RotoBuzz -- Fantasy Baseball

Monday, May 29, 2006

What's the Buzz? 5/29/06

Happy Memorial Day to everyone...

Kansas City continues to amuse me as their closer situation remains murky and cloudy at best. Tonight, despite giving up a home run, Ambiorix Burgos got the save. Elmer Dessens is out of the role and still no shot for Andy Sisco. Burgos is a shaky option at best for your fantasy team.
The Royals outfield just got a little crowded as David DeJesus is back and Shane Costa has played his way back into a role. Costa will probably split time with Emil Brown while every once in a while spelling Reggie Sanders. It's bad enough if you're relying on the Royals OF for your fantasy team, but now everyone's at bats will be reduced.
And more for K.C. as Runelvys Hernanderz was optioned to AAA today. Another session for him to work on his mechanics, I suppose. Seth Etherton should remain in the rotaion as his replacement.
All of the closer drama may require it's own article, but for now, here's the latest: Arizona's Jose Valverde blew the save against the Mets tonight and looked pretty awful doing it throwing some bad pitches on good counts. He's now given up 9 runs in his last 5 innings and they might be looking to use other options for the time being. Luis Vizcaino is probably next in line, but there's also Brandon Lyon, who has closed for them before, and Brian Medders.
Is it just me or does Jose Valentin of the Mets look like the original Disney cartoon version of Captain Hook?
The Phillies put RHP Jon Lieber on the 15 day DL with a strained left groin. Brian Sanches was brought up for the roster spot but when the extra starter is needed, Eude Brito should be the choice.
Red Sox manager Terry Francona has decided that he wants Coco Crisp to get 10-15 at bats in before he puts him back in the leadoff spot. He wants him to find his groove. Tonight Crisp went 2 for 4 with a home run. I can't wait for him to find his groove.
Don't get too excited about Texas starter John Rheinecker and his 8 1/3 shutout innings against the Mariners. If for some reason he gets to stay in the rotation, his next opponents would be the White Sox and the Red Sox. Need I say more?
Bartolo Colon is scheduled to make the first of his rehab starts on Thursday and barring any setbacks will return to the rotation June 10th.
Some grumblings about a hamstring problem with Roy Oswalt as he was removed after throwing only 91 pitches in 6 scorless innings of a 1-0 game....stay tuned...
The Pirates finally activated 1B Sean Casey today and he gladly rewarded with a 3 for 4 performance with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI.
Be careful if you're relying on Brad Penny at all. The Dodgers starter was upset when he was pulled after 4 1/3 innings and not given the chance to finish the inning after giving up 5 runs. He then said that he was playing hurt and he has a bad back. There's a little red flag for you.
The Phillies Mike Lieberthal was activated today, but Sal Fasano got the start. It is safe to get Lieberthal back in your lineup.
Kerry Wood had a much better start today giving up 1 ER in six innings while striking out 4. It's encouraging, but still needs to be watched closely.
Consider Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter day to day with a mildly sprained wrist. He was removed from the game for precautionary measures, but he will most likely be in Tuesday's lineup.
Indians 3B Aaron Boone is being considered day to day after suffering a concussion when he fell head first in the camera pit chasing down a foul ball. Lou Merloni will take his place for now. It's a shame prospect Andy Marte is hitting under .250 right now or he could make a nice call up.
White Sox DH Jim Thome continues to mash 'em as he belted his 19th and 20th HR today, both 2 run shots. Comeback Player of the Year?
Keep your eye on when it is retroactive to, but the Cardinals are expected to put Chris Carpenter on the 15 day DL. Anthony Reyes will take his spot in the rotation.
As expected, the Blue Jays moved Aaron Hill to short and brought up Edgardo Alfonzo to play second base. Alfonzo didn't play today, but this is the way it will unfold for the rest of the week.
And finally, also for the Jays, A.J. Burnett was moved over to the 60 day DL today which means the earliest he could come back is June 20th. But even that date could be too early.

Catch you next time...