Your Fantasy Sports Guy is taking the 14-days historical approach to find the hot hitters again. Here are three of the batters in MLB that might be available in your league that you should take a look at for this upcoming week:
Daric Barton – Oakland A’s
Over the past two weeks, Barton is hitting .356 with an OBP of .491. His six homers and 12 RBI definitely make him a player to look at if you are in need of a first baseman or utility player.
Austin Jackson – Detroit Tigers
The A.L. Rookie of the Year candidate is still going strong in Motown. Although he only has one homer and four RBI over the two weeks, he has 21 hits, 16 runs and a .356 average to his credit. What more can you ask for from a leadoff hitter? The Tigers bats have been alive recently, so you can count on Jackson getting you points from runs scored.
Omar Infante – Atlanta Braves
If this guy isn’t on a team in your league, get him now. Over the past 14 days, Infante has a .356 average with six homers and 12 RBI. He also has 16 runs and a crazy .491OBP. If all of that wasn’t enough, Infante is eligible at 2B, 3B, SS, OF and U.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Two-Start Sleepers
Every week we get excited when our top starting pitchers are heading to the mound twice. We know that certain pitchers are locked in as our starters and we don’t even think about it. Well what about some of the pitchers that aren’t own in the majority of leagues? Surely there are a few that could help out this week. Well, Your Fantasy Sports Guy did the homework for you and here are three options to look at for the week of August 30.
Brett Cecil – Toronto Blue Jays
Opponents: @ Tampa Bay, @ New York Yankess
Cecil has been a stud against the AL East this going 7-1 against the division. He is also 10-5 in night games which the TB game is at 7:10 EST. Toronto is also one of the few teams in the league plays well on the road going 32-33 so far his season. Cecil is also 2-0 against the Yankees this season.
Dustin Moseley – New York Yankees
Opponents: Oakland, Toronto
In three games started at home, Moseley is 2-1 and the Yanks are 42-22 at home this year. While Toronto is almost .500 on the road, Oakland is 10 games under. Simply put…pick up Moseley, start him and trust the Yanks’ bats to help out.
Alex Sanabia – Florida Marlins
Opponents: Washington, @ Atlanta
Sanabia is 3-1 this season with a 3.62 ERA. Washington isn’t very good, and Alex has already beaten the Nats this year going 5.1 innings without giving up an earned run. The Braves will give Sanabia a challenge later in the week, but I am willing to take the chance. Sanabia is also available as a relief pitcher, so if you need someone to plug in this week who will also give you starts, pick up Sanabia.
Brett Cecil – Toronto Blue Jays
Opponents: @ Tampa Bay, @ New York Yankess
Cecil has been a stud against the AL East this going 7-1 against the division. He is also 10-5 in night games which the TB game is at 7:10 EST. Toronto is also one of the few teams in the league plays well on the road going 32-33 so far his season. Cecil is also 2-0 against the Yankees this season.
Dustin Moseley – New York Yankees
Opponents: Oakland, Toronto
In three games started at home, Moseley is 2-1 and the Yanks are 42-22 at home this year. While Toronto is almost .500 on the road, Oakland is 10 games under. Simply put…pick up Moseley, start him and trust the Yanks’ bats to help out.
Alex Sanabia – Florida Marlins
Opponents: Washington, @ Atlanta
Sanabia is 3-1 this season with a 3.62 ERA. Washington isn’t very good, and Alex has already beaten the Nats this year going 5.1 innings without giving up an earned run. The Braves will give Sanabia a challenge later in the week, but I am willing to take the chance. Sanabia is also available as a relief pitcher, so if you need someone to plug in this week who will also give you starts, pick up Sanabia.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Wide Open
The first ranking of 2010 receivers and why:
1. Andre Johnson – Houston Texans
Johnson is one of only two no-doubt receivers. He had 101 receptions for 1569 yards and nine touchdowns last season. Look for the same this year.
2. Randy Moss – New England Patriots
Moss is the other no-doubt receiver. Even with QB Tom Brady not at 100 percent, Moss still managed 83 receptions for 1264 yards and 13 TDs in ’09. Now it’s 2010, and Brady is back to normal, oh, and it’s Moss’ contract year…
3. Reggie Wayne – Indianapolis Colts
Wayne is the best receiver on a team that has Peyton Manning as its quarterback. That makes him a great selection. Last season, Wayne netted 100 receptions and 10 TDs. He may be getting a little older, but he can still run, and Manning can still find him open.
4. Miles Austin – Dallas Cowboys
Tony Romo’s best friend is Miles Austin. The speedy wideout gained 1320 yards with 11 TDs in ’09, all of which were career highs for the New Jersey native. The ‘Boys appear to have another high octane offense, and there isn’t a reason to believe Romo won’t have Austin as his number-one target in 2010.
5. Greg Jennings – Green Bay Packers
Jennings only registered four touchdowns in 2009, which was his lowest total since his rookie season in 2006. He did, however, total 1120 yards and is still Aaron Rogers’ favorite option. Look for a nice comeback year from Jennings.
