News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco returned to the starting lineup Monday against the Nationals after missing four straight starts with an ankle injury. Polanco didn't miss a beat as he went 2 for 4 in the game with a walk. Polanco is batting .286 for the year.
Analysis: Polanco entered Monday batting .351 in his last 11 games and .342 since April 25, but he has just one homer and seven RBI in his last 21 games. He's a good contact hitter, but Polanco remains just a low-end Fantasy option because he doesn't have a lot of pop for a corner infielder.
News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco missed a fourth straight start Sunday against the Red Sox. The injury was believed to be a sore left knee, but Polanco said he's battling a mild sprain in his left ankle. "When I run, I feel it. It's sore," Polanco said. "But it's getting better. It's getting better, and it's a day-to-day thing." Ty Wigginton made a fourth straight start at the hot corner for Philadelphia.
Analysis: Polanco pinch hit on Saturday, so it seems he's inching closer to a return. Polanco has had durability issues the last few seasons, so Philadelphia will likely err on the side of caution. Polanco can still be a good contact hitter, but he lacks pop for a third baseman. He is a low-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco was not in the starting lineup on Saturday against the Red Sox, as he continues to deal with a knee injury, however he was able to make his first appearance since Wednesday, when he pinch hit for relief pitcher Raul Valdes. He was unable to pick up a hit in the at bat, and the Phillies fell, 7-5.
Analysis: After he missed the previous three games, it was a good sign that he was able to get back on the field on Saturday. This bodes well for his ability to get back in the lineup soon. He has been hitting .279 in 36 games this season, with one home run, so consider him a low-end Fantasy option for deeper leagues when healthy.
News: Philadelphia third baseman Placido Polanco (knee) did not start on Saturday against the Red Sox. Polanco has missed the last three starts since leaving Wednesday's game with the injury. However, manager Charlie Manuel told reporters he could be back in the lineup on Sunday.
Analysis: It's only May, but Polanco is already starting to be plagued by injuries. The 36-year-old has been hampered by issues over the past few seasons during his second second stint with the Phillies and has not played more than 135 games since 2009. Polanco is hitting .281 in 35 games this season, but has just one home run as his on-base percentage has also waned. Consider him a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats for now.
News: Philadelphia third baseman Placido Polanco was held out of the starting lineup again Friday against Boston due to a left knee contusion. Polanco also missed Thursday's outing against the Cubs after leaving Wednesday's game. Ty Wigginton replaced him at third base.
Analysis: It's only May, but Polanco is already starting to be plagued by injuries. The 36-year-old has been hampered by issues over the past few seasons during his second second stint with the Phillies and has not played more than 135 games since 2009. Polanco is hitting .281 in 35 games this season, but has just one home run as his on-base percentage has also waned. Consider him a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats for now.
News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco was held out of the starting lineup Thursday against the Cubs after leaving Wednesday's game with a left knee contusion. Ty Wigginton started at third base in his absence.
Analysis: Given Polanco's durability issues the last few seasons, the Phillies hold their breath every time the veteran is hurt. Polanco has been a very good hitter since late April, batting .347 in his last 19 games. Polanco still isn't a great power hitter or run producer, so he remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Philadelphia third baseman Placido Polanco left Wednesday's game against the Cubs in the bottom of the seventh inning with a left knee contusion, reports ESPN.com. Polanco fouled a ball off his knee during his final at-bat. He initially remained in the game and is considered day to day. Polanco went 0 for 3 before leaving and is batting .281 on the year.
Analysis: Polanco just recently hit his first home run of the season but has provided little power for Philadelphia on the year. He has just eight RBI over 126 at-bats. When healthy, Polanco is really just an NL-only Fantasy option at this point. It does look like he's avoided a serious injury here.
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.
News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco posted his second three-hit performance of May in Sunday's series finale against the Nationals. He went 3 for 5 with an RBI and a run scored in the 9-3 win. He drove in Laynce Nix with a single in the fourth inning and added another base hit in the sixth. He would double in the ninth. Polanco has gone 8 for 25 (.320) with three runs scored through six games this month.
Analysis: Polanco continues to make solid contact for the Phillies as he has just 10 strikeouts through 97 at-bats and is batting .268. While he does not possess much power anymore at age 36, the two-time All-Star has a career .300 average and should be able to drive in some runs in Philadelphia. Continue to view Polanco as a viable option in deeper Fantasy formats heading into Week 6 (May 7-13).
News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco went 3 for 3 at the plate on Wednesday against the Diamondbacks. He also drove in a run with his double in the ninth inning. It was Polanco's first three-hit game of the season after he rested three of the previous eight games. "It was a very good feeling," Polanco said. "I'm seeing the ball better." The Phillies would win the game, 7-2. Polanco is batting .237 on the year with two RBI.
Analysis: Polanco, 36, gives the Phillies depth in the infield and can't be counted on too heavily for offensive production. After spending plenty of time on the disabled list over the past two years, Polanco's health is a big concern. Plus he's a better defensive option for Philly, which makes him just a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats. For now he's best left for NL-only leagues, until he puts a few solid games together.
News: Philadelphia third baseman Placido Polanco went 1 for 4 with a double and a run scored during the Phillies' 5-2 win over San Francisco on Monday night. Polanco was also plunked in the elbow by a pitch from Giants reliever Dan Otero in the seventh inning, but remained in the game. "He got hit on the elbow," manager Charlie Manuel quipped. "That’s one of his main elbows. He’s only got two. Hit him in the crazy bone."
Analysis: Polanco appeared fine after the game and is not expected to miss any playing time. The Phillies planned to closely monitor the 36-year-old's health status this season after he has landed on the disabled list with various issues the past two seasons. Polanco has struggled to heat up at the start of the campaign and his batting average has not exceeded .250. Consider him a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: According to MLB.com, the Phillies are going to be cautious with third baseman Placido Polanco this year as he's landed on the disabled list the past two seasons with left elbow inflammation, a sports hernia and back issues. "We monitored him in spring training and we'll keep monitoring him here, too," manager Charlie Manuel said. "I'll definitely watch him. He'll get some time off every now and then, too." Polanco entered Thursday's game against the Marlins hitting .222 (4-for-18) with one RBI, one walk and three strikeouts. "He's playing better," Manuel said. "He's been swinging pretty good."
Analysis: Polanco is a good contact hitter, but lacks the power to be a big-time contributing player in Fantasy. He is playing better right now and if he can stay healthy, which has been his biggest issue the last few years, Polanco will continue to be a low-end option in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco returned to the starting lineup Monday against the Marlins after receiving a day off Sunday. Polanco, unfortunately, went 0 for 4 with one strikeout, dropping his batting average to .154.
Analysis: We are expecting Polanco to sit a few more times than he has in the past with the offseason addition of Ty Wigginton. This could also be a way for Philadelphia to keep Polanco healthy after a few injury-plagued seasons. Polanco still has the ability to be a good contact hitter, but he's at the tail end of his career. He's a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco (finger) returned to the starting lineup Sunday against the Orioles. Polanco went 1 for 2 with one RBI and one run. He is batting .526 (10 for 19) in seven spring games.
Analysis: Although it is a minor injury, any time Polanco is hurt we get worried since he has had trouble staying healthy the last few seasons. There's no guarantee he will play a full season in 2012. On top of that, Polanco lacks pop for a corner infielder. He is a good contact hitter, but Polanco has low-end Fantasy appeal when active. Consider him a late-round Fantasy option.
News: The Delaware News Journal reports on Thursday that Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco tested his left right finger injury by taking swings in the batting cage. Polanco has been out since Saturday when he hurt his finger diving back to the bag. Polanco believes he'll be ready for opening day.
Analysis: The injury to Polanco has been considered minor and he should be back in Grapefruit League games in no time. Polanco, who is hitting .529 this spring, can be an excellent contact hitter when at 100 percent, but he lacks pop for a corner infielder. He remains a late-round Fantasy option in deep mixed leagues.
News: Philadelphia third baseman Placido Polanco received positive news regarding the X-rays taken on his injured finger. Polanco, who hurt his finger on Saturday diving back to the bag, had the X-rays come back negative, reports the Philadelphia Inquirer. He is day to day. "It's a little stiff today and a little swelling," Polanco said Sunday morning. "I jammed it and it's day to day. I just have to see how I feel every day."
Analysis: Polanco's injury was described by assistant general manager Scott Proefrock as "a little sprain," so the Phillies aren't considering it too serious at this point. That is excellent news for Fantasy owners. Polanco, who is hitting .529 this spring, went 1 for 1 with a single before leaving the game on Saturday. Polanco can be a good contact hitter when at 100 percent, but he lacks pop for a corner infielder. He remains a late-round Fantasy option in deep mixed leagues.
News: Philadelphia third baseman Placido Polanco jammed his left hand and injured his finger diving back into first base on a pickoff attempt in the first inning of Saturday's Grapefruit League game, reports MLB.com. Polanco at first remained in the game, but ultimately left a short while later. He had his left fourth finger evaluated, according to the team.
Analysis: Polanco, who is hitting .529 this spring, went 1 for 1 with a single before leaving the game on Saturday. He is day to day and shouldn't miss too much time considering he immediately remained in the game. The Phillies signed Ty Wigginton this offseason as insurance in case Polanco can't stay healthy again, so any injury makes that look like a smart move. Polanco can be a good contact hitter when at 100 percent, but he lacks pop for a corner infielder. He remains a late-round Fantasy option in deep mixed leagues.
News: Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco, who underwent sports hernia surgery in the offseason, made his spring debut Monday against the Yankees. Polanco didn't look rusty as he went 2 for 3 with an RBI. "I'm very happy. I dove for a ball and didn't feel anything," Polanco said. "I didn't expect anything because I've been here for a while and I've done a lot of stuff. But game situations are a little bit different when you're out there. But I felt really good."
Analysis: Polanco has been limited the last two seasons because of injuries and it has affected his offensive performance. The Phillies signed Ty Wigginton this offseason as insurance in case Polanco can't stay healthy again. Polanco can be a good contact hitter when at 100 percent, but he lacks pop for a corner infielder. He remains a late-round Fantasy option in deep mixed leagues.
News: Philadelphia third baseman Placido Polanco told MLB.com on Wednesday that he is not limited in any capacity entering spring training. Polanco underwent hernia surgery in the offseason. "I've been taking ground balls, hitting, running," Polanco explained. "I think I'm good to go."
Analysis: Polanco is no spring chicken at age 36, but he still managed to hit .277 with five homers, 50 RBI and a .674 OPS over 122 games last season. He was even named an All-Star for the second time in his career as he also won a Gold Glove. Still, Polanco is certainly in a decline and should be avoided in most Fantasy formats outside NL-only leagues.
News: Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said at Monday's Philadelphia Sports Writers' Association banquet that 3B Placido Polanco, who is recovering from sports hernia surgery, is expected to be 100 percent or close to it in spring training. "We have to keep an eye on his health and monitor him and make sure we're cautious in how we handle him," Amaro said. "We have to make sure he stays fresh for the season and don't put any unwanted strain on him."
Analysis: The Phillies brought in Ty Wigginton this offseason to help spell Polanco at times, which could help keep him off the DL. Polanco played through hernia and back issues last season, but it took its toll on the veteran infielder. Polanco got off to a great start by hitting .321 through the first two months, but he hit just .241 over his last 68 games. We know what a healthy Polanco brings to the table, but injuries have limited him to less than 140 games the last two seasons and he still lacks power for a corner infielder. Consider Polanco more of a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News: MLB.com reports Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who underwent sports hernia surgery, told GM Ruben Amaro that he feels great and believes he will be 100 percent at the outset of spring training.
Analysis: Polanco played through hernia and back issues last season, but it took its toll on the veteran infielder. Polanco got off to a great start by hitting .321 through the first two months, but he hit just .241 over his last 68 games. We know what a healthy Polanco brings to the table, but injuries have limited him to less than 140 games the last two seasons and he still lacks power for a corner infielder. Consider Polanco more of a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News: After previously stating he would return to the club in a starting role next season, Philadelphia is now actively trying to trade veteran 3B Placido Polanco, according to FOXSports.com. Polanco was limited by a hernia injury and a back issue last season, but was assured of the starting job at third base if he was healthy in 2012. "Polly is our third baseman," Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said in mid-November.
Analysis: Philadelphia has shown an interest in adding 3B Aramis Ramirez and would have to move Polanco in order to free up a spot for him. The Phillies appear skeptical about Polanco remaining healthy for a full season despite his solid batting average. He has not played more than 132 games in either of his past two years with Philadelphia. Keep an eye on his status as he remains a late-round option in 2012 Fantasy drafts.
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Phillies 3B Placido Polanco has begun running after his double hernia surgery in October. General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said there is no need to upgrade at third base, as long as Polanco comes back healthy in 2012. "Polly is our third baseman," Amaro said. "I'm looking forward to him being healthy. If he's healthy, he's exactly what we're trying to have as far as our offense is concerned. If he's healthy, he's our best hitter."
Analysis: If Polanco isn't 100 percent coming into next season, Amaro said Wilson Valdez or Michael Martinez cold be an option at the hot corner. Polanco hit .398 in April and wound up making his second All-Star team, so the 36-year-old is clearly still capable of performing when he's at 100 percent. But he's so rarely at 100 percent these days, and that doesn't figure to change given his age. Because he doesn't offer much in the way of power or speed, his Fantasy appeal hinges on his amount of playing time. Fantasy owners should monitor this situation the remainder of the offseason, but plan on taking Polanco in the later rounds on Draft Day.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who was limited in the second half by a sports hernia and a bulging disc in his back, could have competition for the starting job in 2012 even though he's signed to make more than $6 million. "If we need to upgrade and we can, we should do it," manager Charlie Manuel told MLB.com. "If we can stay healthy, it gets back to that being a key. Being healthy and being on the field is going to take care of a lot of things."
Analysis: Polanco hit .398 in April and wound up making his second All-Star team, so the 36-year-old is clearly still capable of performing when he's at 100 percent. But he's so rarely at 100 percent these days, and that doesn't figure to change given his age. Because he doesn't offer much in the way of power or speed, his Fantasy appeal hinges on his amount of playing time. With early reports that it might significantly decrease in 2012, he's shaping up to be nothing more than a late-rounder on Draft Day.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Phillies 3B Placido Polanco had double sports hernia surgery on Tuesday morning. Polanco has been dealing with his sports hernia since June.
Analysis: Polanco had a down year by his standards, hitting for a mediocre .277 batting average with very little power. Hopefully, he can return healthier in 2012, but Polanco has to be considered a risk for owners in standard mixed leagues. At the age of 36, he could be due for further decline, even if health is not an issue, so pursue him only in deeper leagues.
News: The Phillies announced on Saturday that 3B Placido Polanco will undergo an MRI sometime over the next few days to evaluate the extent of his sports hernia. Polanco, who has been bothered by his injury since the June, will likely have surgery , according to the report.
Analysis: Polanco had one of his worst seasons as a major leaguer this year, and he struggled to stay healthy, playing in only 122 games. As a declining 36-year-old with little power, Polanco's days as a viable mixed league option may be over. Fantasy owners should continue and monitor his status moving forward to see how long his recovery time will be. Polanco can be considered a low-end Fantasy option heading into 2012, if he is healthy.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco has been struggling in the postseason, and the sports hernia that he sustained earlier this summer may still be affecting him. Manager Charlie Manuel told MLB.com, "I think it bothers him some. He's missed time because of it, and I think it plays a part in ... his movement and things. He gets real tight and sore, and I think it definitely bothers him." Polanco is hitless in eight at-bats with three strikeouts in the National League Division Series against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Polanco had one of his worst seasons as a major leaguer this year, and he struggled to stay healthy, playing in only 122 games. As a declining 36-year-old with little power, Polanco's days as a viable mixed league option may be over. Owners will certainly have better options in standard mixed league drafts next season.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco has at least one hit in seven straight games after his 3-for-5 performance on Saturday against the Brewers. He hit a solo home run in the fifth inning off Randy Wolf. The Phillies would go on to win the game 3-2 in 10 innings.
Analysis: Polanco has gone 11 for 29 (.379) with one double, one home run and three RBI over this streak. The veteran owns a solid .281 average on the year, but just five home runs and 45 RBI to his credit. His lack of offensive production makes him a low-end Fantasy option in deeper mixed leagues
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco got a scheduled day off on Thursday against the Reds. He had started seven straight games at the hot corner since his activation off the DL on Aug. 22.
Analysis: Polanco is playing with a sports hernia, so he might since once a week so the team can help him manage the injury. But he will start most nights as long as his body holds up. Polanco is batting .290 in seven games since returning. He can be a viable Fantasy option, but the fact he is less than 100 percent could mean keeping him as a low-end Fantasy start the rest of the way.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco singled twice in five at-bats on Wednesday against the Mets and has produced multi-hit games in each of his first three appearances off the DL. Polanco is 6 for 14 (.429) since coming off the DL.
Analysis: It seems that time off really benefited Polanco, who was in an offensive lull before needing to rest because of a sports hernia. We were really worried that this injury would prevent Polanco from playing at a high level the rest of the way, but it might not. Polanco can be a viable Fantasy option when healthy, so let's hope this hot streak lasts.
News: The Phillies activated 3B Placido Polanco from the 15-day disabled list on Monday. He took the roster spot of SS Jimmy Rollins (groin), who was placed on the DL. Polanco is still dealing with his sport hernia, but according to MLB.com, he plans to postpone surgery until after the season. He was in the starting lineup for Monday's game against the Mets and finished 2 for 4 with a run scored in the 10-0 victory.
Analysis: Polanco's production fell off slightly before going on the DL, despite playing through a painful injury. He could rest more often going forward, and his Fantasy stats could potentially suffer, so owners in standard mixed leagues should consider other options, even though Polanco will be available now.
News: MLB.com reiterated on Sunday that Phillies infielder Placido Polanco (hernia) expects to return from the disabled list on Monday against the Mets. That said, the site also depicted a bleaker picture of his health. Polanco said last week he's feeling better after a cortisone injection, but will definitely be playing through pain.
Analysis: It still sounds as if Polanco is going to come back on Monday, but Philadelphia may ease him back into everyday duty. He's going to be playing with some considerable pain, so it is easy to think he could use some off days going forward. He's still a pretty risky start for Week 21 (Aug. 22-28) at this point.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco (hernia) should return from the disabled list on Monday, reports MLB.com on Saturday. Polanco said he feels much better as of Saturday.
Analysis: The 35-year-old Polanco had been on a five-game hitting streak just prior to going on the shelf and is batting .275 on the year with four homers, 40 RBI and 35 runs scored. When healthy, Polanco is a solid Fantasy choice in most mixed formats. Track him through Sunday before deciding upon his usage for Week 21 (Aug. 22-28).
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco is not going to have surgery to repair a sports hernia, but is on the 15-day disabled. list. “They made the decision that I’m going on the DL. Not me. I don’t make decisions here," he told the Philadelphia Daily News. "Combined we decided that I can benefit from that. We’d rather that I miss a week now than miss a week in September.” Polanco did take swings before Tuesday's game against the Diamondbacks though. “Every time I move the leg, I can feel it," he said. "I know I’m going to be feeling it for the rest of the year. I can probably get it a little better before (being activated).”
Analysis: Polanco will probably be out a week, but the Phillies don't want to take any chances. While he's on the shelf Michael Martinez will likely get most of the starts at the hot corner in his place. Fantasy owners should reserve Polanco until further notice. When healthy, Polanco is a low-end 3B Fantasy option.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco remained out of the starting lineup Tuesday against the Diamondbacks, missing a seventh straight start because of a sports hernia. Michael Martinez started in his absence.
Analysis: The Phillies game was rained out Sunday and they had an off day Monday, but it still wasn't enough time for Polanco, who took grounders before Tuesday's game. At this point the team should just put Polanco on the 15-day DL, but they continue the day-to-day watch. If Polanco remains in the lineup, he probably won't be 100 percent for the rest of the year. Consider him an injury-risk Fantasy start until he starts to show this injury isn't going to be a problem for him offensively.
News: Rain washed away Sunday's Phillies-Nationals game, meaning Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco gets another day to rest his sports hernia injury. He missed a sixth straight start on Saturday.
Analysis: Polanco told his manager that he was starting to feel a bit better Saturday, but he was going to test the injury during BP on Sunday. Well, those plans got washed away, but the Phillies are off Monday, so Polanco gets another day to rest. Polanco is trying to postpone surgery until after the season, but he might not have a choice. The Phillies are trying to buy him all the time in the word but have already been playing short handed for almost a week. However, Polanco appears to be making progress in his recovery, so the club will likely give him a few more days before making a decision. Polanco is a viable Fantasy option when 100 percent and producing, but if he stays active, then he won't be 100 percent. Therefore, Polanco could be a risky Fantasy option the rest of the way.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was out of the starting lineup for a sixth straight game on Saturday against the Nationals because of a sports hernia. Polanco, who received a cortisone shot on Tuesday, was able to field ground balls on the field and said he is starting to feel better. "He said he's starting to feel a little better," manager Charlie Manuel told MLB.com. "He said he'll know more about it today. [He won't take batting practice] today as far as I know of. He was going to field some balls."
Analysis: Polanco is trying to postpone surgery until after the season, but he might not have a choice. The Phillies are trying to buy him all the time in the word but have already been playing short handed for almost a week. However, Polanco appears to be making progress in his recovery, so the club will likely give him a few more days before making a decision. Polanco is a viable Fantasy option when 100 percent and producing, but if he stays active, then he won't be 100 percent. Therefore, Polanco could be a risky Fantasy option the rest of the way.
News: Once again, Phillies 3B Placido Polanco remained out of the starting lineup posted for Friday's game against Washington. Polanco, who received a cortisone injection earlier in the week, has a sports hernia and may need to undergo surgery. “I’m going to need the surgery, so why not get it over with?” he told MLB.com. “But what’s preventing it? We’re playing for something. You can’t take it for granted. You don’t know when you’ll be in the playoffs again. We have a pretty good chance. I don’t want to miss it. This is when it gets fun. … I don’t know how much better I’m going to get in two days. That’s why I got the shot. To try to play through it. They said they think they can manage it. I trust them.”
Analysis: Polanco received anti-inflammatory injections on Tuesday, but the team said they would determine whether Polanco might need surgery no later than Tuesday. Keep an eye on the situation going forward, but Fantasy owners should be prepared for another lengthy absence. Continue to check his status leading into Fantasy Week 20 (Aug. 15-21).
