners 3B Chone Figgins could be moved around the infield and outfield, much in the manner the Angels used him when he first came up. "I've talked to him; he's going to play all over," manager Eric Wedge said. "Maybe he's going to wind up establishing himself in one spot, and that's fine, but we're going to play him all over defensively initially." (Updated 01/29/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The Mariners are trying to find ways to get back on their investment from Figgins, who has been a bust in his time with the Mariners. Perhaps moving him around will help revive his career, but it's no guarantee it will work and there is no guarantee Figgins is going to play every day. Figgins should go undrafted in most Fantasy formats and only be added off waivers if he gets his career back on track. (Updated 01/29/2012).

Josh Reddick, RF

2012-01-29

Reddick starts swinging a bat: MLB.com reports A's OF Josh Reddick said he is slightly ahead of the rehab scheduled with his surgically-repaired wrist and started swinging a bat last week. He said he should be good when spring training opens in February. (Updated 01/29/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Reddick was part of the offseason trade that sent Andrew Bailey to Boston. Reddick could definitely be the A's opening day right fielder as long as his recovery has no setbacks. Still, he is more of a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day. (Updated 01/29/2012).

Scott Baker, S

2012-01-28

Baker feeling good entering spring: FOXSportsNorth.com reported Saturday that Twins SP Scott Baker said Friday that his elbow is feeling excellent and that he plans to throw off a mound around 6-8 times prior to spring training. Baker only pitched 24 innings after the All-Star break last year due to a flexor muscle strain. (Updated 01/28/2012)

Fantasy Analysis The 30-year-old Baker had a solid ERA last year at 3.01, but needs to prove healthy entering the spring. Baker could have solid mixed-league Fantasy value, but he still has much to show owners before that time. (Updated 01/28/2012).

Jeff Francis, S

2012-01-26

Francis inks minors deal with Reds: CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman reports that the Red signed SP Jeff Francis to a minor-league deal on Wednesday. The deal also includes an invitation to spring training. The left-hander went 6-16 with a 4.82 ERA in 31 starts for the Royals last season. (Updated 01/26/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Francis proved his health last season and while his numbers weren't that stellar with the Royals, he could become a viable starter again with a potent offense backing him up. The Reds already have enough starters to fill out their rotation but it looks as though they would like to add a lefty to the equation. Keep an eye on how he does during the spring as it will go a long way for Francis' Fantasy value. But given his recent production, leave the 31-year-old for NL-only formats on Draft Day. (Updated 01/26/2012).

Dan Wheeler, R

2012-01-26

Wheeler signs with Indians: The Indians signed RP Dan Wheeler to a minor league deal with a spring training invite on Thursday, according to CBSSports.com Senior Baseball Writer Danny Knobler. Wheeler compiled a 4.38 ERA in 47 games with the Red Sox last season, though his season ended early due to forearm issues. (Updated 01/26/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Wheeler showed his usual sharp command last season, but he did a poor job of stranding the baserunners he put on. He is a strong candidate to win a spot in the Indians' bullpen and to have a comeback year. Wheeler is worth rostering in leagues that use middle men. (Updated 01/26/2012).

Jurickson Profar, ss

2012-01-24

Rangers bringing Profar along slowly: Baseball America reports Rangers SS prospect Jurickson Profar is at least a year away from receiving an invitation to major-league spring training. He will get to play in some Cactus League games as a reserve this year and be part of an early camp for minor leaguers. (Updated 01/24/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Profar is one of the Rangers' top prospects. However, he is only 18 years old and the Rangers are in no hurry to rush the shortstop prospect to the majors. Profar continues to develop his offensive skills. He hit .286 with 12 homers, eight triples, 37 doubles and 65 RBI in 115 games at Class A last season. He also had 23 stolen bases. Profar is a solid long-term Fantasy keeper, but it might be a few more years until we see him in the majors. (Updated 01/24/2012).

Willie Harris, LF

2012-01-23

Harris signs with Reds: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Reds manager Dusty Baker said the team signed utility player Willie Harris, who spent the 2011 season with the Mets. MLB.com reports it's a minor-league deal with an invite to spring training. (Updated 01/23/2012)

Fantasy Analysis While Harris isn't a full-time player, he has appeared in 126 or more games in four straight seasons. His veteran presence and his ability to play all three outfield positions and some infield positions make him a valuable bench player. It's just that Fantasy owners don't have to worry about Harris because he is more important to his real team. (Updated 01/23/2012).