6. Larry Fitzgerald – Arizona Cardinals
This far down for Larry Fitz? Yes and here’s why: a mix of no more Kurt Warner and the new starter is Matt Leinart. Let’s put it this way: Leinart is entering his fifth season in the NFL and has 3893 yards, 14 TDs and 20 INTs. Warner had 3753 yards, 26 TDs and 14 INTs in 2009 alone. Plus, the Cards no longer have Anquan Boldin lining up on the other side of the field, which means extra protection on Fitzgerald.
7. Calvin Johnson – Detroit Lions
Johnson only caught five TDs last season, but had to do it without starter Matthew Stafford for almost a third of the season. Look for Johnson to be open more this year with the additions of Nate Burleson and Tony Scheffler on the field, along with a healthy Brandon Pettigrew.
8. Brandon Marshall – Miami Dolphins
After an off-season trade, Marshall is ready for a new start in Miami. Even with the mediocre skills of Denver Broncos’ QB Kyle Orton, Marshall still managed to bring in 10 TDs. While the Dolphins don’t offer a Pro Bowl caliber QB yet, Chad Henne finished strong late last season. Keep an eye on this combination.
9. Marques Colston – New Orleans Saints
Drew Brees likes to throw the ball, and Colston is one of his favorite receivers. Marques caught 70 passes for 1074 yards and nine TDs in the Saints’ Super Bowl season. Look for Colston to continue his solid play this season.
10. Roddy White – Atlanta Falcons
White had to deal with the up-and-down play of QB Matt Ryan last season and still had 1153 yards and 11 TDs. If RB Michael Turner can get healthy again, the passing game will open up, and White can possibly top even those numbers.
11. DeSean Jackson – Philadelphia Eagles
If your league gives more points for receptions, you will want to wait on Jackson. He only caught 63 passes last season, but he did rake in 1167 yards and nine TDs. Keep in mind he is still getting used to new QB Kevin Kolb throwing to him and not Donovan McNabb.
12. Anquan Boldin – Baltimore Ravens
Boldin sprinted out of Arizona to his new home in Baltimore this offseason. No longer in the shadows of Larry Fitzgerald, will that prove to be beneficial to Boldin and his owners, or display possible flaws that were covered by the normal single coverage in the desert? Like Fitz, Boldin will no longer have the accuracy of Kurt Warner throwing to him to rely on.
13. Michael Crabtree – San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are going to be competing for the division, and this guy is one of the main reasons. The stud of the ’09 class of receivers is entering his first full season starting with the ‘Niners and has something to prove. Look for Crabtree, Gore and Davis to give QB Alex Smith plenty of options out West.
14. Chad Ochocinco – Cincinnati Bengals
Ochocinco should have a nice year with T.O. joining him in black and orange. Teams can’t double him without risking Owens being wide open or Cedric Benson plenty of room to run. If Carson Palmer can stay healthy all season and regain some of his old magic, the Bengals could be a lot of fun to watch this year.
15. Hakeem Nicks – New York Giants
Like him or not, Eli Manning can throw the ball. He can also spread the ball around and hit different targets. Steve Smith will be closely watched by the defenses, so take a look at Manning’s other favorite target in Nicks. The second-year stud can be drafted a little later, so you will be getting excellent play and production out of a later-round pick.
1. Andre Johnson – Houston Texans
Johnson is one of only two no-doubt receivers. He had 101 receptions for 1569 yards and nine touchdowns last season. Look for the same this year.
2. Randy Moss – New England Patriots
Moss is the other no-doubt receiver. Even with QB Tom Brady not at 100 percent, Moss still managed 83 receptions for 1264 yards and 13 TDs in ’09. Now it’s 2010, and Brady is back to normal, oh, and it’s Moss’ contract year…
3. Reggie Wayne – Indianapolis Colts
Wayne is the best receiver on a team that has Peyton Manning as its quarterback. That makes him a great selection. Last season, Wayne netted 100 receptions and 10 TDs. He may be getting a little older, but he can still run, and Manning can still find him open.
4. Miles Austin – Dallas Cowboys
Tony Romo’s best friend is Miles Austin. The speedy wideout gained 1320 yards with 11 TDs in ’09, all of which were career highs for the New Jersey native. The ‘Boys appear to have another high octane offense, and there isn’t a reason to believe Romo won’t have Austin as his number-one target in 2010.
5. Greg Jennings – Green Bay Packers
Jennings only registered four touchdowns in 2009, which was his lowest total since his rookie season in 2006. He did, however, total 1120 yards and is still Aaron Rogers’ favorite option. Look for a nice comeback year from Jennings.
6. Larry Fitzgerald – Arizona Cardinals
This far down for Larry Fitz? Yes and here’s why: a mix of no more Kurt Warner and the new starter is Matt Leinart. Let’s put it this way: Leinart is entering his fifth season in the NFL and has 3893 yards, 14 TDs and 20 INTs. Warner had 3753 yards, 26 TDs and 14 INTs in 2009 alone. Plus, the Cards no longer have Anquan Boldin lining up on the other side of the field, which means extra protection on Fitzgerald.