News: As expected, the Phillies' starting lineup did not include Placido Polanco for their Wednesday afternoon game at the Dodgers. Polanco was replaced at third base by Michael Martinez. The 35-year-old has a sports hernia and may need to undergo surgery. He received anti-inflammatory injections on Tuesday, but the team will not determine whether Polanco might need surgery until Friday.
Analysis: Polanco is a poor bet to take the field on Wednesday, but with a scheduled day off on Thursday, he may be ready to play in Friday's series opener against Washington. Then again, this is the type of injury that can keep a player out for an extended period, so check back to see if Polanco will need to be stashed for Fantasy Week 20 (Aug. 15-21).
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco (hip) remained out of the starting lineup in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Polanco is suffering from a sports hernia. Gm Ruben Amaro said Polanco was scheduled to receive a cortisone shot in the hopes he can avoid surgery. The team will wait until Friday before deciding on whether to place him on the disabled list.
Analysis: Polanco just can't seem to get healthy this season. The 35-year-old veteran has been bothered by an assortment of injuries this season, the latest being the hip issue. He suffered the injury during last Saturday's game against San Francisco and received an injection Tuesday. Polanco will also be re-evaluated Friday, but hopes to play through the pain. Fantasy owners should consider benching him until he's completely healthy.
News: Philadelphia general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Monday that Phillies 3B Placido Polanco is suffering from a sports hernia. Amaro said Polanco will attempt to play through it, though surgery is an option. However, the surgery would not sideline him for the season, Amaro said.
Analysis: Polanco just can't seem to get healthy this season. The 35-year-old veteran has been bothered by an assortment of injuries this season, the latest being the hip issue. He suffered the injury during last Saturday's game against San Francisco and will receive an injection Tuesday. Polanco will also be re-evaluated Friday, but hopes to play through the pain. Fantasy owners should consider benching him until he's completely healthy.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Sunday that Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco is expected to miss a few days of action. He didn't play on Sunday in San Francisco, instead flying back to Philadelphia to undergo an MRI and X-rays on his injured hip on Monday. "I've had it for a while now," Polanco said, "and I guess it just got worse, sprinting and running."
Analysis: Polanco has also dealt with back problems, finger, toe and elbow issues this season as he's been the walking wounded. When healthy, he continues to play fairly well with a .275 average, four homers and 40 RBI over 345 at-bats. Keep him stashed in Week 19 (Aug. 8-14) as it seems certain he's going to miss at least a handful of games during the upcoming scoring period.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco left Saturday's contest with the Giants with left hip soreness. He was 0 for 3 in the game before leaving. He was replaced by Michael Martinez at third base. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Polanco will undergo an MRI and X-ray. It's possible he could be headed back to the disabled list with the injury, according to MLB.com.
Analysis: Polanco is batting .275 on the year for the Phillies. He missed most of July with lower back inflammation, so this latest injury is not good news. He has four homers and 40 RBI, which gives him Fantasy value in deeper mixed leagues. Owners should monitor him heading into Week 19 (Aug. 8-14) to see if he's going to miss much time. If he does miss some time, look for the Phillies to use Martinez while Polanco is out.
News: The Phillies activated 3B Placido Polanco on Saturday and started him in the night's game against Pittsburgh. Polanco had been out since July 4 because of lower back inflammation, but was back at third base and batting seventh for Philadelphia against the Pirates.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should be ecstatic to finally get Polanco back in action. He was hitting .274 with four homers and 39 RBI before getting injured and is worth activating in most mixed Fantasy leagues now that he's back.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, on the 15-day disabled list, began his rehab assignment with Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Thursday, going 0 for 2 with a walk. MLB.com reports that he will play nine innings on Friday and could be activated over the weekend. Polanco has been out since July 4 because of lower back inflammation.
Analysis: Barring any setbacks, Polanco is on track to return to the team on Saturday during the team's series with the Pirates. He was batting .274 with four homers and 39 RBI before landing on the DL so keep an eye on his status over the next few days. The 35-year-old should play the full schedule for Week 18 (Aug. 1-7), so plan on getting Polanco on your active roster in nearly all formats for next week. When healthy, he has established himself as a solid contributor in any format.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco (back, side) went 0 for 2 with a walk on Thursday, beginning his Triple-A rehab assignment with Lehigh Valley. He was lifted for a pinch runner in the sixth inning. Afterward, he told reporters that it was the first time in months that he played without any pain.
Analysis: Barring any setbacks, Polanco is on track to return to the team on Saturday during the team's series with the Pirates. He should play the full schedule for Week 18 (Aug. 1-7), so plan on getting Polanco on your active roster in nearly all formats for next week. When healthy, he has established himself as a solid contributor in any format.
News: MLB.com reports that Placido Polanco will likely begin his minor league rehab assignment this Thursday, heading to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. That could put the Phillies' third baseman on track to return to the team on Saturday during the team's series with the Pirates. Polanco fielded grounders for the second day in a row on Monday, and he reported improvement in his back. "I feel a little bit sore from the workout but not even close to before," Polanco told reporters. He has been on the disabled list since July 15.
Analysis: Owners who kept Polanco in their lineups for Fantasy Week 17 (July 25-31) could get a couple of games' worth of production from him. Barring a setback, he should play the full schedule for Week 18 (Aug. 1-7), so plan on getting Polanco on your active roster in nearly all formats for next week.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco could begin a rehab assignment as early as Wednesday, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. Polanco took grounders at third base on Sunday and is expected to participate in the team's batting practice the next two days.
Analysis: Polanco, who has not played in a game since July 4, continues to show progress after having an injection in his back earlier this week. His batting average has taken a dip since the beginning of the season and now stands at .274. Polanco will likely need one or two rehab appearances before being activated, which makes a return possible for next weekend. Fantasy owners should likely keep him benched for Week 17 (July 25-31).
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco said Saturday he felt better after receiving an injection in his back earlier this week, according to the Wilmington New Journal. Polanco has been on the disabled list with a back injury since July 15, and has not played a game since July 4.
Analysis: Polanco, who is hitting .274 this season, said he hopes to go on a rehab assignment sometime next week before returning to the starting lineup afterward. He'll likely need a game or two before he's able to return, which puts his status for Fantasy Week 17 (July 25-31) in doubt. Fantasy owners should keep him stashed in most formats while he continues to recover.
News: The Phillies announced that 3B Placido Polanco, who is on the 15-day DL with a back injury, received some injections on Thursday for his ailing back. They now wait to see how he responds in the coming days.
Analysis: Polanco wanted the injections so he could speed up his recovery. We should know in the coming days what the Phillies plan to do with Polanco, but don't think about activating him for Fantasy Week 17 (July 25-31) at this time. Polanco wasn't doing a lot offensively before going on the DL, but he had a good start to the season when he was healthy, so he can be a viable Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco will receive an epidural injection in his lower back on Thursday in Philadelphia, reports MLB.com Wednesday. On the shelf since July 4 with lower back inflammation, Polanco had hoped to avoid an injection after getting four last year. Polanco is hoping the shot speeds up his recovery.
Analysis: Polanco was eligible to come off the DL on Wednesday, but that clearly did not happen as he's still hurting for the Phillies. Polanco will just have to wait and see if the injection works before deciding his next step. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his progress over the next few days to see when he might be able to return. Polanco is batting .274 with four homers and 39 RBI this season and should be stashed away in the majority of mixed leagues while he is on the shelf.
News:Placido Polanco, on the 15-day disabled list, told the Phillies' training staff on Monday that the discomfort from a bulging disc in his lower back has not gone away and he would like to receive a cortisone injection. He has not been able to play since July 4 due to the injury. “I was trying to avoid the shot,” he told MLB.com. “But I was the one that came up to them and told them this keeps bothering me. Let’s just go ahead and go with the second option.”
Analysis: Polanco is eligible to come off the DL on Wednesday but that isn't likely to happen now that he is going to have the cortisone shot. He was hoping rehab as rest would help his ailing back but now he will have to see if the injection works. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his progress over the next few days to see when he might be able to return. Polanco is batting .274 with four homers and 39 RBI this season and should be stashed away in the majority of mixed leagues while he is on the shelf.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco is still reeling from his sore back and believes that he'll need an injection to alleviate the pain from his bulging disc, reports CSNPhiladelphia.com on Monday. Polanco says he won't be ready by Wednesday.
Analysis: Polanco definitely is going to need longer than originally expected to make his return. The pain isn't going away and the injection appears imminent. Polanco was 0 for 15 in his four games prior to landing on the DL so the injury was obviously affecting his hitting. It looks as though he will not be of much use for Week 16 (July 18-24) so Fantasy owners in mixed leagues should keep Polanco stashed away until his timetable becomes more clear.
News: MLB.com reports that Phillies 3B Placido Polanco has felt some soreness in his back after taking batting practice each of the last two days. He did not take batting practice on Sunday. "It's sore," he said. "It might be just because I hadn't hit for three days and that's the reason. I don't know." Polanco, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list Friday, might not be able to be activated Wednesday. Michael Martinez and Wilson Valdez have been filling in for Polanco at third base.
Analysis: Polanco might need to receive an injection if rest does not fix his back problems so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status in the coming days. He was 0 for 15 in his four games prior to landing on the DL so the injury was obviously affecting his hitting. It looks as though he will not be of much use for Week 16 (July 18-24) so Fantasy owners in mixed leagues should keep Polanco stashed away until his timetable becomes more clear.
News: The Phillies placed injured 3B Placido Polanco on the 15-day DL on Friday because of a bulging disc in his back. The move is retroactive to the last day Polanco appeared in a game, which is July 4, so he can come off the DL on July 20. Wilson Valdez and Michael Martinez will continue to split time at third base in Polanco's absence.
Analysis: Polanco said earlier this week that he thought he made significant progress with his recovery after taking anti-inflammatory medication. He added that his back has been bothering him for more than a month. At least we have a reason for his prolonged slump. If Polanco can't get over this injury, then he is going to be an injury-risk Fantasy option the rest of the way. He is worth stashing in most Fantasy formats because he is a viable option when healthy.
News: After missing the previous five games due to a bulging disc in his back, Phillies 3B Placido Polanco told the Philadelphia Daily News on Monday that he would like to return for the first game after the All-Star break, Friday against the Mets. “We have optional hitting Thursday. I want to hit there. Friday there’s a game and I’ll see if I can play. The option would be a shot. I’m really thinking about it because when you talk about a shot in the spine, those are words I don’t like,” he said.
Analysis: Polanco has been playing with the injury and some numbness in his side for a while now, which might explain why he's batting just .136 (9 for 66) over his last 19 games. Still, he finished the first half with a .274 average with four homers and 39 RBI. He is skipping the All-Star Game to rest up so keep an eye on his progress throughout the break. When at his best, Polanco is a near-certain .300 hitter with plenty of run-scoring potential batting near the top of the Phillies lineup. But since this injury might hinder the 35-year-old over the rest of the season, Fantasy owners in mixed leagues might want to choose their spots with Polanco.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was out of the lineup for a fifth straight game Sunday against the Braves because of a bulging disc in his back. Michael Martinez started in his place. Because Polanco wasn't able to return Sunday, he will also miss the All-Star game Tuesday, according to MLB.com. "I wanted to play, but we met yesterday and we decided it would be best for me and the team to take time off and not risk it," Polanco said.
Analysis: Polanco has been playing with the injury and some numbness in his side for a while now, which might explain why he's batting just .136 (9 for 66) over his last 19 games. When at his best, Polanco is a near-certain .300 hitter with plenty of run-scoring potential batting near the top of the Phillies lineup, but this injury is something that will likely plague the 35-year-old for the rest of the season. The time off should do him some good, but he's no longer a slam-dunk starter in mixed leagues. For now, he's expected to play after the All-Star break, but the DL remains a possibility.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco, who was diagnosed with a bulging disk in his back, remained out of the lineup for Saturday against Atlanta. He has not placed since Monday, though he hasn't been ruled out for the All-Star game. According to manager Charlie Manuel, Polanco is "more than likely" not going to play on Sunday. If he does not play Sunday, he will not play in the All-Star game, reports FOXSports.com.
Analysis: Polanco has said that he is slightly concerned by some numbness in his side, as well as his back issue. He still expects to play at some point over the weekend, though that appears unlikely given the diagnosis. He has also stated that he still intends to play in the All-Star game, but could very well wind up on the disabled list. He should be treated as day to day, but should also be reserved until further notice. Continue to monitor his progress.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was not in the starting lineup posted for Friday's game against Atlanta. Polanco asked out of Tuesday's lineup against the Marlins in Florida due to lingering back pain and was held out of Wednesday's game. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that manager Charlie Manuel was diagnosed with a bulging disc in his back.
Analysis: Polanco has said that he is slightly concerned by some numbness in his side, as well as his back issue. He still expects to play at some point over the weekend, though that appears unlikely given the diagnosis. He has also stated that he still intends to play in the All-Star game, but could very well wind up on the disabled list. He should be treated as day to day, but should also be reserved until further notice. Continue to monitor his progress.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco (back) was not in the starting lineup posted for Wednesday's game in Florida. Polanco asked out of Tuesday's lineup against the Marlins in Florida due to lingering back pain. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Polanco will see a spinal doctor in Philadelphia on Thursday. He is slightly concerned by some numbness in his side, as well as his back issue. He still expects to play over the weekend and in the All-Star game. "I can play, it's just not comfortable," Polanco said. "So they decided to not play me these two games, take advantage of that day off tomorrow, let it rest and heal and come back Friday."
Analysis: Polanco, who does not have a hit in his last 15 at-bats, is day to day and said on Tuesday that he intends to go to the All-Star game. He has attempted to play through the back issue, but has needed some time off to recover. Plus, this new side issue could be some more cause for concern. When healthy, Polanco has played well enough to be active in most mixed Fantasy leagues. He might not be fully healthy again, however, until after the break in Week 15 (July 11-17). Continue to monitor his progress.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco, who has been dealing with a back issue and mostly playing through it, reported too much pain on Tuesday, reports the Philadelphia Inquirer. Polanco asked out of Tuesday's lineup against the Marlins in Florida. Polanco, who does not have a hit in his last 15 at-bats, is day to day and intends to go to the All-Star game. "He said it was hurting a little bit," manager Charlie Manuel said. "It comes and goes. He has a lot of aches and pains. He's not hitting well right now. He also thinks it's affecting his swing. I thought it was a good time to get him rested."
Analysis: Polanco needs some time off to rejuvenate his 35-year-old body. You would expect he'd get that during the All-Star break, except he was voted in to play in the mid-summer classic and doesn't want to miss that opportunity. When healthy, Polanco has played well enough to be active in most mixed Fantasy leagues. He might not be fully healthy again, however, until after the break in Week 15 (July 11-17).
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco admitted Sunday to MLB.com that a back issue is contributing to his lack of hitting lately. "My back is a little sore," said Polanco, who came into Sunday's game hitting just .223 since April. "I have a pinched nerve, where I feel some numbness in my leg. It's playable. It's not painful to the point I can't play. I hate to use excuses, but it doesn't feel good. It doesn't feel right."Polanco went 0 for 4 in the series finale against the Blue Jays later in the afternoon, finishing the series 0 for 12.
Analysis: Polanco has a minor back injury, but it didn't damper his numbers enough to prevent him from making his second All-Star team this season, but his first at third base. He made it as a second baseman in 2009. "Making it at a different position means a lot," Polanco said. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the issue going forward, though he seems able to play through the pain. Polanco has just one multihit game since June 5, but he will once again be facing NL pitchers going forward. He's still worth utilizing in most formats for Week 14 (July 4-10), especially at a weak position and against the spotty Marlins pitching staff.
News: On Friday Phillies manager Charlie Manuel decided to mix up the batting order a bit, moving veteran 3B Placido Polanco to the No. 2 hole and Shane Victorino to the fifth spot. In 145 at-bats from the No. 2 hole this year, Polanco is hitting .359. "I put Vic down in the fifth hole," Manuel told MLB.com. "I feel like he has a little pop and he's got strength on both sides and he gets more extra-base hits and Polly handles the bat better. In situations Polly works the game a little better." While Polanco hit fifth he went 4 for 33 at the plate.
Analysis: Polanco missed some time recently due to soreness and also got hit on the hand on Tuesday night. While he seems to be fine, his presence in the batter's box is plain awful. He's gone 1 for 18 (.056) with one RBI over his last five games. Perhaps this move in the batting order is just what he needs to get going. Many Fantasy owners have decided to reserve him lately, so watch how he does this weekend. If he starts to connect again he'd be worth using in more than the 70 percent of leagues currently starting him. When healthy and producing he's a serviceable option in most mixed formats.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco, who has missed some time recently due to soreness and added insult to that by getting plunked on the left hand in the eighth inning of Tuesday's game, was right back in the lineup Wednesday in St. Louis. He went 1 for 3 in the Phillies' 4-0 win.
Analysis: Polanco's injuries may be taking away from his hitting prowess as he's gone just 2 for 23 over his last seven contests entering Wednesday. Polanco has struggled since hitting a grand slam back on June 10 against the Cubs. Still, with four homers, 39 RBI and 30 runs scored, Polanco remains a worthy Fantasy option at the hot corner in most mixed formats.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Cardinals after getting a day off Sunday due to general soreness. Unfortunately, Polanco added more soreness to the mix Tuesday when he was plunked on the left hand in the eighth inning. Polanco got the game-tying RBI on the HBP, but he was immediately pinch ran for by Wilson Valdez. Polanco was 0 for 3 before being lifted. X-rays came back negative. Polanco was hit above the pinkie finger on his left hand. Polanco said he expects to play Wednesday. "It's still a little sore, but it's not bad," Polanco said.
Analysis: Polanco entered the game Tuesday mired in a 6-for-40 slump and did nothing to really break his offensive struggles before leaving the game. Apparently, this injury is nothing serious, so Polanco can get back to working his way out of his slump. Polanco's lack of power and speed will keep him from becoming a high-end Fantasy option, but at a weak position like third base, he's still worth starting in most Fantasy formats because he had been a good contact hitter before his recent struggles.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who missed Sunday's game with general soreness, was back in the lineup for Tuesday's game at St. Louis. "It's just the same stuff you have and everybody has after 80 games," Polanco said. "It's not anything that is going to keep me from playing." Polanco is batting .150 (6 for 40) over his last 11 games.
Analysis: Polanco has been in a slump recently, and manager Charlie Manuel has suggested the nagging injuries might have something to do with it. Then again, it might just be a regression to the mean. After all, Polanco was hitting in the .340 range about a month ago. Chances are he'll hit somewhere closer to .300, which is still plenty good enough for him to make an impact in Fantasy with Chase Utley and Ryan Howard hitting behind him. Polanco's lack of power and speed will keep him from becoming a high-end Fantasy option, but at a weak position like third base, he's still worth starting in most Fantasy formats.
News: 3B Placido Polanco was out of the lineup Sunday against Seattle and it wasn't only because he is batting .206 in June. "He's banged up," manager Charlie Manuel told reporters. "He has aches and pains. He's been struggling some, things like that. He's got little nagging stuff."
Analysis: Polanco is mired in a 7-for-44 slump, so perhaps Sunday's day off coupled with Monday's off-day will allow Polanco to regroup. Polanco was hitting .320 as of June 5, and despite his recent slump, he is still the ninth-highest scoring Fantasy 3B in 2011. He might not have the home run power we seek from corner infielders, but Polanco still does enough to remain a viable Fantasy play in all formats.
News: With his 0 for 4 performance during Friday's loss to the Mariners, Phillies 3B Placido Polanco's batting average dropped to .299. It marked the first time since opening day that Polanco has hit lower than .300. He is batting just .175 in 11 games since June 5 and .238 since May 1. "Polly will get up there," Manuel old MLB.com. "He'll be back. He's hit a little bump in the road."
Analysis: Polanco has been moved all over the batting order this year for the Phillies, and had found himself in the No. 5 hole earlier in the week. However, the veteran has seemed to thrive when he hits second in the lineup. Palanco is batting 359 (52-for-145) with seven doubles, two home runs, 23 RBIs, a .409 on-base percentage and a .448 slugging percentage from the No. 2 hole, although that doesn't mean Manuel is automatically going to put him back there. "He never complains or says anything about it," Manuel said of Polanco's spot in the lineup. "I don't think he minds. As long as he's playing and he's getting at-bats, he never says anything about it." While Polanco doesn't hit for a ton of power, his solid average, on-base percentage and OPS, making him a strong play in most formats. He should be able to snap out of his mini funk soon enough, which is why he should remain active in the majority of formats heading into Fantasy Week 12 (June 20-26).
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who had started 15 straight games at third base, was out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Cubs. Wilson Valdez started in his place. Polanco is batting just .208 (5 for 24) over his last six games, though he did hit a grand slam Friday.
Analysis: The Phillies had batted Polanco fifth the last couple games, hoping the move could help spark some life in their offense, so clearly they see him as more of the solution than the problem. And given the 35-year-old's numbers this season, Fantasy owners feel much the same way. He isn't a great source of power or speed, but he's one of the best contact hitters in the game and has been scoring and driving in plenty of runs in the middle of the Phillies lineup. He may not be a superstar, but at a weak position like third base, he deserves to be starting in just about every Fantasy format.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was inserted into the fifth spot in the batting order for Friday night's contest against the Cubs. Polanco has batted in the No. 5 hole 10 times over his career but Friday marked the first time since May 13, 2005. Manager Carlie Manuel told MLB.com he made the move in order to try and spark the Phillies' struggling offense. "We'll see how it goes," Manuel said. "I like (Shane) Victorino and (Jimmy) Rollins at the top for speed. I like Polly hitting second because he handles the bat good. Whatever. I'm trying to get something that works. Whatever works." The move seemed to pay off as Polanco blasted his fourth home run of the season during the 7-5 win, which came in the form of a grand slam. He ripped the shot off starter Carlos Marmol in the seventh inning, chasing him from the game. Polanco finished 1 for 3 with four RBI and is now batting .311 on the season.
Analysis: Polanco has been placed all over in the batting order thus far this season and now he can add fifth to that list. The veteran has has hit second 33 times, third 24 times and first once. He entered Friday's contest batting .310 and has been one of Philadelphia's most consistent bats this season. While Polanco doesn't hit for a ton of power, his solid average, on-base percentage and OPS, making him a strong play in most formats. Continue to view him as such heading into Fantasy Week 11 (June 13-19).
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco went 1 for 4 on Monday against the Dodgers, extending his current hitting streak to eight games with a single. He has gone 12 for 35 (.343) during the streak.
Analysis: Polanco has driven in runs in three straight games and has maintained his batting average steadily around .320. He does not hit for the power you might want out of a corner infielder, but does provide solid numbers in average, on-base percentage and OPS, making him a strong play in most formats.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco went 1 for 4 with an RBI and a walk in Sunday's loss to the Mets, making him just 4 for 24 (.167) over his last five games.
