Fantasy Baseball: Between the White Lines

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Welcome once again to this weeks' edition of BTWL. There are a lot of changes looking at the top 5 added players in fantasy baseball.  As always, let's get down to brass tax.

Top 5 Added:

1. Todd Helton (1B) Colorado Rockies - .343, 3 HR, 18 RBI, 14 R

Just when you think Todd Helton is done, he comes out and starts hitting again.  He'll never hit you 30 homers again, but he'll hit for average and drive in runs. As long as he can stay healthy, he's a good guy to have on your team. He's the number 1 added player this week, but is still out there in nearly 60% of leagues. 

2. Juan Pierre (OF) Los Angeles Dodgers - .426, 0 HR, 7 RBI, 9 R, 3 SB

Juan Pierre will be the starting left fielder for the next 50 games.  He's not a stranger to playing every day so he can surely be a help to your team. He'll hit .300, score runs and steal bases. He's hit an even .500 since taking over for the suspended Ramirez. If you need to move up a few slots in steals, I say get him. He will not hurt you at all.

3. Scott Richmond (SP) Toronto Blue Jays - 4-1, 3.29 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 28 K

I mentioned Scott Richmond in an article this week and I'll tell you right now to go and pick him up. He's looked impressive so far this season. He's a rookie, so he may hit a rough patch, but I needed starting pitching, so I grabbed him last week. He's owned in only 36.8% of leagues, so he's most likely out there unless in an AL only or very deep MLB league. Everyone needs pitching, so take a chance on him. His next start is against the Yankees, so you might want to hold on until after that start.

4. Michael Bourne(OF) Houston Astros - .287, 1 HR, 9 RBI, 20 R, 10 SB

Just like Pierre, Bourne will help you out with stolen bases and runs scored. I am a bit surprised of his .286 average so far, but he's a big boost in the steals category if he can continue to get on base. Of course, if you've already punted the category, than who cares. I don't think he's a long term solution as his average is sure to drop. 

5. Russell Branyan (1B, 3B) Seattle Mariners - .289, 7 HR, 15 RBI, 19 R, 1 SB

Branyan has slowed down a bit this past week, but does already have 7 homers. I've written about him each of the past three weeks, so he should be no surprise to you now. It's funny how people are staying away from him. His .289 average will drop as he's hit on .182 over the past week. You can still pick him up in 50% of leagues. He may not help in average, but neither does Adam Dunn. If his playing time continues, he's bound for 30 home runs.  I'll take that any day.

Top 5 Dropped:

1. Dexter Fowler (OF) Colorado Rockies - .258, 2 HR, 9 RBI, 14 R, 9 SB

Fowler has been ice cold this past week as he's been dropped in 15% of leagues and is now owned in only 30%. He's only 2 for his last 14 and is starting to lose playing time. I will be honest and say that I kind of fell for him. I thought he may be a Willy Tavares with a better bat, but I am wrong. Stay away from him unless you're desperate.  

2. Kyle Lohse (SP)  St. Louis Cardinals - 3-2, 4.25 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 27 K

Lohse has been hampered by a sore back which may have contributed to his poor performance last time out. He allowed 7 earned runs in 6 innings and is going to be skipped the next time around. He has a history of being inconsistent, but keep an eye on him. He's pitched well in St. Louis and could be right back on track with a little rest. Despite being dropped in 14.2% of leagues, he's still owned in nearly 70%. 

3. Phil Hughes (SP) New York Yankees - 1-2, 8.49 ERA, 2.14 WHIP, 8 K

After an impressive first start, he's been god awful his last two times out. He's allowed 11 earned runs in his last 5.2 innings. His last start he lasted just 1.2 innings. Ouch. Yankees fans around the country were talking about moving Joba back to the bullpen after Hughes' first start. I guess they can put that on the back burner now. He has good potential, but that does nothing in fantasy baseball. Stay away, far away for now.

4. Emilio Bonifacio (2B, 3B) Florida Marlins - .250, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 20 R, 6 SB

We get so many things wrong in fantasy sports, so it's OK if I gloat for second. I've been warning you to trade Bonifacio for weeks now, so hopefully you have. Can you say Tuffy Rhodes? Well, he may not be that bad, but he doesn't have a place on any fantasy baseball team right now. In the last month, he's 19 for his last 108. Ouch, that's a .176 average with a disgusting .194 slugging percentage. Need I say more.