7. Calvin Johnson – Detroit Lions
Johnson only caught five TDs last season, but had to do it without starter Matthew Stafford for almost a third of the season. Look for Johnson to be open more this year with the additions of Nate Burleson and Tony Scheffler on the field, along with a healthy Brandon Pettigrew.
8. Brandon Marshall – Miami Dolphins
After an off-season trade, Marshall is ready for a new start in Miami. Even with the mediocre skills of Denver Broncos’ QB Kyle Orton, Marshall still managed to bring in 10 TDs. While the Dolphins don’t offer a Pro Bowl caliber QB yet, Chad Henne finished strong late last season. Keep an eye on this combination.
9. Marques Colston – New Orleans Saints
Drew Brees likes to throw the ball, and Colston is one of his favorite receivers. Marques caught 70 passes for 1074 yards and nine TDs in the Saints’ Super Bowl season. Look for Colston to continue his solid play this season.
10. Roddy White – Atlanta Falcons
White had to deal with the up-and-down play of QB Matt Ryan last season and still had 1153 yards and 11 TDs. If RB Michael Turner can get healthy again, the passing game will open up, and White can possibly top even those numbers.
11. DeSean Jackson – Philadelphia Eagles
If your league gives more points for receptions, you will want to wait on Jackson. He only caught 63 passes last season, but he did rake in 1167 yards and nine TDs. Keep in mind he is still getting used to new QB Kevin Kolb throwing to him and not Donovan McNabb.
12. Anquan Boldin – Baltimore Ravens
Boldin sprinted out of Arizona to his new home in Baltimore this offseason. No longer in the shadows of Larry Fitzgerald, will that prove to be beneficial to Boldin and his owners, or display possible flaws that were covered by the normal single coverage in the desert? Like Fitz, Boldin will no longer have the accuracy of Kurt Warner throwing to him to rely on.
13. Michael Crabtree – San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are going to be competing for the division, and this guy is one of the main reasons. The stud of the ’09 class of receivers is entering his first full season starting with the ‘Niners and has something to prove. Look for Crabtree, Gore and Davis to give QB Alex Smith plenty of options out West.
14. Chad Ochocinco – Cincinnati Bengals
Ochocinco should have a nice year with T.O. joining him in black and orange. Teams can’t double him without risking Owens being wide open or Cedric Benson plenty of room to run. If Carson Palmer can stay healthy all season and regain some of his old magic, the Bengals could be a lot of fun to watch this year.
15. Hakeem Nicks – New York Giants
Like him or not, Eli Manning can throw the ball. He can also spread the ball around and hit different targets. Steve Smith will be closely watched by the defenses, so take a look at Manning’s other favorite target in Nicks. The second-year stud can be drafted a little later, so you will be getting excellent play and production out of a later-round pick.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Making a Difference: NL West
The National League West is a surprise this year. Going into this season, no one predicted the San Diego Padres would be competing for the division lead. Well they are, and in fact, they are dominating with a six-game lead over the San Francisco Giants.
While the Padres are doing it with pitching, other teams contain hitters that have drastically improved upon their stats from last season. Here are the top three improved hitters:
Aubrey Huff – 1B – San Francisco
The Giants are attempting to keep up with the Padres for the division and Huff is the main reason this is possible. After splitting time in 2009 with the Baltimore Orioles and the Detroit Tigers, Huff signed with San Fran in the offseason. The Giants knew he had a decent bat (15 homers, 85 RBI) but they couldn’t have expected what Aubrey would deliver. Huff leads the team with a .295 batting average, 21 homers and 70 RBI. He has also drastically lifted his slugging percentage from .384 in ’09 to .523 this season.
Kelly Johnson – 2B – Arizona Diamondbacks
The Arizona Diamond Backs are really bad. They are in last place in the division but do have two of the most improved hitters. Kelly Johnson spent last season with the Atlanta Braves and posted some mediocre numbers. His .224 average, 8 home runs and 29 RBI were all his lowest numbers since his rookie year in 2005. He signed with the Diamondbacks in the offseason and has had a comeback year. With 19 homers, 56 RBI and .278 average, Johnson is an above average option at 2B on your fantasy team.
Chris Young – OF – Arizona Diamondbacks
Young is another Diamondback that is having a great offensive season despite the team’s awful record. His 22 home runs, 74 RBI and .271 average are all much improved on his ’09 stats of 15, 42 and .213. He has even picked his running game up swiping 25 bases this year compared to only 11 last season. He is an excellent candidate for a late-round keeper for next year. Not many owners had Young on their lists of players to select so more than likely, Young went undrafted in your league. Pick him up while you can.
While the Padres are doing it with pitching, other teams contain hitters that have drastically improved upon their stats from last season. Here are the top three improved hitters:
Aubrey Huff – 1B – San Francisco
The Giants are attempting to keep up with the Padres for the division and Huff is the main reason this is possible. After splitting time in 2009 with the Baltimore Orioles and the Detroit Tigers, Huff signed with San Fran in the offseason. The Giants knew he had a decent bat (15 homers, 85 RBI) but they couldn’t have expected what Aubrey would deliver. Huff leads the team with a .295 batting average, 21 homers and 70 RBI. He has also drastically lifted his slugging percentage from .384 in ’09 to .523 this season.
