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4:19 PM

Cory Luebke, SP, SD

Luebke weighing options

News: The North County Times reports Padres starting pitcher Cory Luebke has a partially torn UCL in his pitching elbow. However, Luebke is deciding whether or not to rehab the injury for six weeks and then continuing to pitch or opt for surgery.

Analysis: It seems if Luebke has surgery, then Tommy John is the likely option to fix his elbow. That would put him out a calendar year and he would likely miss the start of the 2013 season. If he rehabs, then he's got a chance to return in 2012, but the potential for a setback is still there. Clearly, stash Luebke in Fantasy at your own risk.

11:14 AM

Vance Worley, SP, PHI

Worley can't avoid DL

News: The Phillies scratched starting pitcher Vance Worley from his Wednesday start on Tuesday because of right elbow inflammation. On Wednesday, the Phillies went even further by putting Worley on the 15-day DL. Joe Savery was recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to take Worley's roster spot and Kyle Kendrick will replace Worley in the rotation, starting Wednesday against the Cubs.

Analysis: We were hoping Worley wouldn't need a DL stint, but you can't really be surprised by this move. With pitchers needing elbow surgery left and right these days, the Phillies being cautious with Worley is the right move. Worley is striking out a career-high 9.2 batters per nine innings in 2012 and continues to be a viable Fantasy start when healthy. Some potential replacements while Worley is out include Carlos Zambrano (owned 77 percent of leagues), Edinson Volquez (73 percent), Bud Norris (70 percent), Wei-Yin Chen (48 percent), Christian Friedrich (41 percent), Derek Lowe (44 percent) and Henderson Alvarez (59 percent).

5:08 PM

Matt Kemp, CF, LAD

Kemp may need rehab assignment

News: Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp received a PRP injection on Tuesday, reports the Los Angeles Times on Wednesday. Kemp, who is on the disabled list with a hamstring injury, may be asked by manager Don Mattingly to play in at least one minor league rehab assignment game before returning to the Dodgers when eligible.

Analysis: Kemp doesn't want to stay on the shelf any longer than he has to considering Monday marked the first game he has missed since Aug. 18, 2009. Still, if Mattingly says he needs a rehab assignment, he'll get one. Kemp needs to rest and get back to his usual self once healthy. He is off to another MVP-caliber season this year with 12 homers and a .359 batting average, but should be reserved in all Fantasy formats for now.

5:20 PM

Joe Wieland, SP, SD

Wieland ready to play catch

News: Padres injured starter Joe Wieland, on the disabled list with an elbow injury, is apparently fine and expected to begin playing catch shortly, reports the North County Times. This news comes from manager Bud Black.

Analysis: Wieland may be close to rejoining the San Diego rotation, though there hasn't been any timetable listed for when he'll make his next start. The rookie has pitched to a 4.55 ERA over 27 2/3 innings across five major league starts. He is mostly an NL-only Fantasy option, when healthy, at this point in his career.

5:14 PM

Carlos Quentin, LF, SD

Quentin 'slowed' after injection

News: San Diego outfielder Carlos Quentin has been "slowed" by his knee injury of late, according to Padres manager Bud Black, reports the North County Times Wednesday. Quentin had a cortisone injection on Tuesday. The Padres should have a clearer picture after Friday.

Analysis: Quentin was pulled from a rehab assignment after suffering the setback. The 29-year-old has played in two games for Lake Elsinore and recorded two hits and two RBI during seven at-bats. Black did not indicate when Quentin would be able to rejoin the Padres, however, the team is unlikely to rush him. Fantasy owners should keep Quentin reserved only in deeper formats for now.

3:41 PM

Freddie Freeman, 1B, ATL

Freeman only misses one game

News: Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman returned to the starting lineup Wednesday against the Marlins after missing one game with a slight corneal abrasion. Freeman left Monday's game in the seventh inning after experiencing blurred vision in his right eye.

Analysis: It's good to see that Freeman's eye issue turned out to be a minor one. Still, he heads into Tuesday mired in a 4-for-23 slump, so hopefully the day off let him recharge the batteries and he can go on a nice offensive run. Freeman remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats.

5:10 PM

Lendy Castillo, RP, CHC

Castillo has moderate groin strain

News: The Cubs are sending Lendy Castillo to the doctor on Wednesday, reports MLB.com. Castillo is dealing with a moderate groin strain and may be placed on the disabled list.

Analysis: Castillo has given up six runs over 7 2/3 innings this season with an 0-1 record and a 1.83 WHIP. He's not fared all that well and may be a candidate for the disabled list. In his current role, Castillo has low-end Fantasy value.

5:05 PM

Michael Morse, LF, WAS

Morse makes 60 throws

News: The Washington Times reports Nationals outfielder Michael Morse said he made 60 throws on Wednesday and felt fine.

Analysis: The Nationals are targeting a June 8 return to the lineup for Morse. He still has some hurdles left to clear before returning to the majors, but we hope this time he doesn't suffer any setbacks. Morse is coming off a career year in 2011, when he emerged as a must-start Fantasy option. He still has that potential, which is why you should keep him stashed in all formats.

4:48 PM

Wilson Ramos, C, WAS

Ramos officially done for season

News: Washington catcher Wilson Ramos returned to Nationals Park on Wednesday, reports the Washington Post. Ramos will not have surgery on his knee for another 2-3 weeks and said he has no chance of returning to the field for the Nationals this season. Ramos is going to undergo surgery to fix his ACL.

Analysis: Washington was hesitant to rule Ramos out for the season but Fantasy owners across the board can consider that to be the case now. Ramos' power was just beginning to come around as he clubbed two homers over his past four games prior to the injury. Jesus Flores has taken over behind the plate for Washington in Ramos' absence. Fantasy owners should release Ramos in all seasonal formats.

3:13 PM

Daniel Hudson, SP, ARI

Hudson throws in extended spring

News: Diamondbacks starting pitcher Daniel Hudson (shoulder) threw 54 pitches (32 strikes) in 2 1/3 innings during an extended spring game Wednesday. He allowed two runs on two hits and two walks, while striking out three. "My arm feels great, but my command is not where I want it to be," Hudson said.

Analysis: Hudson is slated to throw a bullpen on Saturday, but it appears he could be close to a rehab assignment with Triple-A Reno. It will be interesting to see how many rehab starts Hudson would need, but it seems he's due to return in the coming weeks. Hudson posted a 6.00 ERA and 1.61 WHIP in his first three starts, but you have to think the injury contributed to those inflated numbers. Remember the pitcher that won 16 games in 2011 and 7 of 11 starts with Arizona in 2010. That's the kind of potential Hudson brings to the table. He's a viable Fantasy start when healthy.

4:37 PM

Logan Morrison, LF, MIA

Morrison sitting against southpaw

News: Miami outfielder Logan Morrison was given Wednesday's game in Atlanta off as the Marlins were facing left-handed starter Mike Minor. Morrison is batting .274 on the season after going 0 for 3 with a walk and two strikeouts on Tuesday against Pittsburgh.

Analysis: Morrison has struggled in May with a .216 average and just one RBI in 37 at-bats. He's really struggled all season as his power numbers are limited with two homers and nine runs driven in. Morrison still needs to sit occasionally to rest his surgically-repaired knee, and should only be active in NL-only Fantasy leagues right now.

4:04 PM

Alex Presley, LF, PIT

Presley demoted to minors

News: The Pirates announced Wednesday that outfielder Alex Presley was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis.

Analysis: This comes as no surprise after Presley lost his starting job in left field because of a poor offensive start. Now, he will get the chance to play every day in the minors and hopefully get his offensive game on track. There's no need to hold onto Presley in Fantasy formats if you need the roster spot.

1:22 PM

Aroldis Chapman, RP, CIN

Chapman managing perfect ERA

News: Reds reliever Aroldis Chapman continues to maintain a perfect ERA through mid-May. The left-handed reliever has started the 2012 season with 18 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing just six hits and five walks in that span. Most impressively, however, is that he has 32 strikeouts. Chapman has four holds and a 3-0 record as well.

Analysis: Sensational is probably the best word to describe Chapman's performance to begin 2012. Despite losing out on a rotation spot this spring, Chapman hasn't sulked and has accepted his role as a left-handed setup man. You would think with this much dominance that Chapman should belong in the closer's role, but as of now Cincinnati likes Sean Marshall in that role. Even without regular save chances, Chapman is the 19th highest Fantasy scoring relief pitcher in Head-to-Head formats and the 27th best scoring pitcher in Rotisserie formats. Needless to say, Chapman is a Fantasy pitcher that needs to be kept active.

12:43 PM

Brandon Phillips, 2B, CIN

Phillips emerging from slump

News: Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips appears to be getting back on track offensively. After battling a hamstring injury that contributed to his batting average dipping to .215, Phillips has hit safely in seven of his last eight games. He's batting .344 (11 for 32) with a .382 OBP, .820 OPS, three doubles and three RBI in that span. Phillips' average has gone up to .252 thanks to his recent surge.

Analysis: Just ask Matt Kemp how a hamstring injury can affect a player's performance. Kemp was killing the ball before developing a hamstring injury in early May and his offense suffered before he went on the DL. Phillips avoided the DL, but now that he's getting past this injury, it has allowed him to get back to playing at a level he's accustomed to. Phillips is still one of the better offensive second basemen in the majors and remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats.

12:10 PM

David Freese, 3B, STL

Freese upbeat amid slump

News: Cardinals third baseman David Freese has seen his average dip to .272 thanks to a 5-for-36 slump in his last 10 games. Despite a rough few weeks, Freese is remaining upbeat. "I'm healthy and I want to get in there and keep grinding it out," Freese said, as reported by FOX Sports Midwest. "Obviously I'm going through a little slump right now but I think it's something everybody goes through. I want to be in there. Sometimes you need a break, but I feel good. I want to be out there, especially with us losing four in a row, I thought I can help this team. I talked to Mike and eventually it worked out."

Analysis: Freese has grounded into five double plays and has struck out eight times in his last 10 games. He has a .148 BABIP in that span as well. "He's just fighting himself," manager Mike Matheny said. "He's just got to stop and breathe a little bit and that was part of the reason I wanted to give him a day to let him breathe but some guys just can't wait to get back in there to try and fix it. We just need to keep pointing out the positives. He's hitting some balls hard, it's just a tough time for him right now." Freese had a great April following a strong postseason run 2011. He has proven he has the talent to be a dynamic hitter and reliable Fantasy option, so hopefully he will break out of this slump.

11:19 AM

Kyle Kendrick, RP, PHI

Kendrick to replace Worley

Analysis: Kendrick should get a few turns through the rotation before Worley is ready for activation. Although, Kendrick is not an upgrade at starter. He is 38-29 with a 4.55 ERA and 1.40 WHIP in 101 career starts. Consider him a stopgap NL-only Fantasy option.

11:15 AM

Joe Savery, RP, PHI

Savery recalled by Phillies

Analysis: Savery has a 3.38 ERA in 12 career MLB outings. He's just bullpen depth foe the Phillies and has marginal Fantasy appeal.

11:05 AM

Mark Ellis, 2B, LAD

Ellis a different hitter in May

News: Dodgers second baseman Mark Ellis homered for the second time in five games Tuesday against the Diamondbacks. He finished 3 for 4 and produced his seventh multi-hit game of the year.

Analysis: Ellis has been much better offensively since the calendar hit May. After batting .247 in April, Ellis opened May with a four-hit game and hasn't looked back. He's batting .333 with two homers, seven RBI, .434 OBP, .511 slugging percentage and .945 OPS in 12 May games. This isn't out of the norm for Ellis. He's had hot streaks like this before. It's just that he will likely cool down at some point, so Fantasy owners in larger formats should ride the hot streak while it lasts.

10:59 AM

A.J. Ellis, C, LAD

Ellis turning into hitting machine

News: Dodgers catcher A.J. Ellis had his fifth multi-hit game in May on Tuesday against the Diamondbacks, going 2 for 4 with one strikeout. Ellis has a five-game hitting streak and is batting .371 (13 for 35) with two homers, two doubles, one triple and eight RBI in 11 May games. The Dodgers did not start Ellis on Wednesday against the Padres.

Analysis: Ellis' hot streak extends past May and into late April. He's batting .389 with a .492 OBP, .574 slugging percentage and 1.066 OPS in his last 17 games. In the last 21 days, Ellis is the sixth-highest scoring Fantasy catcher, beating out the likes of Brian McCann, Jesus Montero, Joe Mauer and Mike Napoli. The question beckons -- Will it last? Ellis has definitely been very lucky in his last 17 games, producing a .463 BABIP. It's unlikely he will keep up his current pace, but that's not to say Ellis can't help Fantasy owners. He hit .310 over four seasons at Triple-A. However, he was more of an average and OBP guy rather than home run hitter in the minors. Ellis screams as a sell-high candidate, but you might as well start him in Fantasy with these kinds of numbers.

10:47 AM

Miguel Montero, C, ARI

Montero's average rising in May

News: Diamondbacks catcher Miguel Montero produced his fourth multi-hit game in May on Tuesday against the Dodgers. After batting .257 in April, Montero is batting .280 with five RBI and 20 strikeouts in May.

Analysis: Montero isn't exactly having the banner year yet we would expect from a player in a contract season. The most disappointing stat is Montero's 36 strikeouts in 33 games. He's never been that bad of a strikeout hitter in his career. The problem for Montero is his lack of contact in 2012. He has a .366 BABIP, so when he is making contact, then his numbers look good. It's just that Montero is swinging and missing at a career-high 13.9 percent and making contact on a career-low 69.6 percent of pitches he swings at. If Montero starts making a little more contact, then his numbers should rise. Montero still has the ability to be a No. 1 Fantasy catcher.

10:37 AM

Willie Bloomquist, SS, ARI

Bloomquist's average worse in May

News: Diamondbacks shortstop Willie Bloomquist had his first three-hit game of the season Tuesday against the Dodgers. All three of his base hits were singles. After hitting .243 in April, Bloomquist is batting just .212 in 11 May games.

Analysis: Bloomquist's bat isn't the reason he continues to start at shortstop for Arizona. His defense has been pretty good thus far and he's clearly a better option than John McDonald. Stephen Drew just began playing in extended spring games and his return could happen in the coming weeks, which would shift Blommquist to a utility role. Bloomquist has marginal Fantasy appeal right now, but that will further dwindle once Drew is active.

10:32 AM

Gerardo Parra, CF, ARI

Parra hits safely in 6 of 7 games

News: Diamondbacks outfielder Gerardo Parra has hit safely in six of his last seven games after going 1 for 4 with one run, one RBI and one walk Tuesday against the Dodgers. Parra is batting .276 (8 for 29) with two RBI and three runs in that seven-game span.

Analysis: Parra is starting regularly in center field with Chris Young on the disabled list. Unfortunately, Young is on a rehab assignment and could return during Fantasy Week 7 (May 14-20), so Parra could be headed back to the bench shortly. The Diamondbacks will still find ways to get him starts, but his PT will be reduced. Parra is just a stopgap Fantasy option while Young is out.

5/15/2012

Troy Tulowitzki, SS, COL

Tulowitzki remains in lineup despite injury

News: With Troy Tulowitzki already challenged to regain his superstar form on offense, the Colorado shortstop was thrown another obstacle Monday night. Tulowitzki -- and the Rockies -- got a scare in the eighth inning when he took a foul ball hit by teammate Dexter Fowler off the left leg while standing in the dugout. "Nothing was broken. Just hit me on the side of my knee," said Tulowitzki. "I'm not a doctor, but I guess there was tendon there and it's just kind of blown up a little bit and sore." Despite the injury, Tulowitzki remained in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Giants. He went 2 for 4 with an RBI and a run scored in the 5-4 win.

Analysis: X-rays on Tulowitzki's knee were negative, but it looks as though he will be able to play through the injury. "All I can tell you is we dodged a serious bullet there," Colorado manager Jim Tracy said. "If that ball would have been a couple of inches left, it might have hit him right in the kneecap. We were really fortunate." Tulowitzki has slumped this month and has not homered since April 27 against the Mets, just his third of the season. Fantasy owners should continue to keep tabs on his health status but keep Tulowitzki active as long as he is in the lineup.

1:12 AM

Tim Lincecum, SP, SF

Lincecum not quality again in ND

News: Giants pitcher Tim Lincecum failed to record a quality start for the third time in a row on Tuesday against the Rockies. He allowed four runs on seven hits over seven innings of work. The right-hander made it through his first three frames unscathed before giving up an RBI single to Troy Tulowitzki in the fourth. He surrendered two more runs in the sixth before Colorado invoked their final damage in the seventh. Lincecum was done after throwing 122 pitches, 80 for strikes, and left in line for the for the loss but luckily his teammates were able to battle back. Lincecum also struck out seven and walked three in the no-decision.

Analysis: Lincecum has given up fewer than three earned runs in just two of his outings thus far and his 5.77 ERA is well below his career 3.08 mark. A lot of that has to do with the fact that he has allowed 46 hits in 43 2/3 innings so keep an eye on his progress going forward. The two-time Cy Young winner should be able to get back on track sooner or later and is still posting impressive strikeout totals so keep Lincecum active in all Fantasy formats. His second start of Week 7 (May 14-20) is scheduled for Sunday against the A's. In two starts against Oakland a year ago, Lincecum went 1-1 with a 1.20 ERA, including throwing a complete game shutout.

1:58 AM

Rafael Betancourt, RP, COL

Betancourt Ks two for seventh save

News: Rockies closer Rafael Betancourt entered Tuesday's series finale against the Giants in the ninth inning with a one-run lead. He gave up a one-out single and issued a two-out walk but was able to make it through the frame unscathed to secure the 5-4 win. Betancourt also struck out two while collecting his seventh save of the season.

Analysis: Betancourt collected his first save since April 25 on Tuesday and has made three straight scoreless appearances after blowing the save on May 2. He is now 7 for 8 in save chances and has struck out 15 in 14 innings pitched. While the Rockies have struggled to wins games thus far, the right-hander is on pace for a career campaign so continue to view Betancourt as a viable option in deeper mixed leagues.

More Player News

1:48 AM

Santiago Casilla, RP, SF

Casilla tagged with second loss

News: Giants reliever Santiago Casilla entered Tuesday's series finale against the Rockies in the ninth inning with the game tied 4-4. The right-hander surrendered a leadoff home run to Marco Scutaro before retiring the next two batters. He was then pulled for Javier Lopez. Unfortunately, his teammates were unable to mount a rally in the bottom of the inning and Casilla took the loss in the 5-4 defeat. It was the second loss of the season for Casilla.

Analysis: Casilla allowed just his third earned run of the season on Tuesday as he was burned by the long ball. He is expected to continue to see save chances in San Francisco, however, so owners need not worry. He has converted 8 of 9 save opportunities thus far so continue to view Casilla as a viable option in deeper mixed leagues.

1:39 AM

J.J. Putz, RP, ARI

Putz throws scoreless outing

News: Diamondbacks closer J.J. Putz tossed a scoreless inning of relief in Tuesday night's contest against the Dodgers. Putz came on in the ninth inning and retired three of the four batters he faced in the non-save situation. He needed only 11 pitches to get through the frame and lowered he lowered his ERA to 8.18 after his outing.

Analysis: While there was no save on the line Tuesday night, manager Kirk Gibson wanted to get the veteran some work. Putz has only made four appearances in May and two of them haven't gone so well as he was tagged for a combined six earned runs in those appearances. However, as long as he continues to get the call when the game is one the line, Putz will continue to have value in most mixed formats. Leave him active in the majority of formats moving forward.

1:30 AM

Wade Miley, SP, ARI

Miley gets back on track

News: Arizona starter Wade Miley picked up his fourth win of the season during Tuesday night's contest against the Dodgers. Miley, who was making his fifth start of the year, allowed just one run on eight hits over 6 2/3 innings in the 5-1 win. The lone run he surrendered came on a Mark Ellis home run in the sixth inning. Miley was pulled after throwing 101 pitches and finished with five strikeouts and one walk, while improving to 4-1 on the year.

Analysis: After turning in a pair of sub-par efforts, Miley was able to get himself back on track Tuesday night. He was able to keep the Dodgers' lineup off balance for most of the night thanks to his superior command of the strike zone, which had been lacking over the past few outings. The left-hander will now look to keep things rolling when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Sunday at Kansas City. Fantasy owners should continue to view Miley as a viable option in deeper mixed and NL-only formats heading into his next outing.

1:21 AM

Chad Billingsley, SP, LAD

Billingsley takes another loss

News: Dodgers starter Chad Billingsley took his third loss of the season during Tuesday night's contest against the Diamondbacks. Billingsley, who was making his eighth start of the year, allowed four runs on eight hits over four innings in the 5-1 defeat. Most of the damage he surrendered came in the fifth inning, including a RBI single off the bat of Justin Upton. He surrendered five straight hits in that frame, which forced him from the contest after throwing just 77 pitches. Billingsley finished with three strikeouts and two walks, while falling to 2-3 on the year.

Analysis: Billingsley only lasted four innings for the second straight start for the Dodgers, but this time was pegged with a loss. The right-hander has now gone six straight starts since his last win and has gone 0-3 with a 5.34 ERA over that stretch to go along with 22 strikeouts and 15 walks. While the 27-year-old got off to such a promising start this year, he has really struggled over the last month, which has left the Dodgers and Fantasy owners scratching their heads. Billingsley is scheduled to make his second start of Week 7 (May 14-20) on Sunday against the Cardinals. He is 1-4 with a 4.65 ERA in seven career starts against St. Louis. Fantasy owners should consider Billingsley more of a mid-range option heading into his next outing.

1:04 AM

Omar Infante, 2B, MIA

Infante keeps on hitting

News: Marlins second basemen Omar Infante registered his first four-hit performance of the season during Tuesday night's contest against the Pirates. All four of his hits went for singles, including his knock in the fourth inning, which brought home a pair of runs. He finished 4 for 5 in the 6-2 win and is now batting .325 on the year.

Analysis: Infante continues to rack up the hits as his 38 hits leads the team. Eighteen of those have gone for extra bases and his .598 slugging percentage also ranks tops in the Marlins' clubhouse. While most have been waiting for Infante's production to slow down a bit, the 30-year-old has been Miami's most consistent hitter all year. As long as he continues to produce, he can continue to be viewed as a solid Fantasy start in the majority of mixed formats.

1:01 AM

Jeremy Guthrie, SP, COL

Guthrie makes return to the mound

News: Rockies pitcher Jeremy Guthrie made his first start since April 22 on Tuesday night against the Giants. After missing time due to a shoulder injury, he allowed an unearned run on four hits over 5 1/3 innings. An error in the third led to his only damage on the outing and he was done after throwing 90 pitches, 50 for strikes. The right-hander left in line for the win but the bullpen was unable to hold the lead. Guthrie also struck out four and walked four in the no-decision.

Analysis: Guthrie was a little wild on Tuesday but did a solid job of limiting the Giants and showed no signs of his injury. He lowered his ERA from 5.92 to 4.85 on the outing and has had just two rough starts thus far. The 33-year-old will likely continue to have ups and downs in his first season in the NL and should continue to be viewed as more of a low-end option in Fantasy. His next start -- and second of Week 7 (May 14-20) -- is scheduled for Sunday against the Mariners. In one start against Seattle a year ago, Guthrie gave up three runs (zero earned) over eight innings in the loss.

12:49 AM

Hanley Ramirez, 3B, MIA

Ramirez racking up hits

News: Marlins third basemen Hanley Ramirez registered his second straight multi-hit performance during Tuesday night's contest against the Pirates. Ramirez collected three hits in the 6-2 win, including a pair of RBI doubles. He also added a single later in the contest and finished 3 for 4 with a pair of runs driven in.