5. Andy Pettitte (SP) New York Yankees - 2-1, 4.38 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, 23 K

Andy Pettite is still a very serviceable major league and fantasy pitcher. He will get you wins, but his ERA will hover around 4.00.  He has given up 5 earned runs in each of his last two outings, so that doesn't bode well. If you absolutely need pitching, it might be a better idea to pick up a Scott Richmond instead of Andy. He does misremember a lot of things as the years go by.

Players who should be on your radar:

Alberto Callaspo has played his way into more playing time in Kansas City. He has struggled this past week, but is still hitting .340 overall. He may be a play for very deep leagues or AL only leagues, but he is eligible at both 2B & SS. I can't imagine that people don't know about Denard Span, but he's only owned in 44.2% of leagues. Now that home runs are down around the league, there is more room for players with more speed. I usually punt on stolen bases, but if it's one of your key categories go right after him. Mark Teahen can't hit for power, but is having a nice start to the 09' season. He's hitting .302, 4 HR, 13 RBI & 18 R. He's also eligible at 1B, 3B and OF. For someone who likes multi-positional eligibility, like me, than he's not a bad bench guy to have. He's also only owned in 22% of leagues. If you'd like to vulture a few saves from owners with Brad Zielger, you might want to pick up Andy Bailey. It doesn't look like Ziegler is healthy yet, so the A's have handed the 9th to Bailey. He has picked up 2 saves this past week. I still can't believe Christian Guzman is only owned in 35% of leagues. He's a light hitting shortstop, but he's still a good hitter at a position that isn't the deepest. He's been on fire since returning from the DL, and is hitting. 378 on the season. If you need someone at the position, I would easily suggest grabbing him. 

(Coming Friday: Frozen Ropes by Jim Ingram and Chin Music by Chad Garner)

 

Fantasy Baseball: Between The White Lines

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Top 5 Added:

1. Dexter Fowler (OF, Rockies) .216, 2 HR, 12R, 7 RBI, 9 SB

Fowler has entered a bit of a slump this week, but still offers good value in deep leagues. He's going to get on base in Coors Field and will certainly steal bases as he already has 9 this season. Right now he's more of a 4th outfielder/utility guy in fantasy unless you're in a deep, deep league. I think he'll put up 30+ stolen bases this year and add 10 or more home runs. He's only owned in 45% of leagues so pick him up if you need cheap steals.

2. Russell Branyon (1B, 3B, Mariners) .320, 7 HR, 15 RBI, 17 R, 1 SB 

Russell Branyon has always been a hit or miss type of hitter. So far this season, he's been an all around beast. His average is sure to drop a good 40 points, but it looks like he's going to get enough playing time to hit 30 homers and drive in 85+ runs. That is extremely good value for someone who wasn't even drafted in most leagues.  He's still out there in almost 65% of leagues. I say go get him. If worst comes to worst, you can ride out the hot streak and drop him later. He does offer good versatility as he's eligible for both first and third base.

3. Phil Hughes (SP, Yankees) 1-1, 2.70 ERA, 8 K, 1.50 WHIP

Is it time for Phil Hughes to stake his claim in the Yankees rotation? Yes, at least until Wang returns. He's looked pretty decent in two starts so far this season, but a 1.50 WHIP is too high for a fantasy starter. That should go down as he gets more starts.  Personally, I think they Yanks should stick with Hughes when Wang returns and put Chamberlain back as the 8th inning man. It just makes the team better in my opinion. Phil Hughes has all the tools to be a solid fantasy starter.

4. Hank Blalock (3B, 1B, Rangers) .258, 7 HR, 19 RBI, 15 R

This is a contract year, so the most important this is his health. He's always shown he's a good hitter when healthy, and this season is no different. His average will increase over time, but he's put up very good production so far. He's still available in about 50% of leagues, and offers multi-position eligibility. If healthy, he should hit 25 homers and drive in 90 runs in a very deep lineup. 

5. Asdrubal Cabrera (2B, SS, Indians) .315, 1 HR, 13 RBI, 18 R, 4 SB

It looks like Cabrera has established himself again after a sophomore slump last season. Somehow he's still out there in 40% of leagues, and if he is in yours, go get him. He's eligible at both second base and shortstop. His 4 stolen bases add even more value. His power should increase as the year goes on, but don't expect much more than 10 on the season.