Kelly Johnson – 2B – Arizona Diamondbacks
The Arizona Diamond Backs are really bad. They are in last place in the division but do have two of the most improved hitters. Kelly Johnson spent last season with the Atlanta Braves and posted some mediocre numbers. His .224 average, 8 home runs and 29 RBI were all his lowest numbers since his rookie year in 2005. He signed with the Diamondbacks in the offseason and has had a comeback year. With 19 homers, 56 RBI and .278 average, Johnson is an above average option at 2B on your fantasy team.
Chris Young – OF – Arizona Diamondbacks
Young is another Diamondback that is having a great offensive season despite the team’s awful record. His 22 home runs, 74 RBI and .271 average are all much improved on his ’09 stats of 15, 42 and .213. He has even picked his running game up swiping 25 bases this year compared to only 11 last season. He is an excellent candidate for a late-round keeper for next year. Not many owners had Young on their lists of players to select so more than likely, Young went undrafted in your league. Pick him up while you can.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Making a Difference: NL Central
The National League Central has recently been dominated by the St. Louis Cardinals. In fact, since the 2000 season, the Cards have won or shared the division title seven times. This year, they have some competition by a team that hasn’t sniffed the division crown since 1995. The Cincinnati Reds are on top of the Central and are looking down on everyone else, including the Cardinals. Cincy has a three-game lead on the Cards with only three games remaining against one another. If Cincinnati continues to swing a “red” hot bat, they will find themselves doing something they haven’t done in years: playing meaningful October baseball.
Here are three hitters from the National League Central that have had excellent years:
Corey Hart – OF – Milwaukee Brewers
Hart is bouncing back from a mediocre 2009 season in which the right fielder hit only 12 homers, drove in 48 and hit .261. This year, Hart regained his power and even competed in the Home Run Derby at this year’s All-Star game in July. With good reason too: Hart now has 23 homeruns, 78 RBI and a .284 average. There is no doubt that Hart is a solid keeper candidate due to his late draft round from this year. The Brewers might not be having a great season, but Hart is.
Hunter Pence – OF – Houston Astros
Pence is another player that suffers because of a team that is not producing around him. The fourth-year right fielder is having a solid year without much to work with. With Carlos Lee having an awful year, and the Astros trading Lance Berkman at the deadline, Pence is left without much talent around him. He is, however, still producing. Pence is on pace to hit 24 homers and 89 RBI this season, compared to 24 home runs and 72 RBI in 2009.
Scott Rolen – 3B – Cincinnati Reds
Rolen has been that player you wish could have stayed healthy throughout his career. The Reds’ third baseman is doing a good job this season of not being put on the DL multiple times, unlike the past few seasons. Rolen has hit 18 homers and 68 RBI this season with a .537 slugging percentage – nice increases from last year’s 11, 67 and .455. He produces when he plays, is surrounded by a powerful offense and is in the race for the division title…all of which may give Rolen a reason to stay healthy.
Here are three hitters from the National League Central that have had excellent years:
Corey Hart – OF – Milwaukee Brewers
Hart is bouncing back from a mediocre 2009 season in which the right fielder hit only 12 homers, drove in 48 and hit .261. This year, Hart regained his power and even competed in the Home Run Derby at this year’s All-Star game in July. With good reason too: Hart now has 23 homeruns, 78 RBI and a .284 average. There is no doubt that Hart is a solid keeper candidate due to his late draft round from this year. The Brewers might not be having a great season, but Hart is.
Hunter Pence – OF – Houston Astros
Pence is another player that suffers because of a team that is not producing around him. The fourth-year right fielder is having a solid year without much to work with. With Carlos Lee having an awful year, and the Astros trading Lance Berkman at the deadline, Pence is left without much talent around him. He is, however, still producing. Pence is on pace to hit 24 homers and 89 RBI this season, compared to 24 home runs and 72 RBI in 2009.
Scott Rolen – 3B – Cincinnati Reds
Rolen has been that player you wish could have stayed healthy throughout his career. The Reds’ third baseman is doing a good job this season of not being put on the DL multiple times, unlike the past few seasons. Rolen has hit 18 homers and 68 RBI this season with a .537 slugging percentage – nice increases from last year’s 11, 67 and .455. He produces when he plays, is surrounded by a powerful offense and is in the race for the division title…all of which may give Rolen a reason to stay healthy.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Making a Difference: NL East
The NL East will be fun to watch for the rest of the season with the Atlanta Braves and the Philadelphia Phillies battling it out for the division crown. Currently, Atlanta holds a two-game lead over Philly, but the Phils are getting healthy with Ryan Howard and Chase Utley coming back to action from injuries. Here are three players from the NL East that have stepped it up this season.