Analysis: Ramirez has now put together a modest four-game hitting streak for the Marlins and is batting .412 with a home run and four RBI over that stretch. While his production has been much more consistent in May, Ramirez has struggled to hit for average during the first six weeks of the season. Even with his latest hot spurt, he is batting only .274 for the month and has posted a .279 on-base percentage over that stretch. However, as long as he continues to produce runs, Ramirez can continue to be viewed as a high-end option in all formats moving forward.

12:33 AM

Rob Johnson, C, NYM

Johnson still bothered by thumb

News: Mets catcher Rob Johnson was not in the starting lineup for Tuesday night's contest against the Brewers as he continues to deal with a sore left thumb. He is being considered day to day with his injury.

Analysis: Johnson continues to split time behind the plate with Mike Nickeas, while Josh Thole continues to recover from a concussion. While he should be able return to the lineup in a few days, Johnson doesn't have much Fantasy value, even when healthy.

12:23 AM

D.J. Carrasco, RP, NYM

Carrasco ejected for hitting Braun

News: Mets reliever D.J. Carrasco was ejected from Tuesday night's contest against the Brewers after hitting in the seventh inning of the 8-0 win. Carrasco, who had just served up a solo home run to Rickie Weeks, hit Braun with his very next pitch, which resulted in his ejection. "I didn't like it. I don't understand it," Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said.

Analysis: Carrasco denied hitting Braun intentionally after the game, but Cole Hammel most likely ensured no pitcher will admit to hitting a batter on purpose anymore. However, this is likely the farthest this incident will go and Carrasco will be back pitching in the Mets bullpen on Wednesday. As merely a middle reliever, Carrasco's Fantasy value should be limited to the deepest of NL-only formats that reward true middle men moving forward.

12:14 AM

Trevor Cahill, SP, ARI

Cahill's shoulder feeling good

News: Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson said pitcher Trevor Cahill had a "little different feeling" in his shoulder after his last start, but felt good during his bullpen session on Tuesday. Cahill, who allowed four runs on six hits over 5 2/3 innings in his last outing, is scheduled to start on Thursday against the Rockies.

Analysis: This is the first we are hearing anything about Cahill's shoulder, but based on Gibson's remarks on Tuesday, it doesn't sound like it is much of an issue. However, this is something Fantasy owners should keep an eye on moving forward, just in case it does become one. The right-hander has lost four of his last five starts for Arizona and has posted a 4.65 ERA over that stretch. Cahill is 1-1 with a 6.55 ERA in two career starts against the Rockies. Consider him a mid-range Fantasy option heading into his next outing.

12:10 AM

Jason Giambi, 1B, COL

Giambi dealing with sore foot

News: The Denver Post reported on Tuesday that first baseman Jason Giambi has been dealing with a sore foot. Giambi has not started a game since May 9.

Analysis: The Rockies planned on giving Giambi about 35 starts this season as Todd Helton is no spring chicken himself. This injury does not appear to be serious and he should still be available to pinch-hit. While Giambi still has some pop left at age 41, continue to ignore him in all but the deepest of NL-only formats, healthy or not.

12:02 AM

Stephen Drew, SS, ARI

Drew progressing toward return

News: Diamondbacks shortstop Stephen Drew (ankle) went 2 for 4 with a double in nine innings in an extended spring training game on Tuesday, reports MLB.com. It was the first time that Drew has played nine innings since starting to rehab. He is scheduled to play another nine innings in another extended spring training game on Thursday. "You can just tell his gait is less of a limp right now," D-backs manager Kirk Gibson said after watching a video of Drew's performance. "He's definitely coming along."

Analysis: Drew continues to progress through his recovery from a broken left ankle and is expected to start a minor-league rehab assignment on Sunday for Triple-A Reno. That is barring any setbacks of course, so Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his rehab moving forward. The 29-year-old has some decent pop for a shortstop so keep him stashed away in deeper mixed leagues until he is able to return.

5/15/2012

Takashi Saito, RP, ARI

Saito throws bullpen session

News: Diamondbacks reliever Takashi Saito, on the 15-day disabled list with a calf injury, threw a bullpen session on Tuesday, reports MLB.com. It was the first time Saito has thrown since suffering a setback while on a rehab assignment with Class A Visalia back on April 21.

Analysis: Saito reported no issues after his outing, but still has a ton of hurdles to get over before he is ready to return. He will likely need at least a few more rehab outings before that happens, so Fantasy owners shouldn't be expecting to see him back with the Diamondbacks anytime soon. Keep an eye on his status moving forward. Still, as a middle reliever, Saito will have just marginal Fantasy appeal when healthy.

5/15/2012

Chris Young, CF, ARI

Young may return before Sunday

News: Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson told reporters there is an "outside shot" outfielder Chris Young could return before the team completes its road trip on Sunday. Young, on the 15-day disabled list with a shoulder injury, went 1 for 4 in a rehab start with Class A Visalia on Monday.

Analysis: Young is expected to play for Visalia on Tuesday and Wednesday before heading to Triple-A Reno. However, it sounds as if the Diamondbacks may bring him back after a few more appearances in Class A, assuming he doesn't suffer a setback. Fantasy owners should keep an eye his status throughout the week. Young can be considered a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.

5/15/2012

Joaquin Arias, SS, SF

Arias leaves after HBP

News: Giants infielder Joaquin Arias left Tuesday's game against the Rockies in the fourth inning after getting hit by a pitch. The pitch hit him on the left forearm and he was replaced by Charlie Culberson. Arias went 0 for 1 before the early exit. X-rays came back negative on his forearm and his injury is being considered a contusion.

Analysis: Arias was recently named the starting third baseman with Pablo Sandoval on the DL so hopefully this injury does not cost him too much playing time. He is batting .250 with five RBI in 17 games this season so keep an eye on his progress going forward. Arias should be considered a low-end option in NL-only formats, when healthy.

5/15/2012

Kevin Correia, SP, PIT

Correia hit hard in loss

News: Pirates starter Kevin Correia was hit hard during Tuesday night's contest against the Marlins. Correia, who was making his seventh start of the year, allowed a season-high six runs on eight hits over 3 2/3 innings in the 6-2 loss. Most of the damage he surrendered came in the fourth inning as the Marlins scored five times in the frame, including on a two-run single off the bat of Omar Infante. Coreia was pulled after throwing 67 pitches and finished with four walks and one strikeout, while falling to 1-4 on the year.

Analysis: Correia was roughed up again on Tuesday night as the Marlins hit him early and often. While the right-hander has gotten off to a decent start this season, he lost four straight starts and posted a 6.55 ERA over that stretch to go along with just five strikeouts and 12 walks. Correia will look to get himself back on track when he makes his second start of Fantasy Week 7 (May 14-2), which is scheduled for Sunday at Detroit. Despite beating the Tigers in his lone start against them last season, owners should consider the 31-year-old merely a low-end option in deeper NL-only formats heading into next outing.

5/15/2012

Josh Johnson, SP, MIA

Johnson finally back in win column

News: Marlins starter Josh Johnson was able to earn his first win in over a year during Tuesday night's contest against the Pirates. Johnson, whose last win came in April 2011, allowed two runs on six hits over seven innings in the 6-2 win, including a solo home run off the bat Michael McKenry in the seventh inning. He was pulled after throwing 99 pitches and finished with six strikeouts and one walk, while improving to 1-3 on the year. "It's all about location," he said. "I can throw 88 to 92, and if the fastball's down, it's just as effective as throwing 95 or 96 and being a little more up."

Analysis: Johnson was finally able to snap his winless streak on Tuesday night, which spanned over 13 starts dating back to last season. The big right-hander has now turned in two straight quality starts for the Marlins as he has been able to use his slider more effectively, which was an issue for him earlier in the year. He will now look to pick up his second win when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Sunday at Cleveland. While Johnson has never faced the Indians, he is 6-2 with a 3.38 ERA in 13 career interleague starts. Fantasy owners should roll with the 28-year-old as a high-end option heading into his next outing.

5/15/2012

Travis Ishikawa, 1B, MIL

Ishikawa shows off power

News: Brewers first basemen Travis Ishikawa hit a pair of home runs and drove in a career-high five runs during Tuesday night's contest against the Mets. Both of Ishikawa's home runs came off starter Dillon Gee, including his three-run blast in the sixth inning. He also added a solo shot in the first and finished 3 for 4 with five RBI and two runs scored in the 8-0 win.

Analysis: Ishikawa has been seeing starts at first base with Mat Gamel sidelined and has taken advantage of his increased at-bats. He is hitting .470 with two home runs and six RBI over his last seven games and has seen his batting average jump to .260 over that stretch. Still, until Ishikawa proves he can remain productive over long stretches, his value should remain that of a NL-only option.

5/15/2012

Rickie Weeks, 2B, MIL

Weeks homers in return

News: Brewers second basemen Rickie Weeks, who was back in the starting lineup for Tuesday's contest against the Mets, after missing the previous two games with a pair of minor issues, snapped an 0-for-21 skid with a solo home run in the seventh inning of the 8-0 win. However, that would be his only hit of the contest as he finished 1 for 5 with three strikeouts.

Analysis: Weeks was able to return to the starting lineup on Tuesday, so it appears he is over his hand and wrist issues. Now the 29-year-old needs to find a way to snap out of his season-long slump. Weeks had just three hits over his previous 35 at-bats entering Tuesday's game, but finally was able to hit his first home run in May. Still, his three strikeouts now gives him 43 on the year -- third most in the National League -- and he is batting just .159 on the year. Fantasy owners may want to think about leaving Weeks reserved until he finally breaks out of his slump.

5/15/2012

Brian McCann, C, ATL

McCann homers in second inning

News: Braves catcher Brian McCann put an end to Johnny Cueto's lengthy scoreless innings streak on Tuesday night against the Reds. McCann homered off Cueto in the second inning and the wheels came off from there for the Cincinnati starter. McCann went 2 for 3 with a walk in the game and the home run was his sixth of the year. He's batting .243 for Atlanta.

Analysis: McCann isn't having the best May, but hopefully can start turning things around with hits in three of his last four games. Still, the power-hitting backstop already has six homers and 21 RBI and should remain active in all mixed Fantasy formats at a very thin position.

5/15/2012

Michael Bourn, CF, ATL

Bourn records another three-hit game

News: Braves outfielder Michael Bourn recorded his third three-hit game in his last five games on Tuesday night against the Reds. Bourn went 3 for 5 with three singles and scored twice in the Atlanta victory. Bourn has been on a tear at the plate and is batting .340 on the year.

Analysis: Bourn has gone 12 for 27 (.444) over a five-game hitting streak with six runs scored, a double, a triple, a homer and three RBI. The only thing he hasn't done well over that streak is steal bases, though he's up to 11 on the year in that department. Bourn continues to hit, and can be used in most mixed Fantasy leagues at this time.

5/15/2012

Dillon Gee, SP, NYM

Gee roughed up by Brewers

News: Mets starter Dillon Gee was roughed up a bit during Tuesday night's contest against the Brewers. Gee allowed a season-high seven runs on eight hits over 5 1/3 innings in the 8-0 defeat, including a pair of home runs off the bat of Travis Ishikawa in the second and sixth innings. He was pulled after throwing just 81 pitches and finished with four strikeouts and one walk, while falling to 2-3 on the year.

Analysis: Gee was hit hard on Tuesday night as the Brewers were able to chase the right-hander from the game in the sixth inning. He has now allowed 11 earned runs over his last two starts and failed to get through the sixth inning in both of those outings. The knock on Gee has been his in ability to string quality starts together and that trend has continued for the most part this season. Fantasy owners should continue to view the 26-year-old as merely a NL-only option when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Sunday at Toronto. Gee has never faced the Blue Jays, but has gone 1-2 with a 5.82 ERA in three career interleague starts.

5/15/2012

Johnny Cueto, SP, CIN

Cueto has worst outing in a while

News: Reds starter Johnny Cueto was subject to his shortest outing of the season on Tuesday night in Atlanta. The Braves weren’t fooled by Cueto for a second beginning with Brian McCann homering in the second inning to end the starter’s scoreless innings streak at 13. Things only got worse from there for Cueto, who lasted just four innings and took the loss to fall to 4-1 and drop his first decision of the season. Cueto allowed six runs – five earned – on eight hits and two walks over four innings. He needed 82 pitches to go that distance. Cueto struck out two batters and his ERA grew to 1.89 with the poor performance. "It's been a while," Cueto said of his first rough start of the season. "I don't think anything was wrong. I was feeling really well. All my pitches we good. It's just part of the game. It's the way it goes."

Analysis: Cueto had been fantastic on the season for the Reds prior to Tuesday’s poor outing against the Braves. In fact, Cueto allowed greater than three earned runs for just the first time since Sept. 2, 2011 at St. Louis when he gave up five runs. Cueto gave up more runs Tuesday than in his five previous starts combined. Still, he’s been going great and should bounce right back for the Reds in his second start of Week 7 (May 14-20). Of course, that is a tough start in New York during interleague play against the Yankees. Still, Cueto can remain active in most mixed Fantasy formats.

5/15/2012

Tim Hudson, SP, ATL

Hudson cruises for second win

News: Braves starter Tim Hudson probably thought he’d be locked in a pitching duel with Cincinnati’s Johnny Cueto on Tuesday night. Instead, Cueto struggled and left after just four innings and Hudson cruised to victory to improve to 2-1 on the season. Hudson was sharp throughout most of the start, only coming undone a bit in his final inning of work with his only two runs allowed. Hudson surrendered the two earned runs on nine base hits and two walks over seven solid innings. He struck out three through 98 pitches and his ERA is now at 3.96 on the year with the win. "I'm feeling better each time out," Hudson said. "Every week that passes by I feel like I'm getting a little healthier. I'm really not concerned with it. I feel like I'm as healthy now as I have been in a really long time."

Analysis: Hudson has now allowed just three earned runs in his last two starts combined as he’s completely bounced back from the six earned he allowed on May 4 at Colorado in just his second start of the season. Hudson won his debut, but Tuesday was his first win since after he got off to a late start on the season. Still, Hudson has looked very good of late and should be worth starting in most mixed Fantasy leagues going forward. He will get a second start in Week 7 (May 14-20) and that comes on Sunday at Tampa Bay during interleague play. Hudson won’t have to hit and should remain active in most mixed formats.

5/15/2012

Zack Greinke, SP, MIL

Greinke blows past Mets

News: Brewers starter Zack Greinke tossed seven shutout innings during Tuesday night's contest against the Mets. Greinke, who was making his eighth start of the season, limited New York to just five hits in the 8-0 win. He did not allow any Met to advance past second base and was pulled after throwing 104 pitches. Greinke finished with seven strikeouts, while improving to 4-1 on the year. "Control's been good, the last two starts. That's the main key," Greinke said. "It's mainly just being able to throw quality strikes."

Analysis: Greinke turned in another gem on Tuesday night as the right-hander appears to be settling into a nice groove. He has not allowed a run in each of his last two starts and has racked up 18 strikeouts without issuing a walk over that stretch. Greinke will now look to keep things rolling when he makes his second start of Fantasy Week 7 (May 14-2), which is scheduled for Sunday against the Twins. While the right-hander has posted a 4.96 ERA in 20 career appearances -- 16 starts -- against Minnesota, Fantasy owners should continue to roll with him in all formats, while he is pitching lights out.

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5/15/2012

Brad Lincoln, RP, PIT

Lincoln moving back to bullpen

News: As expected, Pirates reliever Brad Lincoln will be moved back to the bullpen manager Clint Hurdle confirmed to reporters on Tuesday. Lincoln allowed two runs over six innings, while making a spot start for Pittsburgh on Monday. “I’m not getting that far ahead of myself,” Pirates manager Clint Hurdle told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. “I think we need to take things pretty much as they come. This is the best we’ve ever seen him. We’ve got five starters who are pretty competitive right now. He gives us great depth across the board.”

Analysis: This move shouldn't come as much of a surprise as the Pirates had said all along that Lioncoln would be moved back to the bullpen following his start on Monday. However, the right-hander pitched so well in his outing that he might have secured his position as the team's spot starter for immediate future. The right-hander is 3-0 with a 1.33 ERA on the season and has registered 19 strikeouts and seven walks over that stretch. Still, as merely a middle reliever, Lincoln's value should remain in deeper NL-only formats that reward true middle men moving forward.

5/15/2012

Erik Bedard, SP, PIT

Bedard ready for Wednesday start

News: Pirates pitcher Erik Bedard is ready to take the mound for his start on Wednesday against the Nationals, reports the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Bedard, who was pushed back two days after his back locked up in his previous start, threw a bullpen session without incident on Monday. He is 2-4 with a 2.57 ERA on the season.

Analysis: Bedard has been receiving treatment on his back over the past few days and has been ruled good to go for his start on Wednesday night. The left-hander has surrendered two runs or less in all seven of his starts this season and racked up 37 strikeouts over that stretch. He has managed to pick up a win in two of his last three outings and can be considered viable low-end option in deeper formats now that he appears to be healthy.

5/15/2012

Gregor Blanco, CF, SF

Blanco tabbed as starting right fielder

News: Giants manager Bruce Bochy told the San Francisco Chronicle on Tuesday that Gregor Blanco is his starting right fielder right now. Blanco has gone 12 for 34 (.353) with one homer, five RBI and two stolen bases through 11 games in May.

Analysis: Blanco has started four straight games for the Giants and is beginning to pick up his production after a slow April. He won a spot on the roster with a hot spring and appears to be an everyday starter for the time being. While he does not have much pop, Blanco's speed and ability to hit for average makes him valuable in Fantasy. Consider adding the 28-year-old in NL-only formats at this point.

5/15/2012

Jeff Karstens, SP, PIT

Karstens to throw a sim game

News: Pirates pitcher Jeff Karstens, on the 15-day disabled list with shoulder inflammation, is scheduled to throw a one-inning simulated game on Wednesday, reports the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. “I want to see a little more intensity from him in the ‘sim’ game,” pitching coach Ray Searage said. “Then, I want to see how he bounces back from that on Friday in a side session.”

Analysis: Karstens continues to inch his back toward a return for the Pirates and will head out on a minor-league rehab assignment with Double-A Altoona next week, assuming all goes well during his sim game. Fantasy owners should continue and monitor the right-hander's status moving forward. Karstens was 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA in three starts before landing on the shelf. He can be considered a viable option in NL-only formats once he is activated.

5/15/2012

Ike Davis, 1B, NYM

Davis working through slump

News: Mets first basemen Ike Davis continues to work through his struggles at the plate. Davis entered Tuesday night's contest against the Brewers hitting a league-worst .057 and has only one hit at Citi Field since April 23. "I mean, if you just took my road numbers, I'd be doing decent this year," he said of his early-season stat line. "I haven't found a hole at home. I haven't hit a home run here. Obviously, it's going to change. I'm not going to go 0-for-the-season at home. Eventually, I'll start getting some hits here, too."

Analysis: Davis is hitting .258 on the road this season and all five of his long balls have come away from home. However, the 25-year-old insists that he is not pressing and added it should only be a matter of time before he starts putting everything together at the plate. "Obviously, I want to play better, but it's not the frustration that's holding me back," he said. "I'm just trying to work and have good at-bats. Lately, I've felt like I've had good at-bats. I'm just not hitting the ball where I want to or as hard as I want to. ... I haven't found a hole yet this year." Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how Davis fares over the next few weeks. While he does have some decent pop, owners may want to leave Davis reserved until he gets himself back on track.

5/15/2012

Dexter Fowler, CF, COL

Fowler still unable to start for Rox

News: Rockies outfielder Dexter Fowler was out of the lineup for the second straight day on Tuesday against the Giants. He left Sunday's contest due to blurred vision but played an inning in the field Monday after injury cleared up.

Analysis: Fowler appears to be over his injury and should return to the lineup soon so keep an eye on his progress going forward. But since he has gone just 4 for 25 (.160) with four RBI through nine games in May, Fowler should be considered a low-end Fantasy option, when healthy.

5/15/2012

Jonny Venters, RP, ATL

Venters struggling with sinker

News: Braves reliever Jonny Venters has been battling some inconsistency with his sinker, reports the Atlanta Journal Constitution Tuesday. The sinker cost him two runs and a loss on Monday against Cincinnati.

Analysis: Venters has been working with his pitching coach to correct his sinker issues. He's allowed three earned runs in his last 2 1/3 innings, which is uncharacteristic for Venters. Venters is not the closer for Atlanta, however, so his current role in the bullpen dictates he be used only in Fantasy leagues that reward for holds.

5/15/2012

Will Venable, RF, SD

Venable narrowly misses cycle

News: San Diego outfielder Will Venable finished a home run shy of the cycle during the Padres' 6-1 victory over Washington on Tuesday. Venable went 4 for 5 with a single, a double and a triple in his first three at-bats before striking out against Nationals reliever Tom Gorzelanny in the sixth inning. He then laced an RBI single in the eighth inning to complete the fifth four-hit outing of his career and improve his batting average to .280.

Analysis: Venable has the potential to be a fine Fantasy contributor, but he severely lacks consistency and entered Tuesday's matchup hitting just .255. The 29-year-old, who also stole a base for the fifth time this season, has not received everyday playing time because of his prolonged stretches without a hit. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end reserve option in NL-only formats at this point.

5/15/2012

Bryce Harper, LF, WAS

Harper blasts off again

News: Washington outfielder Bryce Harper went 1 for 4 with a home run during the Nationals' 6-1 loss to San Diego on Tuesday. Harper homered for the second time in as many days as he drilled a solo homer off Padres starter Anthony Bass in the fifth inning. The shot extended his hitting streak to three games and gave him five RBI through his first 16 games in the majors. He is now carrying a .233 batting average.

Analysis: Harper is starting to show the power many hoped he would display immediately upon his promotion to Washington and is sporting a slugging percentage of .433. His strikeout rate has jumped as pitchers around the league learn the 19-year-old's tendencies and he has amassed seven strikeouts over his past seven games. He still holds great potential and should be viewed as a mid-range option in most Fantasy formats for now.

5/15/2012

Freddy Galvis, 2B, PHI

Galvis blossoming in May

News: Philadelphia shortstop Freddy Galvis went 0 for 3 with a walk during the Phillies' 4-3 win over Houston on Tuesday. Galvis, who is starting at second base for Chase Utley while he continues to rehab his knee, has now reached base in six consecutive games. His hitless outing Tuesday was just the second time during that six-game span that he has failed to record a hit as his batting average dipped back to .225 on the season. "I just try to do my job, try to play for the team," Galvis told MLB.com. "I just try to play hard every day."

Analysis: Already hailed as a defensive standout prior to the season, there were concerns about Galvis' production at the plate. The 22-year-old has plenty of speed, but opened the year -- and his career -- 0 for 12. But he has rebounded in May and is hitting .300 during the second month. He also ranks third on the team with 15 RBI. "He was hitting fly balls mostly because he was digging under," manager Charlie Manuel said. "Right now, he had a good night where he popped some balls." If Galvis is able to sustain his recent surge, he could be worth an addition in NL-only Fantasy formats.

5/15/2012

Chris Heisey, LF, CIN

Heisey getting more looks

News: Reds outfielder Chris Heisey made his third straight start on Tuesday at Atlanta, reports the Cincinnati Enquirer. It is only the second time he's started three games in a row. He's been splitting time with Ryan Ludwick in left field. “It was a better matchup with Ludwick,” manager Dusty Baker said. “But we’ve been waiting on somebody in left field to have some good days. You want to build on what Heisey did yesterday." Heisey went 3 for 3 with an RBI and two doubles on Monday against Atlanta. “That was his best day of year,” Baker said. “He tends to be streaky. Hopefully, he’s starting a good streak.”