Marco Scutaro, SS

2012-01-21

Scutaro sent to Colorado: After a previous deal reportedly crumbled, Boston agreed Saturday to trade SS Marco Scutaro to Colorado in exchange for SP Clayton Mortensen, according to the Denver Post. The two teams initially discussed a deal for Scutaro earlier this week before the trade fell through. Scutaro, who turned 36 years old in October, finished with seven homers and 64 RBI last season while boasting a .299 batting average. (Updated 01/21/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Scutaro is slated to take over second base for the Rockies, who received marginal production at the position last season. Colorado has shown an interest in Scutaro for several months and pictures him as a solid No. 2 hitter in the batting order. Scutaro was limited to just 113 games last season because of a wrist injury, but should be ready for opening day. Consider him a low-end option in NL-only Fantasy formats for 2012. (Updated 01/21/2012).

Jonathan Sanchez, S

2012-01-17

Sanchez, Royals come to terms: CBSSports.com reports Royals SP Jonathan Sanchez avoided arbitration Tuesday by signing a one-year, $5.6 million contract. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Sanchez is in his first year with the Royals. He was probably in a little better situation with the Giants, but Sanchez is still a starter and has potential. He definitely has control problems, but Sanchez has solid strikeout potential, which is why he can be considered a value pick in the late rounds on Draft Day. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Tanner Scheppers, rhp

2012-01-17

Scheppers says he is 100 percent: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports Rangers pitcher Tanner Scheppers said he is 100 percent healthy after battling back problems in 2011. Scheppers spent two months pitching in Venezuela, totaling a 0.60 ERA in 14 outings (13 innings). He struck out 16 and held opponents to a .122 average, but he also walked 13. (Updated 01/17/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Control problems are nothing new for Scheppers. He has a very live arm, which is why he has so much upside. But he still needs to work on developing as a pitcher. Scheppers is going to spring training as a reliever, but he still hopes to be stretched out as a starter. Scheppers remains more of a long-term Fantasy keeper. (Updated 01/17/2012).

Josh Outman, S

2012-01-16

Outman sent to Colorado: The Oakland Athletics continued revamping their roster Monday, acquiring OF Seth Smith from the Colorado Rockies in exchange for SPs Josh Outman and Guillermo Moscoso, according to CBSSports.com. Outman was 3-5 with a 3.70 ERA in 13 games (nine starts) for Oakland last year. (Updated 01/16/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Colorado continues to stockpile arms and now has several pitchers competing for the fifth spot in the team's rotation, including Outman and Moscoso. The 27-year-old Outman returned from Tommy John surgery last season and notched 35 strikeouts in 58 1/3 innings of work. If he doesn't land a starting role, he could be utilized out of the bullpen for the Rockies. Fantasy owners should not consider him a worthwhile option in 2012 drafts. (Updated 01/16/2012).

Joe Blanton, S

2012-01-15

Blanton convinced he is 100 percent: The Wilmington News Journal reports Phillies SP Joe Blanton, who battled an elbow injury for most of the 2011 season, has been throwing a baseball nearly every day for the past month and feels strong with spring training right around the corner. “Hopefully, I’m a step ahead this year,” Blanton said. “I just want to make sure everything’s going to be fine mechanically.” Blanton pitched out of the bullpen late last season following months on the DL, but he finished his tumultuous 2011 making two starts in the instructional league in Florida, where he get his pitch count up to 70. “That was a good indicator that I’d bounced back, to be able to throw that many pitches and still feel fine after both games,” Blanton said. “Before I went on the DL, the last outings, I couldn’t have done that.” (Updated 01/15/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Blanton threw just 41 1/3 innings last season and the Phillies aren't sure what to expect from him this spring. But Blanton is convinced he is 100 percent and ready to roll. “I’ve been a guy that’s never had a single arm problem before,” Blanton said. “So coming out and proving I’m healthy and having good stuff and making all my starts, I feel like that’s the key for me this year.” Blanton should land a rotation spot this spring as long as he doesn't struggle and get outperformed by another starter. Blanton has chewed up innings in the past and has won 10-plus games four times in his career. But he is shaping up to be nothing more than a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day. (Updated 01/15/2012).

Scott Hairston, RF

2012-01-05

Hairston staying with the Mets: The Mets re-signed OF Scott Hairston to a one-year deal on Thursday. Hairston hit .235 with seven homers in 132 at-bats last season. He strained his left oblique on Aug. 23 and missed the rest of the season. (Updated 01/05/2012)

Fantasy Analysis Hairston was just a part-timer last year, getting most of his at-bats against left-handed pitchers. He could spell Andres Torres or Lucas Duda at times in 2012, but he likely won't get enough at-bats to make a relevant Fantasy contribution. You can ignore Hairston outside of the deepest NL-only leagues. (Updated 01/05/2012).