Martin Prado – 1B, 2B, 3B – Atlanta Braves
Prado was having a fantastic season until a fracture to his right pinky forced him out of action on July 30. But Prado is due back in the lineup this week, and Braves fans are hoping he picks up where he left off. Prado was hitting .315 with 13 homers and 43 RBI before his injury. He already surpassed his home run total from last year and is only six RBI away from matching that total as well. Adding to his value is his versatility around your fantasy roster, due to his multiple positions eligibility.
Angel Pagan – OF – New York Mets
Although the Mets are 10 games out of the running, Angel Pagan isn’t slowing down. The speedy outfielder is batting .302 with 13 homers, 53 RBI and 28 stolen bases. Keep an eye on Pagan for possible sleeper late-round keepers. It’s never too early to be thinking about next year’s team.
Ian Desmond – SS – Washington Nationals
Desmond is on the Nationals, which means he isn’t going to have a ton of RBI – or fun – because he will be losing a lot. But the short stop is having a nice season, and in particular, a very nice past two weeks. Desmond has two homers with four RBI, but has hit .326 in this period with a slugging percentage of .522. He has 15 hits and stolen five bases. Although the Nats aren’t going anywhere in the standings, Stephen Strasburg isn’t the only player to watch from this very young team.
Martin Prado – 1B, 2B, 3B – Atlanta Braves
Prado was having a fantastic season until a fracture to his right pinky forced him out of action on July 30. But Prado is due back in the lineup this week, and Braves fans are hoping he picks up where he left off. Prado was hitting .315 with 13 homers and 43 RBI before his injury. He already surpassed his home run total from last year and is only six RBI away from matching that total as well. Adding to his value is his versatility around your fantasy roster, due to his multiple positions eligibility.
Angel Pagan – OF – New York Mets
Although the Mets are 10 games out of the running, Angel Pagan isn’t slowing down. The speedy outfielder is batting .302 with 13 homers, 53 RBI and 28 stolen bases. Keep an eye on Pagan for possible sleeper late-round keepers. It’s never too early to be thinking about next year’s team.
Ian Desmond – SS – Washington Nationals
Desmond is on the Nationals, which means he isn’t going to have a ton of RBI – or fun – because he will be losing a lot. But the short stop is having a nice season, and in particular, a very nice past two weeks. Desmond has two homers with four RBI, but has hit .326 in this period with a slugging percentage of .522. He has 15 hits and stolen five bases. Although the Nats aren’t going anywhere in the standings, Stephen Strasburg isn’t the only player to watch from this very young team.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Making a Difference: AL West
For the first time since 2006, the Anaheim Angels aren’t running away with the AL West. The Texas Rangers have overtaken the Halos and are in charge of the division in the early parts of August. Here are three hitters from the AL West that have certainly made changes from last season:
Elvis Andrus- SS- Texas Rangers
Andrus’ average has improved from .267 last season to .273 in ’10. Although his power stroke has taken a ht, his RBI numbers will top his ’09 totals and he is only seven hits away from matching his solid rookie campaigns totals. Andrus has had a very nice sophomore season in Texas, and if possible, hold onto him as a keeper for ’11 as he will be a top pick amongst shortstops.
Vladimir Guerro- DH/ OF- Texas Ranger
The future Hall of Famer is back this season. His average has increased from .295 in ’09 to .297 and has already increased his homers (21 in ’10 to 15 in ’09) and RBI (87 to 50) totals. He isn’t throwing runners out at second anymore, but he providing the powerful, and scary bat in the middle of the Rangers’ lineup.
Howie Kendrick- 2B- Anaheim Angles
We have waited for Kendrick to finally be the player, and fantasy point getter, that we have expected since his rookie season in 2006. Kenrdrick has almost matched his homers total from last year and is quickly gaining on his RBI total as well. While keeping a solid average (.270), Kendrick is also stealing bases while getting himself in scoring position for runs, and points for you.
Elvis Andrus- SS- Texas Rangers
Andrus’ average has improved from .267 last season to .273 in ’10. Although his power stroke has taken a ht, his RBI numbers will top his ’09 totals and he is only seven hits away from matching his solid rookie campaigns totals. Andrus has had a very nice sophomore season in Texas, and if possible, hold onto him as a keeper for ’11 as he will be a top pick amongst shortstops.
Vladimir Guerro- DH/ OF- Texas Ranger
The future Hall of Famer is back this season. His average has increased from .295 in ’09 to .297 and has already increased his homers (21 in ’10 to 15 in ’09) and RBI (87 to 50) totals. He isn’t throwing runners out at second anymore, but he providing the powerful, and scary bat in the middle of the Rangers’ lineup.
Howie Kendrick- 2B- Anaheim Angles
We have waited for Kendrick to finally be the player, and fantasy point getter, that we have expected since his rookie season in 2006. Kenrdrick has almost matched his homers total from last year and is quickly gaining on his RBI total as well. While keeping a solid average (.270), Kendrick is also stealing bases while getting himself in scoring position for runs, and points for you.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Making a Difference: AL Central
Let’s take a look at three AL Central hitters that have really improved their game, and your fantasy points, from last year.