Analysis: Polanco has been maddeningly streaky in May after hitting .398 in April, and has driven in just nine runs this month after a 19-RBI first month of the season. Polanco is too valuable at a weak Fantasy position to bench though, so continue to roll with him through thick and thin.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who recently endured a 4-for-25 (.160) stretch during an otherwise fantastic season, is clearly back on track now. He went 2 for 4 with a homer, a walk, two RBI and two runs scored against the Reds on Monday and is now batting .400 (8 for 20) during a five-game hitting streak.
Analysis: Polanco was hitting nearly .400 at the start of May, so he had to come back down to earth a little bit. He's showing now he won't go away quietly, though, and considering his track record, he may very well contend for a batting title. The homers won't be especially common, but at a weak position like third base, Polanco is plenty good enough to start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: After hitting a sizzling .298 in April, Phillies 3B Placido Polanco has slowed down in May. The veteran, who was rested for Monday's game against the Cardinals, is only hitting .220 this month with two extra-base hits and five RBI in 13 games. “He was chasing balls,” manager Charlie Manuel told the Wilmington News Journal. “When you see him get out on his front side and start chasing balls in the dirt, that’s a sign that he needs a blow, that he’s getting a little tired.”
Analysis: Polanco came firing out of the gate this season, leading his ownership percentage to jump from 57 percent to 98. While that number was likely inflated a little bit because Polanco plays such a weak Fantasy position, his bandwagon-jumpers had to know his numbers would level out sooner or later. For now, Polanco remains worth using in the majority of Fantasy formats, but keep a close eye on his numbers over the next few weeks.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco, who left in the seventh inning of Friday's game against Atlanta after fouling a ball off his right foot, was right back in Saturday's lineup against the Braves. X-rays taken on Polanco returned negative and he was diagnosed with a bruised big toe. He finished 0 for 3 but did draw a walk to extend his streak of reaching base safely to 24. Polanco has now reached safely in 31 of Philadelphia's 32 games on the year.
Analysis: Polanco hit out of the No. 3 spot in the batting order for the fourth consecutive game and finished 1 for 3 with his ninth double of the season. The veteran infielder has now collected a hit in 14 of his past 15 games for a glossy .374 batting average. Hopefully he gets through Saturday and Sunday without a hitch and he'll be considered a must-start Fantasy option in Week 6 (May 9-15). He has reached safely in 24 straight and 31 of Philadelphia's 32 games.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco left in the seventh inning of Friday's game against Atlanta after fouling a ball off his right foot. Polanco fouled a pitch from Braves SP Derek Lowe off his foot before drilling a ground-rule double to deep center field. After the hit, Wilson Valdez replaced him on the bases as a pinch-runner. X-rays taken on Polanco returned negative and he was diagnosed with a bruised big toe. He's considered day to day for now.
Analysis: Polanco hit out of the No. 3 spot in the batting order for the fourth consecutive game and finished 1 for 3 with his ninth double of the season. The veteran infielder has now collected a hit in 14 of his past 15 games for a glossy .374 batting average. It's encouraging X-rays did not reveal any breaks and Fantasy owners should monitor his status for the remainder of the series. Consider him a must-start in all Fantasy formats when healthy.
News: Phillies manager Charlie Manuel altered his lineup on Tuesday against the Nationals. He moved Jimmy Rollins into the leadoff spot, dropping Shane Victorino into the two-spot. Placido Polanco then replaced Rollins as the No. 3 hitter. "Big moves," Manuel said. "I turned it around. We've been hitting that ball so hard. Jeez. We played 14 innings the other night and scored a whopping one run. We tore the cover off of it. I thought we might try something a little different." Manuel was reluctant to make any changes since Philadelphia was winning and Polanco was outstanding hitting second. But Manuel feels Polanco will still get pitches to hit in front of Ryan Howard. "With Jimmy hitting first and Victorino hitting second, if they get on, we can use our speed more," Manuel said.
Analysis: A lot of Fantasy owners were hesitant to take a flier on Polanco on Draft Day after he had elbow problems in 2010. But now everyone is on the bandwagon as Polanco is batting .385 through 27 games. He is an unheralded Fantasy option since he doesn't have a ton of power for a third baseman, but the guy can hit. Polanco has appeared in just 34 games batting third, but he has a .321 average and .369 on-base percentage in that small sample. Keep him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco finished 2 for 5 with two runs scored and two RBI in the Phillies' 10-3 win over the Mets on Friday night. It was his fourth multi-hit outing in the last eight games as he improved his batting average to .390, third-highest in the NL behind only Matt Holliday and Lance Berkman. Polanco's two-run single in the seventh gave him 39 hits this month, surpassing Chase Utley's club record for April set in 2008.
Analysis: Polanco also recorded a single in the fifth before scoring on Ben Francisco's base hit later in the inning. He has now amassed six runs in the last three games and is now second on the team with 18 total runs scored. Shane Victorino is first with 19 runs. Polanco, who has appeared completely healthy after a minor elbow injury in spring training, has now hit safely in nine straight games. Consider him a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: In a game where Ian Kennedy tossed a complete game shutout with three hits allowed against the Philles, INF Placido Polanco was the only player in the lineup that had any room to speak on how to get to the pitcher. He went 2 for 4 on the day, with the only other hit off of Kennedy coming from Jimmy Rollins. Polanco doubled and singled for the Phillies in the 4-0 loss.
Analysis: Polanco has been one of the more consistent hitters in the Phillies lineup, as he continues to lead the club with his average up to .372. Still, it wasn't enough to help in a winning effort Monday. Polanco has 15 RBI on the season already and recorded his 10th multi-hit game in the process. Fantasy owners should get him in the lineup as soon as possible, as he proves once again that he is a solid option. Polanco has hit successfully in 13 of the last 14 games.
News: Phillies INF Placido Polanco went 1 for 4 in Wednesday's 4-3 win over the Brewers. His one hit was a big one as he drove in three RBI with a home run, his second in the last four games.
Analysis: Polanco entered play 9 for 24 (.375) at the plate over the last week, helping his batting average stay above .350 through his first 70 at-bats this season. He usually doesn't hit for much power, but is an excellent contact hitter. He is definitely a viable corner infield option in all formats when he is hitting this well.
News:Placido Polanco hit a solo homer Sunday against the Marlins, a shot that barely reached the right-center field seats. He later singled to make him 7 for 13 against starter Anibal Sanchez. Polanco finished the game 3 for 4. He has a trio of three-hit games in 2011 and seven multi-hit games. He is 10 for 25 (.400) during a five-game hit streak.
Analysis: Polanco is just comfortable hitting second behind Shane Victorino and in front of Jimmy Rollins. Now that he is past his elbow problems, Polanco is back to the reliable contact hitter we have come to know through the years. Polanco doesn't hit many homers, but he finds the gaps and scores runs. He is definitely a viable corner infield option in all formats when he is hitting this well.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco went 1 for 4 with an RBI in the Phillies' 4-0 win over Washington on Thursday night. Polanco extended his hitting streak to four games with his infield single in the sixth inning that scored Shane Victorino. It was his 11th RBI of the season and the third consecutive game he has driven in a run. The contact-hitting veteran also struck out Thursday -- just his third strikeout of the season.
Analysis: Polanco has been one of the most reliable hitters for Philadelphia this season and is tied for fourth among the league leaders in the National League with 18 hits. He has maintained a sterling batting average throughout the season and is now hitting .360 to pace the Phillies. Fantasy owners should consider him a worthwhile option in deeper mixed leagues and NL-only formats as he appears to not be showing any signs of slowing down despite being 35 years old.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco finished 2 for 5 with four RBI in the Phillies' 11-0 win over the Mets on Thursday. After grounding into a double play during his first at-bat of the game, Polanco laced a double in the third inning to score Shane Victorino. He singled in his next at-bat during the fourth inning to plate two runs and increase Philadelphia's lead to 6-0. He later drove in his fourth run on a fielder's choice in the eighth.
Analysis: Polanco has been surging recently and registered his fourth multi-hit game in his last five outings with Wednesday's performance. The veteran is now hitting .440 after collecting 11 hits since going 0 for 3 on opening day. He has also notched eight RBI in that span while staying productive despite 2B Chase Utley's absence from the lineup. Consider him a low-end option in deeper mixed leagues and NL-only Fantasy formats for now.
News:Placido Polanco had two RBI singles and an RBI groundout during Wednesday's 10-7 win against the Mets. He finished with three singles and one run in five at-bats, upping his average to .450. He also extended his hitting streak to four games, in which he is 9 for 17.
Analysis: Polanco had a miserable spring, which included a low batting average and him missing time with an elbow injury. But it appears he hasn't brought his slump into the regular season. Polanco doesn't have much home run power, but he'll be a threat to bat .300 and produce in other areas. He is not a bad low-end Fantasy starter at the hot corner.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco finished 2 for 4 with two doubles and a walk in the Phillies' 7-3 win over Houston on Sunday. The veteran third baseman collected a double in the third and eighth innings to notch his second consecutive multi-hit game. He went 3 for 5 in Philadelphia's victory on Saturday night. Polanco also scored twice and has now recorded a run in each of the Phillies' games to amass five runs scored in three games.
Analysis: Polanco had been sidetracked toward the end of spring training with a hyperextended left elbow that caused him to struggled with a sub-.200 batting average in Grapefruit League action. He has seemingly put that behind him and has been aggressive at the plate, getting on base in every game this season. Fantasy owners should continue to track his health and view him as a mid-range option in deeper mixed leagues and NL-only formats.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco played in his second straight game since missing nearly two weeks with a hyperextended left elbow on Sunday, reports MLB.com. Polanco went 0 for 2 in the game. Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said after the performance that Polanco felt fine after the game, despite claiming some soreness after playing on Saturday. "He's OK," Manuel said. "He says he is. He's not hurting, he said."
Analysis: Polanco will play in the Grapefruit League finale on Monday against Houston. He's not hit well this spring, going just 7 for 41 (.171), but Manuel is not concerned about that at all. "He can hit," the skipper said. Fantasy owners should certainly be aware of Polanco's availability throughout the remainder of the spring, but at this point he's not that risky of a Fantasy draft selection. Consider him as a late-round option in deeper mixed leagues and NL-only formats.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco saw the team physician Saturday and said he has inflammation in his left elbow. Polanco returned from a 10-day layoff on Thursday after hyper-extending the elbow on March 15 and went hitless in two at-bats against Atlanta. Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said Polanco would play on Sunday against the Braves, adding nothing is certain for opening day.
Analysis: Polanco's condition does not sound encouraging and it seems to have played a larger part in his poor spring than previously thought. The 35-year-old has tallied just seven hits in 39 at-bats this spring (.179) and scored just three runs. Fantasy owners should certainly be aware of Polanco's availability throughout the remainder of the spring and he could make for a risky selection in Fantasy drafts. Consider him as a late-round option in deeper mixed leagues and NL-only formats, but beware of possible injuries.
News: After missing 10 days of action due to a hyperextended left elbow, Phillies 3B Placido Polanco returned to the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Braves. He went 0 for 2 before being replaced at third base by Pete Orr. He told MLB.com after the outing that he still has soreness in the elbow. "It's playable," Polanco said. "I still need to work on it." Polanco expects to be ready for opening day. "The fact that I played today was good," he said. "It's a positive."
Analysis: Polanco has gone 7 for 39 (.179) with four RBI and three runs scored in 15 games this spring. At 35, Polanco is no spring chicken, and his power numbers have taken a precipitous dip over the last few seasons. Still, he's the concrete starter in a potent lineup, so remains worth drafting in the majority of Fantasy leagues as a backup 3B or starting CI.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Phillies 3B Placido Polanco (elbow) should return to Grapefruit League action on Friday. Polanco will have missed 10 days of action.
Analysis: At 35, Polanco is no spring chicken, and his power numbers have taken a precipitous dip over the last few seasons. Still, he's the concrete starter in a potent lineup, so remains worth drafting in the majority of Fantasy leagues as a backup 3B or starting CI.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who is recovering from a hyperextended left elbow, will hit off a tee on Monday, according to CSNPhilly.com. If all goes well, he will return to playing in exhibition games on Wednesday.
Analysis: Since Polanco had elbow surgery in the offseason, his current injury may have put a scare into Fantasy owners, but he appears to be very close to returning. Barring any further setbacks, Polanco should be targeted by owners in the mid- to late rounds of mixed league drafts.
News: CSN Philadelphia reports that Phillies 3B Placido Polanco's elbow is getting better and that he hopes to hit by the weekend. "It felt better [Tuesday] night," Polanco told MLB.com. "It was very sore, but it's getting better. I can't [take BP] until the pain goes away. When I extend, I still feel it. It's something that has happened to me before, but after a day or two it goes away. But since I had surgery, we're being a little cautious."
Analysis: This injury doesn't appear to be of the serious variety, so while Polanco is 38 and saw his slugging percentage dip for a fourth straight season in 2010, he remains worth taking as a CI or backup 3B in most mixed leagues.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco left Tuesday's spring game with a hyperextended left elbow. The team announced that the injury is not in the area that Polanco had to have operated on last season, but Polanco later told reporters that it was in the same area. He is considered day-to-day. "It's right where I had the surgery, but it's nothing bad. I've had it before. I've had it a million times," said Polanco. "But the fact that I had surgery in that elbow, we're being very safe. We're going to play it safe and see how it feels tomorrow and then the next day, a day at a time."
Analysis: The team also said that he was removed from the game as a precaution. All signs point to this being a minor issue, despite the discrepancy between Polanco and the team's account of where the injury occured. He has hit below .200 this spring, but that is also not a reason for concern. Polanco isn't much of a home run hitter, even though his home park is hitter-friendly, but he is a good contact and gap hitter and will have a lot of lineup protection again in 2011. Consider him in the mid-to-late rounds in Fantasy drafts this spring, barring any setbacks with his elbow.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco went 0 for 3 during Monday's spring game against the Astros, dropping his average to a disappointing .194 (7 for 36) in 13 games. He has three runs, one double and four RBI as well.
Analysis: The fact Polanco isn't hitting this spring isn't a big deal. The fact he hasn't had any setbacks with his surgically-repaired elbow is what Fantasy owners should be happy about. Polanco hit just .203 in the spring of 2009 before hitting .285 in the regular season. It just goes to show you how little spring numbers mean some times. Polanco won't hit many homers, but he can threaten to hit .300 and 30-plus doubles, so look to him in the middle rounds of Fantasy drafts.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who underwent elbow surgery this offseason, went 1 for 2 with a run scored in Thursday's spring opener against Florida State University.
Analysis: Polanco hit second behind Shane Victorino against the Seminoles, which is a spot he could well slot into once the season begins. He doesn't hit many homers, but he is a threat to bat .300, produce 30-plus doubles and score a fair amount of runs. He is definitely serviceable as a No. 2 Fantasy 3B and corner-infield option in mixed leagues.
News: CSN Philadelphia reports Phillies 3B Placido Polanco is upbeat after offseason surgery on his left elbow. “My arm feels much better,” he said. “It’s stronger and there’s no pain.” Polanco hit .298 last season despite suffering the injury early on. He said he has trouble extending on his swing and reaching for ground balls, but Polanco said surgery fixed that. “You have to extend to swing so [the surgery] should make a big difference,” he said. “I learned to play with pain. It’s good to be 100 percent again.”
Analysis: Polanco is likely to hit high in the Phillies' lineup in front of the likes of Chase Utley and Ryan Howard. He doesn't hit many homers, but he is a threat to bat .300, produce 30-plus doubles and score a fair amount of runs. He is definitely serviceable as a No. 2 Fantasy 3B and corner-infield option in mixed leagues.
News: MLB.com reports Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. had a good report on 3B Placido Polanco, who is rehabbing from left elbow surgery in October. "He's fine," Amaro said Monday. "I haven't heard anything to the contrary. He should be 100 percent."
Analysis: Polanco played the final 2 1/2 months of the season and playoffs despite the injury. While some of his power was warped in the second half and he hit 38 points lower after the All-Star break, Polanco still posted some respectable numbers for Fantasy owners. Polanco isn't much of a home run hitter, even though his home park is hitter-friendly, but he is a good contact and gap hitter and will have a lot of lineup protection again in 2011. Consider him in the mid-to-late rounds in Fantasy drafts this spring.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Phillies 3B Placido Polanco (left elbow surgery in October) is expected to begin hitting in early January. He should be 100 percent by the start of spring training.
Analysis: Polanco played the final 2 1/2 months of the regular season, not to mention the playoffs, with fractures in his elbow. He hit a respectable .280 (82 for 293) during that stretch, but his numbers clearly declined from the first half, particularly in the power department. Now that he took care of the problem he can focus on getting ready for the 2011 season. Barring setback, he should be ready to go for spring training. Polanco isn't much of a power hitter, even though his home park is hitter-friendly, but he is a good contact and gap hitter and will have a lot of lineup protection again in 2011. Consider him in the mid-to-late rounds in Fantasy drafts this spring.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco's surgery on his left elbow was successful Friday, according to CSNPhilly.com. "It went very well and we are fully expecting Placido to be 100 percent by spring training," said general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. "Dr. Ciccotti removed spurs from his left elbow and did a debridement and repair of the lateral extensor tendon. Placido will have follow-up appointments with the doctor over the next several weeks and we hope to have him swinging the bat again within 10 weeks, around early January."
Analysis: Polanco played the final 2 1/2 months of the regular season, not to mention the playoffs, with fractures in his elbow, so clearly something needed to be done. He hit a respectable .280 (82 for 293) during that stretch, but his numbers clearly declined from the first half, particularly in the power department. He's not really a power hitter, of course, but his potential to hit .300 with doubles pop makes him a viable corner infielder in Fantasy and a mid-to-late-rounder on Draft Day 2011.
News:The Sports Xchange notes Phillies 3B Placido Polanco will undergo surgery to remove a bone spur and scar tissue in his left elbow. Polanco played with left elbow pain for the majority of the season; the pain initiated when he was hit by a Tim Hudson pitch in Atlanta in late April. Polanco dealt with the ailment throughout the season and underwent three cortisone shots to ease the pain. He spent three weeks on the disabled list before the All-Star break because of it.
Analysis: Despite the injuries, Polanco hit .298 in 132 games in his first season after signing a three-year, $18 million free agent deal last winter. You can't expect much power or speed from him, but even at age 35, he's a good enough contact hitter to serve as your corner infielder in mixed leagues. Polanco will definitely be worth taking among the early corner infielders heading into next season.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who missed Game 1 of the NLDS against the Reds on Wednesday because of a sore back, was back in the lineup for Game 2 on Friday. He was batting second.
Analysis: Polanco played much of the second half with a fracture in his elbow that will require surgery in the offseason, but his stats didn't suffer too much. He hit .298 and was a decent contributor of runs scored batting near the top of a deep lineup. You can't expect much power or speed from him, but even at age 35, he's a good enough contact hitter to serve as your corner infielder in mixed leagues.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco did not play in Game 1 of the National League Division Series on Wednesday as he deals with a back injury. Manager Charlie Manuel said Polanco was sore and stiff during Tuesday's workout and felt even worse when he arrived at the ballpark for Game 1. Polanco told Manuel his back hurt when he bent over and turned left to right. Manuel, who doesn't know how Polanco hurt his back, was concerned he might not have him for Friday's Game 2. Polanco expects to play. "It feels a lot better today, and tomorrow I expect to practice and then play Friday," he said. Polanco said he didn't think he could've pinch-hit in Philadelphia's 4-0 win on Wednesday. He said his back problem flared up Tuesday evening. "It was just a spasm," he said. "I'm moving better though, I'm breathing better. I've never had this before, especially the way it happened, doing nothing on that off day."
Analysis: In 132 games for Philadelphia in 2010, Polanco hit .298 with six home runs, 52 RBI, 76 runs scored and five stolen bases. The veteran has dealt with bone spurs in his elbow this season, but his back kept him out of the lineup on Wednesday. While he's expected to have surgery on his elbow in the offseason, Fantasy owners should still monitor him heading into next season. He'll be a risky pick in standard mixed leagues in 2011, but could be worth using in deeper leagues -- if healthy.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was left out of the starting lineup for Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Reds with a back injury. He was replaced in the lineup by Wilson Valdez. Manager Charlie Manuel says Polanco felt stiff during a workout on Tuesday. Polanco said he hurt bending over and moving left to right and told Manuel when he got to the park Wednesday that he could not play. General manager Ruben Amaro, Jr., told MLB.com that Polanco could be available for Game 2 on Friday.
Analysis: Polanco has been struggling with bone spurs in his elbow this season, but it's his back that has kept him out of the Phillies' playoff opener. He is expected to have surgery to remove the bone spurs during the offseason, but his back problems are now something else to monitor. Despite his health issues, Polanco had another productive season, batting .298 and scoring 76 runs. Barring any further health complications, he should enter 2011 as an option for deeper mixed leagues. He will be a riskier pick in standard mixed leagues, as he will not retain his eligibility at second base.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco returned to the starting lineup for Saturday's game against the Braves and went 2 for 4 in the 7-0 win. Polanco, who received a cortisone shot in his left elbow Wednesday, singled twice and reached on a fielder's choice in the seventh but was pinch ran for by Wilson Valdez. He is batting .268 in September with nine RBI and 14 runs scored.
Analysis: Polanco hadn't played since Monday with his injury but showed that it should not hinder him with the two-hit performance. He has played well despite the fracture in his elbow, batting .299 for the season. Despite his lack of power, he's a decent low-end starter in mixed leagues and will be worth drafting in the middle rounds in 2011.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco (elbow) returned to action for the first time since Sept. 27 in Washington on Saturday in Atlanta. According to MLB.com, he received a cortisone injection in his left elbow on Wednesday. He's playing with a bone spur and tendinitis, which has plagued him for most of the season.
Analysis: Polanco has gone 10 for 31 (.323) over his last eight games for the Phillies with two RBI and a stolen base. He entered Saturday's game batting .260 for the month of September. He has played well despite the fracture in his elbow, batting .298 for the season. Despite his lack of power, he's a decent low-end starter in mixed leagues, particularly in leagues that penalize strikeouts.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco is expected to rejoin the team for this weekend's season-ending series at Atlanta after getting a cortisone shot in his left elbow Wednesday, according to MLB.com. However, he was not in the starting lineup for the series opener on Friday. Manager Charlie Manuel said that he expects Polanco to play in at least one game during the series with the Braves. "I might start him [Saturday] and get him a couple at-bats Sunday," Manuel told MLB.com.