Analysis: Ludwick is also struggling at the plate and Heisey has the opportunity to win more playing time with some solid performances. To this point, only Monday's 3-for-3 performance stands out in his last 10 games. He'll need more like that or the team will go right back to Ludwick, who still is considered the predominant option in left. Heisey has just NL-only Fantasy value at this time.

5/15/2012

Gaby Sanchez, 1B, MIA

Slumping Sanchez making better contact

News: Marlins first basemen Gaby Sanchez was replaced in the starting lineup by Gregg Dobs for Tuesday night's contest against the Pirates. Sanchez entered Tuesday's contest with just three hits over his last 20 at-bats (.150), but manager Ozzie Guillen said he this is just a temporary move. "Just play him today, get him some at-bats, put some at-bats together and give Gaby a break," Guillen said. "Gaby's swinging the bat a little bit better now." The last couple of games he's been swinging the bat a little bit better." Sanchez has just two RBI over his last 11 games.

Analysis: Sanchez's struggles at the date actually go back as far as last season. After hitting .293 in the first half, he hit just .225 over his final 65 games and unfortunately seen his struggles carry over to this year. “It’s just one of those things,” Sanchez said. “I just got to keep going, make better contact. Everybody goes through it one time or another. A lot of guys in the league are going through the same thing. It’s tough.” Despite his struggles at the plate, Guillen said he has no plans of taking Gaby out of the lineup for an extended period of time so he will remain the Marlins everyday first baseman. However, Fantasy owners may want to leave him reserved until he gets himself going at the plate.

5/15/2012

Hunter Pence, RF, PHI

Pence atones for mistake

News: Philadelphia outfielder Hunter Pence finished 3 for 5 with a pair of solo home runs, including the game-winner, during the Phillies' 4-3 victory over Houston on Tuesday. After bobbling a throw in the ninth inning, Pence crushed a home run off Astros closer Brett Myers in the 10th inning to give Philadelphia its first three-game winning streak of the season. Pence also went deep off Jordan Lyles in the sixth inning.

Analysis: Pence's error in right field while trying to make a throw home allowed Houston to tie it with two outs in the ninth inning, but he quickly redeemed himself for the mistake. "I felt horrible that it happened," Pence said. "The team really picked me up." The struggling 29-year-old increased his home run total to nine with his second multihomer outing of the season. Keep him active in all Fantasy formats as he appears to be heating up.

5/15/2012

Tyler Greene, 2B, STL

Greene snaps 0-for-17 skid

News: Cardinals infielder Tyler Greene stopped an 0-for-17 skid with three hits, including a double and triple Tuesday against the Cubs. 'Today was a good day. It was good for the team to get the win and end this little funk we've been in,'' Greene said. ''You just keep working, keep pushing. You've got to believe in it and have confidence in it.''

Analysis: Greene's inability to produce offensively has put him in a timeshare situation at second base with Daniel Descalso and Skip Schumaker. Despite the three-hit game, Greene has marginal Fantasy appeal.

5/15/2012

J.D. Martinez, LF, HOU

Martinez snaps out of funk

News: Houston outfielder J.D. Martinez went 2 for 4 with a pair of singles during the Astros' 4-3 loss at Philadelphia on Tuesday. Martinez's hits halted a seven-game hitless streak and marked his first multihit performance since April 25. He entered the matchup in a 1-for-33 skid over his past 11 games. He has been dropped in the batting order and slotted sixth in the lineup while raising his batting average to .231 on the season.

Analysis: At last, Martinez out an end to his woeful hitless skid. The 24-year-old became one of the most sought-after players in CBSSports.com Fantasy leagues when he opened the season with a nine-game hitting streak, but wiped out that start with an .038 batting average and .107 on-base percentage in May. Fantasy owners should monitor his progress as this could be the spark to get him going again at the plate.

5/15/2012

Yadier Molina, C, STL

Molina extends streak with game winner

News: Yadier Molina hit an RBI single off Cubs closer Rafael Dolis with two outs in the ninth inning and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Chicago Cubs, 7-6, Tuesday, avoiding a sweep and an 0-5 homestand. Molina's grounder to the right side deflected off Darwin Barney's glove and rolled into shallow right field, and Matt Holliday scored without a play.

Analysis: The game-winning hit Tuesday extended Molina's hitting streak to seven games. Molina is 9 for 29 (.310) with four RBI and three doubles during that span. Molina is off to a solid start in 2012 and showing why he was handed a long-term deal. Continue to roll with Molina as a No. 1 Fantasy catcher.

5/15/2012

Chad Qualls, RP, PHI

Qualls loses another lead

News: Philadelphia relief pitcher Chad Qualls (1-1) gave up two runs and four hits while recording only two outs in the ninth inning during the Phillies' 4-3 victory over Houston on Tuesday. Qualls was unable to protect a 3-1 lead after starter Cliff Lee departed and blew his fourth save of the season. He was booed off the mound for his latest miscue and wasting Lee's stellar effort in which he was in line for his first win of the year.

Analysis: Qualls was reportedly plagued by a knee injury earlier this month, but the Phillies disputed the claim and his already made seven appearances in May. But the right-hander has hardly been reliable despite his seven holds and owns a 4.05 ERA for the season. All of his blown saves have come in the past eight games. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end option in deeper NL-only formats for now.

5/15/2012

Allen Craig, 1B, STL

Craig not slowing down

News: Cardinals outfielder Allen Craig produced a third straight multi-hit game Tuesday against the Cubs. He went 3 for 4 with two RBI and one walk. Craig is 11 for 25 (.440) with three homers and nine RBI during a six-game hitting streak.

Analysis: Craig might be the hottest hitter in the majors not named Josh Hamilton. All Craig has done since coming off the DL on May 1 is hit. He has seven multi-hit games, five homers and a .404 batting average in 12 games this season. You have to start Craig in all Fantasy formats while he is hitting lights out.

5/15/2012

Matt Holliday, LF, STL

Holliday racking up Fantasy points

News: Matt Holliday put the Cardinals ahead with his seventh homer in the fifth inning Tuesday against the Cubs, a drive to left estimated at 445 feet. He also singled in the first and is 6 for 29 against Paul Maholm but with three homers and six RBI. Holliday finished 3 for 4 with three runs and one walk.

Analysis: Holliday has six multi-hit games in May, including a pair of three-hit performances. He's batting .365 with two homers, 11 RBI and 15 runs in 14 May games. Holliday continues to fill up the stat sheet for Fantasy owners and remains a must-start option.

5/15/2012

Brett Myers, RP, HOU

Myers stuck in rough patch

News: Houston starting pitcher Brett Myers (0-1) suffered his first loss of the season after surrendering a solo home run to Hunter Pence in the 10th inning of the Astros' 4-3 loss at Philadelphia on Tuesday. Myers recorded only one out before permitting his second homer of the season and first since April 24 at Milwaukee. He has now allowed a run in each of his past two appearances while taking a blown save and a loss.

Analysis: Astros manager Brad Mills gambled bringing in Myers for the 10th inning in a tie game. The veteran right-hander was subpar again as his ERA grew to 2.08 during the outing. "Coming into a tie ballgame on the road, I was prepared but, it just baffled me a little bit," Myers said. "I can just go out there and do my job. That's all I can do when called upon." Fantasy owners should keep Myers, who has nine saves, active in most formats as he works his way past his first rough patch of the season.

5/15/2012

Alfonso Soriano, LF, CHC

Soriano finally connects for HR

News: Alfonso Soriano, who hit 26 home runs last year, tied it for the Cubs at 6 on Tuesday with his first homer of the season leading off the ninth against Cardinals closer Jason Motte. Soriano also had his seventh double in the game and finished 2 for 4 with two runs. Soriano is 7 for 24 (.292) with five RBI in his last six games.

Analysis: Soriano homered in his 120th at-bat this year. That matched his longest homer drought to start a season, also done in 2009. Unfortunately, he hit just 20 homers that season. Soriano seemed to have left all his power in spring training when he was tearing the cover off the ball. Soriano is past his prime and is a very unpredictable hitter at this stage of his career. He has low-end Fantasy appeal.

5/15/2012

Jordan Lyles, SP, HOU

Lyles struggles with homers

News: Houston starting pitcher Jordan Lyles yielded three runs -- one earned -- and six hits in six innings during the Astros' 4-3 loss at Philadelphia on Tuesday. All of Lyles runs allowed came on a pair of home runs as he has been taken deep three times in two starts this season (12 innings). Lyles, who was recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City to make the start, struck out four batters and walked one while shaving his ERA to 3.00.

Analysis: Lyles made his second start of the season in place of Kyle Weiland, who had arthroscopic surgery for an infection in his right shoulder. It's unclear if Lyles will remain in the rotation after he was optioned following his first outing on April 29. The right-hander performed better Tuesday and fired 60 strikes among his 93 pitches. But keeping the ball in the park continues to be an issue for the 21-year-old as five of his six runs allowed this season have come on homers. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end option in NL-only formats if he draws another start.

5/15/2012

Cliff Lee, SP, PHI

Lee sharp with no restrictions

News: Philadelphia starting pitcher Cliff Lee (0-1) scattered a run and five hits over eight sharp innings during the Phillies' 4-3 victory over Houston on Tuesday. Lee turned in his second-longest outing of the year and finished with a season-high 10 strikeouts and just one walk. He has not yielded more than one walk in his past four starts to slice his WHIP to 0.76, second best in the National League. His only run allowed Tuesday came on a solo homer by Matt Downs in the seventh inning. It was the third time he's been taken deep in 37 innings this season.

Analysis: Lee was in line for his first win of the season before Chad Qualls failed to preserve a 3-1 lead in the ninth inning to the left-hander winless in five starts. Since becoming a full-time starter in 2004, Lee has never completed his first five starts in a season without registering at least one win. He was never in any serious trouble and showed no signs of being slowed down by the oblique injury that landed him on the disabled list as manager Charlie Manuel did not limit his pitch count Tuesday (110). Fantasy owners should view him as a must-start option for his next scheduled outing Sunday against Boston. He hurled a two-hit complete game in his lone meeting with the Red Sox last season.

5/15/2012

Josh Thole, C, NYM

Thole inching toward return

News: Mets catcher Josh Thole, on the 7-day disabled list with a concussion, is expected to undergo a computerized concussion test on Tuesday, reports ESPN.com. If Thole passes the test, he would be cleared to resume physical activity. "I don't know what the next step is. I just know I'm going to take it easy," Thole said. "I've just been hanging out with the family. I really couldn't do a whole lot."

Analysis: Manager Terry Collins said Thole will likely need to go on a minor-league rehab assignment before he returns, so he is likely still a few weeks away from getting back on the field. Thole also has a history of concussions, so the Mets will likely err on the side of caution with the 25-year-old. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his recovery over the next few days to make sure he does not suffer a setback. Thole can be considered a NL-only option in the majority of formats when healthy.

5/15/2012

Rafael Dolis, RP, CHC

Dolis handed loss Tuesday

News: Cubs closer Rafael Dolis came within one out of working out of trouble Tuesday against the Cardinals, but he suffered the 7-6 loss after Yadier Molina plated Matt Holliday with a two-out single in the ninth inning. Holliday led off the inning with a single off Dolis (2-3), who struck out Allen Craig and got David Freese to ground out to third base before Molina's walk-off hit.

Analysis: Dolis now has a blown save and loss in two of his last three outings. Sandwiched in between was his fourth save on Monday against St. Louis. Chicago said it was going to use a co-closer situation between Dolis and James Russell, but it's been Dolis getting all the save chances. The fact he is seeing regular save chances means Dolis is worth a flier in deep Fantasy formats. Although, he has some areas he can improve. Dolis throws less than 50 percent first-pitch strikes and he doesn't get batters to swing and miss much. Until Dolis becomes a dominant reliever, then he has low-end Fantasy appeal.

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5/15/2012

Jeremy Hermida, RF, SD

Hermida has successful surgery

News: San Diego outfielder Jeremy Hermida underwent sports hernia surgery on Tuesday and it was successful, reports the North County Times. Hermida is expected to be out six weeks after the surgery. Hermida was hitting .250 with two RBI in 24-bats this year before getting injured.

Analysis: Hermida's surgery was performed by Dr. William Myers in Philadelphia Tuesday. He will now be sidelined six weeks and not likely to return until at least late June, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his recovery over the next few weeks. However, Hermida's sporadic at-bats and production make him a player worth avoiding in most formats, even when healthy.

5/15/2012

Anthony Bass, SP, SD

Bass masters Nationals for win

News: San Diego relief pitcher Anthony Bass (2-4) permitted just one run and five hits in eight innings during the Padres' 6-1 victory at Washington on Tuesday. Bass matched the longest outing of his brief career and was charged with only one run for the second game in a row. He struck out seven batters and walked one before giving way to reliever Andrew Cashner for the ninth inning. "Now we're seeing more of a pitcher," manager Bud Black said. "You're seeing off-speed behind in the count. You're seeing a guy changing speeds, moving the fastball in and out."

Analysis: Making his 10th start of his major-league career, Bass looked like a seasoned veteran as he didn't allow a hit until Ian Desmond's single in the fourth. His only blemish came on a solo home run by Bryce Harper in the fifth inning and the right-hander is now sporting a 2.87 ERA after nine games (seven starts). Bass has developed into a strong strikeout pitcher and has fanned 45 batters in 47 innings this season. He is projected to make his second start of Week 7 (May 14-20) on Sunday against the Angels. Consider him a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats.

5/15/2012

Paul Maholm, SP, CHC

Maholm has win streak halted

News: Cubs starting pitcher Paul Maholm saw his winning streak end at four games on Tuesday against the Cardinals. Maholm was handed a 3-0 lead before even taking the hill Tuesday, but he didn't hold the lead for very long. St. Louis tied the game at 3 in the second inning and went up 4-3 in the fifth. Maholm was off the hook for the loss after Chicago tied the game in the sixth. Maholm was charged with four runs on seven hits and three walks in six innings. He struck out five and allowed on home run. He now owns a 4.35 ERA.

Analysis: Maholm was pitching well above his pay grade during his four-game winning streak, allowing just three runs in 25 1/3 innings. He had a .173 BABIP in that stretch, so it definitely seemed luck was on Maholm's side. He was also inducing a lot of groundball outs during his winning streak. Maholm pitched more like we would expect on Tuesday. He still has low-end Fantasy appeal. He will be back on the hill Sunday against the White Sox. Maholm is 5-10 with a 4.63 ERA in interleague play and 1-1 with a 3.46 ERA in two career starts against Chicago.

5/15/2012

Stephen Strasburg, SP, WAS

Strasburg's effectiveness slips

News: Washington starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg (3-1) allowed four runs and seven hits -- both season highs -- in four innings during the Nationals' 6-1 loss to San Diego on Tuesday. Strasburg walked two batters and struck out five as he struggled to locate his fastball in the wet conditions to match the second-shortest appearance of his 25-start career. He threw a whopping 39 pitches in the first inning, which included a rain delay and a visit from pitching coach Steve McCatty. The half-inning alone lasted roughly 25 minutes from start to finish. After the game, manager Davey Johnson hinted Strasburg applied Hot Stuff penetrating ointment to his shoulder before his start, but that it "got to the wrong place" accidentally. "It was on his shoulder and evidently -- I don't know how it got to where it got, but it was uncomfortable, to say the least," Johnson said with a chuckle.

Analysis: White retuning late last season from Tommy John surgery, Strasburg lasted only three innings on Sept. 11, in his second appearance of 2011, and then went four innings on Sept. 23. The right-hander had gone at least six innings in all previous seven starts this season before absorbing his first loss on Tuesday. His ERA grew from 1.64 to 2.25 in the outing, but his sharpness was clearly affected by the dreary weather. Fantasy owners should continue to keep him active in all formats for his next projected start Sunday against Baltimore -- as long as he stays away from the Hot Stuff. Strasburg owns a 2.71 ERA in four starts at home this season.

5/15/2012

Jason Motte, RP, STL

Motte earns win after second blown save

News: Cardinals closer Jason Motte recorded his second blown save of the season Tuesday against the Cubs, but he ended up with his second victory after St. Louis plated the winning run in the bottom of the ninth during a 7-6 win. Chicago tied the game at 6 in the top of the ninth on Alfonso Soriano's leadoff homer. Motte walked a batter before working out of trouble.

Analysis: Motte has had very few setbacks in the closer's role this year and came into Tuesday with six straight scoreless appearances. It's one hiccup and nothing to panic over. Motte remains a viable Fantasy reliever in all formats.

5/15/2012

Kyle Lohse, SP, STL

Lohse sees ERA rise to 2.70

News: Cardinals starting pitcher Kyle Lohse was in line for the loss Tuesday against the Cubs before St. Louis rallied for a 7-6 win. Lohse, who was lifted from his previous start because of a strained left hamstring, got off to a rough start by allowing three runs in the top of the first inning. He settled down after that to keep Chicago off the scoreboard until Bryan LaHair's two-out homer in the sixth tied the game at 4. Lohse allowed one more run in the seventh before being lifted with two outs. Lohse was charged with five runs on nine hits and no walks in 6 2/3 innings. He struck out five and saw his ERA rise to 2.70.

Analysis: Lohse has allowed three or more runs in three of his last four starts after allowing one or no runs in his first four outings. The numbers showed Lohse was do for a market correction after his hot start. That's not to say he can't continue to rack up wins and post a respectable ERA like he did in 2011. It's just that Lohse isn't a frontline Fantasy starter and won't post great strikeout numbers. Consider him at best a mid-rotation Fantasy arm. Lohse will be back on the hill Sunday against the Dodgers. Lohse went 1-1 with an 8.71 ERA in two starts against Los Angeles last season.

5/15/2012

Carlos Marmol, RP, CHC

Marmol at least 10-14 days away

News: Cubs manager Dale Sveum told reporters Tuesday that reliever Carlos Marmol (hamstring) is at least 10-14 days away from returning to action. "He's getting his treatment every day, and we'll see what happens," Sveum said.

Analysis: Sveum added that Marmol will likely need a rehab assignment before returning to the majors. Marmol was removed from the closer's role prior to getting hurt. Rafael Dolis has been placed in the closer's role for Chicago, but Marmol could always return to that role down the road. He could be worth stashing in deep Fantasy formats, but he doesn't have as much Fantasy appeal as he did when he was the team's closer.

5/15/2012

Mitchell Boggs, RP, STL

Boggs hits the skids in May

News: After posting six holds and 0.87 ERA in April, Cardinals reliever Mitchell Boggs has fallen on hard times in May. He's yet to record a hold in six outings, going 0-1 with a 6.35 ERA. "Those things tend to happen when you're falling behind guys and letting them hang around," Boggs told MLB.com. "I think as long as I stay aggressive in the strike zone, I'll be fine. But when you start nibbling, those balls tend to fall a little more than they usually do."

Analysis: Boggs was emerging as a reliable setup man prior to stumbling in May. He might be kept out of key situations until he gets back into a rhythm, so Fantasy owners need to track his progress. It's just that without regular hold chances, then Boggs doesn't have much Fantasy value.

5/15/2012

Bryan Petersen, CF, MIA

Petersen called up by Fish

News: The Marlins recalled outfielder Bryan Petersen on Monday, reports MLB.com. Petersen was up earlier in the season and went 0 for 4 in four games with three strikeouts for the Marlins.

Analysis: Petersen has hit well down at Triple-A New Orleans with a .333 average over 105 at-bats. That said, he's just roster depth for Miami and doesn't figure to be much of a relevant Fantasy option.

5/15/2012

Jon Jay, CF, STL

Shoulder lands Jay on shelf

News: St. Louis outfielder Jon Jay was placed on the disabled list Tuesday because of continued soreness in his right shoulder stemming from when he ran into an outfield wall at the end of April. Jay originally suffered the injury April 19 and missed six consecutive games because of the issue. He said he never felt at full strength following the play and the lingering soreness increasingly affected his swing over the past week. "I still felt it," Jay said. "It was just one of those things where I wanted to be out there and try as best I could. It's gotten to the point where it's better to take a step back now, get some rest and then go from there." Shane Robinson was recalled from Triple-A Memphis to take his place on the active roster.

Analysis: Jay's injury has taken a toll on his production in May, but he is still ranked fifth in the National League with a .343 batting average. Since returning to the lineup following his six-game absence, Jay was hitting .339 (21 for 62). While Robinson was added to the roster, the Cardinals are expected to turn to hot-hitting outfielder Allen Craig for regular playing time in the outfield while Jay is sidelined. Craig was supplanted at first base when Lance Berkman was activated from the disabled list. Fantasy owners should reserve Jay in deeper formats for now.

5/15/2012

Shane Robinson, CF, STL

Cardinals bring back Robinson

News: The St. Louis Cardinals recalled outfielder Shane Robinson from Triple-A Memphis on Tuesday to take the roster spot of outfielder Jon Jay, who was placed on the disabled list with shoulder soreness. Robinson was optioned to the minors on Sunday.

Analysis: Robinson mainly served as a pinch-hitter during his first stint with the Cardinals and produced just one hit during the month of May. Overall, he posted 14 hits, including a home run, in 45 at-bats. Allen Craig is expected to receive the majority of starts in the outfield while Jay is sidelined so Fantasy owners should view Robinson as a marginal option in NL-only formats.

5/15/2012

Carlos Maldonado, C, WAS

Maldonado answers the call

News: The Washington Nationals purchased the contract of catcher Carlos Maldonado from Triple-A Syracuse on Tuesday to help bolster the team's situation behind the plate. Maldonado takes the roster spot of Sandy Leon, who was placed on the disabled list with a high ankle sprain.

Analysis: The Nationals have been ravaged by injuries at the catcher position recently as they have placed two backstops on the disabled list in the past three days. Maldonado, 33, has recorded more strikeouts (20) than hits (15) during 21 games at Syracuse and should be left untouched in all Fantasy formats as he serves as the backup to Jesus Flores.

5/15/2012

Sandy Leon, C, WAS

Leon lands on disabled list

News: Washington catcher Sandy Leon was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a high ankle sprain, the team announced Tuesday. Leon suffered the injury on Monday following a collision at home plate in his major-league debut. Catcher Carlos Maldonado replaced him on the roster.

Analysis: Leon received a rude welcome to the majors as he needed to be assisted off the field following the play. The 23-year-old was expected to serve as the backup to Jesus Flores, but could still assume that role later this season. For now, he should be left on waivers in all Fantasy formats.

5/15/2012

Carlos Beltran, RF, STL

Beltran (knee) remains sidelined

News: St. Louis outfielder Carlos Beltran has held out of the starting lineup again for Tuesday's game against the Cubs because of a balky right knee. Beltran, who has a history of knee problems throughout his 15-year career, also missed Monday's game, but he did serve as a pinch-hitter. Beltran served as a pinch hitter again Tuesday, drawing a walk. Cardinals manager Mike Matheny said he anticipates Beltran returning to the lineup in the next series.

Analysis: The Cardinals are likely being overly cautious with Beltran, and for good reason. The 35-year-old has emerged as the team's top hitter and leads the National League with 13 home runs. He has also driven in 32 runs with a .295 batting average. Fantasy owners should keep him reserved in all formats as he looks to return to the field quickly.

5/15/2012

Jerry Sands, RF, LAD

Dodgers promote Sands

News: The Los Angeles Dodgers recalled outfielder Jerry Sands from Triple-A Albuquerque following Monday's game. Sands will take the roster spot of outfielder Matt Kemp, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a hamstring injury.

Analysis: Sands spent some time with Los Angeles last season, but was one of the final cuts on the team during spring training. The 24-year-old is still considered a quality prospect and ripped 15 extra-base hits, including seven homers, in 36 games with Albuquerque this year. Fantasy owners in NL-only formats should consider him a decent injury replacement as he could also see time at first base for the Dodgers.