Paul Konerko- 1B- Chicago White Sox
Paulie is a huge part of the resurgence of the South Siders this season. Hitting .302 with 28 homers and 78 RBI, Konerko has met last year’s homers total and is only ten RBI away completing the same task. In standard leagues, Konerko has more points than pre-season studs at his position, such as Adrian Gonzalez and Adam Dunn (1B and OF eligible).
Alex Rios- OF- Chicago White Sox
Rios didn’t have a bad season in ’09, but it wasn’t great either. Alex has already matched his homer totals (17) from last year and is on his way to topping last year’s RBI (65 this year compared to 71 in 2009) total. His average is way up. Rios is batting .299 in 2010 from only .247 in 2009. He has also matched last year’s stolen base total with 24 swipes.
Delmon Young- OF- Minnesota Twins
Delmon is finally playing like everyone thought he would. After a trade that got him out of Tampa Bay, Young is producing. Hitting .319, 14 homers and 84 RBI, Young has topped last year’s totals already (.284/ 12/ 60).
Paul Konerko- 1B- Chicago White Sox
Paulie is a huge part of the resurgence of the South Siders this season. Hitting .302 with 28 homers and 78 RBI, Konerko has met last year’s homers total and is only ten RBI away completing the same task. In standard leagues, Konerko has more points than pre-season studs at his position, such as Adrian Gonzalez and Adam Dunn (1B and OF eligible).
Alex Rios- OF- Chicago White Sox
Rios didn’t have a bad season in ’09, but it wasn’t great either. Alex has already matched his homer totals (17) from last year and is on his way to topping last year’s RBI (65 this year compared to 71 in 2009) total. His average is way up. Rios is batting .299 in 2010 from only .247 in 2009. He has also matched last year’s stolen base total with 24 swipes.
Delmon Young- OF- Minnesota Twins
Delmon is finally playing like everyone thought he would. After a trade that got him out of Tampa Bay, Young is producing. Hitting .319, 14 homers and 84 RBI, Young has topped last year’s totals already (.284/ 12/ 60).
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Making a Difference: AL East
Every year, a few hitters either come out of nowhere or regain their former swing to have a solid season, and 2010 is no exception. Let’s take a look at three hitters from the American League East that are having very nice seasons.
Luke Scott- OF- Baltimore Orioles
Stuck on one of the worst teams in baseball and no one around him for help, Scott has put together a nice season. Hitting .289 with 20 homers and 47 ribbies (would be many more if the O’s could some runners on base in front of him), Scott could be nice pickup if you need another outfielder. Beware this week though. The O’s will be on the road, where Scott is hitting just .222, compared to .344 at home.
Adrian Belte- 3B- Boston Red Sox
If Luke Scott had a decent hitting team around him, he would be producing numbers like Beltre is. The Sox’s third-sacker has turned things back around to have a very nice comeback season. He is hitting .336 with 20 homers and 75 RBI this year in Boston. The one isue that could slow some of these numbers down is the loss of Kevin Youkilis for the rest of the season to thumb surgery.
Nick Swisher- OF- New York Yankees
Swisher is enjoying the Big Apple this season. Swisher is hitting .297 with 22 homers and 66 RBI this year. He and the rest of the Bronx Bombers will be on the road much of this week, where Swisher is hitting .302.
Luke Scott- OF- Baltimore Orioles
Stuck on one of the worst teams in baseball and no one around him for help, Scott has put together a nice season. Hitting .289 with 20 homers and 47 ribbies (would be many more if the O’s could some runners on base in front of him), Scott could be nice pickup if you need another outfielder. Beware this week though. The O’s will be on the road, where Scott is hitting just .222, compared to .344 at home.
Adrian Belte- 3B- Boston Red Sox
If Luke Scott had a decent hitting team around him, he would be producing numbers like Beltre is. The Sox’s third-sacker has turned things back around to have a very nice comeback season. He is hitting .336 with 20 homers and 75 RBI this year in Boston. The one isue that could slow some of these numbers down is the loss of Kevin Youkilis for the rest of the season to thumb surgery.
Nick Swisher- OF- New York Yankees
Swisher is enjoying the Big Apple this season. Swisher is hitting .297 with 22 homers and 66 RBI this year. He and the rest of the Bronx Bombers will be on the road much of this week, where Swisher is hitting .302.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Two Week Streak
One of the most important stats to check out is the past two weeks category. Why two weeks and not one? It’s because you don’t want the guy who had one great game but didn’t do much the rest of the week This way, the two-week system gives you some sort of consistency.
Here are three starting pitchers to really take a look at that might be available in your league:
Wandy Rodriguez - Houston Astros
Over the past two weeks, Rodriguez has gone 2-0 with two quality starts. He’s K’d 16 in only 15 innings of work. The only issue with Wandy is the team he is on. The Astros are not good, and they won’t be for the rest of the season. Plus, they just traded away their number-one starter in Roy Oswalt, meaning the Magic Wand might be facing the opposing team’s number-one starter.
Scott Baker - Minnesota Twins
Baker, like Rodriguez, is 2-0 with two quality starts in his past two weeks of work. He had 17 strikeouts in 20 1/3 innings, and he is on a team that is hot with some major bats to help him out.
