Quick hits: Michael Saunders homers, Brian Fuentes struggles
Computer, just work. Restart again!? OK, but this is the last time. Another update? You are ridiculous
Obnoxious computer cost me some time today, obviously. However, we’re up and running in time to get you some fantasy baseball update goodness:
Wandy Rodriguez — Depending on his next start Thursday, he may be skipped in the rotation twice. At this point, he shouldn’t be on mixed-league fantasy rosters unless it’s a deep dynasty. Even then, check the wire for a better option.
Kerry Wood — Despite a Quallsish ERA and a blown save, Wood will retain closer duties. Give the Indians some time. Chris Perez is the closer of the future anyway, they will get him back in that role.
Josh Beckett — A recently revealed timeline puts Beckett back in the majors July 21 or 26. A week or two before that sounds like the perfect time to trade him.
Erick Aybar — Appears to be a decent shortstop option available on a lot of waivers, but Aybar has been day-to-day with a knee injury and could go on the DL.
Michael Saunders — Seattle’s top prospect hit a homer and drove in four RBI. He hasn’t done much so far this season and should be lighting up AAA pitching right now. Those of you in dynasty leagues could make a speculative add at this point. He should be owned in deep AL-only redrafts too.
Brian Fuentes — Fernando Rodney was ready to take over after Brian Fuentes issued a walk and allowed two hits clinging to a one-run lead Wednesday. Then Fuentes picked off a batter and a runner was doubled off second before the winning run could score on a sac fly. Living on the edge, ninjas. Living on the edge.
Aaron Heilman — His blown save Wednesday was his third of the year but his first since taking over as closer. He’s got quite a long leash to work with thanks to Chad Qualls.
Huston Street — No official word, but I’d be shocked if he wasn’t closing before the end of next week. He allowed one hit in 1.1 scoreless innings on Wednesday in his return.
Manny Parra — Like the Brewers’ own Nuke Laloosh in Bull Durham, Parra set a new team record with four wild pitches. the last one came while he was issuing an intentional walk. Concentration is not strong in this one. Parra did manage a win though, allowing just two runs, seven hits and two walks while striking out six in 5.2 innings.
Jorge de la Rosa — Could return after a rehab start on July 2. Wednesday he struck out five, allowed four hits and one run in 4 innings pitched. Make sure he’s on a roster in your league.
Edinson Volquez — Also needs to be rostered everywhere. In his last rehab start, his fastball touched 98 on the radar gun a couple times. In 13 rehab innings, he has 9 Ks and 0 BBs. That’s vintage Volquez there… Well, as vintage as a player with one full season in the majors can get.
Brian Matusz – Gave up six runs and seven hits in 6.1 innings in his most recent outing. He’s 0-8 in his last 12 and has given up nine homers in his last seven starts. Unless you’re in a deep dynasty league, it’s probably better to own Wandy Rodriguez at this point. If you didn’t read the Rodriguez blurb, go back now. Ryan Madson can wait.
Ryan Madson — This one is for those of you in holds league. Madson will throw a bullpen session today and move to Class A Clearwater on Sunday. Madson is likely Philadelphia’s closer of the future, but when he gets back he should be the 8th-inning guy and could be in line for holds and an occasional save. If Brad Lidge falters — he has been decent in his return but gave up three earned runs in his last four appearances for a 9.00 ERA over that stretch — Madson should be called on to close.
That’s all I have for today. What did I miss? Let us know in the comments.