5/15/2012

Christian Friedrich, SP, COL

Friedrich impresses again with 10 Ks

News: After an impressive major-league debut, Rockies pitcher Christian Friedrich was sharp once again in his outing against the Giants on Monday. He allowed one run on six hits with 10 strikeouts over seven innings of work. The left-hander was perfect through his first three frames and made it through five scoreless before surrendering a solo homer to Gregor Blanco in the sixth inning. He was done after throwing 93 pitches, 69 for strikes, and left with the game tied at 1-1. Friedrich also issued one walk in the no-decision.

Analysis: Friedrich has allowed a combined two earned runs through his first two starts with 17 strikeouts in 13 innings pitched. He also has just two walks over that span and is starting to get noticed in Fantasy. The 24-year-old will likely remain in the rotation as long as he is pitching well so keep an eye on his progress and consider adding Friedrich in deeper mixed leagues. He is scheduled to pitch again on Saturday against the Mariner, giving him two starts during Week 7 (May 14-20).

5/15/2012

Pablo Sandoval, 3B, SF

Sandoval loses stitches, plays catch

News: Giants third baseman Pablo Sandoval, on the 15-day disabled list, had the stitches removed from his left hand on Monday and played catch before San Francisco's contest against Colorado. Sandoval underwent surgery May 4 to remove the fractured hamate bone from his hand.

Analysis: Sandoval is expected to miss at least a month with his injury but a clearer timetable will be known once he starts resuming baseball activities. He was batting .316 with five home runs and 15 RBI before going down with the injury so keep an eye on his progress going forward. Sandoval can be an elite option in Fantasy, when healthy, so keep him stashed away in all formats.

5/15/2012

Bryan LaHair, 1B, CHC

LaHair keeps slugging away for Cubs

News: Cubs first baseman Bryan LaHair posted his third three-hit performance of the season on Monday night against the Cardinals. He went 3 for 4 with a home run and a walk. He also stole a base in the 6-4 win. His first hit was a single in the third inning before launching a two-run shot off Jake Westbrook in the fifth. LaHair added another base hit in the seventh. LaHair has gone 14 for 45 (.311) so far in May with four homers and six RBI.

Analysis: LaHair continues to be one of the few power threats on the Cubs as he now has nine homers with 20 RBI on the year, and is slugging .702. He is also riding an on-base streak of 31 games and has come out of no where to become a reliable option in Fantasy. The 29-year-old is on pace to put up some productive numbers so keep an eye on his progress and keep LaHair active in most mixed leagues.

5/15/2012

Ryan Vogelsong, SP, SF

Vogelsong sharp again in ND

News: Giants pitcher Ryan Vogelsong received an injection in his troublesome back before his start on Monday against the Giants but showed no signs of the injury. He allowed one run on three hits over seven innings of work. The right-hander gave up his lone damage in the fourth when he surrendered a solo homer to Wilin Rosario. He was done after throwing 117 pitches, 71 for strikes, and left with the game tied at 1-1 as his counterpart -- Christian Friedrich -- was equally as sharp. Vogelsong also struck out three and walked five in the no-decision.

Analysis: Vogelsong has given up just three earned runs over his last three outings and has lowered his ERA from 4.19 to 2.66 over that span. While he has been a little wild early on, he has 29 strikeouts in 40 2/3 innings and is on pace for another productive campaign. Owners should keep in mind that this back issue could flare up again over the course of the season but the 34-year-old remains a viable option in deeper Fantasy formats. His next start -- and second of Week 7 (May 14-20) -- is scheduled for Saturday against the A's. In one start against Oakland a year ago, Vogelsong gave up an unearned run over six innings in the no-decision.

5/15/2012

Ian Kennedy, SP, ARI

Kennedy drops to .500 on season

News: Arizona starter Ian Kennedy was not sharp enough to beat Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers on Monday night. Kennedy was decent over six innings, but Kershaw was pristine as Kennedy took the loss to fall to 3-3 on the season. Kennedy surrendered a homer to Andre Ethier in his sixth and final inning and allowed three runs -- two earned -- on six hits and two walks over six frames. Kennedy struck out five in the performance and his ERA is now at 3.81 on the year.

Analysis: Kennedy certainly has not been as good as most hoped he'd be entering the season. The good news is that Kennedy has yet to go fewer than six innings in any start as he's been able to grind out innings despite not having his best stuff at times. Kennedy has kept his ERA and WHIP at decent levels despite a May losing streak. He started the season 3-0 and should get back to pitching solid baseball going forward. He gets another start during the Week 7 (May 14-20) scoring period and that comes on Saturday in Kansas City. Kennedy has never been great during interleague play with a 2-4 career record and a 5.76 ERA over seven starts. That said, the two starts in the scoring period kept him a decent Fantasy start in most mixed leagues.

5/15/2012

Clayton Kershaw, SP, LAD

Kershaw back on winning track

News: Dodgers starter Clayton Kershaw got a little run support on Monday and cruised from there against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Kershaw moved to 3-1 on the season with the win as he pitched seven shutout frames. Kershaw gave up just four hits and three walks and struck out six in the sharp outing. He threw 108 pitches and lowered his ERA to 2.22 on the year.

Analysis: Kershaw was probably going through his toughest stretch of pitching in a while coming into Monday's start. That said, he righted the ship with the seven shutout against the Diamondbacks and managed to go at least seven full innings in five straight starts even through the rough patch, if you could call it that. Kershaw not at his best is still better than most other starters when they are on and he was at his best on Monday. He gets a second start during the Week 7 (May 14-20) scoring period and that comes on Saturday against St. Louis. Kershaw remains a must-start Fantasy ace for use in all mixed leagues and formats.

5/15/2012

Kenley Jansen, RP, LAD

Jansen picks up fourth save

News: Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen pitched a perfect ninth inning and earned his fourth save of the season Monday night. Jansen went 1-2-3 in a win over the Diamondbacks. His ERA is at 2.29 on the year.

Analysis: Jansen has given up just one run in his last 10 appearances as he's taken hold of the closer job for the Dodgers. He's looked good with the job so far and can be looked at as a solid Fantasy reliever in most mixed formats for as long as he can hold onto it.

5/15/2012

Carlos Lee, 1B, HOU

Lee hitting .333 over last 11

News: Astros first baseman Carlos Lee had another productive night at the plate on Monday against the Phillies. He went 3 for 4 in the 5-1 loss. Lee has gone 14 for 42 (.333) with one RBI over his last 11 games.

Analysis: Lee has been able to raise his average from .259 to .285 during his hot stretch but has not been driving in many runs. He is one of the few veteran bats in the lineup for Houston and should drive in at least 80 runs for the 14th straight season. While his power has slipped over the last few years, continue to view Lee as a viable option in deeper mixed leagues.

5/14/2012

Yovani Gallardo, SP, MIL

Gallardo takes another loss

News: Brewers starter Yovani Gallardo was pegged with his fourth loss of the season during Monday night's contest against the Mets. Gallardo, who was making his eighth save of the year, allowed two runs on two hits over six innings in the 3-1 loss, including a RBI single off the bat of Daniel Murphy in the first inning. He also surrendered a run in the sixth inning and was pulled after throwing 109 pitches. Gallardo finished with six strikeouts and a season-high six walks, while falling to 2-4 on the season. "It was one of those days where I felt too good," Gallardo said. "I was overthrowing the curveball a little bit. I was trying to do too much with it instead of letting it do the things that it does on its own."

Analysis: Gallardo was all over the place on Monday night as he really struggled with his command for most of the night. The 26-year-old continues to be one of the bigger disappointments in Fantasy this season as he has been extremely inconsistent. He has now lost three of his last four starts and has posted a 6.75 ERA with 21 strikeouts and 13 walks over that stretch. Gallardo will now look to get himself back on track when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Saturday against the Twins. The right-hander is 2-1 2.48 ERA in four career starts against Minnesota. Despite his up-and-down campaign thus far, Fantasy owners can continue to roll with the Gallardo as a viable starter heading into his next outing.

5/14/2012

Joe Blanton, SP, PHI

Blanton sharp for fourth win

News: After giving up four earned runs his last time out, Phillies pitcher Joe Blanton got back on track in Monday's series opener against the Astros. He allowed one run on six hits over seven-plus innings of work in the 5-1 win. The right-hander made it through his first seven frames unscathed before surrendering a solo homer to Marwin Gonzalez in the eighth. He was done after throwing 106 pitches, 70 for strikes, and lowered his ERA to 2.96. Blanton also struck out seven and walked one while earning his fourth win of the season. "I had a good changeup tonight," Blanton told MLB.com. "That's one of the first times this year it's really come through for me. It didn't start out great, but as the game went on it got better and better. It was really a huge pitch for me tonight."

Analysis: Blanton has gotten off to a solid start this season after an injury-plagued campaign a year ago and is starting to regain value in Fantasy. He has made five quality starts thus far and has 35 strikeouts in 48 2/3 innings. The 31-year-old should starting seeing more looks in deeper mixed leagues heading into his second outing of Week 7 (May 14-20). He is scheduled to pitch next on Saturday against the Red Sox at home. Blanton has gone 3-0 with a 2.57 ERA in four starts at Citizens Bank Park this season.

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5/14/2012

Frank Francisco, RP, NYM

Francisco picks up ninth save

News: Mets closer Frank Francisco was able to secure his ninth save of the season during Monday night's contest against the Brewers. However, it did not come without incident. Francisco came on in the ninth inning protecting a 3-0 lead, but surrendered singles to two of the first three batters he faced, which brought Milwaukee's lone run of the contest. He also issued a walk, which bringing the tying run to plate, but was able to retire the next two batters he faced to close out the win. Francisco is now 9 for 11 in save chances on the season. "I love it," a smiling Francisco said when asked about the boos, "because later on they're going to clap for me. I promise you."

Analysis: Francisco was given a vote of confidence from manager Terry Collins on Monday afternoon, but once again struggled on the mound. While he was able to get the job done against the Brewers, he allowed a run for his third straight outing and again made things interesting. However, it appears Collins will continue to roll with the right-hander as his closer for the time being, although that will change if he continues to struggle, especially with Jon Rauch waiting in the wings. Still, as long as he holds on to his current job, Francisco can be viewed as a viable low-end option in deeper mixed formats.

5/14/2012

Miguel Batista, RP, NYM

Batista picks up first win

News: Mets starter Miguel Batista picked up his first win of the season during Monday night's contest against the Brewers. Batista, who was making his third start of the year, limited Milwaukee to just four hits over seven innings in the 3-1 win. Only one of those hits went for extra bases and he was able to retire seven of the final eight batters he faced. Batista was pulled after throwing 108 pitches and finished with five strikeouts and one walk, while improving to 1-1 on the year.

Analysis: Batista turned in his best start of the year on Monday night as he was able to keep most of Milwaukee's big bats at bay. The veteran has now posted a 1.46 ERA over his last two starts and racked up six strikeouts over that stretch. He will now look to keep things rolling when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Saturday at Toronto. Batista is 3-2 with a 1.70 ERA in nine career appearances -- six starts -- against the Blue Jays. Despite his recent outing, Fantasy owners should continue to view Batista as a NL-only option heading into his next outing.

5/14/2012

Randall Delgado, SP, ATL

Delgado lowers ERA in ND

News: Braves pitcher Randall Delgado lowered his ERA to 3.79 in his outing against the Reds on Monday. He allowed an unearned run on four hits over 6 2/3 innings of work. An error by Tyler Pastornicky in the fourth led to his lone damage on the outing. He was done after throwing 107 pitches, 63 for strikes, and left with the game tied at 1-1. Delgado also struck out four and walked three in the no-decision. “He goes 6 2/3 innings, gives up an unearned run, gives us a great chance to win the ballgame,” manager Fredi Gonzalez told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “He just keeps getting better. You can’t wait for him to go back out there five days from now and see what he can do.”

Analysis: Delgado has allowed two earned runs or fewer in each of his last three starts and is beginning to settle down after hitting a bit of a rough patch. While he has not earned a win since April 17, that should change with the way the Braves have been scoring runs of late so owners need not worry. The 22-year-old should remain active in NL-only formats heading into his second start of Week 7 (May 14-20). He is scheduled to pitch again on Saturday against the Rays in Tampa Bay. Delgado has gone 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in three starts on the road thus far.

5/14/2012

Sean Marshall, RP, CIN

Marshall sets new career mark in saves

News: Reds closer Sean Marshall entered Monday's series opener against the Braves in the ninth inning with a two-run lead. He gave up a leadoff single but was able to strand the runner to secure the 3-1 win. Marshall also struck out two while collecting his sixth save of the season, setting a new career high in the process.

Analysis: Marshall has allowed just one earned run over his last six appearances and has converted two saves over that span with a win. He now has 19 strikeouts in 13 innings pitched thus far while going 6 for 7 in save chances. Marshall should continue to be viewed as a viable option in deeper mixed leagues as long as he is line for save chances in Cincinnati.

5/14/2012

Ryan Dempster, SP, CHC

Dempster still searching for first W

News: Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster entered Monday's series finale against the Cardinals having yet to record a win through five starts. That trend continued as he allowed four runs on nine hits over six innings of work in the no-decision. He made it through his first five frames unscathed and was sporting a 4-0 lead entering the sixth. However, the right-hander surrendered all four of his runs in the inning to tie the game. Dempster also struck out five and walked one while throwing 95 pitches, 63 for strikes.

Analysis: Dempster endured his worst outing of the season on Monday as he had not allowed more than two earned runs thus far. He saw his ERA climb to 1.74 as a result and now has a 41-to-11 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 41 1/3 innings. The 35-year-old will likely continue to see poor run support in Chicago but based on his numbers thus far, keep Dempster active in most Fantasy formats heading into his second outing of Week 7 (May 14-20). He is scheduled to pitch next on Saturday against the White Sox.

5/14/2012

Homer Bailey, SP, CIN

Bailey better vs. Braves

News: After giving up a combined nine earned runs over his last two outings, Reds pitcher Homer Bailey looked much better on Monday against the Braves. He allowed one run on six hits over 6 2/3 innings of work. The right-hander made it through his first four frames unscathed before giving up a sac fly to Martin Prado in the fifth. He was done after throwing 114 pitches, 68 for strikes, and left with the game tied at 1-1. Bailey also struck out three and walked two in the no-decision. "He threw a heck of a game against a very good and very tough, especially a left-handed, lineup," manager Dusty Baker told the Cincinnati Enquirer. "That's the best game he's thrown this year. It was encouraging to see that."

Analysis: Bailey had one of his better outings of the season on Monday and was able to lower his ERA from 4.93 to 4.35. It marked his fifth quality start to date and he is on pace to make 30-plus starts for the first time in his career. The 26-year-old should continue to be utilized in NL-only formats heading into his second outing of Week 7 (May 14-20). He is scheduled to pitch next on Saturday against the Yankees in New York. Bailey has gone 1-2 with a 4.24 ERA in four starts on the road this season.

5/14/2012

Chipper Jones, 3B, ATL

Chipper levels average at .300

News: After sitting out Sunday due to soreness, Braves third baseman Chipper Jones returned to the lineup for Monday's series opener against the Reds. He went 1 for 3 with a walk in the 3-1 loss to raise his average to .300 on the year.

Analysis: Jones continues to rest his surgically-repaired knee from time to time and owners should expect that trend to continue over the course of the season. Jones entered Monday batting .368 with two homers and 10 RBI in nine May games. He continues to be productive when he plays, but Jones' history of injuries keeps him as a low-end Fantasy start in deep mixed leagues.

5/14/2012

Sean Burnett, RP, WAS

Burnett saves the day

News: Nationals reliever Sean Burnett notched his first save of the season during Monday night's contest against the Padres. Burnett came on in the ninth inning with the bases loaded and one out in place of Henry Rodriguez. However, left-hander was able to get Jesus Guzman to bounce into a double play to end the game and secure the win.

Analysis: Burnett was called upon to clean up Rodriguez's mess on Monday night and did just that. While the Nationals continue to have issues with the back end of their bullpen, manager Davey Johnson continues to support Rodriguez as his closer, so it is unlikely a change is made at this point. However, Burnett may have become the front runner to taker step into that roll if the Nationals do decide to shake things up. For now, Burnett will continue to pitch in middle relief, limiting his value to deeper NL-only formats that reward true middle men.

5/14/2012

Henry Rodriguez, RP, WAS

Rodriguez struggles once again

News: Nationals closer Henry Rodriguez's struggles continued during Monday night's contest against the Padres. Rodriguez came on in the ninth inning, but walked the bases loaded with just one out. He was pulled in favor Sean Burnett, who was able to escape the jam, which earned Rodriguez his first hold of the year.

Analysis: Rodriguez was given a vote of confidence from Johnson earlier in the day, but his latest effort may force the Nationals' skipper to rethink his position. The right-hander has blown three of his 11 save opportunities on the year, including each of his last two chances. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how the Nationals decided to set the back end of their bullpen moving forward. However, Johnson did back him again following his latest effort. “Probably still thinking about Sunday,” Johnson said. “We all still have a lot of confidence in him. He’ll be back.” As long as he remains the closer, Rodriguez can be considered a No. 2 Fantasy RP.

5/14/2012

Placido Polanco, 3B, PHI

Polanco homers for 2,000th hit

News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco reached a personal milestone in Monday's series opener against the Astros. He went 1 for 3 with a home run and three runs scored. He also walked once in the 5-1 win. Polanco launched a two-run shot off David Carpenter in the eighth inning for the 2,000th hit of his career. It was also his first long ball of the season. "It means a lot," Polanco told MLB.com. "It means you've been around for a while. I've been very fortunate to have played since 1998 and to accomplish all these things. However, I'm not thinking about that right now. I'm thinking about our situation right here, which is we've got to try to win games [and vie for a championship]."

Analysis: Polanco continues to hit well in May as he is batting .327 so far this month with four RBI and eight runs scored. While he has not been hitting for much power thus far, he continues to make solid contact and has stayed healthy at age 36. Continue to view Polanco as a viable option in deeper Fantasy formats at this point.

5/14/2012

Tim Stauffer, SP, SD

Staufer earns ND in first start

News: Padres starter Tim Stauffer did not factor into the decision during Monday night's contest against the Nationals. Stauffer, who was making his first start of the year after starting the season on the disabled list with a strained right elbow, allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits over five innings in the 8-5 defeat. Most of the damage he surrendered came in the third inning as the Nationals would score three times in the frame, including on a solo home run off the bat of Bryce Harper. Stauffer was able to keep Washington off the scoreboard over his final two innings of work and was pulled after throwing 91 pitches. He finished with five strikeouts and three walks, while earning the no-decision.

Analysis: Stauffer looked a little rocky over his first few innings on Monday night, but settled into a nice groove over his final two frames. However, the most important part of his outing was the fact that he did not show any ill-effects from the elbow injury that forced him to miss the first six weeks of the season. He will now look to pick up his first win of the season when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Saturday against the Angels. Stauffer is 1-3 with a 3.11 ERA in 11 career starts against Anaheim. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the 29-year-old as a viable low--end option heading into his next outing.

5/14/2012

Anibal Sanchez, SP, MIA

Sanchez pegged with first loss

News: Marlins starter Anibal Sanchez was tagged with his first loss of the season during Monday night's contest against the Pirates. Sanchez, who was making his seventh start of the year, allowed a season-high three runs on on six hits over seven innings in the 3-2 defeat, including a solo home run off the bat of Rod Barajas in the second inning. Pedro Alvarez drove in the go-ahead run for Pittsburgh in the sixth inning with a RBI double. Sanchez was pulled after throwing 92 pitches and finished with five strikeouts and one walk, while falling to 2-1 on the season. "What can I do? Just continue to pitch good and wait for run support," Sanchez said. "They want to score some runs. I never have complaints about the hitters not giving me run support."

Analysis: Sanchez turned in his seventh straight quality start of the season on Monday night, but was once again given limited run support. The Marlins have scored a combined 13 runs over his last five starts, which is a big reason why he has just one run over that stretch. Still, the right-hander has posted a 2.05 ERA, while logging seven innings in each of his starts over that span to go along with 40 strikeouts. Hopefully the Marlins will be able to score some runs for him when he makes his second start of Fantasy Week 7 (May 14-20), which is scheduled for Saturday against the Indians. Sanchez is 3-2 with a 4.58 ERA in nine career interleague appearances -- eight starts. Leave him active in the majority of formats heading into his next outing.

5/14/2012

Lucas Harrell, SP, HOU

Harrell takes third loss

News: Astros pitcher Lucas Harrell got his pitch count up early on Monday night against the Phillies. He allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits over 5 2/3 innings in the 5-1 loss. An error in the fifth led to his first damage before the right-hander gave up an RBI single to Ruiz the following frame, before the bullpen allowed an inherited runner to score. He was done after throwing 81 pitches, 52 for strikes. Harrell also struck out three and walked two while taking his third loss of the season. "That's the best I've thrown the ball all year," Harrell told MLB.com. "They only hit two balls hard."

Analysis: Harrell took his first loss since April 28 on Monday as he was unable to go six innings for the third straight start. He has allowed three earned runs or fewer in each of those outings but is 1-1 over that span. The 26-year-old should continue to be viewed as a low-end option in NL-only formats heading into his second start of Week 7 (May 14-20). He is scheduled to pitch next on Saturday against the Rangers at home. Harrell has gone 2-0 with a 2.55 ERA in three starts at Minute Maid Park so far this season.

5/14/2012

Joel Hanrahan, RP, PIT

Hanrahan closes out Marlins

News: Pirates closer Joel Hanrahan notched his seventh save of the season during Monday night's contest against the Marlins. Hanrahan came on in the ninth inning and retired all three batters he faced. He needed 17 pitches to close out Miami and is now 7 for 8 in save chances on the season.

Analysis: Hanrahan has now pitched two straight scoreless innings since rejoining the team following the death of his grandmother and has shown no real signs of rust after his layoff. The right-hander will continue to be counted on to close out games for the Pirates and has punched out 14 batters over his 12 2/3 innings of work. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the 30-year-old in the majority of formats moving forward.

5/14/2012

Ross Detwiler, SP, WAS

Detwiler goes five in ND

News: Nationals starter Ross Detwiler did not factor into the decision during Monday night's contest against the Padres. Detwiler, who was making his seventh start of the year, allowed a season-high five runs (four earned) on seven hits over five innings. Most of the damage he surrendered came in the fourth inning on a two-run single off the bat of Orlando Hudson. The left-hander was pulled after throwing 87 pitches and finished with three strikeouts and one walk, while earning he no-decision.

Analysis: Detwiler was knocked around a bit on Monday night, as he has now surrendered seven hits in each of his last two starts. While the left-hander clearly wasn't at this sharpest during his latest outing, he has still been one of the more pleasant surprises in Fantasy this season. However, there are still some who believe that he will eventually be replaced in the starting rotation by Chien-Ming Wang, who is just about ready to return. As it stands right now, Detwiler is scheduled to make his second start of Fantasy Week 7 (May 14-20) on Saturday against the Orioles. The 26-year-old is 0-1 with a 4.91 ERA in two career starts against Baltimore. Despite his latest hiccup, Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Detwiler as a solid low-end starting option heading into his next outing.

5/14/2012

Jake Westbrook, SP, STL

Westbrook endures shortest outing

News: Cardinals pitcher Jake Westbrook endured his shortest outing of the season on Monday night against the Cubs. He allowed four runs on 11 hits over five innings of work. The right-hander made it through his first four frames unscathed before running into trouble in the fifth. In that inning, he gave up all of his damage, including a two-run homer to Bryan LaHair. He was done after throwing 107 pitches, 64 for strikes, and left in line for the loss but luckily his teammates were able to battle back to tie the game. Westbrook also struck out two and walked two in the no-decision.