John Danks, S

2011-12-29

Danks' extension official: The White Sox and SP John Danks announced Thursday they have finalized a five-year, $65 million contract through 2016. The deal was reported last week by CBSSports.com MLB Insider Jon Heyman. Danks will earn $8 million next season, and $14.25 million in each of the final four years of the contract. A 15-game winner in 2010, Danks slumped last season and was 8-12 with a 4.33 ERA. (Updated 12/29/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Danks reportedly was on the trade market, but now, it appears the White Sox might try to rebuild with him after ace Mark Buehrle signed with Miami. The 26-year-old left-hander would have been eligible for free agency after next season. He has shown he can produce and racked up 45 total wins from 2008-10. Fantasy owners should consider him a quality selection in the middle rounds of 2012 drafts. (Updated 12/29/2011).

Ryan Kalish, LF

2011-12-29

Kalish won't be ready for Sox: Red Sox OF Ryan Kalish, who underwent surgery to repair a partial tear of the labrum in his left shoulder in November and had surgery to repair a bulging disc in his neck in September, likely won't be ready to take the field until May or June, according to the Boston Globe. “As far as starting the season on time, I don’t see it happening,” Kalish told the Boston Herald on Thursday. “I hope it would. That would be great. But with everything that’s happened, I just don’t know where I’ll be at come spring training. From what I’ve heard, the timetable on this type of a surgery is longer than when the season will start. Whatever happens, I’m going to be working really hard. As soon as I can get back out there, I’m going to be.” Kalish said the surgery went smooth, but after he started rehab his shoulder didn't respond as well as he had hoped. (Updated 12/29/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Between the two injuries he was limited to just 24 games for Triple-A Pawtucket. He spent the final two months of the 2010 season with Boston in the majors. With Josh Reddick in Oakland now, Kalish has an even better spot at sliding into a starting role. Now it is only a matter of him being healthy enough to compete for a spot in spring training. "I'm anxious to do my part and get back on the field," Kalish said. "I'll be ready as soon as I can be. I'm working hard to get there." Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his progress as he could be an everyday player in 2012. (Updated 12/29/2011).

Mike Cameron, CF

2011-12-19

Cameron's next stop is D.C.: Free agent OF Mike Cameron reached an agreement to sign a minor league deal with the Nationals on Monday. Cameron split the 2011 season with Boston and Florida, hitting .203 with nine home runs in 237 at-bats. According to MLB.com, Cameron will either be a reserve outfielder or platoon with Roger Bernadina in center field. (Updated 12/19/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Cameron endured a miserable 33-game stint with the Red Sox last season before moving on to the Marlins and enjoying a little more success. Because he still has some power, even in part-time play, Cameron could have some value in deeper NL-only leagues. (Updated 12/19/2011).

J.R. Towles, C

2011-12-15

Towles heads to Twin Cities: The Twins signed C J.R. Towles to a minor league deal on Thursday, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. Towles hit .184 with three home runs in 147 at-bats with the Astros in 2011. (Updated 12/15/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Towles will provide insurance in case Joe Mauer goes down with an injury, though the Twins have already signed Ryan Doumit to be the second-string catcher. Towles does have a little bit of power, but he doesn't hit for average, and he is unlikely to see much, if any, playing time. He can be ignored in all formats. (Updated 12/15/2011).

Juan Miranda, 1B

2011-12-06

Miranda signs with Rays: The Rays signed 1B Juan Miranda to a minor league deal on Tuesday, according to the Tampa Bay Times. Miranda began the 2011 season getting a share of the starts as the Diamondbacks' first baseman, but he batted just .213 in 65 games, earning a demotion to Triple-A Reno. (Updated 12/06/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Miranda could be in the mix to be the Rays' starting first baseman, but more likely he will be on the bench or in the minors. He can be ignored in all but the deepest of AL-only leagues. (Updated 12/06/2011).

Aaron Harang, S

2011-12-06

Harang agrees to sign with Dodgers: SI.com reports that the Dodgers have an agreement to sign SP Aaron Harang. The parties agreed on a two-year deal worth $12 million on Tuesday morning. Harang will join the Dodgers' rotation after enjoying a comeback year with the Padres in 2011, going 14-7 with a 3.64 ERA. (Updated 12/06/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Harang benefited from moving from Cincinnati's hitter's park to San Diego's pitcher-friendly stadium this past season, but Dodger Stadium does not represent a big downgrade for a flyball pitcher. Still, Harang isn't the strikeout pitcher that he once was, so he is still just an option for owners in deeper mixed leagues and NL-only formats. (Updated 12/06/2011).