Kevin Slowey - Minnesota Twins
Another Twins’ starter that enjoyed late July and early August, Slowey is also 2-0 with two QS’s. Like Baker, Slowey appreciates his team’s offensive bite by supporting him with solid run support.
Here are three hitters worth taking a look at:
Dan Uggla - 2B - Florida Marlins
Uggla has turned on the power switch over the past two weeks. Dan hit eight homers while driving in 13 runs with a .333 average. If he’s not hitting the ball, he’s walking to first base. He’s registered 10 walks in this time period.
Raul Ibanez – OF - Philadelphia Phillies
With the absence of Ryan Howard and Chase Utley, Ibanez has picked his game up from an awful first half of the season. Hitting .465 with three homers and 13 RBI, Ibanez could bolster your outfield. Just be careful because that .465 is certain to go down.
Juan Pierre – OF - Chicago White Sox
The Sox are still hot, and one of the main reasons is that Pierre has picked up his game. The speedster has knocked in nine runs – pretty good for a leadoff hitter – and has a .339 average over this period. He is getting on base with base hits and walks. When he does, he steals more bases. Six stolen bases in the past two weeks creates runners in scoring position for the rest of the team to knock him home, which means more points for you in the runs category.
Here are three starting pitchers to really take a look at that might be available in your league:
Wandy Rodriguez - Houston Astros
Over the past two weeks, Rodriguez has gone 2-0 with two quality starts. He’s K’d 16 in only 15 innings of work. The only issue with Wandy is the team he is on. The Astros are not good, and they won’t be for the rest of the season. Plus, they just traded away their number-one starter in Roy Oswalt, meaning the Magic Wand might be facing the opposing team’s number-one starter.
Scott Baker - Minnesota Twins
Baker, like Rodriguez, is 2-0 with two quality starts in his past two weeks of work. He had 17 strikeouts in 20 1/3 innings, and he is on a team that is hot with some major bats to help him out.
Kevin Slowey - Minnesota Twins
Another Twins’ starter that enjoyed late July and early August, Slowey is also 2-0 with two QS’s. Like Baker, Slowey appreciates his team’s offensive bite by supporting him with solid run support.
Here are three hitters worth taking a look at:
Dan Uggla - 2B - Florida Marlins
Uggla has turned on the power switch over the past two weeks. Dan hit eight homers while driving in 13 runs with a .333 average. If he’s not hitting the ball, he’s walking to first base. He’s registered 10 walks in this time period.
Raul Ibanez – OF - Philadelphia Phillies
With the absence of Ryan Howard and Chase Utley, Ibanez has picked his game up from an awful first half of the season. Hitting .465 with three homers and 13 RBI, Ibanez could bolster your outfield. Just be careful because that .465 is certain to go down.
Juan Pierre – OF - Chicago White Sox
The Sox are still hot, and one of the main reasons is that Pierre has picked up his game. The speedster has knocked in nine runs – pretty good for a leadoff hitter – and has a .339 average over this period. He is getting on base with base hits and walks. When he does, he steals more bases. Six stolen bases in the past two weeks creates runners in scoring position for the rest of the team to knock him home, which means more points for you in the runs category.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Running the Show
It’s time to take a peak at the running backs.
Here is the first top-15 RBs list for 2010:
1. Chris Johnson - Tennessee Titans
Johnson had one of the greatest seasons in history in 2009 with 16 total TDs and 2006 rushing yards. While those numbers are almost impossible to duplicate, it’s really hard to pick anyone other than CJ.
2. Adrian Peterson - Minnesota Vikings
Brett Favre took points away from Peterson last year by passing much more than Gus Frerotte (remember him?) and Tarvaris Jackson did in 2008 when Peterson had a monster year. Regardless of Favre, All Day is still a fantasy stud and is just below Chris Johnson for the top spot.
3. Maurice Jones–Drew- Jacksonville Jaguars
Still only 25 years old, MJD has had a fantastic start to his career. His TDs have increased from 9 in 2007, to 14 in 2008, to 16 in 2009. Why not more in 2010?
4. Ray Rice - Baltimore Ravens
Netting 1339 rushing yards and seven TDs last season, Rice can simply run the ball. The only question is if Flacco will be passing more often with the arrival of Anquan Bolden.
5. Frank Gore - San Francisco 49ers
Gore is still running for TDs and still an injury risk, but a risk well worth taking. With Michael Crabtree, Ted Ginn, Jr. and Vernon Davis, the running game should open up more, which will get Gore more yards and TDs.
6. Michael Turner - Atlanta Falcons
Although Burner Turner’s number went way down last season (1699 yards and 17 TDs to 871 and 10), his abilities are still amongst the top in the NFL.
7. Stephen Jackson - St. Louis Rams
With the arrival of rookie quarterback Sam Bradford to town, does that mean more carries for Jackson? Fantasy owners hope so.
8. Cedric Benson - Cincinnati Bengals
Don’t call it a comeback…well, yeah, go ahead. Benson had a great 2009 season rushing for 1251 yards and busting through for six TDs. After those awful seasons in Chicago, Benson is back.