Analysis: Polanco was on the disabled list from June 26 to July 16 with swelling in the elbow and said this month he's been playing with a small break. He said he'll put off surgery until after the season. Even though he's returning for the final series, he is unlikely to play in each game, so if you own him in a daily league, you're not out of the woods yet. He has played well despite the fracture in his elbow, batting .298 for the season. Despite his lack of power, he's a decent low-end starter in mixed leagues, particularly in leagues that penalize strikeouts.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco is expected to rejoin the team for this weekend's season-ending series at Atlanta after getting a cortisone shot in his left elbow Wednesday. He left the Phillies after Tuesday's 2-1 loss at the Nationals to have the elbow checked out by a team doctor. Manager Charlie Manuel said Wednesday he expects Polanco to play in at least one game when Philadelphia wraps up the regular season at Atlanta on Friday through Sunday.
Analysis: Polanco was on the disabled list from June 26 to July 16 with swelling in the elbow and said this month he's been playing with a small break. He said he'll put off surgery until after the season. Even though he's returning for the final series, he's no guarantee to play every game, so if you own him in a daily league, you're not out of the woods yet. He has played well despite the fracture in his elbow, batting .298 for the season. Despite his lack of power, he's a decent low-end starter in mixed leagues, particularly in leagues that penalize strikeouts.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco was not in the starting lineup on Tuesday against the Nationals and will leave the club to head to Philadelphia to have his left elbow checked out by the team's doctor. He has been playing much of the season with a bone spur in his left elbow. Polanco is expected to rejoin his team this weekend in Atlanta.
Analysis: Polanco will probably not play much when he returns as he rests up for the post season. He batted .298 this season with six homers and 52 RBI and will have surgery in the offseason to remove the spur and scar tissue that has built up in his elbow. Polanco is a viable option in deeper mixed leagues, when healthy.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco went 3 for 4 on Monday in a shutout victory over the Nationals. Polanco singled three times and scored two runs. He had an RBI and also walked in the performance. Polanco is batting .298 on the year.
Analysis: Polanco has gone 27 for 104 (.260) in September over 25 games with no homers and nine RBI. He continues to be a consistent producer and should remain active in most mixed Fantasy leagues despite his slow end of the year.
News: The Philadelphia Daily News reports that Phillies 3B Placido Polanco has been contending with bone chips in his left elbow, but not a broken bone, as had been previously reported. Polanco said he was misquoted by the Associated Press.
Analysis: Polanco intends to play through the injury, and the fact that it is not a broken bone makes it more likely that he will. Despite his elbow woes, he continues to be a consistent producer, and he should remain active in nearly all formats, thanks to his high batting average and the potential to score plenty of runs hitting ahead of some fearsome sluggers.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco has been playing with a small break in his left elbow, but is postponing surgery until after the season because Philadelphia is in a pennant race. Polanco is batting .308 with six home runs and 47 RBI. "I have a broken elbow, but it is rather small and will be operated on at the end of the year," Polanco said. "It is something minor, less than half an hour [the surgery], and rehabilitation will take only a month. I have not been operated on before because I would have lost the season if I did it." The 34-year-old Polanco spent time on the disabled list earlier this season with elbow inflammation. "Sometimes I don't have the same power to swing and as I have been compensating for the elbow I have caused a bit of tendinitis in my forearm," he said.
Analysis: Polanco ended August on a slump going 8 for 50 (.160), but has picked it up so far in September as he's hitting .314 (11 for 35) with four RBI and five runs scored. The veteran doesn't seem to be worried about having surgery and has continued to connect at the plate. With the Phillies contending and Poloanco batting in that high-octane lineup, he should be considered a viable Fantasy play in all formats for the rest of the season.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who fell into an 8-for-50 (.160) slump at the end of August, has hit a little better recently and showed signs of breaking through in the second game of a doubleheader Monday against the Marlins, going 2 for 4 with a walk, a double, a triple, two RBI and two runs scored. He went 0 for 3 with a walk in the first game and is batting .300 (9 for 30) over his last eight games.
Analysis: Before the nightcap Monday, Polanco hadn't recorded two extra-base hits in a game since July 29. He's playing with bone chips in his elbow and will eventually need surgery, but considering how well he was hitting when he first returned from the injury, the elbow likely isn't the cause of his struggles. He's still batting over .300 for the season and has plenty of opportunities to score runs at the top of the Phillies lineup. He remains a serviceable starter at either second or third base in all Fantasy formats.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco went 0 for 4 on Sunday against the Padres. In the three-game series Polanco had two 0-fer performances, and went 2 for 13 (.154) with one RBI. He's played in 103 games for Philadelphia this year, but has been dealing with a sore elbow for a while now.
Analysis: Polanco's sore elbow will probably continue to bother him the rest of the year, hurting his production at the plate. He's batting .309 with six home runs, 43 RBI and 61 runs scored on the year. He may not be a big-time producer at the plate, but hitting in the Phillies lineup will give him plenty of chances. The veteran remains a viable Fantasy option in deeper mixed leagues.
News: 3B Placido Polanco returned to the Phillies' starting lineup for Tuesday's game against the Astros. He was held out of the starting lineup on Monday due to a sore elbow, though he did appear as a pinch hitter. He went 2 for 6 against the Astros.
Analysis: Polanco has been dealing with his elbow issue for some time now, and he is likely to be battling it for the remainder of the season. He has been as reliable as ever, so clearly he can play through this injury. Keep him active in nearly all leagues now that he is back.
News: Phillies manager Charlie Manuel told MLB.com that he held Palcido Polanco out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Astros because of a "little soreness in his left elbow." Manuel said Polanco should be able to play Tuesday. "I don't want to make a big deal out of it," Manuel said. "Every now and then when he swings or check swings ... he'll feel something in his elbow. Or when he dives for a ball or something like that. He's all right."
Analysis: This seems to just be a minor injury for Polanco and he should be back in the lineup in a few days. He is hitting a solid .333 in August and continues to be worth using in all but the smallest of Fantasy formats as a 2B/3B option. Polonco is having a very solid campaign and should be active in all formats, when healthy.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco went 4 for 5 on Tuesday against the Giants in a win for Philadelphia. Polanco scored a run and, amazingly, did not pick up an RBI despite notching four hits in the No. 3 spot in the order. He's batting .325 on the year for the Phillies. Polanco has hits in three straight games and has gone 7 for 13 over that span with two RBI.
Analysis: Polanco is having some month of August right now for Philadelphia. He has only failed to get a base hit in one of the 14 games he's played and Polanco has gone 23 for 60 (.383) for the month. That comes with seven RBI and a solid on-base percentage. As long as Polanco is hitting this well, he can be active in most mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco is hitting .345 in August with seven RBI and just two strikeouts.
Analysis: Polanco continues to do his thing back in Philadelphia by reaching base via the single, but we'd like to see him walk a little more and add a few extra-base hits to his repertoire. Still, the veteran remains worth using in most mixed Fantasy leagues because of his steady play.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who left Tuesday's game with triceps tendinitis, was back in the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Dodgers. He went 1 for 4 with a run scored and is now batting .357 (15 for 42) during a 10-game hitting streak.
Analysis: Polanco is playing with bone chips in his elbow and will eventually need surgery, but he's batting .321 (34 for 106) in 24 games since his DL stint. Clearly, you can trust him to be the same player as always down the stretch, which should mean a high batting average and plenty of runs scored batting second in the Phillies lineup. He's a viable starter in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Philles 2B Placido Polanco left Tuesday's 15-9 loss to the Dodgers with triceps tendinitis, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer . He was replaced at second base by Wilson Valdez. Polanco went 1 for 3 with a RBI before leaving the game and is batting .320 on the season.
Analysis: Polanco dealt with this same injury earlier in the season and it landed him on the 15-day disabled list. Hopefully that is not the case this time around. The Phillies have said they do not expect think the injury is serious and Polanco is listed as day to day. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor the situation to see when he will be able to return to the lineup. Polanco is a viable option in mixed leagues, when healthy.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco went 2 for 4 on Wednesday in a win over Florida. He singled twice, walked and scored two runs in an easy win. Polanco is batting .318 on the season and has hits in four straight games. He has gone 7 for 18 (.389) over that span with six runs scored and two RBI.
Analysis: Polanco has hits in eight of his last nine games and has gone 14 for 42 (.333) over that span with seven runs scored, four doubles and four RBI. Polanco is hitting right now and always deserves to be active in mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco went 2 for 5 on Monday afternoon in a win over the Rockies. Polanco laced an RBI single to right in the sixth inning and is batting .317 on the year. Polanco has base hits in four of his last five games and has gone 8 for 23 (.348) over that span with a homer, double and two RBI.
Analysis: Since returning right after the All-Star break, Polanco has hits in eight of his 10 games and has gone 14 for 45 (.311) over that span with a homer and three RBI. He's hitting well and should continue to see Fantasy use in most mixed leagues.
News: 3B Placido Polanco homered to leadoff the 11th inning on Thursday as the Phillies beat the Cardinals 2-0. He finished the day 3 for 5 while batting form the leadoff spot again. "We're a good team, we're not going to give up, we're going to keep playing," Polanco said. "It was one of those games, but at the same time you want to win. You don't want the game to be over to be over; you really want to win, because you've been here for so long."
Analysis: Polanco now has six home runs and 30 RBI for the year to go along with his team-high .319 average. The veteran had a 12-game hit streak end on Wednesday, but got right back on track Thursday. Polanco is worth starting in most mixed Fantasy leagues, as he gives owners versatility and nice plate production.
News: Phillies INF Placido Polanco went 0 for 4 on Wednesday against the Cardinals, ending his 12-game hit streak, which began June 17. Polanco had missed 18 games since being placed on the 15-day DL with left elbow inflammation on June 29. He has missed a total of 25 games this season with that injury, and still may need surgery in the offseason. During his streak he was batting .351 (19 for 54) with six RBI and 11 runs scored.
Analysis: Polanco has hit well in his four games since the All-Star break, sans Wednesday's performance. He's still batting .314 on the year and gives Fantasy owners dual eligibility in the infield, which increases his value. He'll likely get a day off each week so the Phillies can have his bat in the lineup for the long haul, but his Fantasy value is strong, especially when he is hitting so well. Continue to roll with him in the majority if formats.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: 3B Placido Polanco returned to the Phillies' lineup Saturday at Wrigley Field and immediately made an impact in his first two games back. He was 2 for 4 with an RBI Sunday, a day after helping the Phillies take their only game in the four-game series against Chicago. With the Phillies down to their last strike Saturday, Polanco hit an RBI single to left field off Cubs closer Carlos Marmol in the ninth to spur a four-run rally that led to a 4-1 victory. Polanco had missed 18 games since being placed on the 15-day DL with left elbow inflammation on June 29. He has missed a total of 25 games this season with the same ailment but believe he can play through it for the remainder of the season. He still may need surgery after the season. "They might have to shave the bone down," Polanco said. "It's going to dictate on how I feel."
Analysis: Polanco is hitting a team-high .319, which ranks third best in the NL. He is productive enough off the DL to consider using in all leagues through Fantasy Week 16 (July 19-25) at this point. Polanco should be able to play through this for most of the second half, needing just a spot day off, perhaps. When going well, Polanco's consistency and versatility make him useful in all formats.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco (elbow) was activated off the disabled list on Saturday and the Phillies released Juan Castro. Polanco started the game Saturday against the Cubs and batted second.
Analysis: Polanco returns to the lineup and should be monitored before use in Week 16 (July 19-25). He was batting .318 with five homers and has been a spark plug for the Phillies this season with 39 runs scored. Polanco has been a solid Fantasy option in mixed leagues all season so it is great news that he is back in the lineup.
News: Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said after Friday's game that 3B Placido Polanco could be activated from the disabled list (left elbow) and be in the lineup Saturday. He's been on a rehab assignment at Class A Clearwater.
Analysis: Polanco was batting .318 with five homers before being sidelined with the injury and has been a catalyst in the No. 2 spot for the Phillies this season with 39 runs scored. His 27 RBI aren't spectacular as a corner infielder, but Polanco is a viable option in mixed leagues, when healthy. Monitor his progress over the weekend before making a lineup decision for Fantasy Week 16 (July 19-25).
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco (elbow) began a rehab assignment with Class A Clearwater on Thursday night and went 1 for 4 with a run scored. According to MLB.com, Polanco is expected to return to the team before the end of the four-game series against the Cubs. "He might be," manager Charlie Manuel said. "We'll see. He might join us in a couple days -- hopefully will. We'll see how it goes."
Analysis: Polanco could be activated this weekend, so track his progress before considering him for Fantasy Week 16 (July 19-25). He was batting .318 with five homers before being sidelined with the injury and has been a catalyst in the No. 2 spot for the Phillies this season with 39 runs scored. His 27 RBI aren't spectacular as a corner infielder, but Polanco is a viable option in mixed leagues, when healthy.
News:Placido Polanco (elbow) will begin a rehab assignment with Class A Clearwater on Thursday night. Polanco needs surgery to remove bone spurs in his elbow that he is trying to put off until after the season.
Analysis: Polanco could be activated this weekend, so track his progress through the weekend before considering him for Fantasy Week 16 (July 19-25). "He might be," manager Charlie Manuel told MLB.com. "We'll see. He might join us in a couple days -- hopefully will. We'll see how it goes." He has to be considered too risky to use in the brief Fantasy Week 15 (July 15-18) after the All-Star break, though.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, on the 15-day disabled list due to triceps tendinitis, hopes to start a minor-league rehab assignment on Thursday, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. The report also stated that one of the three specialists he visited encouraged Polanco to have surgery to remove a bone spur, which would sideline him for two months, but he would prefer to put it off until after the season is over.
Analysis: If Polanco is able to make a rehab appearance on Thursday, barring a setback, he'll likely be back with the Phillies this weekend, which wouldn't make him worth starting for Fantasy Week 15 (July 15-18). Monitor his progress before submitting your lineup, as when active and healthy, Polanco is a solid Fantasy option.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Phillies 3B Placido Polanco is aiming to return from the disabled list for Thursday's game against the Cubs in Chicago, the Phillies' first game back after the All-Star break. Polanco, who has been out since June 25 with left triceps tendinitis, took batting practice on Saturday and Sunday. "I think my elbow feels better right now than anytime in the last two or three weeks," Polanco told MLB.com. He is expected to make one or two rehab appearances with Class A Clearwater during the All-Star break.
Analysis: It was initially thought that Polanco would not return until after the Phillies' series at Chicago, but now it appears that owners will have him available for Fantasy Week 15 (July 15-18). The injury might linger for the rest of the season, but Polanco elected to skip surgery so he could make it back this season. "If I still feel it, I'll think about [surgery]," Polanco said. "But the doctors said I shouldn't be feeling it anymore." Barring any further developments, owners in all formats should get him active for the coming scoring period.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco is set to resume baseball activities in Clearwater, Fla. as soon as Monday, according to MLB.com. Polanco (left triceps tendinitis) has been on the disabled list since June 26 and is hoping he can return to the team in two weeks. "He'll probably play a game or two, and then we'll bring him back, see where he's at," manager Charlie Manuel said. "It depends on how he feels of course, but so far he says he's feeling good and ready to go." Manuel said he'd likely keep Polanco at third, despite 2B Chase Utley being on the shelf."When Polly signed on here, he signed on as a third baseman, I'd like to keep him there the majority of the time," Manuel said. "I think flopping him around, I don't know if that's good for him."
Analysis: Before getting injured, Polanco was batting a team-high .318 with five home runs, 27 RBI and 39 runs on the year. He also had an eight-game hit streak going where he was batting .361 (13 for 36) with three RBI and eight runs. Fantasy owners should keep stashing him as his return is drawing nearer. A Week 16 return (July 19-25) could be in the mix, if all works out well for Polanco. If he can stay healthy, he can be a viable Fantasy option in all formats.
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, a doctor told 3B Phillies Placido Polanco (left triceps tendinitis) he would start feeling better Tuesday and Polanco is thinking he was right. “I don't know if you've ever been hurt,” he said Wednesday, “but there’s one day when you feel like you turn the corner. You feel like, ‘Wow.’ (Tuesday) was that day." He could get some rehab action during the All-Star break, and if all goes according to plan, he could return for the July 19 series with the Cardinals. Polanco has been running and icing the elbow during his two weeks off with rest and hasn't done any upper body work yet. “I don't want to rush it,” Polanco said. “Before, I wasn't 100 percent. I just kept playing, playing and playing.”
Analysis: Polanco is having a good year for the Phillies, as he's hitting .318 with 39 runs scored, five homers and 27 RBI. Before he was shut down with this elbow issue, he had an eight-game hit streak going where he was batting .361 (13 for 36) with three RBI and eight runs. Fantasy owners should keep stashing him as his return is inching closer. A Week 16 return (July 19-25) could be in the mix, if all works out well for Polanco. If he can continue his production from the first half and stay healthy, he is a viable Fantasy option in mixed leagues.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Phillies 2B Placido Polanco (left triceps tendinitis) can resume baseball activities on Saturday. He should be back in a couple of weeks.
Analysis: Polanco had an eight-game hitting streak going before getting hurt and his numbers across the board were his best since 2007. Continue to stash him away until later this month and just cross your fingers that he the solid Fantasy start can remain healthy in the second half.
News: After missing the last three games with a bone spur in his elbow, Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was placed on the disabled list on Tuesday, retroactive to June 26. Polanco first reported having soreness in his left elbow after getting hit by a pitch back on April 21, and he recently aggravated the injury following a dive in Friday night's game against the Blue Jays. He has already received two cortisone injections and considered getting surgery at the end of the season. The team does not know why the injury has not responded to the injections, and they have arranged for Polanco to have another MRI done. "The question is why is it so persistent?" trainer Scott Sheridan said. "You'd expect if you treat it with anti-inflammatories and the types of things we've done with it that it should respond, and it has not. So I think it's time to put him on the DL, rest him and try to get some better answers for why this thing is staying the way it is." The Phillies recalled 3B Greg Dobbs and SS Brian Bocock from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to replace Polanco and 2B Chase Utley, who was also put on the DL on Tuesday.
Analysis: The Phillies signed Polanco as a free agent after he won his second Gold Glove as a second baseman with Detroit. They moved him to third to replace Pedro Feliz. The move has worked well: Polanco is third in the NL with a .318 average and leads all NL third basemen in fielding percentage. Polanco's owners are no longer in limbo, now that they known for sure that he will be out for all of Fantasy Weeks 13 (June 28-July 4) and 14 (July 5-11). It is not yet known whether Polanco will need to stay on the DL longer than the minimum. It's time to find a replacement for Polanco in all formats. It's going to be tough to replace a high-end Fantasy option, but potential stopgap options include Jose Lopez (owned in 73 percent of leagues), Chipper Jones (70 percent), Kevin Kouzmanoff (52 percent) and Johnny Peralta (54 percent).
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco remains out of commission with his elbow injury as he did not play on Monday in Cincinnati. MLB.com reports that Polanco is going to have to manage the injury and it could end up requiring surgery at the end of the season to address the bone spur. "We're really going to have to take a closer look at it," he said. Polanco received a cortisone injection on Sunday for the second time this season. "It made it worse," he said Monday. Polanco hopes to be in the lineup Tuesday, however.
Analysis: While Polanco hopes to return as early as Tuesday, there is something about this injury that makes us think he won't be out of the woods just because he's back on the field. Polanco owners are going to have to pay close attention to him over the next few games, especially when he comes back. When healthy, Polanco has been excellent this season to the tune of a .318 batting average with five homers and 27 RBI.
News: MLB.com reports that Phillies 3B Placido Polanco may receive another cortisone injection for his left elbow on Sunday. His elbow pain originally stems from a hit by pitch on April 21 against the Braves, but he aggravated it following a dive in Friday night's game. He was held out of Sunday's game against Toronto and is likely to miss Monday's series opener at Cincinnati.
Analysis: Polanco has hit very well lately, but he has missed a number of starts this year due to his elbow. Consider him a risky start in shallower mixed leagues for Fantasy Week 13 (June 28-July 4).
News: Currently on an active eight-game hitting streak, Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco did not start on Saturday in Toronto for the Phillies. Manager Charlie Manuel held him out of the lineup as a precaution after Polanco's left elbow was sore following a dive in Friday night's game. Juan Castro replaced Polanco in the starting lineup and went 0 for 3.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should have their fingers crossed, as Polanco's elbow has been troubling him all year. He's 13 for 36 (.361) during his hitting streak with two doubles and four RBI, and remains a solid start in all mixed Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco had a base hit during Friday's win over the Blue Jays, extending his hitting streak to eight games. He went 1 for 5 with a run scored. Polanco has hit in 17 of 18 games during June.
Analysis: Polanco is enjoying a fine start to his summer. In those 18 June games, he's batting .346 (27 for 78) with 13 runs. Playing like this, he can be started in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco went 2 for 5 with two runs scored against the Twins on Saturday. He scored on Chase Utley's triple in the first and again in the second off Ryan Howard's two-run bomb. He now has 34 runs scored on the year and is batting .339 in June.
Analysis: Polanco keeps racking up the hits and has at least one hit in every game in June expect one. He has even chipped in with five homers and is halfway to his 2009 total. Fantasy owners should keep Polanco in their lineups as he stands to collect a lot of hits and score a lot of runs this season.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: 3B Placido Polanco was back in the starting lineup Sunday after missing Saturday's game against the Red Sox with an illness. Polanco was back to his usual self when the game got underway: he finished 2 for 4 and has hit safely in all eight games he has played in this month. The Phillies are 3-7 in games Polanco does not start this season.
Analysis: Polanco is hitting .394 (13-for-33) in June. Dating back to May 25, Polanco has hit safely in 11 of his past 12 games and is batting .400 (18-for-45) in that stretch. Consider him a solid start in all leagues right now, especially with his position versatility.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was back in the lineup for Sunday's game at Boston. He missed Saturday's contest due to an illness and was replaced by Greg Dobbs.
Analysis: For those concerned about Polanco's absence on Saturday, rest assured that he will be ready for Fantasy Week 11 (June 14-20). He appears to be fully healed from his recent elbow injury and is ready to resume his usual reliable play, providing a high batting average and plenty of runs scored.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was not in the starting lineup posted for Saturday's game against the Red Sox in Boston. He was replaced in the lineup by inf Greg Dobbs.