Top 5 Dropped:

1. Travis Hafner (Util, Indians) .270, 4 HR, 8 RBI, 10 R

Just when you think Pronk has returned to his former self, he goes and gets injured again. It looked like his power had returned and then his shoulder started bothering him again. If you have a DL spot, keep him, but if not let him loose.  You never know if he'll fully return to form, so don't lose too much sleep over him. 

2. Joel Hanrahan (RP, Nationals) 0-1, 2 S, 14 K, 6.55 ERA, 1.36 WHIP

Hanrahan has lost the National closer role for now thanks to his awful start.  He looked better on Friday night, but it may be a little while before he gets the role back. Mark my words, he will get the role back so if you can pick him up, do it now. He's out there in 34% of leagues so you may be able to pick him.  

3. Carlos Marmol (RP, Cubs) 0-1, 2 S, 14 K, 5.25 ERA, 1.67 WHIP

I love the heat that Marmol can bring to the table, but when he can't find the strike zone, it's hard to put him in your fantasy lineup. He' also been bothered by a sore knee, but it's not deemed serious. Like Hanrahan, he will get save chances, so don't drop him or pick him up if you can. He's only out there in 29% of leagues, so it's unlikely you can even get him in deep leagues. You might as well check just in case. He will right the ship and you want to be on board when he does.

4. Kelly Johnson (2B, Braves) .208, 3 HR, 9 RBI, 9R

Johnson has been riding the pine for the better part of the past week due to a prolonged slump. He was back in the lineup on Monday, but went 0 for 4 dropping his average to .208. He's not a good play right now, but should eventually come out of it. There are better options at 2B right now so you might want to pass on him. He's not the most valuable 2 bagger anyway, so don't fret if you have to unload him. 

5. Manny Corpas (RP, Rockies) 0-3, 1 S, 5 K, 6.75 ERA, 1.88 WHIP

Sometimes I think Corpas and Marmol are the same player. They have very similar pitching styles and track records as hard throwing relievers who can't seem to keep the closer role. According to several reports, he's in jeopardy of being sent to the minors, so I would wholeheartedly suggest dropping him. It doesn't help that he's allowed a run in 4 of his last 5 appearances.  Cut bait now.

Players who should be on your radar:

Do you know who Scott Richmond is?  If not don't worry, but he does have 4 wins already for the Toronto Blue Jays.  Those wins have come against suspect lineups, but you can't argue with wins. If you're in deep league and are looking for starters, give him a try. By now you may already know that Latroy Hawkins is the temporary closer due to injuries.  He's looked decent in the role, but only had 1 save this past week. You can blame the lack of chances on a last place team.  Kendry Morales will never be the player that Mark Teixiera is, but he's looked pretty darn good so far.  He's hitting .279, with 4 HR, 16 RBI and 13 R in 83 at bats.  That projects out to be more than 20 homers and 80 RBI for the season.  That would be pretty good production for his first full major league season. Despite a slow start, Matt LaPorta, should provide solid power numbers if he gets the at bats.  He was the Indian's centerpiece in the Sabathia deal last summer and is a tremendous power prospect, but may struggle a bit off the bat.  Edwin Jackson may only be 1-1 in 5 starts, but he does have an 2.25 ERA and a 1.03 WHIP.  He's also owned in only 42% of leagues and should be picked up pronto.  Mike Fontenot is owned in only 12% of leagues, but should be considered for a pickup.  He's on fire this past week with 3 homers for the diminutive second baseman and would be a good get in NL only leagues.  His average is only .264, but has hit 5 home runs so far.  

Well, I hope everyone has a good fantasy week.

(Coming Friday: Frozen Ropes by Jim Ingram  & Chin Music by Chad Garner)

Fantasy Baseball: Between the White Lines

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Welcome back to BTWL, the fantasy baseball article that takes a closer look at the transaction trends from the past week of baseball.  

Top 5 Added:

1. Mike Lowell - 3B Boston Red Sox (.319, 4 HR, 22 RBI, 9 R)

Mike Lowell leads the AL in RBI and is still available in nearly 23% of leagues.  If you live in New England, I am pretty sure he's already taken though.  Lowell has certainly surprised me with his production coming off his hip injury.  He's done nothing but produce in Boston, so as long as he stays healthy, he'll continue to drive in runs. 