Analysis: Westbrook allowed more than two earned runs in a start for just the second time on Monday and saw his ERA rise from 1.76 to 2.35 as a result. Still, he has gotten off to a solid start this season and appears in line for a bounce-back campaign after posting an ERA over 4.00 each of the last two years. The 34-year-old has a potent lineup backing him up in St. Louis so continue to view Westbrook as a viable option in deeper mixed leagues. His next start -- and second of Week 7 (May 14-20) -- is scheduled for Saturday against the Dodgers in Los Angeles. In three starts on the road thus far, Westbrook has gone 2-1 with a 0.87 ERA.

5/14/2012

Logan Forsythe, 3B, SD

Forsythe ready for rehab games

News: Padres infielder Logan Forsythe (foot) is expected to start a rehab stint with Triple-A Tuscon on Monday, reports MLB.com. Forsythe, on the 60-day disabled list with a broken sesamoid bone in his left foot, has been playing in extended spring training games over the past two weeks.

Analysis: Forsythe broke a bone in his foot back in March, which has kept him sidelined over the first six weeks of the season. While he will now be heading up to Triple-A and is expected to see time at third base, shortstop and second base. However, because he was transferred to the 60-day disabled list, he won;t be eligible to return until the end of May. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward. Still, Forsythe is expected to be merely a reserve infielder for the Padres this season, which would give him marginal Fantasy appeal when healthy.

5/14/2012

Jayson Werth, RF, WAS

Werth may be back sooner than expected

News: Nationals outfielder Jayson Werth (wrist) told manager Davey Johnson on Monday that he could be back three weeks earlier than expected. Werth, on the 15-day disabled list due with a broken left wrist, said his timetable could be sped up because he had surgery just one day after he suffered his injury.

Analysis: Werth's original timetable was around three months, but now it appears he could return a few weeks sooner than that. However, Fantasy owners should keep in mind that these out Werth's words and the finally decision will be made by the team's medical staff. Fantasy owners should continue keep an eye on his recovery over the next weeks to see when he will be able to get back on the field. Werth is hitting .276 with three homers and 12 RBI, so leave him reserved in the majority of formats in the meantime.

5/14/2012

Freddy Sanchez, 2B, SF

Sanchez suffers another setback

News: SportsNet Bay Area reported on Monday that Giants second baseman Freddy Sanchez, on the 15-day disabled list, suffered a setback in his recovery from shoulder surgery and has been shut down. His lower back flared up and he will be sent for an MRI.

Analysis: Sanchez appeared to turning the corner in his recovery but this setback will push back his timetable once again. He has not played in more than 111 games since 2008 as injuries continue to hinder his career. Owners should keep an eye on his status going forward but Sanchez is worth stashing away in just NL-only formats at this point.

5/14/2012

Jonathan Papelbon, RP, PHI

Papelbon shows back is non-issue

News: After slipping on the mound Sunday and tweaking his back Sunday, Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon showed no signs of the injury on Monday against the Astros. He entered in the ninth inning with a four-run lead and worked a scoreless frame. The right-hander also struck out three and gave up one hit while securing the 5-1 win.

Analysis: Papelbon appears to be fine after slipping on Sunday and should continue to dominate the ninth inning for the Phillies. He has converted all 10 of his save chances thus far with 18 strikeouts in 15 innings pitched. In a season that has brought a lot of uncertainty at the closer position, Papelbon has remained a constant and continues to be a must-start Fantasy option.

5/14/2012

Elian Herrera, OF, LAD

Herrera called up for Dodgers

News: Dodgers third baseman Juan Uribe has been placed on the 15-day disabled list on Monday, reports CBSSports.com Senior Baseball Writer Danny Knobler. The Dodgers recalled Elian Herrera to take Uribe's place on the roster. Uribe is dealing with a wrist injury.

Analysis: Herrera is an infielder who can take Uribe's place on the roster for the Dodgers. He was batting .358 down at Triple-A Albuquerque with two homers, nine doubles and four triples with 14 RBI over 120 at-bats. Herrera also has nine stolen bases as he has plenty of speed. Still, he's not exactly a youngster and has just NL-only Fantasy value while up with L.A.

5/14/2012

Juan Uribe, 3B, LAD

Uribe lands on disabled list

Analysis: Uribe keeps dealing with injuries and the Dodgers have decided to place him on the disabled list to get healthy. He's batting .250 on the season with one homer and 10 RBI over 80 at-bats. When healthy, Uribe is really just an NL-only Fantasy option.

5/14/2012

Jason Bay, LF, NYM

Bay cleared for baseball activities

News: Mets outfielder Jason Bay (rib) has been cleared to begin baseball activities, reports MLB.com. Bay, who has been sidelined since April 24 due to a non-displaced rib fracture, has been limited to riding a stationary bike for the past few weeks. "I can't just jump into the cage, take hacks and then be on the field," Bay said. "There's a ramping up that goes with it, so I just want to start that. And if there are things along the way that bother me, I'll slow down a bit."

Analysis: Bay was scheduled to head down to the team's spring training complex in Port St. Lucie, Fla., on Monday, but had to wait to be cleared by the Mets' medical staff. Now that he has been, Bay will head down to the team's complex where he will begin a running program before eventually working his way back into fielding drills and cage work. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward. Bay was swinging the bat well when he was got hurt, so Fantasy owners should continue to stash the 33-year-old in the deeper mixed formats for the time being.

5/14/2012

Mark Kotsay, LF, SD

Kotsay still dealing with back injury

News: Padres outfielder Mark Kotsay was out of the lineup again on Monday against the Nationals. He has not played since injuring his back on Saturday and manager Bub Black said he likely will be held out until Wednesday. "Mark is doing better. We hope that by the time we get back to California [on Wednesday], that he will be healthy."

Analysis: Kotsay does not have a starting gig in San Diego but has done well in a reserve role thus far, hitting .294 with one homer and six RBI. He should be left for the deepest of NL-only formats even when healthy.

5/14/2012

Drew Storen, RP, WAS

Storen throws on Monday

News: Nationals manager Davey Johnson told reporters that closer Drew Storen (elbow) threw Monday and Storen said he felt great.

Analysis: This is obviously a positive step for Storen, but he has many more hurdles to clear before his return to the Nationals bullpen. The previous timetable was an early July timetable, so unless we hear otherwise, then Fantasy owners are invested for the long haul. Storen should return to the closer's role once he's active. Continue to stash him in Fantasy.

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5/14/2012

Brad Lidge, RP, WAS

Lidge aiming for June return

News: The Washington Post reports Nationals reliever Brad Lidge threw off flat ground Monday for the first time since having sports hernia surgery in early May. Lidge is aiming to return in either the second or third week of June.

Analysis: Lidge was sharing closer duties with Henry Rodriguez before going on the DL. He could return to that co-closer role once active, so Lidge is worth stashing in deeper Fantasy formats.

5/14/2012

John Buck, C, MIA

Buck powering up for Marlins

News: Marlins catcher John Buck hit his fourth homer of the season on Sunday against the Mets. It was also his third homer in five games. Buck has five RBI in that span as well. Buck produced two RBI on Sunday, which was just the second time this season he had more than one RBI in a game.

Analysis: While Buck has found his power swing, he's still not making much contact at the plate. He has just one multi-hit game this season and is batting .200 through 25 contests. While Buck has pop for a catcher, he lacks consistency at the plate. He's best left for the deepest of Fantasy formats.

5/14/2012

Devin Mesoraco, C, CIN

Mesoraco's bat has gone quiet

News: Reds catcher Devin Mesoraco drew the start behind the plate Monday against the Braves -- his 14th start this season at catcher. Unfortunately, Mesoraco heads into Fantasy Week 7 (May 14-20) mired in an offensive slump. Since producing consecutive multi-hit games on April 18 and April 20, Mesoraco is batting .125 (3 for 24) with one homer and two RBI in his last nine games.

Analysis: As much offensive upside as Mesoraco has, it's not surprising to see him struggle offensively at the beginning of his MLB career. Most young catchers struggle offensively since they are learning the defensive intricacies of the position. Also, Mesoraco is in a timeshare situation with Ryan Hanigan, so it could be tough for him to settle into an offensive rhythm as he is not playing every day. Mesoraco is worth holding onto in deeper Fantasy formats, but right now he's nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy catcher.

5/14/2012

Chien-Ming Wang, SP, WAS

Wang wins again at Triple-A

News: Nationals starting pitcher Chien-Ming Wang (hamstring) went eight-plus innings in his second rehab start for Triple-A Syracuse on Monday. Wang allowed just two runs in his first eight innings before being lifted in the ninth inning after putting the first two batters on base. Both runners would score. Wang allowed four runs on 11 hits and one walk. He struck out one. He's 2-0 with a 3.60 ERA for Syracuse. "[Wang] looked good. I think he is real close," manager Davey Johnson told MLB.com. "That is left up to [general manager Mike] Rizzo. The question that it is going to come down to is, is he polished enough to come in and replace one of our starters and give us the same type of effort? [Monday] was a big step in the right direction. It depends on how he recovers from that, I would think."

Analysis: Wang threw 61 of 84 pitches for strikes. He's seems poised to return to the majors, but the Nationals are in no rush to bring him back since they don't have an opening in their rotation right now. The Nationals said Monday that Wang will get at least one more rehab start in the minors. We will keep you posted on his status, but Wang is primarily an NL-only Fantasy stashee.

5/14/2012

Todd Helton, 1B, COL

Helton getting average back up

News: Rockies first baseman Todd Helton has hit safely in five of his last six games. He's batting .292 (7 for 24) with a .370 OBP and four RBI in that span.

Analysis: Helton is starting to come around at the plate offensively, batting .283 in his last 13 games after opening the year with a .220 average in his first 15 games. Still, the Rockies are resting Helton at least once a week to make sure he will hold up for an entire season. Helton still hits for a decent average, gets on base and drives in runs, but he lacks the elite power we look for from a first baseman. Helton remains a low-end Fantasy option.

5/14/2012

Matt Carpenter, 1B, STL

Carpenter back to being bench player

News: The return of Allen Craig and Lance Berkman from the disabled list has relegated Cardinals infielder Matt Carpenter back to being a bench player. He has started just four times in the Cardinals' last 12 games.

Analysis: Carpenter got off to a hot start offensively this year, which is why he was thrust into the starting first base job when Berkman had to go on the DL. Unfortunately, Carpenter has cooled down, batting just .230 in his last 23 games. His slump and the return of Craig and Berkman has resulted in Carpenter being relegated to a bench role. It's safe to drop him in Fantasy again.

5/14/2012

Tyler Pastornicky, SS, ATL

Benching a spark for Pastornicky

News: Braves shortstop Tyler Pastornicky has been a much improved offensive player since being benched for a three-game span in late April. Since his return to the lineup on April 24, Pastornicky is batting .333 (20 for 60) with a .369 OBP, .400 slugging percentage and .769 OPS in his last 18 games. He also has four doubles, seven RBI, nine runs and a .377 BABIP in that span.

Analysis: The fact Pastornicky is improving offensively will definitely help keep him in the majors and keep rising prospect Andrelton Simmons in the minors. Pastornicky still isn't providing a ton of pop or RBI for Fantasy owners, so he's mostly limited to the deepest of Fantasy formats.

5/14/2012

Marco Scutaro, 2B, COL

Scutaro continues to lack numbers

News: Rockies shortstop Marco Scutaro went 2 for 4 with two runs, one RBI and one walk Sunday against the Dodgers. He's batting .267 with one RBI and six runs in 11 May games.

Analysis: Many Fantasy owners were excited for Scutaro's move to Colorado. He was coming off a strong second half in 2011 for Boston and was going to another great offensive situation with the Rockies. Unfortunately, Scutaro has been a huge letdown thus far. He has no homers and two RBI in 31 games and the tough part is that nothing is out of the ordinary for Scutaro. All of his contact rates, BABIP and other Sabermetrics are pretty much par for the course. Scutaro just isn't producing big numbers. He has low-end Fantasy appeal until he heats up.

5/14/2012

Jose Tabata, RF, PIT

Tabata batting .300 in last 20 games

News: Pirates outfielder Jose Tabata is batting just .255 through 12 May games, but he's making the most of his hits when he makes contact. Tabata has a .511 slugging percentage and .824 OPS in May. He also has two doubles, two triples, two homers, three RBI and 10 runs in that span.

Analysis: After a very poor start to the season, Tabata has been much better since late April. He's batting .300 with a .488 slugging percentage and .836 OPS in his last 20 games. Tabata isn't going to provide much power, but he has the ability to hit for a decent average and score some runs. Consider Tabata a low-end Fantasy option at this time, but he has enough upside to keep tabs on his progress.

5/14/2012

Drew Stubbs, CF, CIN

Stubbs mired in another slump

News: Since hitting his third home run of the season May 6, Reds outfielder Drew Stubbs has been mired in an offensive slump. He's batting just .154 (4 for 26) with two doubles, no homers, no RBI and eight strikeouts in his last six games.

Analysis: It's been a rough couple of weeks for Stubbs, who is batting just .196 with 16 strikeouts in his last 12 games. He's reverting back to his streaky ways, which manager Dusty Baker has been trying his best to break Stubbs of this habit. We all know Stubbs has the potential to be a high-end Fantasy option, but while he remains inconsistent at the plate, then he is a low-end Fantasy starter in mixed leagues.

5/14/2012

Brad Brach, RP, SD

Brach finally settling in for Padres

News: Padres reliever Brad Brach has been nearly untouchable since returning to the majors in early May. Brach has allowed one hit, four walks and no runs in five innings in May. He also has 10 strikeouts and a .067 opponents' batting average in that span. He's lowered his ERA from 5.06 to 2.61.

Analysis: Finally, Brach is pitching like the dominant reliever he has been in the minors. Brach has experience as a closer in the minors, but right now his role is as a middle reliever with San Diego. However, if he keeps up his current pace, then Brach could be a viable Fantasy option in leagues that use true middle men.

5/14/2012

Justin Upton, RF, ARI

May not kind to Upton

News: Diamondbacks outfielder Justin Upton has been mired in an offensive slump since the calendar turned to May. Upton has just one multi-hit game and no homers in nine May appearances. He's batting .176 with one RBI and 12 strikeouts in that span. Manager Kirk Gibson is considering giving Upton a day off in the near future to clear his mind, though Upton has continued to be plagued by a thumb issue, reports the Arizona Republic. "I think if you look at where Justin was last year at this time, it was somewhat similar," Gibson said. "He just hasn't been able to find his swing path. (He's found it) on and off, but not consistently. He's worked so hard he's probably got a little too much on his mind."

Analysis: Upton's struggles have simply been because he's not making contact with many pitches this month. His 12 strikeouts and .273 BABIP in May indicate that. Hopefully, he will start to get on track because many Fantasy owners rely on Upton as a No. 1 outfielder.

5/14/2012

Jay Bruce, RF, CIN

Bruce slugging away in May

News: Reds outfielder Jay Bruce had a two-RBI double and walked once Sunday against the Nationals. Bruce is batting .293 (12 for 41) with three homers, four doubles and nine RBI in his first 11 May games. He also has a .659 slugging percentage and .992 OPS in that span.

Analysis: Bruce has continually improved offensively each year he's been in the majors and that trend hasn't stopped in 2012. It's worth noting also that he's been a more consistent hitter through the early part of the season, which is a great sign for a developing slugger. Bruce still strikes out at a high pace, but we will take that trade off because of his other numbers. Bruce remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats.

5/14/2012

Eduardo Sanchez, RP, STL

Sanchez brought back up by Cards

News: The Cardinals promoted reliever Eduardo Sanchez from Triple-A Memphis on Monday after giving J.C. Romero his unconditional release.

Analysis: Sanchez had a pretty strong spring, but the Cardinals still opted to send him to the minors for the outset of the 2012 season. Sanchez, unfortunately, has posted a 6.08 ERA in 13 1/3 innings for Memphis, but he does have six saves. While Sanchez has the ability to close games, he won't initially for the Cardinals. He's merely bullpen depth and has minimal Fantasy appeal.

5/14/2012

Alex Gonzalez, SS, MIL

Gonzalez to have Thursday surgery

News: The Brewers announced Monday that shortstop Alex Gonzalez will have ACL surgery on his right knee Thursday. It will be performed by Dr. William Raasch.

Analysis: Gonzalez will miss the rest of the 2012 season because of his injury. It's a tough break too since Gonzalez was batting .300 with three homers and 11 RBI in his last 14 games before the injury. Cesar Izturis has taken over at shortstop in his absence. Gonzalez can be dropped in all Fantasy formats.

5/14/2012

Aaron Hill, 2B, ARI

Hill not producing many runs

News: Diamondbacks second basemen Aaron Hill's struggles at the plate continued during Sunday's contest against the Giants. Hill went hitless in his two at-bats in the 7-3 loss, dropping his average to .244 on the year.

Analysis: Hill has been struggling at the plate of late, especially in the run production department. He has gone 14 games since his last home run and only has three RBI over that stretch. While his track record suggests he should be able to turn things around, Fantasy owners may want to leave him reserved until he gets himself back on track.

5/14/2012

Zack Cozart, SS, CIN

Cozart struggling with contact

News: Reds shortstop Zack Cozart got a day off on Sunday against the Nationals, after striking out seven times in his previous 13 at bats, spanning across three games. He has seen his batting average fall to .250 during the month of May, after hitting .271 in April.

Analysis: Cozart is still flashing solid pop for a middle infielder, as he has two home runs in May, however the contact issues are starting to plague him. Cozart has struck out in 30 percent of his at bats during May, while walking just twice. He is hitting .264 for the season, and his overall numbers are solid for a middle infielder, however if he was able to make more consistent contact, he could be even more than the low-end mixed-league Fantasy option he currently is, given his upside.

5/14/2012

Martin Prado, LF, ATL

Prado heating up for Braves

News: Braves second basemen Martin Prado continued his hot hitting during Sunday's contest against the Cardinals. Prado collected two hits in the 7-4 win, including a RBI single off reliever Victor Marte in the seventh inning. He also added a single and finished 2 for 4 with two runs scored and a RBI.

Analysis: Prado has now hit safely in five straight contests and is batting .364 with an RBI over that stretch. The 28-year-old missed a few games earlier in the month due to an illness and a sore elbow, but he appears to be over his issues now. While most Fantasy owners would like to see a bit run production, Prado should remain active in the majority of formats heading into Week 7 (May 14-20).

5/14/2012

Ian Desmond, SS, WAS

Desmond doubling up

News: Nationals shortstop Ian Desmond doubled for the second game in a row on Sunday, going 2 for 6 with a run scored as the Nationals fell to the Reds, 9-6. Desmond struck out once in the game as he continues to bat out of the leadoff spot.

Analysis: Desmond is not a prototypical leadoff hitter, as he has just a .283 on base percentage in the month of May. What he does bring is power, especially for a middle infielder, as he has four doubles, a triple and two home runs in 12 games in May. He is hitting .260 on the season with four home runs and 12 RBI, and can be considered a solid low-end option in mixed Fantasy leagues.

5/13/2012

David Wright, 3B, NYM

Mets looking to lock up Wright

News: The New York Mets are preparing to make third baseman David Wright a long-term contract extension at some point this season, according to the Wall Street Journal. The Mets hold an option to retain Wright for 2013, but the team could begin negotiations with the five-time All-Star as early as this summer. New York general manager Sandy Alderson did not provide specifics about a possible deal, however, he did rule out a possible trade of Wright. "I certainly do not foresee, under any circumstances, David being a topic of discussion at the trade deadline," Alderson said.

Analysis: Finally healthy after dealing with persistent injuries over the past three years, Wright has regained his All-Star form and leads the National League in both batting average (.400) and on-base percentage (.489). He is also riding a seven-game hitting streak, including six outings with multiple hits. Wright, 29, has expressed a desire to remain with the Mets and wants to finish his career in New York. Fantasy owners should monitor the situation, but it is unlikely to affect his sterling offensive production. Keep him rolling as a must-start in all formats.

5/13/2012

Lance Berkman, 1B, STL

Cardinals activate Berkman off DL

News: The Cardinals activated outfielder Lance Berkman (calf) from the 15-day disabled list on Sunday before a game against Atlanta. Berkman started the game against the Braves at first base and hit fifth in the batting order. Berkman had been sidelined since April 19 with a strained calf.

Analysis: Berkman wasn't without some setbacks during his recovery but is finally back in the St. Louis lineup now. Berkman had hit in all seven games in which he played before suffering the injury and was at .348 with two RBI and even had a stolen base. Now that he's healthy again, Berkman can be active in most mixed Fantasy formats for Week 7 (May 14-20).

5/13/2012

Aramis Ramirez, 3B, MIL

Ramirez streaking into Week 7

News: Brewers third baseman Aramis Ramirez extended his hitting streak to 10 games in Sunday's series finale against the Cubs. He went 1 for 3 with a walk and a run scored in the 8-2 loss. Ramirez has gone 11 for 38 (.289) during his streak with nine RBI.

Analysis: Ramirez got off to a slow start in his first season with the Brewers but has been looking better of late and has raised his average from .205 to .230 during his streak. His slugging percentage has also gone from .364 to .389 over that span. The 33-year-old could be in for a productive Week 7 (May 14-20) so keep Ramirez active in the majority of Fantasy formats. He will face off against the Mets, Astros and Twins during the upcoming scoring period.

5/13/2012

Casey McGehee, 1B, PIT

McGehee losing grip on job

News: Pittsburgh infielder Casey McGehee went 0 for 2 with a walk during the Pirates' 3-2 win over Houston in 12 innings on Sunday. McGehee has gone hitless in five of his past six games for a lackluster .143 batting average during the month of May. Overall, he's hitting just .233 for the year.

Analysis: McGehee's playing time has dropped since the first month of the season as he's registered only five starts through the first 11 games of May. Yes, he was in a platoon situation with Garrett Jones at first base, but his power has evaporated and he has yet to hit a home run with his new team. McGehee is carrying just a .190 slugging percentage. Consider him a low-end reserve option in NL-only Fantasy formats.

5/13/2012

Mike Costanzo, 3B, CIN

Costanzo makes first appearance

News: Recently called up Red third baseman Mike Costanzo made his major-league debut on Sunday against the Nationals, driving in a run with a pinch-hit sacrifice fly in the fifth inning, as the Reds won, 9-6.

Analysis: Costanze is a 28-year-old who has spent eight years working his way up In the minors. He is a career .259 hitter in the minors, with 100 home runs, so he has some pop. He is being used as a utility player, and should be ignored in Fantasy right now.

5/13/2012

Neil Walker, 2B, PIT

Walker slugging during May

News: Pittsburgh second baseman Neil Walker finished 2 for 5 with a pair of doubles and a run scored during the Pirates' 3-2 win over Houston in 12 innings on Sunday. It was the first time this season Walker has belted two extra-base hit in one game to lift his batting average to .278.

Analysis: Walker has steadied his production during the second month of the season and already surpassed his doubles total (three) and homer output (one) from April. The 26-year-old was also riding a seven-game hitting before the start of the series against the Astros. However, he hasn't claimed many multihit games as his average sits at .263. Consider him a quality option in deeper Fantasy formats as he appears to be warming up.

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5/13/2012

Ryan Zimmerman, 3B, WAS

Zimmerman searching for power

News: Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman went hitless for the second game in a row on Sunday in Cincinnati, and he is still looking for his first home run since returning from the disabled list last week with a shoulder injury. Zimmerman went 0 for 4 in the game, though he did walk for the fourth game in a row, as the Nationals fell, 9-6.