Analysis: Polanco has recently dealt with an elbow injury, but there is no report indicating that this afternoon off is related. Polanco is enjoying a seven-game hitting streak that has raised his batting average to .316 to go along with his five homers and 23 RBI. He doesn't have the typical power of a corner infielder, but is a solid play in those leagues where he is still eligible at 2B.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: 3B Placido Polanco has picked up right where he left off after missing six games with a left elbow contusion. Polanco was 3 for 5 in the Phillies' loss to the Padres on Sunday. After returning to the lineup Friday, Polanco is 6 for 13.
Analysis: While most of the Phillies' offense has struggled since mid-May, Polanco is hitting .356 (21 for 59) in his past 14 games. Those numbers make him a solid start in all Fantasy leagues right now. Keep him active.
News: After missing six straight games with a bruised elbow, 3B Placido Polanco was back in the Phillies' starting lineup for Friday's game against the Padres. The bruise came from a hit by a pitch sustained on April 21.
Analysis: Owners, not to mention the Phillies' offense, have missed Polanco's hitting acumen over the past several days. Be sure to have the contact-hitting infielder active for Fantasy Week 10 (June 7-13).
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, sidelined by a bruised elbow after being hit by a pitch on April 21, rejoined the team Tuesday in Atlanta and is hoping to be back in the lineup on Friday, according to MLB.com. "Friday for sure," Polanco said. "I need to be playing."
Analysis: Polanco avoided a stint on the disabled list but won't be ready before the weekend. A solid option for mixed Fantasy formats when he healthy, track his progress through the weekend before placing him in your lineup for Fantasy Week 10 (June 7-13).
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: 3B Placido Polanco's MRI on his left elbow showed no structural damage or bone chips. He will get a cortisone shot then rejoin the team. Diagnosed with a Grade 1 muscle bruise, Polanco is flying back to Philly for the shot after missing his third straight game. He is expected to rejoin the Phillies on Tuesday or Wednesday in Atlanta. Polanco suffered the injury a month ago when he was hit by a pitch, but aggravated the injury while extending to make a catch Thursday in New York.
Analysis: Polanco doesn't need a DL stint, so that gives him a chance to help owners before Fantasy Week 10 (June 7-13). Consider him a solid option for mixed formats when he is healthy and going well. Track his progress through the weekend before considering him.
News:Placido Polanco, who missed the first two games of the Phillies' series with the Marlins, was out of the lineup for Sunday's series finale. He was replaced at third base by Juan Castro. Polanco had an MRI on his sore left elbow on Sunday, which showed a Grade 1 muscle bruise but no structural damage, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. Comcast SportsNet reports that he will receive a cortisone shot on Monday and will be ready to return Tuesday or Wednesday.
Analysis: Considering that there was concern about bone chips or a tendon injury, Polanco owners can breathe a sigh of relief. It appears that he will play the bulk of the Phillies' schedule in Fantasy Week 9 (May 31-June 6), so unless you own him in a very shallow format, keep Polanco active for the coming scoring period.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Phillies 3B Placido Polanco will have an MRI performed Sunday on his bothersome triceps. “The MRI is going to be the answer to everything,” Polanco said. “We’ll see how bad it is, what it is and if it can get worse. We’ll go from there.”
Analysis: Polanco has been out since Thursday with this issue, which could date back to when he was hit by a pitch on May 21. Hopefully Fantasy owners will get some kind of diagnosis on his issue before Monday's lineup deadline, as Polanco is a solid starting option in most Fantasy leagues when healthy. If Polanco is out for a while, Greg Dobbs would likely replace him at the hot corner.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was not in the starting lineup posted for Saturday's game at Florida for a second straight day. He was replaced by INF Greg Dobbs once again. Polanco is dealing with some soreness in his left elbow.
Analysis: On Thursday, manager Charlie Manuel downplayed the soreness. He has now missed back-to-back games. Polanco doesn't have the power many Fantasy owners would want out of a third baseman, but he is hitting for good average (.306) and will continue to be a part of one of the better lineups in baseball in a hitter-friendly park. He remains a suitable start in most Fantasy formats when he is in the lineup. Monitor his situation over the weekend before making a lineup decision on him for Week 9 (May 31-June 6).
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was not in the starting lineup posted for Friday's game at Florida. He was replaced by INF Greg Dobbs. Polanco is dealing with some soreness in his left elbow, according to MLB.com, but the day off was considered routine by manager Charlie Manuel. "He's got a little softness in his elbow," Manuel said. "He's had it ever since he got hit with the ball about a month ago. The other night when he jumped and caught the ball, and sometimes when he swings and things like that, it hurts him, and it hurts him bad. Some days it feels pretty good, but at the same time, he still feels it when he's hitting. And he's been trying to play."
Analysis: Polanco doesn't have the power many Fantasy owners would want out of a third baseman, but he is hitting for good average (.306) and will continue to be a part of one of the better lineups in baseball in a hitter-friendly park. He remains a suitable start in most Fantasy formats when he is in the lineup. He should be back in there on Saturday.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco has his average above .300 once again, as he went 3 for 5 in a loss to the Mets on Tuesday. Polanco doubled in the game after going 0 for 7 in his previous two. He's batting .307.
Analysis: Polanco was one of the majors' hottest hitters through the first few weeks of the season, but he then cooled off in late April. He still hit .299 for April and came into Tuesday hitting .298 in May. He probably can hover around .300 for most of the season, especially with the lineup protection he is in Philadelphia. Since he is still second-base eligible in most Fantasy formats, Polanco is a decent play in Fantasy.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was out of Sunday's starting lineup for the series finale against Boston. He was replaced by Greg Dobbs defensively and in the second spot in the batting order. Polanco is just 4 for 23 (.174 batting average) over his last six games.
Analysis: Despite the recent slump, Polanco is still hitting .298, and you can count on him to produce a batting average right around .300 year in and year out. The Philadelphia Daily News reports that the third baseman has been battling tendinitis in his left elbow all season, so the day off may have as much to do with his elbow as it does his mini-slump. His consistent high-contact approach makes him a solid contributor in just about any Fantasy format.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco went 4 for 6 with four singles and an RBI in Saturday's game in Milwaukee. He has multiple hits in five of his last seven games.
Analysis: Polanco has raised his batting average from .279 to .315 in his last 10 games. He hasn't been doing it with a lot of power, but the hits are adding up. Fantasy owners should continue to keep him active in most Fantasy leagues given his 2B eligibility.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco went 2 for 4 with a walk and a double in the first game of a doubleheader in Colorado on Wednesday. Polanco is batting .306 on the season. He did not start in the second game as Greg Dobbs started at third base.
Analysis: Polanco is sitting in the second game but extended a hitting streak in the first to seven games. He has two doubles, two homers and four RBI over that streak and is batting .306 on the season. Polanco can be active in all mixed Fantasy leagues pretty much most Fantasy weeks.
News: Philadelphia INF Placido Polanco returned to third base on Sunday against the Braves after playing second on Saturday. Polanco didn't seem to care where he was playing in the field as he went 3 for 4 Saturday and 2 for 4 on Sunday. On Sunday, Polanco homered for the fifth time on the season for a solo blast. He's batting .302.
Analysis: Polanco has a five-game hitting streak going right now with two homers and three RBI over that span. Polanco is a middle infielder with power and is still definitely worth starting in the majority of mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco went 3 for 4 in Saturday's loss to the Braves.
Analysis: While Polanco's three hits on Saturday were nice, the fact he didn't have a run, RBI or extra-base hit is a little disappointing. Still, he has seven hits in his last four games and remains a solid 2B/MI option in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco homered for the second time in four games and the fourth time overall Wednesday against the Cardinals, going 1 for 4 with two RBI. He has still gone hitless in seven of his last 11 games, batting .140 (6 for 43) during that stretch.
Analysis: Polanco was hitting over .400 for much of April, but this is a pretty severe course correction. He has to pull out of sooner or later considering he's a career .303 hitter. With him showing more power back playing in a hitter's park, he's worth starting in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who entered the game batting .088 (3 for 34) over his last nine, broke out of his slump Sunday against the Mets, going 3 for 5 with a home run and two runs scored.
Analysis: Polanco was hitting at an unsustainable pace earlier in the season, so the slump was inevitable. The good news is it might be over now. He already has three homers on the season, showing he might return to the 12-15 range now that he's back playing in a smaller ballpark. He doesn't offer elite numbers, but he's a serviceable starter in mixed leagues, especially since he figures to score so many runs batting high in the Phillies lineup.
News: After getting a day off on Sunday, Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was back in the lineup Monday to face the Giants. He replaced Greg Dobbs at the hot corner.
Analysis: Polanco has fallen into his first mini slump of the season, which isn't a surprise considering he was batting nearly .400. He's 1 for 12 over his last four games, lowering his batting average to .343. Still, he's scoring plenty of runs batting second in the Phillies lineup and hitting for more power than he did with the Tigers. He's still too valuable to sit in Fantasy.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco, who missed a game earlier in the week with a left elbow contusion, was out of the starting lineup Sunday at Arizona, replaced by Greg Dobbs. His absence had nothing to do with the injury, though. The Phillies just gave him a day off. He did appear as a pinch hitter, going 0 for 1.
Analysis: Polanco has fallen into his first mini slump of the season, which isn't a surprise considering he was batting nearly .400. He's 1 for 12 over his last four games, lowering his batting average to .343. Still, he's scoring plenty of runs batting second in the Phillies lineup and hitting for more power than he did with the Tigers. He's still too valuable to sit in Fantasy.
News: Phillies 2B/3B Placido Polanco returned to the starting lineup on Friday against the Diamondbacks after missing one game with an elbow contusion. Polanco produced an RBI on a groundout in the seventh inning. He finished 1 for 5 with a strikeout.
Analysis: Polanco has cooled down a bit after producing multi-hit performances in eight of his first nine games. But what did you expect? Polanco couldn't keep up that impressive of a run. He should do well hitting second in front of Chase Utley and Ryan Howard. Polanco, who still retains 2B-eligibility, remains a nice Fantasy start.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco was back in the starting lineup on Friday after leaving Wednesday's game with an elbow contusion.
Analysis: Great news for the Phillies and Fantasy owners alike. Polanco is a catalyst in that lineup and should continue to get on base and score runs at a good rate. Feel free to put him back in your Fantasy lineups.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco did not start but was available off the bench for Thursday's contest with Atlanta. Polanco was hit by a pitch on his left elbow Wednesday night.
Analysis: The news sounds good for Polanco and it appears he should be ready for this weekend's series with Arizona. He is currently hitting .383 on the season with two home runs and 12 RBI. With this type of production, Polanco is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco (elbow) was not in the starting lineup posted for Thursday's game in Atlanta. He was replaced by INF Greg Dobbs. Polanco left Wednesday's game against the Braves after getting hit with a pitch in the elbow in the first inning.
Analysis: Polanco has a left elbow contusion and is day to day. He entered Wednesday's game third in the National League with a .397 batting average. He is first in runs with 15 and 10th in RBI with 12. He's worth stashing in all formats and should be back in the lineup soon.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco left Wednesday's game against the Braves after getting hit with a pitch in the elbow in the first inning of the game, reports the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Polanco has a left elbow contusion and is day to day. Wilson Valdez entered the game in Polanco's place.
Analysis: Polanco entered Wednesday's game third in the National League with a .397 batting average. He is first in runs with 15 and 10th in RBI with 12. Those numbers make him a must-start Fantasy option, at least until he cools down. Let's hope this injury isn't serious and he can return shortly.
News:Placido Polanco went deep for Philadelphia during Friday's game against the Marlins. Polanco homered off Anibal Sanchez with one out in the second inning for his second homer. It was his only hit in five at-bats and ended a streak of three straight games with at least two hits.
Analysis: Polanco has hit safely in nine of 10 games. He has failed to get at least two hits just once in that span -- Friday. Even then, he made up for it with a homer. Polanco is having an amazing start in his first year with the Phillies and is absolutely thriving hitting in front of Chase Utley and Ryan Howard. You would be a fool to sit him in Fantasy.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: 3B Placido Polanco was hitless for the first time in six games Sunday, finishing 0-for-3 with a walk against the Astros. Before Sunday, Polanco hadn't just hit safely in each of his first five games with the Phillies, he'd also collected at least two hits in each of those games. At the conclusion of Sunday's game, Polanco led all major leaguers with 13 hits and was tied with teammate Jimmy Rollins and Oakland's Mark Ellis with eight runs scored.
Analysis: Polanco could have a career year in Philly with a potent supporting cast and a great hitter's park to play half his games in. Consider Polanco a solid starter in all leagues at this point.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco was busy on Friday in a win over the Astros. He scored a run in the first inning and doubled home a run in the fifth. He later scored in the fifth and added an RBI single in the seventh inning. In all, Polanco went 4 for 5 for the game with two RBI and two runs scored.
Analysis: Polanco is red hot to start the year with four straight multi-hit games. He is 11 for 19 with three doubles, a homer, eight RBI and seven runs scored and is batting .579. You can't get much hotter than that as his transition to third base has gone over quite smoothly. Considered a No. 2 Fantasy option, he's proving more valuable than that.
News:Placido Polanco collected another two hits against the Nationals on Thursday, giving him a .500 average through the first three games. he also scored a run off a Ryan Howard single in the fifth inning to pull the game within one run. Polanco had a chance in the eighth inning with two runners in scoring position and two outs but was unable to drive the run home as the Phillies lost 6-5.
Analysis: Polanco is the epitome of a contact hitter. He always puts the ball in play and finds a way to get on base (.348 career OBP). His power numbers may be up from last year, playing in Citizens Bank Park, but you know the average will always be there. Consider him a start in most leagues.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco went 3 for 5 with a grand slam and a career-high six RBI in Monday's season-opening rout of the Nationals. It was his second career slam.
Analysis: Polanco hit very well this spring, but no one expected him to come flying out of the starting gate quite like this. In his previous spell with the Phillies, Polanco had some of his best power numbers, so he could be in for a very nice 2010 campaign. He is worth starting in all Fantasy leagues that utilize the MI and CI positions, and also as a solid starting 2B in deeper mixed formats.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco hit his second home run of the spring on Tuesday. He finished 1 for 3 against the Blue Jays, and is now batting .375 in 56 at-bats in Grapefruit League play.
Analysis: Polanco's fine spring should come as a relief after his average dipped to .285 last season. He did hit 10 homers and drive in 72 runs, and could put up similar numbers playing for a talented lineup in a hitter's park. He remains a solid No.2 Fantasy second baseman.
News: Philadelphia 2B Placido Polanco raised his spring average to .410 on Wednesday against the Braves with a double and a 2 for 3 showing. The double was his second of the spring and his third extra-base hit.
Analysis: Polanco has now hit in five of his last six spring games with four two-hit games over that span. He's getting ready for the regular season and appears to be so. At age 34, the Dominican might begin to slow down but he still hit .285 last season with 10 homers and 72 RBI and 31 doubles and that keeps him a high-end No. 2 Fantasy second baseman for use in deeper mixed leagues.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco took A.J. Burnett deep in the first inning for his first spring home run on Monday as the Phillies played the Yankees. Polanco went 2 for 4 in the game and hit a two-run shot. He's batting .394 this spring.
Analysis: Polanco has six hits in his last four games and is having a very nice spring. He will be the Phillies' opening day starting third baseman. However, listed as a second baseman before the season, he's easily a No. 2 Fantasy option at that spot. His versatility adds to his Fantasy value. He is a sneaky choice late in mixed-league Fantasy drafts.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco returned to the lineup Sunday against the Orioles for the first time since spraining his right knee in Bradenton on Monday. Polanco was 2 for 3 with a double.
Analysis: Polanco is still a good contact hitter and may surprise with 12-plus homers in his return to Philadelphia. The move back to third base improves his versatility, making him a sneaky choice late in mixed leagues.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco played in a minor league game on Saturday and made two plays in the field, reports MLB.com via Twitter. He moved fine in his first game after spraining his knee. He did go 0 for 3 at the plate but scored a run.
Analysis: Polanco has been very durable the last few seasons, so we don't expect this knee injury to linger. He is making the move to third base with Philadelphia, but Polanco should enjoy lineup protection and a hitter-friendly park. Consider him a mid-to-late round pick in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Philadelphia 3B Placido Polanco was out of the lineup Friday against the Orioles for the third straight game while recovering from a sprained knee. Polanco is expected to get four or five at-bats in a minor league game before rejoining the major league lineup Sunday when the Phillies host the Orioles.
Analysis: Polanco has been very durable the last few seasons, so we don't expect this knee injury to linger. He is making the move to third base with Philadelphia, but Polanco should enjoy lineup protection and a hitter-friendly park. Consider him a mid-to-late round pick in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Phillies 3B Placido Polanco is hoping to get back in the lineup Friday after spraining his right knee Monday. Polanco said the swelling went down enough that an MRI "wasn't necessary." He's hitting .346 in 26 at-bats.
Analysis: Polanco managed a career-high 618 at-bats for the Tigers last season and should see a similar number in 2010 as he'll have third base to himself in Philadelphia. He might get back to the 12-to-15-homer range he reached in his first stint with the Phillies, but due to his lack of power, he needs to hit .300 to have significant Fantasy appeal. Consider him no more than a late-round pick in 2010.
News: Phillies 2B Placido Polanco sprained his right knee Monday against the Pirates while trying to catch a third-inning pop-up. "I don't think it's too bad," Polanco said. "When it first happens, you really get scared. You don't know what's happening. It doesn't feel right. But now that the doctor took a look at it, it's nothing big at all."
Analysis: Polanco managed a career-high 618 at-bats for the Tigers last season and should see a similar number in 2010 as he'll have third base to himself in Philadelphia to begin this campaign. He might get back to the 12-to-15-homer range he reached in his first stint with the Phillies, but he needs to hit .300 to have significant Fantasy appeal. Consider him no more than a late-round pick in 2010. This injury might hinder his value a little early in the season, but we'll have to see.
News:Placido Polanco returned to the Phillies on Thursday, agreeing to an $18 million, three-year contract. The 34-year-old free agent won Gold Gloves at second base for the Tigers in 2007 and 2009 but will shift to third base, which hasn't been his primary position since 2002. He replaces Pedro Feliz, who became a free agent after the Phillies declined his $5.5 million option. "I always wanted to be here, I never wanted to leave," Polanco said. "One of the reasons I wanted to come back is because it's pretty obvious the team is committed to winning. And I want to win. That's it. They asked me if I was willing to play another position and I was like, 'Sure.' I can play third base. I played in college, in St. Louis and I also played some third here. I feel pretty confident about it."
Analysis: Polanco batted .285 for the Tigers last season with 31 doubles, 10 homers and 72 RBI. He hit .341 and made the All-Star team in 2007. He might get back to the 12-to-15-homer range he reached in his first stint with the Phillies, but he needs to hit .300 to have significant Fantasy appeal. The added versatility helps, but he's still no more than a late-round pick in 2010.
News: Among the Tigers to file for free agency are: Brandon Lyon, RHP; Placido Polanco, 2B; Fernando Rodney, RHP; and Jarrod Washburn, LHP.
Analysis: Polanco is a decent low-end Fantasy second baseman, while Rodney likely needs to return to Detroit in order to be considered a viable closer. Washburn is a low-end starter with injury risk and Lyon is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men at this point.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 3 for 4 on Friday in a 2-0 loss to the White Sox. Polanco singled all three times. He's batting .287.
Analysis: Polanco is red hot with hits in eight of his last nine games and 16 hits total over that span with five RBI. He's raised his average from .276 over this span. He's having his best month of the season in September as he's batting .379 and is also walking more often than in any other month this year. He's having his best slugging and on-base percentage month, too, so feel comfortable using Polanco in mixed leagues for the season's final week.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 2 for 5 with his 10th homer and two RBI in Saturday's win over the Rays.
Analysis: Polanco has five RBI in his last five games and four multi-hit games in his last six, so is clearly seeing the ball well right now. Get him active in mixed leagues if you need help at the 2B spot.
News:Placido Polanco and Carlos Guillen homered on successive pitches and Brandon Inge also went deep, lifting the Detroit Tigers to an 8-5 win over the Cleveland Indians on Tuesday night. Cleveland took a 1-0 lead in the first on Shin-Soo Choo's RBI single, but Detroit bounced back with four in its half. Polanco and Guillen -- who has three home runs in the last two games -- each hit his ninth homer on back-to-back pitches. Polanco finished the game 2 for 5.
Analysis: Polanco has two of his nine homers in the last three games. Ever since Polanco hit .341 in 2007, his average has been on the decline. However, he has already topped his home run and RBI production from last season. Polanco is pretty much par for the course, but is still more of a low-end Fantasy middle infielder.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco defeated the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday with his 8th-inning three-run home run. Polanco went yard for the 8th time this season in the 8th inning off Grant Balfour with the score 3-1 Tampa Bay. Detroit won 4-3.
Analysis: Polanco went 1 for 4 in the game and is batting .268 on the year. This was a huge home run and his first of August. Hopefully it gets his power bat going because he hasn't been much of an RBI threat this year. With 58 RBI in 488 at bats, Polanco is just a low-end Fantasy 2B for mixed leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 0 for 4 against the Rays on Friday, which set him back a bit. Still, after hitting below .300 each of the first four months, he's on the verge of reversing the trend in August, batting .295 (31 for 105).
Analysis: Polanco was hitting over .300 before Friday's game, so another good performance or two should do it for the slap-hitting second baseman. Unfortunately, with the increase in talent at the position, even a .300 batting average wouldn't make Polanco more than low-end Fantasy 2B.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco singled three times in five at bats on Monday as the Tigers fell to the Red Sox. Polanco picked up an RBI in the game and scored a run of his own. His batting average is at .280 on the season.
Analysis: Polanco is currently on an 11-game hitting streak and he's seen four multi-hit games in his last five contests alone. He's already driven in seven runs in August and is about as hot as it gets at the moment. He was always worth owning in mixed Fantasy leagues and right now he deserves to be active in a few more than he currently is.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco had at least three hits for the ninth time this season and extended his hitting streak to 10 games as Detroit edged the Twins on Sunday.
Analysis: Polanco has raised his average from .260 to .274 over this streak and is starting to hit a little more like we expect him to. Owners in all mixed leagues should think about using him while he's hot.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 1 for 4 against the Orioles on Tuesday and has hit safely in five straight games, batting .308 (8 for 26) during that stretch.
Analysis: Polanco isn't exactly hot, and his .263 batting average is still well below his .300 norm. Since he's not much of a power hitter, he's not much of a mixed-league option if he's not hitting for a high batting average. He's just a last resort in standard-size leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco, who entered the game batting .143 (3 for 21) over his previous six, went 2 for 5 with a home run, a double, two RBI and two runs scored Tuesday against the Mariners.