Kurt Suzuki, C

2011-12-01

Suzuki bulking up this offseason: Athletics C Kurt Suzuki hit a career-low .237 last season, including .197 during June and July as his playing weight dropped to 185 in the summer heat. To combat the effect, he's attempting to add 15 pounds this offseason through extensive weight training, according to MLB.com. "You're training to play not just once a week, but every day," he said. "That takes a toll on your body, especially being a catcher in the middle of the summer, when you're out there in 90- and 100-degree heat. It takes a lot of energy, and you do tend to shed weight." As part of his training, he's on a 4,000-calorie diet. "It's crazy," Suzuki said. "I'm constantly feeding my face. It's not easy, that's for sure. And there's also a fine line between putting on 15 good pounds and putting on 15 pounds of pointless weight." (Updated 12/01/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Suzuki's 14 homers last year were near his career norms, but his other numbers were severely lacking. He says his mentality was the main reason for his struggles. "I think I became too result-oriented. If I go up there and just think about hitting the ball hard instead of thinking I need to get a hit, it will probably be a lot easier on the mind and on the body to react," he said. "It's obviously easier said than done, but I really believe a lot of my struggles were mental, not mechanical." Suzuki studied video just to make sure the theory was accurate. "We looked at swings and compared them all," he said. "They didn't look different; they were the same. It was pretty incredible." If Suzuki can get back to performing like he did in 2009, when he hit .274 with 15 homers and 88 RBI, he'll be a No. 1 Fantasy catcher, but you should target him as more of a No. 2 option since his ceiling only goes so high. (Updated 12/01/2011).

Taylor Teagarden, C

2011-12-01

Teagarden to back up Wieters: The Orioles acquired C Taylor Teagarden from the Rangers on Thursday, according to the Baltimore Sun. The Rangers will receive minor league RP Randy Henry and a player to be named later in return. Teagarden appeared in 14 games with Texas this season, hitting .235. He will now be the Orioles' backup to starting catcher Matt Wieters. (Updated 12/01/2011)

Fantasy Analysis The Orioles brought Teagarden on board mostly for his defense, but he has some power, too, and that will play well at Camden Yards. He is not likely to see much playing time, however, as Wieters will catch close to every day. That will make Teagarden a low-end option for AL-only leagues. (Updated 12/01/2011).

Alfredo Simon, S

2011-11-08

Simon acquitted in manslaughter case: Defense attorney Dinora Dilone said Tuesday that Orioles RHP Alfredo Simon was acquitted in the New Year's Eve shooting death of 25-year-old Michel Castillo Almonte. Experts testified that the fatal bullet did not come from Simon's gun and that no witnesses saw the pitcher fire his weapon. Simon was able to pitch for the Orioles in 2011 despite the ongoing legal battle in the Dominican Republic. He posted a 4.90 ERA in 23 appearances, including 16 starts. (Updated 11/08/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Looks like Simon can finally put this situation behind him. The right-hander has served as a closer and a starter for the Orioles in the past, but his marginal talent makes him no guarantee to make the major-league roster. He'll only have value in AL-only leagues if he wins an important role out of spring training. (Updated 11/08/2011).

Rajai Davis, CF

2011-10-24

Davis likely to begin year on bench: According to MLB.com, OF Rajai Davis is probably the odd man out of the Blue Jays starting lineup in 2012 after missing the final six weeks of 2011 with a hamstring injury. Eric Thames and Travis Snider are the front-runners to start in left field. Jose Bautista and Colby Rasmus already have right and center field secured. (Updated 10/24/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Davis was expected to be the Blue Jays' leadoff hitter in 2011, but he dealt with injuries for much of the season, getting only 320 at-bats. The good news is he stole 34 bases in those 320 at-bats, but he also hit only .238. Clearly, he can be a factor in Rotisserie leagues even in a part-time role, so you shouldn't completely dismiss him in Fantasy. But if he's not expected to win a starting job, you wouldn't want to target him with more than a late-round pick. (Updated 10/24/2011).