2. Ryan Franklin - RP St. Louis Cardinals (0-0, 6 S, 0.00 ERA, 0.52 WHIP)

Ryan Franklin has taken over the closers role for the Red Birds and has pitched phenomenal after taking over for Jason Motte.  He's available in nearly 30% of leagues.  If you need saves, pick him up.  He may not last very long as the closer, but had 4 saves this past week.  Ride em' while he's hot and get ready to drop him for the next sensation

3. Asdrubal Cabrera - 2B, SS Cleveland Indians (.317, 1 HR, 9 RBI, 14 R)

Has Cabrera settle down and found himself again.  He was a huge disappointment last season coming off a great playoff performance in 2007, but seems to be comfortable now.  He's eligible at both middle infield positions so he offers more versatility.  I am not sold on him yet, and many others aren't as he's only owned on 40% of ESPN leagues.  I would suggest holding off and seeing if he's for real.

4. Scott Downs - RP Toronto Blue Jays (0-0, 2 S, 0.84 ERA, 0.47 WHIP)

Until BJ Ryan returns from the DL, it looks like Downs will be the closer.  He's notched 2 saves this past week and has pitched extremely well in that role.  Make sure you have him if BJ was on your team, or if you need to add saves, but understand he's only a temporary pickup. He should be still out there in most leagues.  Go and grab him as insurance for now.

5. Yadier Molina - C St. Louis Cardinals (.338, 2 HR, 11 RBI, 9 R)

Yadier is all grown up and become a pretty good hitter, especially for a catcher.  It seems his .304 average in 2008 is not a fluke.  He'll never be a power hitter, but has shown to be a clutch performer who can drive in runs.  He's hitting .391 this past week and drove in 5 RBI and owned in only 64% of leagues.  Catcher is always a lean position so make sure to get him because he's for real.  

Top 5 Dropped:

1. Emilio Bonifacio - 2B, 3B Florida Marlins (.226, 1 HR, 5 RBI, 14 R, 5 SB)

What did I tell you during the first edition of BTWL?  Emilio is a fluke, a pretender.  I hope you were able to trade him back then because he's practically worthless now.  He hit only .133 this past week with only 1 run and 1 stolen base.  He's an effective fantasy player if he can get on base and steal, but you can't steal first base (cliche warning!!).  Drop him now if you have him.  

2. Ryan Doumit - C, OF Pittsburgh Pirates (.244, 2 HR, 9 RBI, 5 R)

Doumit is being dropped because of his time on the DL, and looks like he won't return until June. What worries me most is the fact that it's a wrist injury.  Even when he returns, it's likely his wrist will not return to normal strength until after this season.  He was a very good fantasy catcher last year, but I don't see him returning to form until 2010.  

3. Ubaldo Jiminez - SP Colorado Rockies (1-3, 6 S, 7.58 ERA, 2.11 WHIP)

Jimenez has allowed 16 earned runs in his last 12 innings pitched.  Ouch! That is not good for the youngster.  13 of those runs did come against the Dodgers, but two out of the 3 starts were on the road, so you can't blame it on Coors Field.  He has been inconsistent at best since the Rockies run to the World Series in 07, so stay away from him unless you're desperate for starters.

4. Mike Aviles - 2B, SS Kansas City Royals (.182, 1 HR, 5 RBI, 6 R)

I seriously believe the shortstop position for the Kansas City Royals has become a black hole. Angel Berroa won the ROY a few years ago and then went into the tank.  Tony Pena started off hot and went into the tank.  Mike Aviles had a great 2nd half last season and seems to be going right into the tank.  Aviles is in a 2-22 slump and only hitting .182 for the season.  If you have him and can stash him for a few weeks to see if he comes out of the slump, then do so.

5. Huston Street - RP Colorado Rockies (0-1, 1 S, 7.00 ERA, 1.67 WHIP)

The opening day closer for the Rockies has the distinction of making this list two weeks in a row. He's been terrible to start the season and is now a mop up reliever for the Rox.  He has pitched better this past week not allowing any runs in 4 out of his last 5 appearances.  I think he'll get another shot at closing games for the Rockies, so he may be a good long term pick up.  He's out there in 52% of leagues.  His WHIP was a very good .92 this week which is encouraging.  