Analysis: Polanco has seven home runs this year after not hitting his first until May 27. He hasn't hit for a high average, but maybe he's reverting back to the way he hit in Philadelphia, where he was more of a power hitter. You have to hope the home runs continue, because he doesn't have much Fantasy value otherwise as a .259 hitter.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco homered off Bruce Chen on Tuesday night in a win over the Royals. Polanco smashed a two-run shot in the 3rd inning for his 6th of the season. He finished 3 for 5 in the game with four RBI. He scored twice and his batting average is at .262 for the year.
Analysis: Polanco has 10 RBI in his last six games for the Tigers. He remains a very nice Fantasy option for deeper mixed leagues as a second baseman. He is never among the top in the league but he's always serviceable.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco hit his fifth home run of the season and his fourth in the last 10 games Tuesday at Oakland. He finished 2 for 5 with three RBI.
Analysis: Polanco's .259 batting average isn't quite what we're used to seeing from him, but at least he's making up for it with some power. You shouldn't expect the homers to continue, but Polanco is still a worthy low-end option in mixed leagues simply because his batting average has to improve between now and the end of the year.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 1 for 5 with a home run and three RBI Friday at Houston. It was his fourth straight game with a hit and his third home run in his last six games.
Analysis: Polanco has not hit for average this season with a lousy .263 batting average, but he has hits in eight of his last 10 games and has six RBI in his last six games. He is still a decent option in deeper mixed leagues, especially when he's on a bit of a power surge.
News:Placido Polanco's three-run homer with two outs in the second inning put Detroit up 4-0 over the Astros on Friday. Miguel Cabrera hit a solo homer in the first. However, the Tigers could not hold the lead and ended up losing 5-4. It was Polanco's only hit in five at-bats, leaving two on base.
Analysis: Polanco has three of his four homers this season in the last six games. He has at least one hit in seven of his last eight games with six RBI during that stretch. He is a decent option in deeper mixed leagues, especially when he's on a bit of a power surge.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco returned from a leg injury that indirectly was attributed to him missing Sunday's game. Polanco played on Tuesday against the Cubs and went 1 for 3 with a triple and an RBI. He's hitting .264 on the year.
Analysis: Polanco seems to have picked up where he left off before taking Sunday's game off. He's hot right now with hits in five of his last six games with two homers and three RBI. Polanco remains a decent mixed-league Fantasy option in deeper formats.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco homered on Saturday before leaving with stiffness in his left leg. He was always expected to miss Sunday's game and return for Tuesday against the Cubs.
Analysis: Polanco has homered in two of his last three games for the Tigers. That is rare power from a guy who hit eight homers all of last season in 580 at bats. He has little pop and doesn't steal too many bases, making him a low-end option in mixed leagues. However, if he heats up, use him more expansively. He shouldn't be an injury risk in Week 12 (June 22-28).
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco homered on Saturday in a win over the Brewers. Polanco went deep for his third of the season in the 5th inning with nobody on base. He went 2 for 3 in the game and scored three times. Polanco is hitting .263 on the year. Polanco left the game in the eighth with stiffness in his left leg -- he was hit by a pitch two innings earlier. Manager Jim Leyland said that he already been considering giving Polanco Sunday off, and that the injury meant he would definitely not play in the series finale with Milwaukee.
Analysis: Polanco has homered in two of his last three games for the Tigers. That is rare power from a guy who hit eight homers all of last season in 580 at bats. He has little pop and doesn't steal too many bases, making him a low-end option in mixed leagues. However, if he heats up, use him more expansively.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco hit his second home run of the season on Thursday in the eighth inning of a 6-3 win over the Cardinals. He went 2 for 5 in the game with the solo homer, scoring twice. His batting average improved to .262 with the performance.
Analysis: Polanco got off to a pretty slow start in 2009 and hasn't really shown much lately either. He has little pop and doesn't steal too many bases, making him a low-end option in mixed leagues, even at the weak 2B position.
News:Placido Polanco went 4 for 4 for the AL Central-leading Tigers during Friday's 3-1 in against the Pirates. While he doubled twice to bring his season total to 18, Polanco did not drive in a run or score. He was 2 for 11 (.181) in his previous three games.
Analysis: Polanco has had a real slow start to the season and we haven't seen him struggle this much in years. He is a career .300 hitter, so you know he can make contact at the plate. He is not a big power hitter and doesn't steal a lot of bases, so even when Polanco is on a roll at the plate, he is still more of a middle of the road Fantasy 2B.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco went 2-for-4 from the plate with three RBI in Tuesday's 7-6 win over the White Sox. In the seventh inning, Polanco hit a double with the bases loaded that cleared the bases. His batting average on the season increased to .252 on the season.
Analysis: Polanco doesn't do much in terms of power as he has not reached double digits in that department since 2004 when he was with Philadelphia. However, he drives in enough runs and doesn't strike out all that much, making him a viable option in deeper mixed leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco homered for the first time all season on Wednesday against the Royals. Polanco parked a two-run shot in the 5th inning and added an RBI single to finish 2-for-5 with three driven in. He also scored a run and is batting .269 on the year.
Analysis: Polanco may have just one home run all season but he'll continue to drive in enough runs with a so-so average for a second baseman to be considered useful in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco got a hit in his fifth straight game on Friday in a 4-3 win over the Rockies. He went 2-for-4 in the contest, driving in a run with two singles. He increased his batting average to .271 with the performance.
Analysis: Polanco's batting average has gone up nearly 20 points during his current hit streak, but still isn't showing off much power as none of the hits have been for extra bases. He will never hit for much power but can be a pretty solid 2B option in deeper mixed leagues.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco singled three times on Saturday in a win over the A's and scored twice. Polanco is batting .264 for the Tigers.
Analysis: Polanco was 0-for-10 over his previous two games before Saturday. He has yet to homer this season and has 15 RBI. Polanco has really never been much of a power guy and can still be used in most deeper mixed Fantasy formats when he's performing well.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 2-for-5 with a double in Thursday's loss to the White Sox, extending his hit streak to six games.
Analysis: Polanco isn't much of a power guy, but he can provide you with a nice average, 50-60 RBI and close to 90 RBI out of the 2B spot. He should be starting in more than 46 percent of leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco doubled twice off CC Sabathia on Monday as the Tigers defeated the Yankees. Polanco went 2-for-4 with two runs scored and an RBI. He's hitting .269 at the moment.
Analysis: Polanco has 13 RBI in 78 at bats and that is good enough to make him useful in any Fantasy league at the 2B position. He's not much of a power hitter, but he'll probably end up starting for some team in your Fantasy league because of his consistency.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco, who broke out of a 3-for-17 slump with two hits Wednesday, continued to right the ship with a 1-for-3 day Thursday at the Angels. He also walked and drove in two runs.
Analysis: He's been hotter at times than others this season, but Polanco rarely goes long without a hit, batting over .300 three of the last four seasons. He's not much of a power hitter, but he'll probably end up starting for some team in your Fantasy league because of his consistency.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco doubled among three hits out of the No. 2 spot in the order against the Rangers on Sunday. Polanco went 3-for-4 with a run and an RBI. He's hitting .346 on the young season after notching seven hits in his last three games.
Analysis: Polanco plays every day for Detroit and has three doubles in his last two games and a five-game hitting streak. With nine hits already this season, Polanco belongs active on the majority of Fantasy rosters in mixed leagues. He offers decent batting average and should score a good amount of runs batting near the top of the lineup.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco was 3-for-4 Friday afternoon against Texas. He has a hit in each of his last three games, going 4-for-13 in that span.
Analysis: Polanco went 0-for-4 in the opener April 6 in Toronto, but has a base hit in each game since. He doesn't have an extra base hit yet, but Polanco doesn't have a lot of power at this stage in his career. He offers decent batting average and should score a good amount of runs batting near the top of the lineup.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco hit his third spring homer in Sunday's win over the Braves.
Analysis: Polanco hasn't impressed anyone this spring as he is hitting for a terrible batting average and has low power numbers. He is now 33 years of age and has a diminishing skill set. However, he should hit for a decent average near the top of the Tigers lineup despite not doing so in the spring. He is good enough to start in most Fantasy leagues but he is not a player to target.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco homered on Saturday against the Blue Jays as he drove in two runs. Polanco was 1-for-3 in the game and is batting .214 on the spring season.
Analysis: Polanco hasn't impressed anyone this spring as he is hitting for a terrible batting average and has low power numbers. He is now 33 years of age and has a diminishing skill set. However, he should hit for a decent average near the top of the Tigers lineup despite not doing so in the spring. He is good enough to start in most Fantasy leagues but he is not a player to target.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco hit his first home run of the spring season on Wednesday against Mets pitcher Oliver Perez. It was a three-run homer and his only hit in four at-bats. His batting average remains a low .216.
Analysis: Polanco hasn't impressed anyone this spring as he is hitting for a terrible batting average and has low power numbers. He is now 33 years of age and has a diminishing skill set. However, he should hit for a decent average near the top of the Tigers lineup despite not doing so in the spring. He is good enough to start in most Fantasy leagues but he is not a player to target.
News: Second baseman Placido Polanco started at second base in Friday's spring game against Washington, a day after getting hit by a pitch on both hands on Thursday. Polanco went 1-for-3 win the game with two RBI, so clearly there is no injury concern here. He is hitting .244 this spring.
Analysis: At age 33, Polanco brings nothing more than extra-base power to go along with increasing injury concerns, but as a high-contact hitter at the top of the Tigers lineup, you know he'll give you a decent batting average and plenty of runs scored. At a position as weak as second base, that kind of skill set makes him a worthy starter. You shouldn't reach for him since he obviously doesn't have much of a ceiling, but don't feel too bad if you end up with him.
News: The Detroit News reports that Tigers 2B Placido Polanco will not play in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. "I'm a middle infielder. That roster is packed with middle infielders," said Polanco. "This is the last year of my contract and anything could happen."
Analysis: At age 33, Polanco brings nothing more than extra-base power to go along with increasing injury concerns, but as a high-contact hitter at the top of the Tigers lineup, you know he'll give you a decent batting average and plenty of runs scored. At a position as weak as second base, that kind of skill set makes him a worthy starter. You shouldn't reach for him since he obviously doesn't have much of a ceiling, but don't feel too bad if you end up with him.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco missed his second straight game Sunday with an ankle injury. He finishes the season batting .307 with eight home runs, seven stolen bases, 90 runs scored and 58 RBI.
Analysis: Polanco is a decent Fantasy 2B because he makes consistent contact, and this injury shouldn't at all affect him next season. His lack of power and speed prevents him from reaching elite status, but he usually ends up scoring enough points to start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco could not start on Saturday against the Rays and is still suffering with an ankle injury.
Analysis: Polanco is hitting .307 with eight home runs and 58 RBI. He's a decent Fantasy 2B because he makes consistent contact, but this injury certainly has the potential to sideline him for the last game Sunday.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco left Friday night's game against the Rays in the first inning after spraining his ankle sliding into home. Polanco scored from first base on Magglio Ordonez's two-run double. He rolled over and writhed in pain after sliding across the plate and beating the tag of catcher Dioner Navarro.
Analysis: Polanco was tended to by trainer Kevin Rand, but got up and walked off the field on his own with a slight limp. The team said X-rays on the left ankle were negative and Polanco would be reevaluated Saturday. Polanco is hitting .307 with eight home runs and 58 RBI. He's a decent Fantasy 2B because he makes consistent contact, but this injury certainly has the potential to sideline him for the last two games.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 2-for-4 with a double, a walk and a run scored Saturday at Cleveland. He now has two hits in three of his last six games but is batting only .167 (2-for-12) in the three others.
Analysis: Polanco hasn't gotten particularly hot or cold lately and is an asset in Fantasy mostly for his consistency. He might not contend for another batting title and certainly won't contend for a home-run title, but he's a decent low-end starter in mixed leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco, who entered Sunday batting .262 (11-for-42) in September, improved his standing with a three-hit doubleheader at the White Sox. He went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored in the first game and 1-for-5 with a run scored in the second.
Analysis: Polanco is batting only .307 on the season, which isn't particularly impressive in Fantasy for a player who has only seven home runs and seven stolen bases. Still, with second basemen dropping like flies across the league, he deserves to start for your Fantasy team.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco had three hits and drove in three runs to lift Detroit to a 9-6 win over the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday night. Polanco went 3-for-4 with a double.
Analysis: Polanco, .310, is heating up with hits in six of his last eight games and six runs scored. Consider him a solid start in all Fantasy leagues at a thin offensive position.
News:Placido Polanco had three of the nine Tigers' hits Saturday for his 42nd multihit game, raising his average to .313.
Analysis: Polanco was hot before his few missed games due to a sore knee. He is proving to still be hot. Consider him a solid start in all leagues for Fantasy Week 22 (Aug. 25-31), especially since he has stopped choking up on the bat and has found more power of late.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco, who missed Wednesday's game because of a sore right knee, returned to the lineup Friday at Kansas City. He went 1-for-4 with an RBI double.
Analysis: Polanco has stopped choking up on the bat and begun to show more power as a result. He won't contend for a home-run title anytime soon, but his batting average and ability to score runs make him a No. 1 Fantasy 2B.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco was scratched from the starting lineup about an hour before the first pitch with a sore right knee. He was replaced by Ramon Santiago. Manager Jimmy Leyland said after the game Polanco will not play Wednesday.
Analysis: This is too bad, because Polanco was hot and hitting with more power because he has stopped choking up on the bat. Consider him a viable option in any Fantasy league once he is healthy again, but track his progress through the weekend before considering him for Fantasy Week 22 (Aug. 25-31).
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco was scratched from the starting lineup Tuesday against the Rangers about an hour before the first pitch with a sore right knee. He was replaced by Ramon Santiago. Polanco is day-to-day.
Analysis: Polanco was hot and a solid start in all Fantasy leagues so hopefully he won't miss more than this one game. We have reason to believe his power increase is more of a function of a market correction than a change in approach, though. Regardless, his streak makes him a must-start second baseman right now, when healthy.
News: According to The Sports Xchange notes: 2B Placido Polanco now grips his bat down on the end instead of choking up and is hitting the ball with more power as a result. Polanco said he made the change in Tampa Bay a few weeks ago because he wasn't following through in his swing as well as he liked. After making the change he went to Chicago and hit two home runs plus a triple. He hit a home run Friday night against Baltimore, too. "I feel good," Polanco said. "I feel comfortable."
Analysis: Polanco is hot and a solid start in all Fantasy leagues right now. We have reason to believe his power increase is more of a function of a market correction than a change in approach, though. Regardless, his streak makes him a must-start second baseman right now.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco hit a two-run homer in the fifth inning Friday against the Orioles, finishing 1-for-4. He's 1-for-9 over his last three games.
Analysis: Polanco isn't quite as hot as earlier in August, but maybe the home run will get him going. Start him for his batting average and runs scored.
News: Detroit had taken an 8-6 lead in the top of the 14th inning Tuesday night when Placido Polanco hit his second home run of the game, a two-run shot off Matt Thornton. After the four-run flurry in the fifth, the Tigers went eight innings without scoring before Polanco -- a career .325 hitter against the White Sox -- delivered his fourth career multihomer game. He also hit a two-run homer in the first inning of the four-hour, 58-minute game. "When you need two outs to win the game, it's a tough loss," Polanco said. "What can you do? We're all professionals here. Turn the page."
Analysis: Polanco is scorching hot right now and a solid start in all Fantasy leagues. He is consistent guy who can perform on the level of the elite when he is going this well, especially atop a slow-pitch softball type of mashing Tigers offense.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco went 2-for-5 on Saturday in a loss to the Tampa Bay Rays. Polanco doubled and scored twice. He also drove in a run. He's batting .308 on the season.
Analysis: Polanco has hits in six of his last eight contests with four RBI over that span. He is a consistent .300-plus hitter who sets the table for a monster Tigers offense that figures to have a big second half. He should be starting in most mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco moved his hit streak along to 11 games Sunday with a 1-for-3, 2-run performance in a win over the White Sox.
Analysis: Polanco is hot and a solid start in any Fantasy league right now. He is a consistent .300-plus hitter who sets the table for a monster Tigers offense that figures to have a big second half.
News:Magglio Ordonez added three hits and a couple RBI, while Placido Polanco had three hits and scored twice Wednesday.
Analysis: Polanco is hot and a solid start in any Fantasy league. He is a consistent .300-plus hitter who sets the table for a monster Tigers offense that figures to have a big second half.
News:Placido Polanco hit a home run in the third off Kyle Davies (3-2) to give the Tigers a 2-1 lead Tuesday. His fielder's choice grounder in the ninth scored Edgar Renteria, who led off the inning with a single.
Analysis: Polanco is hot and a solid start in any Fantasy league. He is a consistent .300-plus hitter who sets the table for a monster Tigers offense that figures to have a big second half.
News: Detroit Tigers second baseman Placido Polanco broke out on Saturday against the Orioles. Polanco notched four hits in six at-bats and doubled twice. He also scored three runs and drove in one. He's batting .309.
Analysis: Polanco has a modest five-game hitting streak going, but this was really the first game he's looked good in a while. However, his average is still above .300 and he is no longer battling a back injury that slowed his production early in the season. Polanco remains a high-end Fantasy 2B entering the second half.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco had a single in four at-bats Sunday against the Twins. Polanco doesn't have a multi-hit game since July 2, but has hit safely in eight of his last nine games with an at-bat.
Analysis: Polanco is not having an ideal July with a .208 average, no homers and three RBI in 12 games. However, his average is still above .300 and he is no longer battling a back injury that slowed his production early in the season. Polanco remains a high-end Fantasy 2B entering the second half.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco didn't start after being sworn in as a U.S. citizen before the game Wednesday. He entered in the seventh inning against the Indians after Edgar Renteria strained a hamstring running out a ground ball.
Analysis: It's hard to believe that Polanco was hitting just .140 as of late April and now his average is all the way up to .318. He suffered from a back injury early in the season that hampered him at the plate, but since overcoming the injury, he has been nothing short of solid. Polanco remains a high-end Fantasy 2B.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco had a RBI single in four at-bats Thursday against the Mariners. He also walked once. In the last eight games Polanco has had a hit, he has failed to get at least two hits just once.
Analysis: It's hard to believe that Polanco was hitting just .140 as of late April and now his average is all the way up to .318. He suffered from a back injury early in the season that hampered him at the plate, but since overcoming the injury, he has been nothing short of solid. Polanco remains a high-end Fantasy 2B.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco extended a 10-game hitting streak Wednesday against the Giants and went 4-for-4 on the night. Polanco, hitting .316 on the season, doubled, scored three runs, drove in two and even walked once during a perfect evening at the plate. He has two four-hit games during his current streak.
Analysis: There might not be a hotter second baseman in the league right now than Polanco, who has now hit in 10 straight games with eight multi-hit games during that span. One thing he hasn't done is homer, but Polanco has never been much of a power guy. He is a must-start option in all Fantasy leagues right now. His back looks to be OK and he remains a must-start Fantasy 2B.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 2-for-5 with an RBI on Tuesday as he extended his hit streak to nine games.
Analysis: Polanco is hitting .475 during his streak (19-for-40) and has raised his average from .273 to .305. One thing he hasn't done is homer, but Polanco has never been much of a power guy. His back looks to be OK and he remains a must-start Fantasy 2B.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco extended his hitting streak to seven games Sunday when he went 2-for-4 with an RBI, a run scored and a walk in a 5-4 win over the Dodgers. He is 16-for-31 (.516) with five RBI and six multi-hit contests during his streak.
Analysis: Polanco has had a totally different season since resting a sore back in April. He struggled through the first few weeks of the season and later missed several games in April with a cranky back. The rest actually helped as Polanco has been on a tear ever since. His average was at .140 on April 24 and is now at .304. He has returned to his All-Star form and remains a must-start Fantasy 2B.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco had a RBI triple in five at-bats Saturday against the Dodgers. While his first triple of the season was his only hit in the game and he stranded five runners, Polanco managed to extend his hitting streak to six games. He is 14-for-27 (.519) with four RBI in that span.
Analysis: Polanco has had a totally different season since resting a sore back in April. He struggled through the first few weeks of the season and later missed several games in April with a cranky back. The rest actually helped as Polanco has been on a tear ever since. His average was at .140 on April 24 and is now at .301. He has returned to his All-Star form and remains a must-start Fantasy 2B.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 4-for-5 with a double and an RBI on Monday against the Indians, raising his season average to .289. He entered the game batting .214 (6-for-28) in June.
Analysis: Polanco likely won't match his .341 batting average of a year ago, making him a fringe waiver player in mixed leagues, but his potential to be steady for owners for an emerging Tigers lineup makes him a solid start more often than not.
News: With Sheffield out of the lineup after being placed on the disabled list Tuesday, Placido Polanco dropped from second in the lineup, where he has batted in all of his games this year, to the No. 3 spot. Matt Joyce was moved into the second spot in the lineup.
Analysis:The Sports Xchange notes that Polanco has only hit third in the order seven times in his career. He was moved down because manager Jim Leyland wanted LF Matt Joyce to bat second to give the Tigers some left-handed balance in their lineup. If this move were to stick, it could actually provide Polanco with a Fantasy boost. He went 0-for-3 there on Wednesday at the Angeles, but the third spot in the order is prime real estate for driving in runs and Polanco should see some good pitches to hit with Miguel Cabrera behind him in the lineup.
News:Gary Sheffield had a two-run single in the fifth and finished with his first three-RBI game of the season. Placido Polanco was 4-for-5 and scored four times. Magglio Ordonez also scored four times to match a career high. "They have a lineup that will kill you if you don't throw strikes," Minnesota manager Ron Gardenhire said. "They sure showed us that tonight."
Analysis: Sheffield is a streaky slugger due for a big-time tear. Consider him a solid option for any league right now. Polanco is more of a deeper Fantasy option, but his potential to be steady for owners for an emerging Tigers lineup makes him a solid start in most formats right now.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco, 3-for-18 over his last six games, went 2-for-4 with a double Sunday at Arizona. He is batting .328 in May.
Analysis: Polanco hit a ghastly .247 in April, but he's gotten himself back on track in May. He has almost no chance of matching his .341 average from a year ago, but he's still an asset to that category in Rotisserie.
News:Placido Polanco hit a broken-bat, tiebreaking single with two outs in the ninth off Jonathan Papelbon to lift Detroit to a 10-9 victory against Boston on Wednesday night. "It tells you a lot about our team," Polanco said. "We had some really tough at-bats against Papelbon to make something happen."