9. DeAngelo Williams - Carolina Panthers
Williams’ numbers took a hit in ’09 with Jonathan Stewart receiving more carries. DeAngelo still rushed for 1117 yards and had seven TDs.
10. Rashard Mendenhall - Pittsburgh Steelers
In his first full season with the Steelers, Mendenhall rushed for 1369 yards and had eight TDs. With Big Ben out for the few games at QB, look for the Steelers to attempt to run more to start the season.
11. Chris Wells - Arizona Cardinals
If Matt Leinart, taking over at QB for the retired Kurt Warner, can’t get his accuracy down, the Cards will have to run the ball more. That means more carries for Beanie and more points for you.
12. Ryan Grant - Green Bay Packers
Grant had a nice comeback year in 2009 with 1,253 rushing yards and 11 TDs. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers, however, like to throw the ball more than pass. Grant is still a solid fantasy running, though.
13. Shonn Greene - New York Jets
Greene looked when he had his chance last season. The problem is the Jets brought in Ladainian Tomlinson in the offseason, who will undoubtedly take carries away from Greene, at least early in the season. If LT gets banged up, more carries for Greene.
14. Knowshon Moreno - Denver Broncos
Moreno had a nice rookie year amassing 1160 yards and nine touchdowns. The problem with any Mile High running back is the dreaded running-back-by-comity system that takes away carries. If Moreno could have full-time duties, he could easily be a top-10 fantasy RB.
15. Ryan Mathews - San Diego Chargers
Mathews will be taking over in Chargerland as the new running back. He will be behind a solid o-line, but he is a rookie. A rookie with a ton of potential.
Here is the first top-15 RBs list for 2010:
1. Chris Johnson - Tennessee Titans
Johnson had one of the greatest seasons in history in 2009 with 16 total TDs and 2006 rushing yards. While those numbers are almost impossible to duplicate, it’s really hard to pick anyone other than CJ.
2. Adrian Peterson - Minnesota Vikings
Brett Favre took points away from Peterson last year by passing much more than Gus Frerotte (remember him?) and Tarvaris Jackson did in 2008 when Peterson had a monster year. Regardless of Favre, All Day is still a fantasy stud and is just below Chris Johnson for the top spot.
3. Maurice Jones–Drew- Jacksonville Jaguars
Still only 25 years old, MJD has had a fantastic start to his career. His TDs have increased from 9 in 2007, to 14 in 2008, to 16 in 2009. Why not more in 2010?
4. Ray Rice - Baltimore Ravens
Netting 1339 rushing yards and seven TDs last season, Rice can simply run the ball. The only question is if Flacco will be passing more often with the arrival of Anquan Bolden.
5. Frank Gore - San Francisco 49ers
Gore is still running for TDs and still an injury risk, but a risk well worth taking. With Michael Crabtree, Ted Ginn, Jr. and Vernon Davis, the running game should open up more, which will get Gore more yards and TDs.
6. Michael Turner - Atlanta Falcons
Although Burner Turner’s number went way down last season (1699 yards and 17 TDs to 871 and 10), his abilities are still amongst the top in the NFL.
7. Stephen Jackson - St. Louis Rams
With the arrival of rookie quarterback Sam Bradford to town, does that mean more carries for Jackson? Fantasy owners hope so.
8. Cedric Benson - Cincinnati Bengals
Don’t call it a comeback…well, yeah, go ahead. Benson had a great 2009 season rushing for 1251 yards and busting through for six TDs. After those awful seasons in Chicago, Benson is back.
9. DeAngelo Williams - Carolina Panthers
Williams’ numbers took a hit in ’09 with Jonathan Stewart receiving more carries. DeAngelo still rushed for 1117 yards and had seven TDs.
10. Rashard Mendenhall - Pittsburgh Steelers
In his first full season with the Steelers, Mendenhall rushed for 1369 yards and had eight TDs. With Big Ben out for the few games at QB, look for the Steelers to attempt to run more to start the season.
11. Chris Wells - Arizona Cardinals
If Matt Leinart, taking over at QB for the retired Kurt Warner, can’t get his accuracy down, the Cards will have to run the ball more. That means more carries for Beanie and more points for you.
12. Ryan Grant - Green Bay Packers
Grant had a nice comeback year in 2009 with 1,253 rushing yards and 11 TDs. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers, however, like to throw the ball more than pass. Grant is still a solid fantasy running, though.
13. Shonn Greene - New York Jets
Greene looked when he had his chance last season. The problem is the Jets brought in Ladainian Tomlinson in the offseason, who will undoubtedly take carries away from Greene, at least early in the season. If LT gets banged up, more carries for Greene.
14. Knowshon Moreno - Denver Broncos
Moreno had a nice rookie year amassing 1160 yards and nine touchdowns. The problem with any Mile High running back is the dreaded running-back-by-comity system that takes away carries. If Moreno could have full-time duties, he could easily be a top-10 fantasy RB.
15. Ryan Mathews - San Diego Chargers
Mathews will be taking over in Chargerland as the new running back. He will be behind a solid o-line, but he is a rookie. A rookie with a ton of potential.
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