Players who need to be on your radar:

Nyjer Morgan is off to a tremendous start hitting .338 with 10 RBI, 16 runs and 6 stolen bases. He is coming into his own and doing what a leadoff hitter needs to do.  Get on base, steal bases and score runs.  He's still out there 43% of leagues so go get him if you need stolen bases.  Dexter Fowler is another player to pick up.  He's owned in only 23% of leagues and already has 9 stolen bases.  He's been so good and has worked himself into the top of the Rockies lineup.  His power numbers should be better than normal playing half of his games in Colorado.  If you need a catcher, don't worry about picking up Kurt Suzuki.  He can hit for average, .337 on the season, but that's pretty much it.  I have an absolute void at the position in one of my leagues and picked him up this past week.  He's hit over .500 this week and helped me pick up several points in my roto league.  Jordan Zimmerman is quickly becoming the better Zimmerman on the Nationals. He won his 2nd game of the season on Sunday and has put up very good stats (2-0 2.38 ERA, 1.32 WHIP).  I know the WHIP is not great, but he's young and get get people out.  Due to his age, the Nationals may choose to limit his innings pitched towards the end of the season, but jump on the bandwagon while you can.  Has anyone else noticed that Wandy Rodriguez has a 1.82 ERA with a 1.04 WHIP in 4 starts this season? He's still available in 29% of leagues and has been a solid starter all season.  He's only 1-2 on the season, but will provide you with good strikeout and innings this season.  

Well, I am done for this week, but make sure to keep checking back for the latest in fantasy baseball.

(Coming Friday: Frozen Ropes by Jim Ingram & Chin Music by Chad Garner)

Fantasy Baseball: Between the White Lines

By Jim Ingram

Fan Fanatic Sports Staff

Welcome back the BTWL.  Every Wednesday, we delve into the pickup trends of fantasy baseball and let you know what you can expect from each player.  We'll also let you know who's still out there and whether or not it's worth it to take a flyer on him.  

Top 5 Added:

1. Aaron Hill (2B) Toronto Blue Jays 

AVG	R	HR	RBI	SB
.365	8	4	14	1

Aaron Hill leads this week's pack by being picked up in an additional  54.8% of leagues, but still only being available 32.1% of leagues out there.  If you can still get him, grab him now.  He's a former top prospect who looks like he's finally put it together.  He's put together a complete offense the past two weeks, and could provide you with a full season of .285, 15+ HR, 85+ R, 75 RBI if he can stay healthy.  He has had injury problems in the past though.  Either way, you can't pass up a 2nd basemen putting put this good of numbers right now. 

2. Nick Swisher (1b, Of) New York Yankees 

AVG	R	HR	RBI	SB
.333	11	4	11	0

Swisher was added by an additional 46.2% of leagues this week and is now owned in 92.8% of all leagues.  As I mentioned last week, he's going to get plenty of at bats because he can play all 3 outfield positions, first base and DH.  He did slow down this past week hitting only .227, 1 HR & 1 RBI.  He's still a good 4th outfielder to have on your team.

3. Chris Duncan (1B, OF) St. Louis Cardinals

AVG	R	HR	RBI	SB
.381	7	2	11

Duncan has really come on in the last week hitting an even .500, with 1 HR and 7 RBI.  He's only owned in 49.1 % of leagues, but there's a reason for that.  Tony LaRussa plays the hot hand, and the Cardinals plenty of other options in the Outfield for Duncan to get regular playing time.  He may be a good short term pick up, but don't lose your waiver wire spot just for him.  

4. Kyle Lohse (SP) St. Louis Cardinals 

W-L	SV	K	ERA	WHIP
2-0	0	12	2.57	0.76

Lohse followed up his stellar first two starts with somewhat of a clunker this past week.  He lasted on 5 innings, gave up 4 earned runs on 5 hits.  Not a terrible outing, but one that compounds the fact that he's too inconsistent to be a good fantasy starter.  If you really need pitching, take a flyer on him as he's still available in 40% of leagues, but understand his output will be frustrating at times.  His next start comes against the New York Mets, so you might want to shy away for now. 

5. Koske Fukudome (OF) Chicago Cubs

AVG	R	HR	RBI	SB
.375	10	3	10	1

I don't mean to toot my own horn, but I did predict a better sophomore season for Koske. After seing an increase of 37.1%, he's now owned in 73.7% of leagues.  Many people were down on him after his terrible first season in the bigs.  He's continued his hot start by hitting .313, 1 HR, 5 RBI, 5 R and a .400 OBP this past week. The Cubs play both the Reds and Cardinals this week so he's not facing the best pitching staffs.  I say he's finally comfortable and should have a decent year.  He'll never hit 30 homers, but will hit for average, score and drive in runs and give you a few steals as well.