Analysis: Polanco blooped one over a leaping SS Julio Lugo for his season-high fifth hit and Renteria trotted home with the winning run. "I was just trying to put it in play and I was glad it just went over Lugo's head," Polanco said. He has hit safely in 10 of the last 13 games with seven multi-hit games in that span. It is safe to start him in all Fantasy formats once again.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco had two hits, including his sixth double, and one run in four at-bats Sunday against the Twins. He extended his hitting streak to six games. He is hitting .444 (12-for-27) with two homers and three RBI in that span.
Analysis: For all those Fantasy owners that lost faith in Polanco and cut him after a slow start shame on you. Polanco was dealing with a bad back, but as soon as he got a few games to rest, he has been unstoppable at the dish. He has hit safely in eight of the last 10 games with six multi-hit games in that span. It is safe to start him in all Fantasy formats once again.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco hit leadoff homers in the sixth and eighth innings Wednesday for his first blasts of the year as Detroit beat the Yankees 6-2. Polanco went 4-for-5 and scored two runs in Detroit's 6-4 win Tuesday night in the opener of the series.
Analysis: Polanco was only hitting .140 a week ago, but now has 10 hits in his last five games, including four multi-hit efforts, and his average is now up to .228. He might have trouble repeating his ridiculously high .341 batting average from a year ago, but his ability to hit for a high mark makes him worth starting in most Fantasy formats.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco, batting under .200 through his first 18 games of the season after batting .341 last year, went 4-for-5 with a double, an RBI and two runs scored Tuesday at the Yankees. He's now batting .471 (8-for-17) over his last four games.
Analysis: It's about time for Polanco, who is too talented and hits in too loaded of a lineup to struggle all season. He might have trouble repeating his ridiculously high .341 batting average from a year ago, but his ability to hit for a high mark makes him worth starting in most Fantasy formats.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco, still batting below .200 this season, had two hits for the second straight game Saturday against the Angels. He went 2-for-4 with two RBI and two runs scored, also stealing his first base of the season.
Analysis: Polanco is too talented and hits in too loaded of a lineup to struggle all season, but he might have trouble repeating his ridiculously high .341 batting average from a year ago. Keep him reserved until he gets hot, but he can be a No. 1 Fantasy 2B when healthy.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco returned to the starting lineup Thursday against the Rangers after missing five games with a back injury. Polanco was hitless in three at-bats while walking once and scoring a run. His average dropped to .140.
Analysis: It's just so frustrating to see Polanco struggle in the early season after a solid 2007 and great spring training. He is too talented and hits in too loaded of a lineup to struggle all season. Keep him reserved until he gets hot, but Polanco can be a No. 1 Fantasy 2B when healthy.
News: Detroit second baseman Placido Polanco, who had missed the last four games with a sore back, was expected to return Thursday.
Analysis: Track Polanco's progress through the weekend before making a roster decision for Fantasy Week 5 (April 28-May 4). When healthy and going well, Polanco is a viable starting 2B in any format, especially in that potentially potent Tigers lineup.
News: MLB.com reports that Tigers 2B Placido Polanco (back) is expected to return to the lineup as soon as Wednesday night against the Rangers. He hasn't played since Friday with numbness in his left leg. Doctors diagnosed Polanco with inflammation in a nerve in his back, and he has spent the last few days under rest and medication to calm it down. Once the inflammation is out, he shouldn't have to deal with it for the remainder of the season.
Analysis: Tigers manager Jim Leyland told MLB.com that he'll play Polanco when Polanco tells him he's ready. That means it will be up to Polanco how quick he returns. If Polanco's back is fine, he's expected to take on more of his old form after struggling for much of the season's first few weeks. He is a No. 1 Fantasy 2B, but remains an injury-risk problem at the moment.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco (back) did not return to the starting lineup Tuesday against the Rangers. He has missed five of the last six games and remains questionable for the remaining two games of the series. There is also a chance he lands on the DL.
Analysis: Polanco is batting .148 with no home runs and four RBI in 54 at-bats. Perhaps this injury has been bothering him longer than he has let on because Polanco is a pretty good hitter when healthy. Polanco is a No. 1 Fantasy 2B, but remains an injury-risk problem at the moment.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that 2B Placido Polanco was sent home to Detroit on Sunday to have his continuing back problem examined. Polanco had an excellent spring but is batting just .148 so far this season with stiffness in his back blamed as much of the reason. It's possible the Tigers will put Polanco on the disabled list. Manager Jim Leyland put UT Ryan Raburn at second to replace him in the lineup.
Analysis: Polanco is batting .148 with no home runs and four RBI in 54 at-bats. Perhaps this injury has been bothering him longer than he has let on because Polanco is a pretty good hitter when healthy. Polanco is a No. 1 Fantasy 2B, but remains an injury-risk problem at the moment.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco (stiff back) sat out Sunday against the Blue Jays for the third time in the past four games. He remains questionable for the series finale Monday.
Analysis: Polanco is batting .148 with no home runs and four RBI in 54 at-bats. Perhaps this injury has been bothering him longer than he has let on because Polanco is a pretty good hitter when healthy. Polanco is a No. 1 Fantasy 2B, but remains an injury-risk start heading into Fantasy Week 4 (April 21-27).
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco (stiff back) got the day off at Toronto Saturday and was replaced by Ryan Raburn.
Analysis: Polanco is expected to play the final two games of this series. Polanco has had some back problems, but he is still worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy 2B in all AL-only formats and some mixed formats, despite his slow start. Raburn should be considered a Fantasy reserve in AL-only leagues.
News: Tigers second baseman Placido Polanco returned to the lineup after skipping Thursday's game with a stiff back. Polanco, who went 0-for-2 with three walks, is expected to sit out again Saturday, giving him a break from Toronto's artificial turf.
Analysis: Polanco has had some back problems, but he is still worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy 2B in all AL-only formats and some mixed formats, despite his slow start.
News: In the third inning at Cleveland Wednesday, Placido Polanco, hitting .149, drove a leadoff double high off the wall in left.
Analysis: Polanco has had some back problems, but he is still worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy 2B in all AL-only formats and some mixed formats, despite his slow start.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Tigers 2B Placido Polanco continues to have lower back stiffness and was replaced in the lineup Sunday by Ramon Santiago. Polanco hasn't been hitting this season and the back may be a factor so he was given a rest. He might get a couple more days off, although the weather is supposed to turn warmer in Detroit on Tuesday. The Tigers have two home games against Minnesota before going to Cleveland.
Analysis: Fantasy owners are hoping that Polanco's back problems have everything to do with his .154, two-RBI performance so far this season. He is still worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy 2B in all AL-only formats and some mixed formats, despite his slow start.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco returned to the starting lineup Tuesday against the Red Sox after missing Sunday's game because of a sore back. Polanco hit second and had a single in three at-bats. He also walked once and struck out once. He has hit safely in three of the last four games and raised his average to .115.
Analysis: Polanco could have used the day off after having just two hits in his first 23 at-bats. Perhaps the back injury was more problematic than first thought. He looked more comfortable at the plate Tuesday and that's a good sign. He is still worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy 2B.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco didn't play Sunday night against the White Sox because of a sore back. The slap-hitting second baseman who batted .341 last year is off to a slow start, going 2-for-23 so far.
Analysis: This injury doesn't sound too serious, but Polanco is at risk of missing a game or two in Fantasy Week 2 (April 7-13). Consider starting other options if you have them, especially in light of Polanco's slow start.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco could not carry a hot spring at the plate into Monday's season opener against the Royals. Polanco, who hit .408 this spring, was hitless in six at-bats and left a team-high six men on base.
Analysis: The only good news out of Monday's game is that Polanco didn't strike out. He made contact at every plate appearance and should do that plenty in 2008. Polanco has some power, but don't expect monster numbers from him in that department. Still, he is worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy 2B.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco hit a home run for the second straight game Friday at the Astros, giving him four on the exhibition season. He hit only nine all of last year. He finished 2-for-3 and is hitting .426.
Analysis: You can expect Polanco to hit for a high average, but the power surge this spring is a little unexpected. He doesn't have a lot of power, but the career .305 hitter is still a solid option at second base in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco had only one hit in four at-bats Thursday against the Phillies, but is still hitting .415 this spring. His lone hit Thursday was a solo homer off Adam Eaton, his third dinger of the spring. Polanco also has 14 runs, six doubles, one triple and 10 RBI.
Analysis: Polanco has played with St. Louis, Philadelphia and Detroit in his career, making two stops at each destination in 12 seasons. He enters his 13th major league season with the Tigers, where he has been since 2006. He had a monster season with Detroit in 2007 as he hit .341. He doesn't have a lot of power, but the career .305 hitter is still a solid option at second base in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco doubled twice off Braves SP Tim Hudson and drove in one run during Thursday's spring game. He is hitting .449 with nine runs, five doubles, one triple, two homers and eight RBI in 17 spring games.
Analysis: Polanco has played with St. Louis, Philadelphia and Detroit in his career, making two stops at each destination in 12 seasons. He enters his 13th major league season with the Tigers, where he has been since 2006. He had a monster season with Detroit in 2007 as he hit .341. He doesn't have a lot of power, but the career .305 hitter is still a solid option at second base in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco recorded two hits, including a solo home run, in four at-bats during Wednesday's spring game against the Astros. He is hitting .483 with six runs, two doubles, one triple, two homers and four RBI in 11 spring games.
Analysis: Polanco has played with St. Louis, Philadelphia and Detroit in his career, making two stops at each destination in 12 seasons. He enters his 13th major league season with the Tigers, where he has been since 2006. He had a monster season with Detroit in 2007 as he hit .341. He doesn't have a lot of power, but the career .305 hitter is still a solid option at second base in most Fantasy leagues.
News:Miguel Cabrera, Placido Polanco and Brandon Inge each homered for Detroit, along with non-roster invitees Scott Sizemore and Michael Hollimon, in a 17-4 rout of Florida Southern.
Analysis: Cabrera is a early first-round pick in all leagues, while Polanco is an overlooked commodity at second base. Igne is nothing more than a reserve for the Tigers and deeper AL-only leagues, while Sizemore and Hollimon are prospects that don't figure to make a 2008 Fantasy impact.
News: 2B Placido Polanco led off the third inning at the White Sox Sunday with a single, giving him 200 hits on the season. As Polanco got to first base, his teammates all gathered at the top of the dugout and cheered, bringing tears to Polanco's eyes. "My teammates showed they really wanted me to get it so bad and they stood up," he said. "That makes me really happy."
Analysis: Polanco is a solid second baseman that can obviously help a team in batting average, and since he doesn't strike out much, he's a big help in Head-to-Head leagues as well. We rank him in the top 12 at his position entering the offseason.
News: 2B Placido Polanco has four hits to go to reach his first 200-hit season. Polanco had a ground single to left in the fourth against the Twins Wednesday.
Analysis: Polanco has three games left to get the four more hits. He is enjoying his finest offensive season and he has hit safely in 14 of 17 games in September and he'll be a nice middle infielder in mixed leagues in 2008.
News: 2B Placido Polanco is just nine games away from completing an entire season without an error. Polanco's last error was in July 2006, and this August, he established new bests for consecutive errorless chances as well as games without a misplay. He isn't considered to have great range, but it's much better than average and he positions himself well in the field.
Analysis: In addition, Polanco is enjoying his finest offensive season and he has hit safely in 14 of 17 games in September and remains a must-start in all leagues.
News: Tigers INF Placido Polanco went 3-for-5 with a solo homer in Detroit's 6-5 loss to the Indians on Monday night.
Analysis: Polanco is having a career year, with a .342 average, 65 RBI and 100 runs scored. He has hit safely in 12 of 15 games in September and remains a must-start in all leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco had three hits, including his 32rd double, and drove in four runs during Saturday's game against the Mariners. Polanco is 6-for-11 (.545) with six RBI in his last three games.
Analysis: Polanco continues to amaze us all with his .343 batting average. Polanco was hit hard by the flu in mid-August and stumbled a bit at the plate. He has since recovered. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Detroit had a season-high six stolen bases against the White Sox Wednesday. Curtis Granderson and Placido Polanco each had two.
Analysis: Granderson and Polanco are solid starters in all Fantasy formats down the stretch.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco had three singles, one run and one RBI during Saturday's game against the A's. He extended his hitting streak to seven games. He is 15-for-33 (.455) with five multi-hit games in that span.
Analysis: Polanco was hit hard by the flu in mid-August and stumbled a bit at the plate. He has since recovered to put together a solid hitting streak. He is back, folks. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: CF Curtis Granderson, 3B Brandon Inge and 2B Placido Polanco each had three hits in Monday's game against the Yankees. Granderson had a double (33) and his 17th stolen base of the season, while Polanco hit his eighth homer. All three of Inge's hits were of the two-base variety.
Analysis: Each player also scored two runs a piece, while Granderson and Polanco had a pair of RBI in the win. Inge managed to drive in four runs in the 16-0 pounding of the Yankees. The triumvirate will look to keep it going on Tuesday against probable starter Brian Bannister in Kansas City.
News: 2B Placido Polanco's errorless streak ended Friday night -- but continued Saturday morning. Polanco was given an error on a first-inning throw Friday night. But after consulting with first base umpire Hunter Wendelstedt, who said 1B Marcus Thames never had his foot on first base, the official scorer reassigned the error to the first baseman. "When I saw (Thames) was a couple of inches off the bag," Wendelstedt said, "that was the reason I called the runner safe."
Analysis: Polanco thus continues his major-league record errorless games streak, which entered Sunday at 149. He broke the chances accepted record back on Aug. 1. Polanco is batting .334 after his 1-for-4 afternoon -- and he remains a solid starter in all Fantasy formats.
News: Placido Polanco committed an error in the first inning against the Yankees Friday, ending his record errorless streak for a second baseman at 147 games, dating to July 1, 2006.
Analysis: Polanco is batting .337 after his 0-for-4 night -- and he remains a solid starter in all Fantasy formats.
News: Placido Polanco (illness) returned to the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Indians, going hitless in three at-bats.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Polanco back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues which allow daily transactions.
News:The Sports Xchange notes: 2B Placido Polanco figures to return to the lineup Tuesday night after missing a full week of action with the flu. Manager Jim Leyland held him out Sunday after he took two grounders during infield Saturday and said "it felt like I'd played both games of a doubleheader. I'm getting better now, but that's the sickest I've ever been in my life. You can't get much worse."
Analysis: Polanco was scooting around the Tigers' dugout Sunday and might have been able to pinch-hit if necessary, but the game was out of hand in the final two innings. He's a solid starter in all formats with a .344 batting average.
News: All-Star 2B Placido Polanco missed his fifth straight game Saturday because of the flu that hit several Tigers recently. He took batting practice, though, and was expected to play Sunday. He was not, however, in the lineup.
Analysis: The Tigers decided to give Polanco an extra day off to get back to full strength. We fully expect him to be in the lineup Tuesday vs. Cleveland in a pivotal series for the Tigers. He's a safe start for Fantasy Week 21 (Aug. 20-26).
News: According to manager Jim Leyland, Placido Polanco (flu), who missed his fifth straight game Saturday at New York, could return to the lineup as early as Sunday afternoon.
Analysis: That's a good sign. Clearly, if he starts Sunday, he'll be a safe start for Fantasy Week 21 (Aug. 20-26). But even if he doesn't it appears he'll be ready to go by Tuesday's series opener vs. Cleveland.
News: All-Star 2B Placido Polanco missed his fourth consecutive game Friday against the Yankees because of the flu that has hit several Tigers.
Analysis: Polanco's absence really hurts the Tigers' lineup. He has batted an AL-high .385 since June 28 and scored 29 runs in 34 games. Polanco has developed into a solid Fantasy option in all formats. He remains day to day.
News: LF Craig Monroe and 2B Placido Polanco were unable to play in Thursday's game at N.Y. Yankees due to the flu bug that has been circulating through the Tigers clubhouse. Marcus Thames got another start in left and was 1-for-5 with a run scored, while youngster Ryan Raburn replaced Polanco and was 1-for-4 with a double (7), run scored and two strikeouts.
Analysis: Monroe and Polanco remain day to day and should be reserved in all daily Fantasy leagues until they can officially return and prove they are well. Thames and Raburn are only woth a look in AL-only leagues.
News: The cold and flu season has caught up to the Detroit Tigers at the worst time possible. All-Stars Ivan Rodriguez and Placido Polanco and outfielder Craig Monroe are all sick and were not in the lineup for Wednesday's second AL Central showdown game with the Cleveland Indians. Closer Todd Jones was not feeling well and neither was Justin Verlander, who is scheduled to start Thursday in New York against the Yankees. "How's everybody feeling today?" manager Jim Leyland said as he walked into the Tigers' clubhouse about three hours before the scheduled first pitch. "Anybody else sick?"
Analysis: Polanco and Monroe also sat out Tuesday's 6-2 win in 10 innings that gave the Tigers a one-game lead over the Indians in the AL Central. "They're sick and there's nothing you can do about that," Leyland said. "I can't do anything about it except play some other guys and hope they give us a chance to win." Polanco's absence really hurts the Tigers' lineup. He has batted an AL-high .385 since June 28 and scored 29 runs in 34 games. Polanco has developed into a solid Fantasy option in all formats. He remains day to day.
News: Second baseman Placido Polanco and outfielder Craig Monroe were sick with the flu and scratched from the Detroit Tigers' series-opener against the Cleveland Indians on Tuesday night. Ryan Raburn started at second while Marcus Thames took Monroe's spot in the left field. Curtis Granderson, who wasn't in manager Jim Leyland's original lineup, played center field and batted leadoff. Carlos Guillen, originally in the lineup at shortstop, was moved to first base. Both Polanco and Monroe came to the Jacobs Field, but were not feeling well and told Leyland. "They're sick," Leyland said. "When they'll be ready to play, I don't know. We make to make some adjustments. It's part of the game. That's the way it goes. Polanco's all wrapped up in jackets. He's trying to sweat it out. He's sick as a dog."
Analysis: The flu bug is going around Detroit's clubhouse. Right-hander Justin Verlander was sick Monday night, but felt better on Tuesday. The illnesses left Leyland with two players on the bench, first baseman Sean Casey and backup catcher Michael Rabelo. Polanco has been one of the AL's top hitters since June 28, batting .385 with six homers and 16 RBIs in 34 games. On Monday, he set a major league record by playing in his 144th consecutive game without an error. The previous mark was held by Luis Castillo, who played 143 straight without an error from May 30, 2006, to June 5 for Minnesota. Consider him day to day.
News: Detroit's Placido Polanco set a major league record on Monday against the Athletics for second basemen by playing his 144th straight game without an error, breaking the mark set by Luis Castillo earlier this year while playing for Minnesota. "Of course it means a lot," Polanco said. "This game has been around for a long time and nobody ever did it before."
Analysis: Polanco was hitless in three at-bats with a run scored and a strikeout, but he is still batting .344 on the season. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Placido Polanco led off for the first time this season Sunday afternoon vs. Oakland, a day after he was a late scratch because of a sore thumb. "It's still hurting, but it's playable," Polanco said. "I hurt it sliding into third."
Analysis: Polanco and the Tigers have one more game remaining in their current series vs. Oakland, to be played Monday night. We expect him to be in the lineup for the better part of his games this week and still recommend him in all leagues despite the sore thumb.
News: All-Star Placido Polanco was a last-minute scratch from the Detroit Tigers' lineup Saturday night against the Oakland Athletics. Polanco, who is one game short of Luis Castillo's major-league record of 143 straight errorless games at second base, is day-to-day with a sore thumb. Ryan Raburn replaced him in his second career start at second base.
Analysis: Polanco entered Saturday's game with a .347 average and multi-hit games in four of his last six games. Polanco won't provide much in the way of home runs, but he remains a useful Fantasy option because he puts the ball in play and produces a decent amount of RBI (51). He is day to day.
News: RF Magglio Ordonez and 2B Placido Polanco each had three hits in Tuesday's game against the Devil Rays. Polanco posted his 27th double and had an RBI (49), while Ordonez belted his 18th home run and had two RBI (94).
Analysis: Both Polanco (.348) and Ordonez (.354) are in the hunt for the American League batting title and remain must-starts in all Fantasy leagues. They'll look to keep up their hot hitting in Wednesday's game against probable starter James Shields.
News: Detroit's Placido Polanco hit is sixth homer of the year down the left-field line off Javier Vazquez in the third Saturday.
Analysis: Lack of homer power is all that keeps Polanco from being a big-time Fantasy star. As it is, his consistent batting average makes him a solid option in any Fantasy league when he's going well. This is one of those times.
News: Placido Polanco handled all five chances at second base in Tuesday's game at Oakland, extending his errorless streak to a major league record 651 chances. Luis Castillo had held the previous record of 647.
Analysis: Polanco, who entered the game 36-for-72 (.500) against the A's, finished 1-for-5 with an RBI. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Curtis Granderson and Placido Polanco have eye-popping career numbers against Oakland. Granderson's .353 average (18-for-51) is his best against any team except St. Louis, while Polanco's .500 mark (36-for-72) is his best against any team. "(Polanco) is a good hitter," pitcher Joe Blanton said. "He just kind of stands up there and plays pepper. He's a guy you really can't strike out. He's going to put the ball in play. He's the kind of guy who seems to place it out there."
Analysis: Polanco picked up three hits, including his 25th double, in five at-bats in Monday's game in Oakland. He also delivered his 46th RBI of the season. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: 2B Placido Polanco enters Monday's game at Oakland with a 132-game errorless streak after finishing Sunday's game at L.A. Angels without a defensive gaffe. The major league record for that position is 143 games by Minnesota's Luis Castillo, whose streak ended against the Angels in Anaheim on June 6.
Analysis: Not only has Polanco's defense been sterling, but his offense isn't too shabby either. He is batting .339 on the season despite an 0-for-2 night on Sunday. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Placido Polanco's first-inning single Saturday gave him a hit in six consecutive plate appearances, after his 5-for-5 effort in the Tigers' 11-6 loss Friday night.
Analysis: Polanco continues to hit for a solid average and is a viable Fantasy option in most formats. It appears safe to keep him in active Fantasy lineups.
News: Placido Polanco was 5-for-5 with a solo homer at the Angels Friday, bumping his average to .340 and tying a career high for hits. "He just hits everything and never strikes out, so you have to locate all your pitches to that guy," starter Jered Weaver said. "He's a little guy, but he toes up there and battles. He's a great hitter and has a great approach."
Analysis: The first-time All-Star entered the game as the hardest player in the majors to strike out -- fanning once every 22.4 at-bats. He continues to hit for a solid average and is a viable Fantasy option in most formats. It appears safe to keep him in active Fantasy lineups.