Zack Greinke, S

2011-10-14

Greinke struggles in Game 5: Brewers SP Zack Greinke gave up five runs -- two earned -- over 5 2/3 innings of work in Friday's Game 5 of the NLCS. He issued two walks and did not strikeout a batter during his time on the mound. Greinke threw 89 pitches in the contest and allowed seven hits. Milwaukee didn't give him much run support as they would lose to St. Louis, 7-1. (Updated 10/14/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Greinke posted a 3.00 ERA over the final month of the regular season, but he hasn't fared too well in the playoffs. He's posted a 6.17 ERA in the postseason, but despite his struggles Greinke still has plenty of Fantasy value. Greinke finished sixth in the National League with 16 wins during his first season with Milwaukee and will remain a top SP option heading into 2012 Fantasy drafts. (Updated 10/14/2011).

Ruben Tejada, 2B

2011-09-20

Streaking Tejada shows improvement: Mets rookie infielder Ruben Tejada, who has been getting regular playing time at second base with Daniel Murphy out for the season, is batting .361 (13 for 36) during an eight-game hitting streak. According to the Newark Star-Ledger, that's just a small example of the strides he has made over the last year. “A lot,” manager Terry Collins said when asked how much Tejada has improved from his rookie 2010 season. “It all goes hand-in-hand. Experience? There’s no substitution for it. The more experience you get, the more confidence you get and the more confidence you get, the better player you become. That’s what’s happened with him.” (Updated 09/20/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Tejada stands to take over as the Mets' starting shortstop next season if Jose Reyes departs via free agency. He's still a bit of a project at age 21, but he's already a good defender and could develop into a serviceable offensive shortstop if he fills out as expected. Even with regular at-bats, though, he would be no more than an NL-only option entering 2012. (Updated 09/20/2011).

David Bush, S

2011-08-15

Bush officially signs with Phillies: The Phillies announced the signing of Dave Bush on Monday. MLB.com reported the deal on Sunday, pending the results of a physical. (Updated 08/15/2011)

Fantasy Analysis The Rangers and Cubs have already rejected Bush in 2011, but it seems the Phillies are going to see if he might help them down the stretch. There is no need to add Bush in any Fantasy format at this time as he is not expected to play a significant role. (Updated 08/15/2011).

David Herndon, R

2011-07-30

Herndon shaving ERA: Philadelphia RP David Herndon (0-2) worked a scoreless inning of relief during the Phillies' 10-3 victory over Pittsburgh on Friday night. Herndon fanned two batters -- his third mutli-strikeout performance over his last five outings -- and no walks. He now has a 4.50 ERA this season. (Updated 07/30/2011)

Fantasy Analysis After allowing three runs in his first three appearances during July, the right-hander has now pitched 2 1/3 scoreless innings in his last three games. Herndon, who has three holds this year, is still utilized in the middle innings. Leave him on waivers in all Fantasy formats. (Updated 07/30/2011).

Nick Johnson , 1B

2011-07-25

Johnson not on verge of promotion: Indians manager Manny Acta told MLB.com on Monday that Nick Johnson, who is currently at Triple-A Columbus, is not close to being promoted to the majors. Johnson is batting .208 with three homers and four RBI in 23 games with the Clippers. "He still needs to continue to work," Acta said. "Our people down there feel that he's swinging the bat better, but he's still not there." (Updated 07/25/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Johnson has had problems with his wrist again this season and has not been hitting all that well in the minors. His veteran bat could be useful in September, but the 32-year-old is not about to take at-bats away from young up-and-coming hitters in the majors. Keep an eye on his progress down on the farm but Johnson should remain ignored in the majority of Fantasy formats at this point. (Updated 07/25/2011).

Kevin Frandsen, 3B

2011-05-11

Frandsen gets a 50-game ban: Kevin Frandsen has been suspended for 50 games for violating the league's drug policy. He reportedly tested positive for an unprescribed form of ritalin. Frandsen was playing for Triple-A Lehigh Valley in the Phillies organization. (Updated 05/11/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Frandsen was 35 for 109 (.321) at the plate with three homers and 18 RBI. This news sets his probability of a return to the majors back significantly, however, and Fantasy owners should monitor his progress when he does return to action. (Updated 05/11/2011).

Ryan Rowland-Smith, S

2011-04-04

Rowland-Smith gets minor-league deal: The Astros announced Monday that they re-signed LHP Ryan Rowland-Smith to a minor-league contract on Monday after he cleared waivers. The team had waived him last Wednesday. He's likely headed for Triple-A. (Updated 04/04/2011)

Fantasy Analysis Rowland-Smith failed to make the club out of spring training and the team decided to waive him. He is not currently on the team's 40-man roster and is still a ways away from having even remote Fantasy appeal. (Updated 04/04/2011).