Analysis: Zimmerman is hitting .260 since coming off the disabled list on May 8, and while he does have a .370 on base percentage, he has only one extra base hit, a double, in six games. Shoulder injuries have a tendency to sap players of power until they fully heal, so that could be the culprit behind Zimmerman’s drought. However, he has yet to complain of any lingering weakness in the shoulder, so Fantasy owners should continue to start him in all formats until he breaks out of it.

5/13/2012

Melky Cabrera, LF, SF

Cabrera stays red hot

News: Giants outfielder Melky Cabrera continued his torrid hitting at the plate during Sunday's contest against the Diamondbacks. Cabrera collected four hits in the 7-4 win, including a RBI single in the third inning. "He's on fire," manager Bruce Bochy said, "from both sides. He's a good hitter. He had a breakout year last year and we're excited to have him, believe me. He's a smart hitter, can go with the pitch and he can hit the ball out of the ballpark, too. He threw up some great at-bats today, all series really."

Analysis: Cabrera has now hit safely in 11 straight games and is batting .468 (22 for 47) with two doubles, three triples, one home run and six RBI over that stretch. He has put together eight multi-hit games over his streak and has been by far the Giants most consistent batter at the plate. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the 27-year-old in all formats heading into Week 7 (May 14-20).

5/13/2012

Jed Lowrie, SS, HOU

Lowrie's average slipping

News: Houston shortstop Jed Lowrie went 0 for 5 to abruptly halt his modest three-game hitting streak during the Astros' 3-2 loss at Pittsburgh on Sunday. Lowrie took his third hitless outing over his past five games as his batting average has decreased to .283 on the season.

Analysis: Lowrie's recent rough stretch comes after a dazzling nine-game hitting streak that included three doubles and three home runs. But the 28-year-old has seemingly developed some impatience at the plate and has not drawn a walk in his past seven games as his on-base percentage has dropped under .400. Fantasy owners should be used to Lowrie's cold stretches and view him as a quality option in deeper formats.

5/13/2012

Bronson Arroyo, SP, CIN

Arroyo hit hard in no decision

News: Reds starting pitcher Bronson Arroyo allowed a season high 11 hits on Sunday against the Nationals, including four doubles, as he gave up four runs in five innings to pick up a no decision. Arroyo was in line for the loss when he exited the game, but the Reds battled back for a walk off win on a Joey Votto grand slam, 9-5. Arroyo did post his second-best strikeout performance of the season, with six, while walking just one; however his ERA raised by a half a run, to 3.25, with the outing.

Analysis: Arroyo is currently striking out 6.70 batters per nine innings, his best rate since 2008. His 1.02 walks per nine innings would be his best rate ever, both of which combine to lead him to his best ERA since 2006. He is throwing the ball better than he has in years, after posting his worst full campaign last season. He does remain susceptible to the long ball, which could be an issue for his next start, as he travels to New York to take on the Yankees on Friday, a team he has a 5.45 ERA against in his career. Arroyo has been solid this season, however Fantasy owners should be wary of him heading into Week 7 (May 14-20).

5/13/2012

Brett Pill, 1B, SF

Pill blasts third home run

News: Giants outfielder Brett Pill belted his third home run of the season during Sunday's contest against the Diamondbacks. Pill ripped the two-run shot off starter Joe Saunders in the fifth inning. That would turn out to be his only hit in the contests as Pill finished 1 for 5 with a pair of RBI in the 7-4 win.

Analysis: Pill continues to see time at mainly first base and the outfield for the Giants but has only started 11 games thus far. That makes tough for the 27-year-old to keep his timing at the plate as well as be a consistent Fantasy producer. Unless he starts playing everyday, Pill should only be owned in deeper NL-only formats.

5/13/2012

Chris Denorfia, LF, SD

Denorfia earns more playing time

News: San Diego outfielder Chris Denorfia went 1 for 3 with a double during the Padres' 3-2 loss at Philadelphia on Sunday. Denorfia's double in the third inning off Cole Hamels represented his first during the month of May and sixth overall of the season. He's now hitting .270 this year.

Analysis: After a sporadic first month of the season, Denorfia has seen an increase in playing time in May as a result of injuries, but his production has failed to carry over. The speedy 31-year-old has just five hits this month for a paltry .160 batting average and recorded only his first stolen base on Sunday. Denorfia has limited power and driven in just five runs this season. Consider him a marginal option in NL-only Fantasy formats for now.

5/13/2012

Edwin Jackson, SP, WAS

Long ball an issue for Jackson

News: Coming off a start in which he allowed two home runs to the Pirates, Nationals starter Edwin Jackson was yet again taken deep twice on Sunday against the Reds, this time at the hands of Joey Votto, who almost single-handedly won the Reds the game. Jackson would ultimately only pitch five innings in the game, allowing the two solo home runs to Votto, while also giving up a pair of hits and a sac fly to allow a third run in the fifth inning before being pulled for a pinch hitter in the sixth inning. Jackson allowed five hits and three earned runs in five innings, while walking none striking out four in a no decision. The Nationals would ultimately lose the game on a blown save by Henry Rodriguez, who allowed a walk-off grand slam for a 9-6 final.

Analysis: Jackson has had two quality starts in his last four and two subpar ones, however he has not picked up a decision in any of them. He ERA rose to 3.71 on the season, however he continues to post the best strikeout and walk rates of his career. He has simply been victimized by the home runs, posting his highest home run rate per nine innings as well. Jackson should has pitched the worst out of the starters in Washington this season, which says a lot about their staff. He is set to face the Orioles in Interleague action in Week 7 (May 14-20,) with his start scheduled for Friday. He has a 3.61 ERA in his career against Baltimore, so consider him a solid starting Fantasy option.

5/13/2012

Barry Zito, SP, SF

Zito gets back in win column

News: Giants starter Barry Zito picked up his second win of the season during Sunday afternoon's contest against the Diamondbacks. Zito, who was making his seventh start of the year, allowed three runs on five hits over six innings in the 7-3 win. Most of the damage he surrendered came in the fourth inning as he surrendered a pair of RBI doubles in the frame. However, he was able to keep Arizona off the scoreboard over his final two innings of work and was pulled after throwing 93 pitches. Zito finished with five strikeouts and three walks, while improving to 2-1 on the year. "I was kind of in and out today. I got into some jams but was able to pitch out," Zito said. "It wasn't a great day for me as far as stuff goes, but the curveball bailed me out a few times."

Analysis: Zito was finally able to snap his winless drought on Sunday after going five starts since his last victory. The left-hander finally got some run support this time on the mound and has not surrendered more than three earned runs over any of his seven starts. He will look to keep things rolling along when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Friday against the A's. Zito has gone 1-4 with a 7.24 ERA in five career starts against Oakland. Continue to view the left-hander as a viable option in deeper mixed formats heading into Week 7 (May 14-20).

5/13/2012

Chase Headley, 3B, SD

Headley starting to cool off

News: San Diego third baseman Chase Headley struck out in his only at-bat while serving as a pinch-hitter during the Padres' 3-2 loss to Philadelphia on Sunday. Headley finished the three-game series 0 for 7 with a pair of walks and five strikeouts as his batting average dipped to .242.

Analysis: Headley's hitless performance against the Phillies over the weekend marked the first time he failed to record a hit in a series this season. Sunday also marked the initial time Headley was not in the starting lineup as he entered the game with just two hits over his past four contests. He has slowed since his torrid start, but still boasts a sterling .374 on-base percentage. Keep him active in deeper Fantasy formats for now.

5/13/2012

Joey Votto, 1B, CIN

Votto back on track with big game

News: After 32 games, only one thing was missing from Reds first baseman Joey Votto’s season; home runs, as he had just two. He made up for lost time on Sunday, putting three into the seats including a grand slam with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning that gave the Reds a come from behind, walk-off 9-5 win over the Nationals. Votto’s first two home runs were solo shots off starter Edwin Jackson, and the final came on a 2-2 pitch from Henry Rodriguez, which he belted to straight-away center field to give him his fifth home run of the season. Votto finished the day 4 for 5, with his other hit being a double, to give him 14 total bases on the game. He also drove in six runs and scored four.

Analysis: Votto has been on fire all season, so it is no great surprise that the power came through in a big way all of a sudden. He has been crushing doubles all season, as he extended his National League lead with his 16th of the season on Sunday, ans he has now reached base safely in 25 games in a row. Votto has hit 25 home runs or more in each of his last three seasons, so you knew it was only a mater of time until he found that stroke, so continue to consider him a must-start option in all Fantasy formats.

5/13/2012

Joe Saunders, SP, ARI

Saunders roughed up again

News: Diamondbacks starter Joe Saunders was roughed up during Sunday afternoon's contest against the Giants. Saunders, who was making his seventh start of the year, allowed six runs on 10 hits over five innings in the 7-3 loss. He surrendered two runs in the third, fourth and fifth innings, including a two-run home run off the bat of Brandon Pilll. Saunders was finally pulled after throwing 73 pitches and finished with one walk and one strikeout, while falling to 2-3 on the year.

Analysis: After getting off to a strong start this season, Saunders has been struggling over his last few outings. The left-hander has now allowed 12 earned runs over his last two starts (8 1/3 innings), which has raised his ERA to 3.43 on the year. While his overall numbers are still pretty good, Fantasy owners might want to leave him reserved until he gets himself back on track. He is scheduled to make his next start, which is scheduled for Friday at Kansas City. Saunders is 4-0 with a 2.57 ERA in six career starts against the Royals.

5/13/2012

John Mayberry, LF, PHI

Mayberry levels off playing time

News: Philadelphia outfielder John Mayberry went 0 for 3 with a walk during the Phillies' 3-2 victory over San Diego on Sunday. Mayberry's season-high five-game hitting streak was halted as his batting average slipped to .235. But he was able to draw just his third walk of the young season.

Analysis: After being shuffled in and out of the batting order during the first month of the season, Mayberry's playing time has steadied and he was in the starting lineup for the sixth straight game Sunday. The 28-year-old has responded to the consistent playing time and is boasting a .310 batting average in May. He also has two doubles and four RBI, and could be worth a look in deeper NL-only Fantasy formats as a reserve option.

5/13/2012

Dee Gordon, SS, LAD

Gordon to remain in leadoff spot

News: Dodgers manager Don Mattingly admitted that shortstop Dee Gordon has been struggling in the leadoff spot of the order, however before Sunday’s game against the Rockies he told MLB.com that he does not have many options to replace him with. "Dropping Dee in the order sounds really easy," said Mattingly, who had Gordon out of the lineup on Sunday. "But then who do you want me to hit there?" Mattingly believes that Gordon’s speed and ability to make things happen make him the team’s best option at the top of the order, despite his struggles. "He kind of needs to be that guy," Mattingly said. "I know we can't force a square peg into a round hole, but we have been able to sustain so far without Dee kind of getting going."

Analysis: Gordon had been riding a seven-game hitting streak earlier in the week, however that abruptly came to an end over the last three games, as he has combined to go 0 for 14 with five strikeouts. Gordon is hitting just .211 on the season with a .250 on base percentage, which negates the advantage his speed gives him. He has 12 stolen bases, or more than one every three times he reaches base, however he reaches base so frequently that he has trouble consistently making use of his speed. It sounds like the team is simply going to let him figure things out, however he is really hurting you outside of the steals category, so consider him a mid-range Fantasy option for Rotisserie formats.

5/13/2012

James Loney, 1B, LAD

Loney making strides

News: With a right-handed pitcher on the mount on Sunday for the Rockies, Dodgers first baseman James Loney got the start and reached base three times. Loney went 1 for 3 with a double, while also drawing a pair of walks without striking out. He scored two runs to help the Dodgers win, 11-5.

Analysis: Quietly, Loney has put together a five-game hitting streak, with seven hits in 17 at bats to raise his batting average from .198 t0 .233. He is still not hitting for the kind of power the Dodgers want from their first baseman, however his average is starting to creep up, which is a start. He remains just an NL-only option at this point.

5/13/2012

Jimmy Rollins, SS, PHI

Rollins finally makes round trip

News: Philadelphia shortstop Jimmy Rollins 1 for 4 with a home run during the Phillies' 3-2 win over San Diego on Sunday. It took Rollins 135 at-bats but he finally went deep, opening the game with his first homer this season off Padres starter Jeff Suppan. Rollins entered the contest just 9 for 27 with two home runs in his career against Suppan. "It was nice to hit a line drive," Rollins said about the 38th leadoff homer of his career.

Analysis: Rollins' home run also pushed his hitting streak to four games as his batting average remained steady at .230 on the season. His hot stretch should keep him atop the batting order moving forward, but the Phillies would like to see him improve on his .275 on-base percentage. Rollins has just six extra-base hits this season, five of them doubles. Consider Rollins a viable start in the majority of Fantasy formats for now.

5/13/2012

Corey Hart, RF, MIL

Hart waking up at plate

News: After going just 4 for 30 (.133) in his first eight games of May, Brewers outfielder Corey Hart has picked up the pace of late and that trend continued on Sunday against the Cubs. He went 1 for 3 in the 8-2 loss. Hart has gone 6 for 14 (.429) in his last three games with one homer and three RBI.

Analysis: Hart had a productive first month of the season and appears to be waking up in May after struggling a bit. He is sporting a .534 slugging percentage thus far and is on pace for another productive campaign as long as he can stat healthy. While his speed has dried up in recent years, Hart posts power numbers that makes him a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats.

5/13/2012

Paul Goldschmidt, 1B, ARI

Goldschmidt working through slump

News: Diamondbacks first basemen Paul Goldschmidt told MLB.com that he has been tweaking his mechanics with hitting drills off a tee over the past few days. Goldshmidt entered Sunday's contest against the Giants with just three hits over his past 15 at-bats (.200). "You just have to keep battling through it," Goldschmidt said. "I've been getting some good pitches to hit but maybe I'm fouling them or swinging and missing too many of them. But for the most part, I am swinging at good pitches and taking a good approach."

Analysis: Goldschmidt went 0 for 4 in Sunday's loss to the Giants, dropping his batting average to .227 on the year. However, the 24-year-old said he has been happy with his approach at the plate of late and he was finally able to smack his second home run of the season on Friday. While Goldschmidt continues to see the majority of starts at first base, Fantasy owners should continue to consider him a low-end option in deeper mixed formats until he starts producing at the plate again.

5/13/2012

Bobby Abreu, LF, LAD

Abreu pushed into emergency duty

News: When Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp was pulled from Sunday’s game against the Rockies with a hamstring injury, the team turned to recently acquired veteran Bobby Abreu to replace him. In his first at bat, Abreu made that move pay off, as he came up with a bases-loaded double that scored three runs. He would go on to finish the game 1 for 2 with a walk, three RBI, a run scored and a strikeout, as the Dodgers won, 11-5.

Analysis: Abreu has been starting more often with the Dodgers, and he was supposed to get the day off on Sunday. Now, Kemp is set to have an MRI on his hamstring, and if that is serious, Abreu will be pressed into even more action. He is hitting just .255 on the season with no home runs and nine RBI, however he might see some value as a low-end Fantasy option in NL-only leagues if he is forced to play everyday.

5/13/2012

Alex White, SP, COL

White scuffles in second start

News: Rockies pitcher Alex White received his second start of the season in place of Jeremy Guthrie on Sunday, and this time out against the Dodgers things did not go nearly as smoothly as they did the first time. White was hit hard and chased from the game with just one out in the fifth inning, after allowing a bases-loaded double to Bobby Abreu. Abreu would eventually score after White was removed, leaving him with four earned runs in the inning and six overall in his 4 1/3 innings. He allowed five hits, including three doubles, while walking three and striking out one to drop his record to 0-2, as the Dodgers won, 11-5.

Analysis: This may have been White's last start before returning to Triple-A, as Guthrie should be back in time for his next start, in time for Week 7 (May 14-20). The 23-year-old struggled last season in his initial callup, however he showed flashes of ability in his two recent starts. He should be considered just an NL-only option if he remains in the majors.

5/13/2012

A.J. Burnett, SP, PIT

Burnett proving doubters wrong

News: Pittsburgh starting pitcher A.J. Burnett (1-2) permitted two runs and six hits in eight innings during the Pirates' 3-2 win over Houston in 12 innings on Sunday. It was the second straight game Burnett completed eight innings as he trimmed his ERA to 5.12 on the season. He finished with four strikeouts and no walks -- the first time he has not walked a batter while going at least eight innings since May 30, 2010, while with the Yankees. Burnett allowed one run in the fifth and seventh innings, but halted a two-game streak in which he's yielded a homer.

Analysis: Burnett's turnaround in the National League continued Sunday despite his second no-decision in a row. Aside from his poor outing at St. Louis on May 2 (12 runs in 2 2/3 innings), Burnett has allowed two runs or less in all of his starts. After averaging 86 walks in three seasons with the Yankees, the veteran right-hander has shown strong command and owns a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 31-to-7 in 31 2/3 innings. He is worth an addition in most deeper formats ahead of his next projected start Friday at Detroit. Consider him a viable Fantasy option.

5/13/2012

Reed Johnson, CF, CHC

Johnson connects for first HR of 2012

News: Cubs outfielder Reed Johnson only saw one at-bat in Sunday's series finale against the Brewers but he made the most of it. He launched a solo home run off Marco Estrada in the sixth inning for his first long ball of the season.

Analysis: Johnson has six RBI in 48 at-bats thus far as he continues to see time as a pinch-hitter and fourth outfielder. While he still has some pop in his bat at age 35, continue to ignore Johnson in all but the deepest of NL-only formats at this point.

5/13/2012

Ted Lilly, SP, LAD

Less-than-sharp Lilly wins again

News: Dodgers starting pitcher Ted Lilly did not show his best form on Sunday, allowing a season high four earned runs in 6 1/3 innings, however he hung around long enough for his offense to lift him up and get him his fifth win in six tries, in an 11-5 win over the Rockies. For just the second time all season, Lilly walked more batters – three – than he struck out – one, while also allowing six hits. Lilly gave up just one extra-base, a double to opposing pitcher Alex White, however that was not what brought him trouble; instead, Lilly was pulled in the seventh inning with one out, after allowing a walk to Marco Scutaro, who would later score, denying him his sixth quality start in six outings. He record now stands at 5-0.

Analysis: Lilly’s ERA rose to 2.11 with the game, an indication of how solid he has been this season so far. He has just 22 strikeouts in 38 1/3 innings, lowest strikeout rate of his career, however he has managed to avoid the longball, which has been the biggest reason for his success. Lilly could strike out more batters, however Fantasy owners have to be happy that he has been giving six or seven solid innings every time out he takes the mound. Lilly will face a tough challenge the next time he takes the hill, as he faces the Cardinals, the National League’s top offense, on Friday during Week 7 (May 14-20). While he has a career 2.85 ERA against them and has been pitching well, he should be considered more of a mid-range Fantasy option for the scoring period.

5/13/2012

Ian Stewart, 3B, CHC

Stewart picking up his power

News: After hitting just one home run over the first month of the season, Cubs third baseman Ian Stewart slugged his third long ball of May in Sunday's series finale against the Brewers. He launched a solo shot off Marco Estrada in the fifth inning and finished 2 for 5 with two runs scored in the 8-2 win.

Analysis: Stewart has picked up his power this month but is still struggling to hit for average. His .193 mark is nearly 40 points below his career average and his .351 slugging percentage is nothing special. The 27-year-old will continue to see everyday at-bats in Chicago but remains more of an option for NL-only formats at this point.

5/13/2012

Darwin Barney, 2B, CHC

Barney putting some hits together

News: Cubs second baseman Darwin Barney collected a hit for the fifth time in his last six games on Sunday against the Brewers. He went 1 for 4 with an RBI and a run scored. He also posted his first stolen base in the 8-2 win. Barney has gone 6 for 22 (.273) with four runs scored in his last six games.

Analysis: Barney is batting just .182 in his last 16 games but has shown some life at the plate of late and could be on the verge of breaking out. He showed last season that he can hit for average so keep an eye on his progress going forward. Still, Barney doesn't have much power or speed so continue to view the 26-year-old as more of an option for NL-only formats at this point.

5/13/2012

Wandy Rodriguez, SP, HOU

Bullpen lets down Rodriguez

News: Houston starting pitcher Wandy Rodriguez (3-3) surrendered one run and three hits in eight innings during the Astros' 3-2 loss at Pittsburgh in 12 innings on Sunday. Rodriguez walked only one batter and had seven strikeouts to give him 31 in his past three outings against the Pirates. Despite conceding that "he still had plenty of pitches to go," Houston manager Brad Mills lifted Rodriguez after throwing 94 pitches (72 strikes). "It was the right thing to do to get (closer Brett Myers in)," Mills said. "Weather-wise and mound-wise, it was tough."

Analysis: Rodriguez turned in arguably his finest outing of the season and was in line for the win before Myers blew the game in the ninth. After an 11-11 campaign a year ago, the left-hander has regained his standout form and worked at least eight innings in each of his past two starts. His ERA has not exceeded 2.38 during his eight starts this year. Rodriguez's next start is scheduled for Friday against Texas, which could be a daunting opponent. He should be viewed as a mid-range Fantasy option as he is 2-2 with a 2.16 ERA at home this year.

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5/13/2012

Cole Hamels, SP, PHI

Hamels stellar in return

News: Philadelphia starting pitcher Cole Hamels (5-1) allowed only one run and five hits in seven sharp innings during the Phillies' 3-2 victory over San Diego on Sunday. In his first game since returning from a five-game suspension, Hamels yielded just four singles and a double while lowering his ERA to 2.28. He had five strikeouts, but walked a season-high three batters during his seventh appearance of the season. "It's nice to get some runs. Obviously when you get runs you can win," Hamels said. "I know if I just go out there and I battle and try to pitch deep into the ball game and we put up some runs, then I can get wins."

Analysis: Hamels was suspended by Major League Baseball after the left-hander intentionally threw a pitch that hit Washington rookie Bryce Harper a week ago. He remained defiant after the action and said he intentionally planned to plunk Harper. When active, Hamels has been extremely efficient and yielded less than three runs in each of his past six games. Fantasy owners shouldn't fret about his control as he owns a glistening 1.04 WHIP. His next start is slated for Friday against Boston. Keep him active in all Fantasy formats.

5/13/2012

Tommy Hanson, SP, ATL

Hanson Ks season high in win

News: Braves starter Tommy Hanson was able to get himself back in the win column during Sunday's contest against the Cardinals. Hanson, who was making his eighth start of the year, allowed one run on five hits over five innings in the 7-4 win. The lone run he did surrender came in the sixth inning on a solo home run off the bat of Carlos Beltran, which forced Hanson from the game. He was pulled after throwing 97 pitches and finished with a season-high nine strikeouts and three walks, while improving to 4-3 on the year.

Analysis: Hanson pitched well against the Cardinals on Sunday, but unfortunately his pitch count forced him from the game after just five innings. Still, the right-hander has surrendered two runs or less in four of his last five starts and has gone 3-1 with a 3.25 ERA over that stretch. He has also fanned 27 batters over that span and will look to keep things rolling when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Friday at Tampa Bay. Hanson won his lone career start against the Rays, tossing seven shutout innings against them back in 2010. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the 25-year-old in the majority of mixed formats heading into Week 7 (May 14-20).

5/13/2012

Andre Ethier, RF, LAD

Ethier gets tossed

News: Dodgers outfielder Andre Ethier was displeased with a called third strike during the fifth inning on Sunday against the Rockies, and he voiced his disagreement to home-plate umpire Mark Carlson. Carlson let Ethier go for a little while and then tossed him from the game, the second time Ethier has been ejected from a game in his career. He finished the game 0 for 3 with that lone strikeout. The Dodgers would still go on to win the game, 11-5.