Top 5 Dropped:

1. Houston Street (RP) Colorado Rockies

W-L	SV	K	ERA	WHIP
0-1	1	5	9.64	2.36

Street has seriously struggled to start his first, and most likely last, season in Colorado.  He was expected to be the opening day closer for the Rox, but that hasn't worked out.  He's been relegated to the 7th inning and is still working on his mechanics.  This is not a good sign for someone who's also known for injury concerns.  I would suggest staying away from him for now, but keep an eye on Manny Corpas.  If he starts to fail, then the Rockies will have no choice to give Street save opportunities. 

2. Xavier Nady (OF) New York Yankees

AVG	R	HR	RBI	SB
.286	4	0	2	0

The Yankees outfielder has been dropped in 23.5% of leagues this past week.  This is due to his landing on the DL.  He's still waiting for the results on his right elbow so his immediate playing future is up in the air.  Depending on the size of your league, there could still be a glut of talented outfielders left.  If you don't have the space on your DL, drop him if there's a better option.  He's a 3rd/4th fantasy outfielder at best, so don't lose much sleep.

3. Chris Carpenter (SP) St. Louis Cardinals

W-L	SV	K	ERA	WHIP
1-0	0	9	0.00	0.70

The injury prone right hander is once again on the disabled list.  This time it's due to a torn left oblique muscle.  He'll be out for 4-8 weeks, but I suggest stashing him.  He looked fantastic during his first outing, and throughout spring training, so it's worth keeping a pitcher of his stature.  I know it's alot to ask from a man who hadn't pitched in anger for two seasons, but you will be rewarded with your patience.  

4. Lasting Milledge (OF) Washington Nationals

AVG	R	HR	RBI	SB
.167	1	0	1	1

During the spring, Milledge looked ready to have a breakout season for the Nationals.  Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to transfer his spring success to the regular season so far.  This past week, the young outfielder on had 4 hits, with an average of .167, 0 HR, 1 RBI, and OBP of .167 and an OPS of .398.  That's just god awful.  He has all the tools to be a good player in the majors, but has had trouble with the mental aspect of the game.  I'd hold off for now.  I need to see some consistency before I suggest picking him up.  

5. Melvin Mora (3B) Baltimore Orioles

AVG	R	HR	RBI	SB
.313	1	1	7	0

We'll stay in the same part of the country for the next person on the list.  Melvin Mora has been dropped in 19.5% of leagues, so he's still out there in almost 45% of leagues.  He's just on the DL, and has had a good start to the season. Of course injured hamstrings are unpredictable, but Mora's never had much of a speed game.  If you can pick him up and stash him on your DL go right ahead.  If not, pay close attention to his return. He's had three straight solid fantasy years and can certainly help your club. 

Players who need to be on your radar: 

Jose Lopez (.195, 1, 8) has had an awful start to the season.  Despite that, he's still one of the better hitting 2nd basemen in the game and will turn it around.  He's out there in 45% of leagues, and is a good long range pickup. Ejijah Dukes (.345, 2, 8) is out to a hot start and is owned in only 45% of leagues.  If you have an injured outfielder (Vlad, Nady, etc.) grab him and insert him while he's hot.  He's got all the tools, and only needs to mature emotionally to make an impact.  Orlando Hudson (.385, 2, 8) is currently ranked 9th among all offensive fantasy players.  There's no way he maitains the power production, but looks like his hand is healthy and is in a very good place hitting in front of Manny Ramirez.  Don't underestimate what that can do for a hitter.  Travis Snyder (.290, 3, 9) was picked by several FFS staff to win the American League Rookie of the Year.  Well, he's off an running and only owned in 31% of leagues.  Get him now while you can.  The Twin's Glen Perkins (1-1, 1.50 ERA, 12 K, .83 WHIP) is remarkably only owned in 22% of leagues.  He went 12-4 last season and showed he can win games.  His ERA needs to stay below 4.41 from last year, but well worth the pick up. Edwin Jackson (1-0, 13K, 2.14 ERA, .81 WHIP) seems comfortable in his new digs in Detroit and is only owned in 31%.  He's not the most consistent pitcher, but is still young.  I'll finish up today's article be reminding everyone of Ricky Romero (2-0,  1.71, 1.10 WHIP).  He's looked very solid in his first 3 starts of his career. He hasn't allowed more than 2 runs in any of his games yet.  He doesn't have dominating stuff, but seems to get the job done.  Those pitchers concern me, but I'm an early believer on Romero.  Take a shot on him.  If I'm wrong, blast me.

Have a great week 

(Coming Friday: Frozen Ropes by Jim Ingram and Chin Music by Chad Garner)