Analysis: Ethier was riding a five-game hitting streak entering Sunday, in which he had 10 hits in 17 at bats, which was snapped with the shortened outing. Ethier is now hitting .302 on the season, with 32 RBI in 34 games played to lead the team. He has reached base safely in all but seven of his games this season, and has raised his on base and slugging percentages to .364 and .571, respectively. Despite the ejection, he should be considered a high-end Fantasy outfielder in all formats.

5/13/2012

Lance Lynn, SP, STL

Lynn tagged with first loss

News: Cardinals starter Lance Lynn was tagged with his first loss of the season during Sunday's contest against the Braves. Lynn, who was making his seventh start of the year, allowed three runs on four hits over six innings in the 7-4 defeat. All three runs he surrendered came in the third inning on a three-run double off the bat of Jason Heyward. However, Lynn was able to settle back down and keep Atlanta off the scoreboard over his final three innings of work before being pulled after throwing a season-high 121 pitches. He finished with seven strikeouts and three walks, while falling to 6-1 on the year.

Analysis: While Lynn wasn't at this sharpest on Sunday, he still pitched well enough to win for the Cardinals. The three runs he surrendered were a season-high for the 25-year-old, which is an indication on how good he has been thus far. Lynn has now racked up 44 strikeouts over his 44 1/3 innings pitched on season, while allowing just 26 hits over that stretch. He will look to get himself back in the win column when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Friday at Los Angeles. While Lynn has never faced the Dodgers in his brief career, he has posted a 1.01 ERA in his four road starts on the year. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the right-hander in the majority of mixed leagues heading into Week 7 (May 14-20).

5/13/2012

Jeff Suppan, SP, SD

Suppan can't solve Phillies

News: San Diego starting pitcher Jeff Suppan (2-1) gave up three runs -- two earned -- and six hits in six innings during the Padres' 3-2 loss to Philadelphia on Sunday. Suppan struck out one batter and walked none as he suffered his first defeat as a member of the Padres. He has also lost each of his last seven decisions against the Phillies dating to April 9, 2005. The last time he beat Philadelphia was May 6, 2004 while he was with St. Louis. "Jeff pitched well," San Diego manager Bud Black told reporters. "Six solid innings. He did his job."

Analysis: Suppan was making just his third start of the season after being recalled from Triple-A Tucson on May 2. The 37-year-old was signed to a minor-league deal during the offseason and spent last year with Kansas City's Triple-A affiliate in Omaha. He has enjoyed an early resurgence with the Padres and has pitched at least five innings in every start. "I’ve always had the same foundation," he said. "Change speeds, keep the ball down, avoid damage ... sometimes I’ve been successful." His next start is projected for Friday against the Angels. Consider him a low-end Fantasy option in deeper NL-only formats.

5/13/2012

Geovany Soto, C, CHC

Soto still struggling with average

News: Cubs catcher Geovany Soto had one of his better days at the plate recently in Sunday's series finale against the Brewers. He went 1 for 3 with a walk and a run scored in the 8-2 win. Soto has gone 6 for 31 (.193) so far in May with two homers and four RBI.

Analysis: Soto raised his average to .151 on Sunday as he continues to struggle to hit for average. His .286 slugging percentage is over 160 points below his career mark and he has just five RBI through 26 games. The 29-year-old has proven in the past to be a viable option in Fantasy but should be left for NL-only formats until he shows some consistency at the plate.

5/13/2012

Tony Campana, CF, CHC

Campana swipes first bag of May

News: Cubs outfielder Tony Campana did something against the Brewers on Sunday that he hadn't done since April 30 -- steal a base. He swiped third base in the eighth inning for his eighth steal of the season. Campana finished 3 for 5 with an RBI and a run scored in the 8-2 win.

Analysis: Campana is batting .350 with nine runs scored in 20 games and continues to get on base out of the two-hole for the Cubs. While he possesses minimal power, he is gaining value in Fantasy with his hot start and is on pace for career highs in most categories. With his ability to hit for average and post a healthy amount of steals, consider adding Campana in deeper Fantasy formats, especially Rotisserie.

5/13/2012

Starlin Castro, SS, CHC

Castro hitting well in May

News: After having his 10-game hitting streak snapped on Saturday, Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro began working on a new one in Sunday's series finale against the Brewers. He went 2 for 5 with an RBI in the 8-2 win. He drove in David DeJesus with a single in the ninth inning, giving Castro 20 RBI on the year.

Analysis: Castro has collected a hit in all but one game so far in May and has gone 16 for 49 (.326) over that span with one homer and six RBI. While he continues to take few walks, the 22-year-old keeps racking up the hits for the Cubs and has some developing power. He should continue to see plenty of RBI chances batting third in the lineup so keep Castro active in all Fantasy formats. He will face off against the Cardinals, Phillies and White Sox during Week 7 (May 17-20).

5/13/2012

Marco Estrada, RP, MIL

Estrada gets back on track

News: After giving up nine combined runs over his last two outings, Brewers pitcher Marco Estrada looked much better on Sunday against the Cubs. He allowed two runs on five hits over six innings of work. The right-hander made it through his first five frames unscathed before surrendering a solo homer to Ian Stewart. He would give up another solo shot, this time to Reed Johnson, the following inning and left in line for the loss but luckily his teammates were able to battle back. Estrada also struck out four and walked one in the no-decision.

Analysis: Estrada registered his first quality start since joining the rotation on Sunday and lowered his ERA from 4.50 to 4.20 in the process. While he has given up eight homers in 30 innings pitched, he has never really had a problem with gopher balls so hopefully he can get back on track going forward. The 28-year-old should be considered as more of a low-end option in NL-only formats heading into Week 7 (May 14-20). His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Twins.

5/13/2012

Jeff Samardzija, SP, CHC

Samardzija brings ERA under 3.00

News: Cubs pitcher Jeff Samardzija entered his start on Sunday against the Brewers having posted a 0.84 ERA over his last three outings. He was solid once again as he allowed one run on three hits over five innings of work. The right-hander made it through his first three frames unscathed before Taylor Green hit a sac fly. He was done after throwing 91 pitches, 59 for strikes, and left in line for the win the bullpen was unable to hold the lead. Samardzija also struck out six and walked two in the no-decision.

Analysis: Samardzija continues to impress in his first season in the rotation and lowered his ERA to 2.89 on Sunday. Along with his low walk rate, his ability to post over a strikeout per inning has increased his vale in Fantasy, as well as his eligibility as a reliever. The Cubs have said that they will keep an eye on his innings going forward and could possibly move the rotation around to give him a breather every once in awhile. Still, the 27-year-old should be considered a viable option in all formats heading into Week 7 (May 14-20). His next start is scheduled for Friday against the White Sox at home. In three starts at Wrigely Field this season, Samardzija has gone 2-0 with a 0.81 ERA.

5/13/2012

Giancarlo Stanton, RF, MIA

Stanton wins game with grand slam

News: Marlins outfielder Giancarlo Stanton was the hero on Mother's Day on Sunday against the Mets. Stanton came to bat with the bases juiced in the bottom of the ninth inning and the Marlins tied at 4-4 with New York. Stanton unloaded the bases with a grand slam, his seventh homer of the season, against Manny Acosta for the Marlins win. Stanton finished the game 3 for 5 with four RBI and is batting .289 on the season.

Analysis: Stanton was struggling with his average, but has gone on a tear at the plate over his last four games. Stanton has gone 8 for 18 over his last four contests with two doubles, a homer and five RBI. He could take off from here, so Fantasy owners should be getting him active in all mixed leagues and formats.

5/13/2012

Emilio Bonifacio, CF, MIA

Bonifacio triples twice in win

News: Miami outfielder Emilio Bonifacio had a three-hit game on Sunday in a Mother's Day win over the New York Mets. Bonifacio scored two runs in the game as he tripled twice for the Marlins. He finished 3 for 4 and is batting .256 on the season.

Analysis: Bonifacio now has three multi-hit games in his last four contests with a double and two triples over that span. He's stolen 17 bases already this season and is beginning to pick it up with the bat. Bonifacio is a solid Rotisserie option and can be utilized in most mixed Fantasy leagues as well.

5/13/2012

Carlos Zambrano, SP, MIA

Big Z has another sharp outing

News: Miami starter Carlos Zambrano lowered his ERA to 1.88 on the season on Sunday afternoon in a Mother's Day matchup at home against the Mets. Unfortunately for Zambrano, who pitched extremely well in the outing, he could not earn a victory as he left with the game tied at two runs apiece. Zambrano took the no-decision as he allowed just two runs -- one earned -- on five hits and three walks over seven strong innings. Zambrano struck out seven batters over that span and needed 115 pitches to go the distance he did.

Analysis: Zambrano has been extremely sharp over his last three outings for the Marlins. Big Z has allowed just one earned run over his last 23 innings pitched with 21 strikeouts over that span and a 1-0 record. You'd like to see him getting more return on his solid starts, but Fantasy owners are just happy the Big Z of old has shown his face. In fact, Zambrano has allowed one earned run or fewer in five of his last six starts and only gave up three earned runs in the other. Zambrano is pitching extremely well right now and can be used in plenty of mixed Fantasy leagues heading into Week 7 (May 14-20). His next scheduled start comes on Friday to open interleague play at Cleveland.

5/13/2012

Jonathon Niese, SP, NYM

Niese goes six shutout in no-decision

News: Mets starter Jonathon Niese had another solid outing on Sunday in a Mother's Day matchup at Miami. Niese was once again not as economical as he could have been, but he still kept the Marlins off the scoreboard for his entire time on the mound. Niese pitched six shutout innings for the Mets, though the bullpen allowed the Marlins to tie the score and Niese settled for a no-decision. Niese gave up just five hits and three walks in the start as he threw 99 pitches with 61 for strikes. Niese struck out four batters and his ERA lowered to 3.40 on the year.

Analysis: Niese has allowed just two earned runs in his last two starts but has lasted just 11 innings over that span with nine strikeouts. His record remains 2-1 on the season with a solid ERA, but Niese really needs to start going deeper in games to really gain realistic Fantasy value outside deeper mixed formats. Niese is certainly pitching better of late, however, so Fantasy owners in those deeper mixed formats can give him a whirl entering Week 7 (May 14-20). Niese makes his next scheduled start on Friday to open interleague play at Toronto. He won't have to hit in that one, but the Blue Jays are a very good hitting ballclub.

5/13/2012

Heath Bell, RP, MIA

Bell pulls win out of hat

News: Miami closer Heath Bell entered the top of the ninth inning against the Mets on Sunday with the score tied at two runs apiece. Bell couldn't keep it that way as he allowed two earned runs on two hits and two walks in the inning. Bell was in line to take the loss, but the Marlins scored six runs in the bottom of the ninth to win the game 8-4. Despite the poor inning, Bell took the victory and improved to 2-3 on the season. His ERA is at 10.03.

Analysis: Bell may have earned the victory on Sunday, but he was terrible once again for the Marlins. Bell has been just about the worst investment the Marlins could have hoped for this season with four blown saves and a 1-3 record with an ERA over 10.00. Bell's last converted save came back on May 1 at San Francisco. He's in a very bad way right now and Fantasy owners should consider benching him in most mixed Fantasy leagues until he gets straightened out or something changes.

5/13/2012

Buster Posey, C, SF

Posey's leg feeling 'cranky'

News: San Francisco catcher Buster Posey's surgically-repaired leg is feeling "a little cranky," according to manager Bruce Bochy, reports CSN Bay Area on Sunday. Posey sat out Sunday's series finale at Arizona but Bochy did not seem overly concerned about the issue. "He needed the rest," Bochy said. "I could see he needed the rest; I was planning on it."

Analysis: Posey is apparently feeling relatively normal soreness and shouldn't miss much more time past Sunday's off day. Posey is currently mired in a 3-for-26 slump at the plate, but remains a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.

5/13/2012

Shawn Camp, RP, CHC

Camp seeing plenty of innings

News: Cubs reliever Shawn Camp has seen plenty of action this season and has enjoyed his time on the mound, reports MLB.com Sunday. "I'm a sinkerball pitcher and I'm not like a power pitcher," Camp said. "I don't want to say my arm never gets tired. But I feel sometimes, when you're a sinkerball pitcher, the more tired and fatigued you get, the less effort you put into pitches and your sinker gets a little better at times."

Analysis: Camp has made 15 appearances for Chicago this season as he's allowed six earned runs over 17 innings for a 3.18 ERA with 14 strikeouts. Camp is a middle reliever for the Cubs and has low-end Fantasy value in that role.

5/13/2012	Jeremy Affeldt, RP, SF
	Affeldt activated by Giants News: The Giants have activated relief pitcher Jeremy Affeldt off the disabled list on Sunday and optioned Travis Blackley to Triple-A Fresno. Analysis: Affeldt has posted an 0-1 record and 4.09 ERA over his 11 innings of work so far this season. He has low-end Fantasy value as he is not in line for saves with the Giants.

5/13/2012

Charlie Culberson, 2B, SF

Culberson joins Giants' roster

News: San Francisco recalled infielder Charlie Culberson from Triple-A Fresno on Sunday. Culberson was hitting .284 with Fresno and playing a lot of second base.

Analysis: Culberson has five homers and 24 RBI over 141 at-bats this season. He provides a bit of pop from the middle infield positions. He should see some at-bats, but not regular enough to become anything more than an NL-only Fantasy option.

5/13/2012

Gio Gonzalez, SP, WAS

Gonzalez has soreness in hand

News: Washington starter Gio Gonzalez has been nursing some soreness in his right non-throwing hand, reports the Washington Post Sunday. Gonzalez hurt himself sliding in a game last week, but was able to make his start on Friday with no trouble. The Nationals instructed him not to swing in Friday's start when he hit, but it did not bother him pitching. That said, Gonzalez's streak of five straight games with a quality starts came to an end on Friday against the Reds.

Analysis: Gonzalez has been everything the Nationals hoped for when they gave up a package of prospects in the offseason for him. He has posted a 1.94 ERA through seven starts, striking out 50 in 41 2/3 innings. He has also managed to walk just 17, after leading the league in walks last season. He is now 4-1 on the season, and should make his next start against the Pirates, a team he allowed just one run in six innings against in his last start. Fantasy owners should continue to consider him a high-end Fantasy starting option in most mixed leagues and not worry about the hand issue.

5/13/2012

R.A. Dickey, SP, NYM

Dickey OK after getting hit on wrist

News: New York starter R.A. Dickey is doing fine on Sunday one day after getting hit on the right wrist during an at-bat against Ricky Nolasco in Saturday's game. Dickey was in immediate pain but remained in the game to run and even pitched two more innings. “I was thankful it hit me on the meatier part of the wrist,” Dickey said to the New York Post. “I got feeling back in my hand pretty quickly.” Dickey did say he could have gone longer had it not been for the wrist issue. “It’s better to be precautionary at that stage, so we’ll see how it feels in the morning,” Dickey said. Dickey will not undergo X-rays and is in line for his next start.

Analysis: Dickey got some offense behind him on Saturday against Nolasco and improved to 5-1 on the year as he allowed just two earned runs on nine hits and one walk over six frames. Dickey did not strike out a batter and lowered his ERA to 3.65 on the year. Dickey continues to pitch like the ace of the Mets' staff. He's won consistently and he barely ever fails to get relatively deep in games. Dickey isn't a strikeout pitcher, but he's getting enough to make a difference. He's having a solid season and can be active in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues for his one-start Week 7 (May 14-20). His next outing is scheduled for Thursday against the Reds and the wrist should not be an issue.

5/13/2012

Daniel McCutchen, RP, PIT

McCutchen added to disabled list

News: The Pirates placed reliever Daniel McCutchen on the 15-day disabled list on Sunday with a left oblique strain, reports MLB.com. McCutchen suffered the injury during batting practice on Saturday. The move allows the Pirates to activate Joel Hanrahan off the Bereavement List.

Analysis: McCutchen was recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis when Hanrahan went on the Bereavement List. He never actually got into a game before getting injured. McCutchen has low-end Fantasy value at this moment.

5/13/2012

Jesus Flores, C, WAS

Flores becomes everyday starter

News: Washington catcher Jesus Flores has been thrust into a starting job with Wilson Ramos likely done for the season with a torn ACL in his knee, reports MLB.com. Flores should take over the everyday catching duties with Sandy Leon recalled to back him up. In his first start after Ramos’ injury on Sunday in Cincinnati, Flores went 2 for 4 with an RBI and two strikeouts, as the Red defeated the Nationals, 9-6.

Analysis: Flores was batting .200 over 35 at-bats prior to Ramos' injury. Flores has plenty of upside, so Fantasy owners need to see what he can do with playing time. He's only expected to see a minimal value increase in NL-only Fantasy leagues at first.

5/13/2012

Ruben Tejada, SS, NYM

Tejada return could be slowed

News: New York infielder Ruben Tejada has not been cleared to begin doing any baseball-related activities as of Sunday, reports ESPN.com. Tejada is eligible to return from the disabled list on May 22, but that is unlikely to happen at this point.

Analysis: Tejada has been cleared of having a concussion and is in Florida ready to begin rehab work. That said, he has not been cleared for baseball work just yet. He cannot take another step forward until that happens. Keep an eye on his status moving forward. Tejada is hitting 305 this season and can be considered a quality option in NL-only and deeper mixed formats when healthy.

5/13/2012

Carlos Gomez, CF, MIL

Gomez starting rehab soon

News: Brewers outfielder Carlos Gomez (hamstring) is expected to begin his rehab with Class A Wisconsin on Wednesday and it is expected to last through Saturday, reports MLB.com on Sunday. "I feel really good," Gomez said. "Throwing is fine, hitting is normal. The only thing to do is run. By 15 days, I'm going to be 100 percent."

Analysis: Gomez was batting .280 with one homer, five RBI and five stolen bases in 21 games this season before getting injured. Gomez can be stashed away in NL-only formats until he is able to return.

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5/12/2012

Chris Carpenter, SP, STL

Carpenter may start throwing in June

News: According to FoxSportsMidwest.com, Cardinals pitcher Chris Carpenter probably won't start a throwing program until mid-June. Carpenter was shut down in spring training because of weakness in his right shoulder, which was caused by a nerve irritation. "Things are trending in the right direction," general manager John Mozeliak said. "We still don't have a distinct timeline on when he's going to start throwing but I think the real positive right now is that he feels good with where he's at and he's definitely inching in the right direction. If I had to guess, sometime in mid-June hopefully we'll be ready to start thinking about a throwing program."

Analysis: Carpenter has a long road ahead of him still. Once he starts a throwing program, Carpenter will likely need at least six weeks before he's ready to return to the Cardinals. "His strength is getting stronger and that's measurable so that's something everybody is looking at as a positive," Mozeliak said. Carpenter went 11-9 with a 3.45 ERA in 34 starts last season. Lance Lynn will stay in the rotation until Carpenter is ready to return, which could be around when St. Louis starts to limit Lynn's innings. Fantasy owners should continue to stash Carpenter in all formats, as he's a worthy pitching option when healthy.

5/13/2012

Juan Nicasio, SP, COL

Nicasio fans nine in loss

News: Rockies pitcher Juan Nicasio gave up just one earned run over his seven innings of work on Saturday night against the Dodgers. He struck out nine and did not walk a batter, but it wouldn't be enough. Nicasio didn't get much support from his bats and left after seven innings with the game tied at one. He walked away with a no-decision. "(Juan) Nicasio was great," manager Jim Tracy said. "He pounded the strike zone with his fastball. And between his slider and change-up, he had enough going on to keep them at bay the entire time he was out there." Colorado would end up losing the game, 2-1.

Analysis: Nicasio looked good on Saturday night, but unfortunately a lack of offense hurt his good start. He struck out a season-high nine batters, giving him 35 on the year over his 40 2/3 innings of work. Nicasio remains 2-1 on the year for the Rockies and owns a 4.65 ERA. His next start falls on Thursday versus Arizona, a team he's seen once already in 2012. He gave up six earned runs and lasted just 2 2/3 innings in that contest, so Fantasy owners don't want to see a repeat performance. Consider him a low-end pitching option, best left for NL-only formats for Week 7 (May 14-20).

5/13/2012

Aaron Harang, SP, LAD

Harang evens out record

News: Los Angeles pitcher Aaron Harang had one miscue on Saturday against Colorado and that was a solo homer to outfielder Tyler Colvin in the seventh inning. That was the only run Harang allowed off four hits over his eight innings on the mound. He threw 97 pitches, 56 for strikes, before turning the ball over to Kenley Jansen. The Dodgers would win the game, 2-1.

Analysis: Harang is now 2-2 on the year and owns a 4.46 ERA. The veteran will try to keep this winning momentum going in his next outing. Harang faces his former team the Padres on Thursday in Week 7 (May 14-20). He's seen them twice this year and hasn't fared well, allowing seven earned runs over 10 2/3 innings. Harang is 0-1 with a 5.91 versus San Diego, but will try to better the Friars. Fantasy owners should continue to view Harang as a low-end pitching option in deeper mixed leagues.

5/13/2012

Tyler Colvin, LF, COL

Colvin tries to be hero

News: Rockies outfielder Tyler Colvin had one hit in Saturday's 2-1 loss to the Dodgers, but it was a big one. He hit a solo home run off starter Aaron Harang in the seventh inning, tying the game at one. That would be the only run the Rockies could muster though as they lost the game. Colvin was 1 for 3 in the game.

Analysis: Colvin has three homers and 11 RBI for Colorado as he's been on a regular basis. He's batting .315 on the year and is vying for at-bats with Dexter Fowler. Despite his nice outing, Colvin is still just an NL-only outfielder option at this time.

5/13/2012

Jose Altuve, 2B, HOU

Altuve adjusting to three-hole

News: Houston second baseman Jose Altuve finished 1 for 4 with a run scored during the Astros' 5-2 loss at Pittsburgh on Saturday night. Altuve tallied a single to halt a two-game hitless slide -- his longest of the season -- and is now carrying a .323 batting average through 32 games.

Analysis: After performing as one of the biggest surprises during the first month of the season, Altuve was moved to the No. 3 spot in Houston's batting order on Friday. He is now 1 for 7 from the position as his batting average has dipped 10 points since the move. The 22-year-old has cooled off some since his torrid start and has just one extra-base hit this month. Still, he should be viewed as a quality option in most Fantasy formats.

5/13/2012

Jorge De La Rosa, SP, COL

De La Rosa bothered by forearm

News: Rockies pitcher Jorge De La Rosa was removed from his rehab outing at Double-A Tulsa on Saturday night after one inning. The team reported the he experienced forearm tightness and was taken out as a precaution. De La Rosa is working his way back from Tommy John surgery on his left elbow last year. “I’m not too worried about his timeline,” Rockies head trainer Keith Dugger said this morning. “Last night in Tulsa they were just being extra conservative, I’d say. He had a long inning, got hit around a little bit and felt some tightness. They made a good call getting him out of there.”

Analysis: De La Rosa had made two starts for Class A Modesto before moving up to Double-A. It's unclear if this forearm issue will keep him on the shelf longer, extending his rehab assignment. Manager Jim Tracy has said there is no rush to get De La Rosa back and that he will be activated when he's ready. De La Rosa, 31, was the Rockies' best pitcher last year (5-2, 3.51 ERA in 10 starts) when he suffered the torn elbow ligament in May. Fantasy owners in deeper mixed and NL-only leagues should continue to stash De La Rosa until he's healthy enough to return to the Rockies.

5/13/2012

Angel Pagan, CF, SF

Pagan out of leadoff spot

News: The Giants moved outfielder Angel Pagan out of the leadoff spot and into the No. 5 hole on Saturday against the Diamondbacks, and he responded with arguably his best game of the season. Pagan had his first three-hit game of the season, going 3 for 3, while also walking twice to reach base five times for the first time. One of his three hits went for a double, his second extra-base hit in the month of May, as the Giants defeated the Diamondbacks, 5-2.

Analysis: Paga was hitting just .270 with no walks and only one extra-base hit in the month of May, so this was a good sign for him moving forward. He struggled in April as well, but at least he was hitting for solid power. He had not been doing that prior to Saturday in May, so hopefully this is a sign of things to come, especially with him working out of a run-producing spot of the lineup. He is worth using in deeper mixed leagues at this time.

5/13/2012

Shane Victorino, CF, PHI

Victorino sizzling during May

News: Philadelphia outfielder Shane Victorino went 3 for 4 with a double and a walk during the Phillies' 2-1 loss to San Diego on Saturday night. Victorino, who is now hitting .259, also collected his 10th stolen base of the year in the first inning. He had 19 stolen bases last season.

Analysis: Victorino has now hit safely in all but one of his 11 games during the month of May to improve his batting average more than 30 points since the end of April (.228). His three-hit performance was his second this month. The 31-year-old also halted a six-game stretch, one shy of a season high, without a stolen base. He continues to spend time as the Phillies' No .3 hitter and should be utilized as a must-start in all Fantasy formats.

5/13/2012

Andrew McCutchen, CF, PIT

McCutchen building up strength

News: Pittsburgh outfielder Andrew McCutchen finished 4 for 4 with a home run and three singles during the Pirates' 5-2 win over Houston on Saturday night. He had three hits in as many at-bats against Astros starter J.A. Happ, giving him six consecutive hits against left-handed pitching and improving his average against southpaws to .452 this season. McCutchen's solo homer in the third inning was his third of the season.

Analysis: After going 25 games without a home run to open the season, McCutchen has collected off of his homers in the past five games to improve his slugging percentage to .495. He now has two four-hit outings in his past four games to improve his overall batting average to .342 on the season. McCutchen also swiped his first base since April 27 on Saturday, hopefully signifying an upward trend. Keep him rolling in all Fantasy formats.

5/13/2012

Brandon Belt, 1B, SF

Belt triples in two hole

News: Giants first baseman Brandon Belt was batted second in the lineup for the first time in his career on Saturday against the Diamondbacks, and he snapped a three-game hitless streak by going 1 for 5 with a his first triple of the season. Belt hit an RBI groundout in the first inning and scored after reaching base on a triple in the ninth, to bookend his day. Belt would finish with one run scored and one RBI as the Giants took down the Diamondbacks, 5-2.

Analysis: The Giants are trying to shuffle the lineup and figure out the best way to get their struggling offense going, and the second spot might suit Belt well. The left-handed first baseman has solid on base skills and could find open holes on the right side of the infield when runners are on base, so this might help jump start him. Belt is hitting just .246 on the season, and should be considered an AL-only Fantasy option until he turns things around.

5/13/2012

J.A. Happ, SP, HOU

Little happening for Happ

News: Houston starting pitcher J.A. Happ (2-3) was tagged for five runs and six hits in five innings during the Astros' 5-2 loss at Pittsburgh on Saturday night. It was the second outing in a row -- both losses -- Happ has yielded five earned runs while lasting just five innings. He was also charged with a pair of home runs for the second straight start as his ERA grew to 5.72. He tallied four strikeouts and one walk against the Pirates. "I think tonight (Happ's) problem was that he left some balls up in the zone," Astros manager Brad Mills said. "He was in a couple of situations where he was ahead in the count then gave up two-strike home runs that kept us from getting some shutdown innings."

Analysis: Happ's crash landing seemed inevitable as he was highly unlikely to sustain his decent start to the season. In his past two outings, the sputtering left-hander has allowed 10 runs and 12 hits while walking five batters and striking out seven. Happ has a history of inconsistency and could be headed for another sluggish stretch. His next start is slated for Thursday against Milwaukee. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end option in deeper NL-only formats as he is just 2-2 with a 5.40 ERA and 12 walks in four starts at home this season.

5/13/2012

Charlie Morton, SP, PIT

Morton keeps Astros grounded

News: Pittsburgh starting pitcher Charlie Morton (2-3) scattered two runs -- one earned -- and seven hits over six innings during the Pirates' 5-2 victory over Houston on Saturday night. Morton topped six innings for the second straight outing, but was unable to register a strikeout and walked one batter. All but two of the outs Morton recorded came via groundballs. "Charlie was able to right the ship," Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said. "Seventeen balls on the ground, 14 for outs. That was real good to see."

Analysis: Morton has been effective in limiting severe damage this season and yielded just one run in three starts. The right-hander was able to halt a three-game streak with at least one homer allowed as he surrendered just six singles and a double against the Astros. Morton still won't rack up a high number of strikeouts as his career high stands at just 110 in 171 2/3 innings. His next start is scheduled for Thursday at Washington, and he is 0-1 with a 7.71 ERA in two outings on the road this season. Consider him a low-end option in deeper NL-only Fantasy formats.

5/12/2012

Matt Cain, SP, SF

Cain does it himself in win

News: Giants starting pitcher Matt Cain was sharp on the mound on Saturday against the Diamondbacks, however he did his best work at the plate, hitting a two-run double in the fifth-inning that would eventually provide the winning margin for his second win of the season. Cain pitched six innings in the game, striking out eight batters and allowing three hits and two walks, however he needed his second-highest pitch total of the season, 109, as his control was not particularly sharp throughout. Still, Cain managed to even his record at 2-2, while lowering his ERA to 2.28 as the Giants won, 5-2.

Analysis: Matt Cain has allowed just eight runs in 45 1/3 innings since his first start, and he is certainly living up to his billing as an ace this season. He leads the league in WHIP, with a .74 mark, as he has allowed just a .158 batting average against through his first seven starts of the season. Cain does have the tall task of facing the league-league Cardinals’ offense on Thursday in Week 7 (May 14-20), however with how well he is pitching right now, Cain needs to be active in all Fantasy formats.

5/12/2012

Jason Heyward, RF, ATL

Night and day for Heyward

News: Braves outfielder Jason Heyward went 0 for 5 with four strikeouts in Saturday's 7-2 win over the Cardinals. His average dropped to .252 on the year after his performance. This outing comes after Heyward went 2 for 6 with a homer, two RBI and two runs scored on Friday. He now has five homers and 15 RBI on the season.

Analysis: Heyward has struck out 31 times on the year and drawn 16 walks. One surprise stat for the third-year outfielder is his nine steals, which matches his total from last season. He's well on his way to set a new career high, which he set in his rookie campaign (11) in 2010. Heyward is rounding into an all-around performer in Fantasy, which is why owners should continue to view him as a solid option in all formats, despite his poor showing on Saturday.

5/12/2012

Dan Uggla, 2B, ATL

Uggla drives in another run

News: Atlanta second baseman Dan Uggla went 2 for 3 with a double in Saturday's 7-2 win over St. Louis. He scored two runs and drove in his 21st RBI of the season. Uggla also drew two walks and struck out once in the contest.

Analysis: Uggla is batting .282 on the year for the Braves, which is also pleasing for Fantasy owners. He's not normally a consistent hitter, in terms of average, so enjoy this while it lasts. Uggla has five homers to his credit, and has the potential to knock out 30-plus in a season. Fantasy owners should continue to view Uggla as a high-end second baseman moving forward.

5/12/2012

Andrew Cashner, RP, SD

Cashner not cashing in for Pads

News: San Diego relief pitcher Andrew Cashner (2-2) worked a scoreless inning during the Padres' 2-1 victory at Philadelphia on Saturday night. Cashner replaced Luke Gregerson in the eighth inning and issued one walk while fanning two batters for his fourth hold of the season.

Analysis: Cashner may boast a fastball that can reach 100-plus mph, but San Diego seems content keeping him in the setup role, for now. The right-hander was considered a candidate to serve as the team's closer when Huston Street went down with an injury, but Dale Thayer has amassed three saves since last Tuesday while Cashner has not recorded a save chance. Consider Cashner a quality option in NL-only Fantasy formats.

5/12/2012

Danny Espinosa, 2B, WAS

Espinosa heating up

News: Nationals shortstop Danny Espinosa hit his second home run in as many games on Saturday, while also adding a pair of stolen bases in his first multi-hit game in over a week to lead the Nationals to a 2-1 win over the Reds. Espinosa raised his batting average above the Mendoza line for the first time in seven games with the 2 for 3 showing, and he also walked in the game.

Analysis: Espinosa had just one multi-hit game in the month of May before Saturday, as he has been struggling mightily. Fantasy owners knew coming into the season that he would struggle to hit for average, however at least he is starting to hit for some power and show activity on the basepaths. He is still struggling too greatly to be considered a reliable option, however you can get him active in NL-only formats as he finds his swing.

5/12/2012

Dale Thayer, RP, SD

Thayer acting like Padres closer

News: San Diego relief pitcher Dale Thayer fired a scoreless ninth inning to register his third save of the season during the Padres' 2-1 victory over Philadelphia on Saturday night. Thayer yielded a hit but recorded two strikeouts for the second game in a row in his 21-pitch outing.

Analysis: While it may not be official from San Diego manager Bud Black, Thayer seems to have assumed the closer's role for the Padres in the wake of Huston Street's injury. The right-hander has collected all of his saves in his last three appearances since last Monday while upholding a perfect ERA. Plus, he has not issued a walk in his seven games this year. Fantasy owners should consider adding him in most deeper formats.

5/12/2012

Mat Latos, SP, CIN

Reds’ ace wild in loss

News: Reds starting pitcher Mat Latos was back to struggling on Saturday against Washington, as he surrendered a season-high five walks in just five innings. Latos gave up just three hits and one run, however he struggled with his control, throwing 50 of his 109 pitches for balls, so he was unable to make it past the fifth innings. He exited the game tied 1-1, and the Red’s bullpen was unable to prop him up, as they fell, 2-1. Latos struck out four batters in the game, as his ERA fell to 4.54 on the season.

Analysis: The Reds were certainly expecting more from the 24-year-old than the 1.46 WHIP and 4.54 ERA He has posted through his first seven starts since an offseason trade from San Diego. He is currently posting career worsts in strikeout rate, walk rate and groundball rate on the season, each of which can be pointed to as the reason for his struggles. He has given up five home runs in 39 2/3 innings, after allowing just 16 in 194 1/3 last season. Latos is not showing any signs of velocity loss, he just is not making his pitches so far. Latos is set to face the Mets in his next start, on Thursday in Week 7 (May 14-20), a team he has a 3.00 ERA against in three starts in his career. He should be active in most formats, however he has been a disappointment thus far.

5/12/2012

Brandon Beachy, SP, ATL

Beachy wins again for Braves

News: Braves pitcher Brandon Beachy turned in a solid outing against the Cardinals on Saturday night. He agave up one earned run off two hits over six innings of work. He struck out six and walked four batters before handing the ball over to the bullpen. Atlanta would go on to win the game, 7-2, giving Beachy his fourth win of the year.

Analysis: Beachy owns a stellar 1.60 ERA on the year to go with his 33 strikeouts. He's walked just 14 batters over his 45 innings of work this year as well. Beachy takes on NL East rival Miami in his next outing. While he hasn't faced the Marlins yet this year, Beachy has pitched well against them in his career. He owns a 1-0 record and 4.01 ERA over his four career starts versus the Fish. He's fanned 34 batters and walked 11 over his 24 2/3 innings of work in those games. Fantasy owners should continue to view Beachy as a viable pitching option in the majority of mixed leagues.

5/12/2012

Adam Wainwright, SP, STL

Wainwright waffles versus Braves

News: The Cardinals needed a good performance from pitcher Adam Wainwright on Saturday night as the bullpen has been worked hard lately. Unfortunately for St. Louis that didn't happen as Wainwright lasted just 4 1/3 innings against the Braves. He was tagged for five earned runs off nine hits. Wainwright struggled with his control, walking five batters and striking out five. He threw 108 pitches in the contest. Wainwright would lose his fourth game of the year as the Cardinals fell to the Braves, 7-2. "He was around the zone," said Cardinals manager Mike Matheny. "He didn't have feel for it as much today. It was just one of those days he was trying to fight."

Analysis: Wainwright can't get going for St. Louis this season as he has just two wins to go with his lackluster 6.16 ERA. He owns a 39-to-12 strikeout-to-walk ratio, but didn't look sharp on Saturday. Wainwright faces the Giants in his next outing, which falls on Thursday in Week 7 (May 14-20). He hasn't met San Francisco yet this season. He doesn't have a good history with the Giants either, going 1-3 in four career starts against them. While Wainwright has plenty of Fantasy value, he's not pitching like it right now. Consider him a solid start in most formats, and hope he can turn things around. But if you bench him in favor of a better matchup, we don't blame you.

5/12/2012

Jordan Zimmermann, SP, WAS

Zimmermann whiffs season high vs. Reds

News: Coming off of a start in which he only notched one strikeout, Nationals starting pitcher Jordan Zimmermann bounced back by striking out a season-high nine batters on Saturday in Cincinnati. Zimmermann limited the Reds to just one run on five hits in the game, while walking just one in his seven innings. The Reds’ lone run came during the first inning, on the strength of a single and then three-straight groundballs. Zimmermann shut them down from that point, and the relievers held on to close out a 2-1 victory, moving Zimmermann’s record to 2-3.

Analysis: Zimmermann’s ERA lowered to a stellar 2.14, as he has picked up a quality start in each of his seven starts on the season. He has shown terrific control overall, walking just eight in 46 1/3 innings, while striking out 32 and posting a groundball rate above 50 percent on the season. He continues to be terrific since coming back from Tommy John’s surgery last season, and while the Nationals have not given him much run support, he should be considered a high-end Fantasy option for Week 7 (May 14-20). His next start comes against the lowly Pirates on Thursday, so keep him in the lineup.

5/12/2012

Edinson Volquez, SP, SD

Volquez overcomes sickness

News: San Diego starting pitcher Edinson Volquez (2-2) yielded one run and six hits in six innings during the Padres' 2-1 victory at Philadelphia on Saturday night. It was the sixth time in his eight starts this season he has permitted fewer than three runs as he lowered his ERA to 2.79. Volquez, who struck out five batters and walked two, has not permitted more than six hits in any of his appearances this year. "I'm a little bit sick. I had to take a lot of pills to pitch in the game," said Volquez, who added that he took 17 pills throughout the day to fight his illness. "When I woke up today I thought I wasn't going to pitch."

Analysis: Volquez is still having minor issues with his command and has issued multiple free passes in seven starts while amassing 24 total walks in 48 1/3 innings, which represents the most in the National League. If Volquez can cut down on his walk rate, he could be in line for more wins -- that is, if the Padres offense helps out. Fantasy owners should view Volquez as a quality option in most formats for his next scheduled start Thursday against the Dodgers. He is sporting a 2.41 ERA in six starts at home this year.

5/12/2012

Roy Halladay, SP, PHI

Halladay picking up strikeouts

News: Philadelphia starting pitcher Roy Halladay (3-3) gave up two runs and seven hits in seven innings during the Phillies' 2-1 loss to San Diego on Saturday night. The Padres became the first team to beat Halladay twice in one season since 2009. Halladay is now winless over his past five starts -- the longest stretch in his Philadelphia career -- as his last win came at San Francisco on April 16. He walked only one and struck out a season-high 10 batters for his 15th career double-digit strikeout game.

Analysis: It's hard to fault Halladay for his record slipping to .500 for the first time since joining the Phillies prior to the 2010 campaign. During his five-game winless skid, the Philadelphia offense has scored just two runs or less in four of those outings. Halladay, meanwhile, has continued to serve as a workhorse and fired 56 1/3 total innings in eight starts this season -- tops in the National League. Last season, the right-hander took his third loss on May 15, but didn't suffer his fourth defeat until July 18 so he could make a run. Fantasy owners should keep him active in all formats for his next scheduled start Thursday at the Cubs. He is 0-1 with a 3.86 ERA against Chicago this year.

5/12/2012

Livan Hernandez, RP, ATL

Hernandez enjoying being reliever

News: According to MLB.com, Braves pitcher Livan Hernandez said he's finally getting the hang of being a reliever. Hernandez, 37, got out of a bases-loaded jam on Friday night in the 10th and 11th innings. He also picked up the first save of his career with 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief in a 13-9 win at Colorado on May 5. "I'm starting to enjoy it," he said. "I like [hanging] with the guys out there. It's different, but it makes me ready for any situation. In the bullpen, you've got to stretch every inning because you never know when you're going to be in the game."

Analysis: Hernandez became the first pitcher since since Frank Tanana in 1990 to record his first save after making at least 474 starts. Hernandez owns a 1-0 record, one save and a 3.38 ERA over 21 1/3 innings for the Braves this season. He's fanned 12 batters over that span as well. "It's all different for me, but I'm really happy," he said. He may be enjoying himself this year, but in terms of Fantasy value, Hernandez doesn't have much. He should be viewed as an NL-only option in leagues that reward true middle men.

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5/12/2012

Scott Rolen, 3B, CIN

Reds put Rolen on shelf

News: The Reds announced prior to Saturday's game against the Nationals that third baseman Scott Rolen would be placed on the disabled list with a strained left shoulder. The team will call up infield prospect Mike Costanzo to replace him on the roster

Analysis: Rolen, playing in his 17th major-league season, has bee struggling all year long, hitting just .174 in 29 games. Maybe the shoulder has been affecting his swing, which would explain why he has just two home runs in 92 at bats, so hopefully he can get healthy and return when he is eligible to come off the DL. He should be stashed in deep NL-only leagues while he is shelved.

5/12/2012

Jose Reyes, SS, MIA

Reyes has four hits against Mets

News: Miami shortstop Jose Reyes attempted to show his old team what they were missing on Saturday against the Mets. Unfortunately, New York won the game in Miami. Still, Reyes was impressive as he went 4 for 5 from the leadoff spot in the order. All four of his hits were singles and Reyes scored one of three runs for the Marlins in the game.

Analysis: Reyes has gone 7 for 14 in his last three games as he's begun to turn it around a little after a slow start to his Miami career. He does already have eight stolen bases and we expect that average to skyrocket soon. Reyes remains a must-start Fantasy option across the board.

5/12/2012

Daniel Murphy, 2B, NYM

Murphy all over bases Saturday

News: New York infielder Daniel Murphy had a solid all-around game on Saturday at Miami. Murphy stole his second base of the season in the contest as he reached base four times. Murphy went 3 for 4 and added a walk in the game. He singled for all three hits and scored twice. He also drove in a run for the Mets. Murphy is batting .321 on the season.

Analysis: Murphy has been pretty hot of late with hits in eight straight games to raise his average from .283. Unfortunately, Murphy has little power and isn't a big stolen-base threat. That said, he continues to reach base often from his No. 2 spot in the batting order and represents a viable option in deeper Fantasy formats.

5/12/2012

Lucas Duda, RF, NYM

Duda records three-hit game

News: New York outfielder Lucas Duda recorded a double on Saturday in a win at Miami. Duda doubled among three hits in the game as he finished 3 for 6 in the contest. The three hits brings Duda's batting average to .269 for the year.

Analysis: Duda has recorded multiple hits in his last three starts as he's gone 7 for 15 over that span with three RBI. Duda hasn't been all that consistent, but remains a worthy mid-range Fantasy option for deeper mixed formats.

5/12/2012

Ricky Nolasco, SP, MIA

Nolasco drops first decision

News: Marlins starter Ricky Nolasco remained tied with Dontrelle Willis for the most career wins in team franchise history as he couldn't earn a W against the New York Mets Saturday. In fact, Nolasco didn't pitch well as he suffered the defeat to fall to 4-1, losing his first decision of the year. Nolasco gave up six earned runs on nine base hits -- including a David Wright homer -- and lasted just 4 2/3 innings. Nolasco uncharacteristically walked three batters and struck out three. Nolasco's ERA is now at 3.65 on the year after the loss.

Analysis: Nolasco pitched fairly well on Saturday for much of the game, but came undone late in the contest as he could not secure the historic franchise win. Nolasco may have lost his first game of the season, but his four wins and excellent ERA are still impressive. One issue affecting his Fantasy value is his inability to record consistent strikeouts. Outside of that, Nolasco has been solid for Miami. His next scheduled outing comes Thursday at Atlanta in Week 7 (May 14-20). That is a tough start, but Nolasco can be considered a mid-range option in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues.

5/12/2012

Edwin Maysonet, 2B, MIL

Maysonet grand for Milwaukee

News: Brewers infielder Edwin Maysonet was the difference on Saturday afternoon at home against the Cubs. Maysonet hit his first home run of the season for his first career grand slam in the sixth inning off Cubs starter Chris Volstad. Maysonet went 2 for 3 in the game with a walk and four RBI. He's batting .750 on the year thus far after five appearances.

Analysis: Maysonet has seen time in five games and has gone 3 for 4 with the grand slam. That is quick production, but we don't really expect it to last. Maysonet is really just depth for the Brewers and his Fantasy value remains low.

5/12/2012

Jonathan Lucroy, C, MIL

Lucroy on nine-game hit streak

News: Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy has hit in nine straight games after going 3 for 5 on Saturday in a win over the Cubs. Lucroy doubled and drove in a run on Saturday and he also scored for the Brewers in the win. Lucroy has his batting average up to .341 on the year and has hit over .400 in May.

Analysis: Lucroy has really come on with his offense for the Brewers and he is now up to 16 RBI after driving in six runs in his last four games. The hotter Lucroy gets, the more valuable he becomes in Fantasy. Owners can use him in plenty of mixed Fantasy leagues at a thin position right now.

5/12/2012

Chris Volstad, SP, CHC

Volstad drops another decision

News: Cubs starter Chris Volstad once again did not perform well enough to win on Saturday at Milwaukee. Once again, Volstad came up on the losing end of things as he dropped his record to 0-5 on the season. Volstad kept things close until the sixth inning when he allowed Edwin Maysonet to hit a grand slam to break it open. Volstad allowed six earned runs on nine hits and two walks over his six innings, throwing 99 pitches. He struck out one and his ERA is at 6.92 on the year. “The slider got him in trouble again,” manager Dale Sveum said. “That thing is something that we have to work on because it’s a pitch he needs but it’s getting hit too often and too hard. He was in a situation where he needed a ground ball and couldn’t get out of it and close that thing down again. It just got out of hand again.”

Analysis: Volstad hasn't been as bad as his record would suggest when you consider he's gone at least five innings in every start he's made. That said, he's yet to allow fewer than three earned runs in any outing and his strikeout numbers are pathetic. Volstad is just an NL-only Fantasy option at this point in the season. His next scheduled start comes in Week 7 (May 14-20) on Thursday against Philadelphia.

5/12/2012

Shaun Marcum, SP, MIL

Marcum dazzles for victory

News: Milwaukee starter Shaun Marcum possibly turned the page on early-season struggles on Saturday against the Cubs. Marcum was stellar in his winning effort on Saturday as he cruised through seven strong innings. Marcum allowed just one earned run on three hits and two walks as he struck out six in the performance to move to 2-1 on the season. Marcum threw 105 pitches in the outing and lowered his ERA to 3.07 for the Brewers.

Analysis: Marcum had been a mediocre version of himself for much of the season until his outing on Saturday. He's not been winning with consistency and he's not getting deep in games, despite solid strikeout numbers and a decent ERA. That may have all started changing with his effort Saturday, so Fantasy owners can get excited for that. Milwaukee hasn't been backing him with much offense, but we know Marcum's ability level and it showed against the Cubs. He should remain a worthy Fantasy start in most mixed formats heading into Week 7 (May 14-20). His next outing is scheduled for Thursday at Houston.

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