News:The Sports Xchange notes: 2B Placido Polanco got the day off against Kansas City Sunday in an effort to prevent any more back soreness. Polanco was bothered by a back muscle just before the All-Star game and missed the first two games after the break, but had played five in a row until manager Jim Leyland gave him Sunday off because Detroit has five games in four days in Chicago coming up.
Analysis: It is likely Polanco will only play one of Tuesday's two games. Polanco has missed a few games with some minor injuries, but nothing too devastating. He continues to hit for a solid average and is a viable Fantasy option in most formats. It appears safe to keep him in active Fantasy lineups.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 2-for-5 with two runss and a solo home run during Saturday's game against the Royals. Polanco, who returned to the lineup Friday from a knee injury, is 7-for-26 (.269) with one homer and three RBI in his last six games.
Analysis: Polanco has missed a few games with some minor injuries, but nothing too devastating. He continues to hit for a solid average and is a viable Fantasy option in most formats. It appears safe to keep him in active Fantasy lineups.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco (knee) did return to the team's starting lineup Friday against the Royals. He was hitless in four at-bats.
Analysis: Polanco has missed a few games with some minor injuries, but nothing too devastating. He continues to hit for a solid average and is a viable Fantasy option in most formats. It appears safe to keep him in active Fantasy lineups.
News: On Thursday against Minnesota, Justin Morneau tried to break up a double-play ball hit by Mike Redmond in the sixth, and his helmet hit Placido Polanco near the knee as the second baseman fired his relay throw and tried to get out of the way. Polanco left the field gingerly, but he stayed in the game.
Analysis: Polanco is the leading active hitter in the majors against Minnesota, .359 in 39 games. Once again, he's one of the hardest players in the league to strike out when he's healthy. Watch his status over the weekend for mixed leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange notes: 2B Placido Polanco (back) was sore Sunday after seeing his first post-All-Star game action the night before and did not play. Polanco, available to pinch-hit, was expected to play Tuesday when Detroit resumed play after a day off. UT Omar Infante took his place at second base.
Analysis: Polanco needs 23 more errorless games to match Luis Castillo's big-league record of 143. He is among the AL leaders with a .335 batting average and 62 runs and is the hardest player in the league to strike out, whiffing every 22.4 plate appearances.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco was back in the lineup Saturday against the Mariners for the first time since getting one at-bat as the starter in Tuesday's All-Star game. Polanco has had a sore back for more than a week. Manager Jim Leyland said he will rest Polanco again on Sunday so he can have consecutive off days. The Tigers don't play Monday.
Analysis: Polanco is among AL leaders with a .335 batting average and 62 runs and is the hardest player in the league to strike out, wihiffing every 22.4 plate appearances. When healthy, he is a viable mixed league Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange notes: 2B Placido Polanco sat out his second game in a row Friday night as manager Jim Leyland waits until he's complete recovered from his sore back to put him back in the lineup. "He told me, 'It feels better.' That's a telltale sign that he's not right," Leyland said. "When he's ready, he'll say, 'I feel good, Skip.' I assume he'll be ready (Saturday)."
Analysis: Polanco is among AL leaders with a .335 batting average and 62 runs and is the hardest player in the league to strike out, wihiffing every 22.4 plate appearances. When healthy, he is a viable mixed league Fantasy option.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco (back) did not return to the team's starting lineup Friday against the Mariners.
Analysis: Polanco is among AL leaders with a .335 batting average and 62 runs and is the hardest player in the league to strike out, wihiffing every 22.4 plate appearances. He remains day to day. When healthy, he is a viable mixed league Fantasy option.
News: Tigers INF Placido Polanco did not start Thursday, two days after starting and getting one at-bat in the All-Star game. His back is still sore after almost a week, but he thinks he may be able to start Friday. Manager Jim Leyland said if he absolutely had to start Polanco Thursday he could have, but another day of rest was more prudent. "He's obviously much better than he was," Leyland said.
Analysis: Polanco is among AL leaders with a .335 batting average and 62 runs and is the hardest player in the league to strike out, wihiffing every 22.4 plate appearances. Polanco left during the eighth inning of Saturday's 3-2 win over the Red Sox. He said he hurt himself swinging in his second at-bat, but tried to play through the pain. He remains day to day. When healthy, he is a viable mixed league Fantasy option.
News: Tigers All-Star second baseman Placido Polanco was out of the lineup Sunday against Boston, a day after leaving a game because of a back injury. Polanco said he was encouraged by his health when he woke up. "It feels a lot better," he said. "Without a doubt, I thought I was going to be worse." The first-time All-Star said he hoped to be healthy enough to play Tuesday night in San Francisco.
Analysis: Polanco is among AL leaders with a .335 batting average and 62 runs and is the hardest player in the league to strike out, wihiffing every 22.4 plate appearances. Polanco left during the eighth inning of Saturday's 3-2 win over the Red Sox. He said he hurt himself swinging in his second at-bat, but tried to play through the pain. If he plays during the All-Star game, consider Polanco good to go for Fantasy Week 15 (July 9-15). Unless you hear of another setback.
News: Placido Polanco's third homer of the season, off Indians starter C.C. Sabathia, afternoon vs. Cleveland gave him 38 RBI on the season.
Analysis: Polanco isn't a heavy hitter, but he can be useful in most Fantasy formats because he hits for high average and is on base to score a good amount of runs.
News: 2B Placido Polanco had a good day Sunday. He was voted as the starting second baseman in the All-Star game for the first time in his career and Sunday also marked the one-year anniversary of his last error.
Analysis: Polanco, who missed most of August with a separated shoulder, has played 114 consecutive errorless games and is 29 away from the league record set by Minnesota's Luis Castillo. He went 0-for-3 at the plate, however. He is still a useful Fantasy option in all formats because of his .330 batting average.
News: 2B Placido Polanco benefited from his day off, ending his season-long four-game hitless streak against Texas Thursday. Polanco popped a single into right field in the first inning and added a second base hit later in the game to show he's getting back on track again.
Analysis: Polanco won't win any awards for power, but he puts the bat on the ball and does a nice job getting on base. He is still a useful Fantasy option in all formats although his average has dipped down to .327.
News: 2B Placido Polanco has gone hitless in two straight games (Saturday and Sunday), something that rarely happens to him.
Analysis: Polanco will get a game off either Monday or Tuesday when Detroit returns home to host Texas. Manager Jim Leyland was not sure which day it would be. He won't win any awards for power, but he puts the bat on the ball and does a nice job getting on base. He is still a useful Fantasy option in all formats although his average has dipped down to .333.
News: 2B Placido Polanco came back strong after a day of rest. Polanco had two hits at Atlanta Friday and this year seems to be repeating his pattern of last season, when he would get a game off and then come back hitting the ball solidly.
Analysis: Of course, with a .342 average Polanco is hitting well nearly all the time. He's still doing well pulling the inside pitches he had trouble with during the World Series last year. He won't win any awards for power, but he puts the bat on the ball and does a nice job getting on base. He is still a useful Fantasy option in all formats. He's hitting .342 which makes him a nice Rotisserie player.
News: 2B Placido Polanco didn't get all of Wednesday night's game off, but, combined with Thursday's off day, it should be enough rest to refresh him when he returns to the lineup this weekend at Atlanta.
Analysis: Polanco has been given periodic rest this season by manager Jim Leyland. He won't win any awards for power, but he puts the bat on the ball and does a nice job getting on base. He is still a useful Fantasy option in all formats. He's hitting .339 which makes him a nice Rotisserie player.
News:The Sports Xchange reports 2B Placido Polanco has adjusted to what pitchers are giving him. Word got around that St. Louis had success throwing Polanco inside during the World Series (after he destroyed Oakland and New York pitching, taking outside pitches and lining them into right). Of his hits to right and left fields, 60 percent are pulled to left.
Analysis: Polanco won't win any awards for power, but he puts the bat on the ball and does a nice job getting on base. He is still a useful Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 3-for-6 with three runs and two doubles during Sunday's game against the Mets. He is 15-for-33 (.455) with two RBI in his last seven games. He also has five mulit-hit games during that stretch.
Analysis: Polanco won't win any awards for power, but he puts the bat on the ball and does a nice job getting on base. He is a useful Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 4-for-5 with two runs and four singles during Saturday's game against the Mets. He is 12-for-27 (.444) with two RBI in his last six games.
Analysis: Polanco won't win any awards for power, but he puts the bat on the ball and does a nice job getting on base. He is a useful Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Placido Polanco was 3-for-4 with a double, three run scored and an RBI (31) in Wednesday's 10-0 offensive assault at Texas.
Analysis: Polanco remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. He'll look to continue his hot hitting on Thursday in the series finale against probable starter Kameron Loe and the Rangers.
News: Tigers manager Jim Leyland would like to give 2B Placido Polanco a day off, but can't because injuries have devastated the infield. "When you have injuries, it not only affects the people who aren't playing, but the people who are playing because you can't give them a day off," Leyland said.
Analysis: At least Fantasy owners know that Polanco will remain in the lineup as long as he is healthy. He lacks pop, but is capable of hitting for a solid average -- making him a candidate worth using in all Fantasy formats.
News: Placido Polanco just keeps banging out hits for Detroit. Polanco had four hits Friday night at Cleveland and was spraying the ball all over in his bid to remain a factor in the AL batting race.
Analysis: Polanco doesn't have the power swing, but is capable of hitting for a solid average and knock in some runs. He remains a solid option in AL-only and mixed leagues.
News: LF Craig Monroe, 2B Placido Polanco and C Ivan Rodriguez each had three-hit nights in Tuesday's 14-2 offensive explosion at Tampa Bay. Monroe and Rodriguez also had a double each, while Polanco drove in three runs. Polanco appeared fully recovered from an oblique injury which kept him out of the lineup on Sunday and Monday.
Analysis: Monroe remains a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues, while Polanco and Pudge are must-starts in all formats. They'll look to continue to hit-hitting in Wednesday's series finale in St. Petersburg against James Shields.
News: Placido Polanco (oblique) is back in the starting lineup for manager Jim Leyland on Tuesday night at Tampa Bay. He is batting second and starting at second base.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Polanco back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: 2B Placido Polanco was held out of the lineup again Monday night, his side still too sore to let him properly swing a bat. Polanco took batting practice and struggled, so manager Jim Leyland replaced him with UTIL Omar Infante for the second straight game. "(The muscle strain) is more in front, which is good, according to the trainer," Polanco said. "I feel really good about (Tuesday)."
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: Placido Polanco (oblique) is out of the starting lineup for Monday's game at Tampa Bay. Omar Infante is getting a start at second base in his absence.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco (strained oblique) was out of the lineup on Sunday against the Tigers, but is expected to play Monday night at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Polanco is hitting .326 with a homer and 26 RBI and is among league leaders with a .447 batting average with runners in scoring position. It appears as though Polanco might not miss any time during Fantasy Week 9 (May 28-June 3), but he still has to be considered a minor injury-risk start. When healthy, he is a solid Fantasy option in most formats.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco was out of the starting lineup for Sunday night's game against the Cleveland Indians because of a strained oblique. Tigers manager Jim Leyland said Polanco, who left Saturday's loss to the Indians with the injury, could have started if the game had been later in the season. "I'm just not going to take a chance with him right now," Leyland said Sunday. "We've had guys dropping like flies recently, so there's no sense risking another one."
Analysis: Polanco is hitting .326 with a homer and 26 RBI and is among league leaders with a .447 batting average with runners in scoring position. It appears as though Polanco will return at some point during Fantasy Week 9 (May 28-June 3), but has to be considered an injury-risk start. When healthy, he is a solid Fantasy option in most formats.
News: Tigers second baseman Placido Polanco left Saturday's game against Cleveland after the sixth inning because of a muscle spasm in his oblique and is day-to-day. Polanco went from sprinting to stopping awkwardly when third base coach Gene Lamont signaled for him to stop after Gary Sheffield's single. Polanco then scored on Magglio Ordonez's sacrifice fly. "When they held me at third base, I felt something in my ribs, but it wasn't a big deal," Polanco said after the Indians beat Detroit 6-3. "But when I slid at home plate, I was out of breath for a while and I couldn't talk or breathe. But it's nothing major or nothing bad."
Analysis: Polanco is hitting .326 with a homer and 26 RBI. He's also second in the American League with a .447 average with runners in scoring percentage. Polanco, who said the ribs on his left side were sore, hoped to play Sunday night in the series finale. Tigers manager Jim Leyland doubted he would have the second baseman in the lineup. If the Tigers don't update his status before the start of Fantasy Week 9 (May 28-June 3), consider him an injury-risk option. When healthy, he is a solid Fantasy option in most formats.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco tripled Thursday against the Angels and has hit safely in 18 of his 22 games at home in 2007. He's hitting .349 at Comerica Park since being traded to Detroit on June 8, 2005.
Analysis: Polanco is not only doing well at home, he is hitting in all parks to a tune of a .333 average this season. He doesn't have the power swing, but is capable of hitting for a solid average and knock in some runs. He remains a solid option in AL-only and mixed leagues.
News: 2B Placido Polanco might have a tired bat, so manager Jim Leyland gave it a rest Sunday.
Analysis: Polanco will now have two days of no baseball (Detroit is off Monday) before getting back into it Tuesday night against the Los Angeles Angels. Polanco is hitting .331 -- but over a week he was at .238 with five hits in 21 at-bats. He remains a useful Fantasy option in all AL-only leagues and larger mixed league formats.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco (back) returned to the team's starting lineup Tuesday against the Red Sox. He went 0-for-4 with a walk.
Analysis: Polanco missed just one start while nursing a sore back. He is 0-for-8 in his last two games, but is still hitting .327. He remains a useful Fantasy option in all AL-only leagues and larger mixed league formats.
News: 2B Placido Polanco was not in the starting lineup on Monday at Boston because of a stiff back. Neifi Perez got the start at second base in his absence.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues which allow daily transactions until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 0-for-4 Wednesday vs. Baltimore, going hitless for the first time in 14 home games this season.
Analysis: Polanco 2B Placido Polanco went 0-for-4, going hitless for the first time in 14 home games this season. Use him in all AL-only leagues while healthy and in larger mixed leagues as a middle infield option.
News: Placido Polanco went 4-for-5 with two RBIs (14) to help lift the Detroit Tigers to a 5-4 win over the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Polanco 12-for-28 (.429) with six RBI during his current six-game hitting streak. He has been a tremendous hitting option for all AL-only Fantasy owners and most mixed users as well.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco was 1-for-4 Saturday, breaking a streak of six multi-hit games at the Tigers home park this season.
Analysis: Polano has brought the wood with him to the ballpark this year with a .375 average, one homers and five RBI. He remains a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and most mixed formats as well.
News: Detroit 2B Placido Polanco went 1-for-4 against the White Sox Saturday to end a streak of six multi-hit games at Comerica Park.
Analysis: Polanco is hitting .382 this season and the second baseman's been among the best in the majors with runners in scoring position for the last three seasons. He remains a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and most mixed formats as well.
News: Polanco's tiebreaking single with two outs in the eighth inning gave the Detroit Tigers a 7-6 win over Kansas City on Tuesday night and extended the Royals' losing streak to six. Polanco also hit a solo home run and tripled. "He's the kind of guy you like working for you every day no matter what field you're in," manager Jim Leyland said. "He comes to work prepared every day."
Analysis: Polanco is hitting .379 this season and the second baseman's been among the best in the majors with runners in scoring position for the last three seasons. He remains a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and most mixed deeper formats as well.
News: Detroit's Placido Polanco went 0-for-6 Wednesday, the first time in eight games this year he was held hitless.
Analysis: Polanco still remains a solid starter in most Fantasy formats.
News: 2B Placido Polanco is one of the few players in the Detroit starting lineup doing anything at all and he's looking like the player many on the team are touting as a prospective batting champion.
Analysis: Polanco keeps spraying the ball around, keeping it in play, and getting hits. He had two more Monday at Baltimore to raise his batting average to .423. He remains a solid starter in most Fantasy formats at this time.
News: 2B Placido Polanco had a pair of singles in Monday's game at Baltimore and has hit safely in all six of the Tigers' games this season.
Analysis: Polanco might challenge for 200 hits this season. That would mean him hitting over .300 and making it through the entire season healthy. He remains a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy formats and some mixed leagues at this time.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco (.600) had another three-hit day and chipped in a stolen base Wednesday.
Analysis: Don't expect the steals, but if Polanco stays healthy, he could challenge for 200 hits this season. That would mean him hitting over .300 and making it through the entire season healthy. Cross your fingers on that.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco was 3-for-5 with an RBI in Monday's opening-day loss to Toronto.
Analysis: Polanco has never been a big power guy or run producer in Detroit, despite back-to-back seasons with the Phillies where he hit 14 and 17 homers. He has always been a guy counted on for average and OBP.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco went 2-for-2 with a run during Wednesday's spring game against the Dodgers. He is now hitting .520 with nine runs, four doubles, one homer and 10 RBI in 18 spring games.
Analysis: Polanco has never been a big power guy or run producer in Detroit, despite back-to-back seasons with the Phillies where he hit 14 and 17 homers. He has always been a guy counted on for average and OBP. Look to draft him as a starter in AL-only leagues, but as a possible backup in deep mixed leagues.
News: Tigers INF Placido Polanco ranks among the Grapefruit League leaders with 17 hits after going 2-for-3 with one run and one RBI Sunday against the Devil Rays. With two singles, he was the only Tiger with more than one hit on Sunday. Polanco is now hitting .567 with six runs, three doubles, one homer and nine RBI in 11 spring games.
Analysis: Polanco has never been a big power guy or run producer in Detroit, despite back-to-back seasons with the Phillies where he hit 14 and 17 homers. He has always been a guy counted on for average and OBP. Look to draft him as a starter in AL-only leagues, but as a possible backup in deep mixed leagues.
News: Placido Polanco hit a solo homer, extending his streak of reaching base to nine straight plate appearances, against the Reds in a spring training game Thursday.
Analysis: Polanco has never been a big power guy or run producer in Detroit, despite back-to-back seasons with the Phillies where he hit 14 and 17 homers. He has always been a guy counted on for average and OBP. Look to draft him as a starter in AL-only leagues, but as a possible backup in deep mixed leagues.
News: Polanco had a pair of singles before a double in the fifth inning in Tuesday's spring game against the Blue Jays. He has reached base in seven straight plate appearances.
Analysis: Polanco made just 461 plate appearances in 2006 after missing some time with a shoulder injury. He finished the season with four homers, 52 RBI and a .295 average. He has never been a big power guy or run producer in Detroit, despite back-to-back seasons with the Phillies where he hit 14 and 17 homers. He has always been a guy counted on for average and OBP. Look to draft him as a starter in AL-only leagues, but as a possible backup in deep mixed leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco hit .500 in his first spring game Thursday against the Phillies. He went 2-for-4 at the plate with a double and two RBI.
Analysis: Polanco made just 461 plate appearances in 2006 after missing some time with a shoulder injury. He finished the season with four homers, 52 RBI and a .295 average. He has never been a big power guy or run producer in Detroit, despite back-to-back seasons with the Phillies where he hit 14 and 17 homers. He has always been a guy counted on for average and OBP. Look to draft him as a starter in AL-only leagues, but as a possible backup in deep mixed leagues.
News: MLB's annual player rankings, used to determine draft pick compensation for losing free agents, were released Tuesday by the Elias Sports Bureau. Among the highlights in the AL: SP Johan Santana, reliever Mariano Rivera, catcher Victor Martinez and DH Travis Hafner repeated at their positions. Alex Rodriguez was the top third baseman for the second consecutive year after leading shortstops for six consecutive seasons. Paul Konerko replaced Mark Teixeira at first base, Brian Roberts took over from Placido Polanco at second and Michael Young followed Derek Jeter at shortstop. Mann Ramirez was among the top three outfielders for the 10th time in 11 years, and Vladimir Guerrero repeated. Bobby Abreu, acquired by the Yankees in July, replaced teammate Hideki Matsui.
Analysis: All of these guys are Fantasy studs worth building your team around. Check back in February for CBS SportsLine's complete player rankings, projections and mock drafts.
News: Placido Polanco hit a two-run, two-out single in the second inning Tuesday and his squeeze bunt in the sixth gave the Tigers a 4-1 lead. He is hitting .394 with runners in scoring position. "He's a versatile player," Detroit manager Jim Leyland said. "He got a big hit and got the squeeze down." Leyland acknowledged he does not like squeeze bunts, but the savvy manager wanted to give scouts something unexpected to jot down in their notebooks. "This time of year, we're being watched by Oakland, the Yankees, Minnesota and the National League," he said. "So anything you can throw out there that they have to put down to be aware of is to your advantage."
Analysis: Polanco is more of a steady option, than a Fantasy star. Consider him a top-15 mixed-league 2B for 2007 at this point.
News: Tigers INF Placido Polanco (shoulder) returned to the starting lineup Saturday at Kansas City. Polanco got a two-run double in the first inning as the Tigers scored 10 times in the top of the first. He finised the game 3-for-4 with two RBI.
Analysis: Polanco is an intriguing option for AL-only managers for final days of Fantasy baseball. He doesn't have the power numbers, but he gets on-base and scores runs. Consider playing Polanco in scoring period 26 (Sept. 25-Oct.1). Deeper mixed-leagues might also want to give Polanco a look see.
News: 2B Placido Polanco will be activated from the disabled list and play on Saturday. Manager Jim Leyland said Polanco would play Saturday but not Sunday and will be available for the stretch run. Polanco has been on the DL since mid-August with a separated left shoulder.
Analysis: Polanco, who had recently declared himself out for the season, will indeed be available for the upcoming scoring period. If he's lingering on your waiver wire and you need an extra bat for the final week, you could do much worse.
News: DET 2B Placido Polanco is coming off the disabled list Saturday, in time for Detroit's stretch run in the tight AL Central race. Polanco, hitting .294 with three home runs, 44 RBIs and 54 runs scored, went on the DL on Aug. 16 after separating his shoulder the day before while diving for a ball in shallow center in Boston. Manager Jim Leyland said Polanco would play Saturday in the second game of a three-game series with Kansas City. He said Polanco probably would not play Sunday. The Tigers are off Monday and conclude the regular season at home with three games against Toronto and three against the Royals.
Analysis: Polanco is an intriguing option for AL-only managers for final days of Fantasy baseball. He doesn't have the power numbers, but he gets on-base and scores runs. Consider playing Polanco in scoring period 26 (Sept. 25-Oct.1). Deeper mixed-leagues might also want to give Polanco a look see.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco said Monday he hopes to play this weekend at Kansas City, contradicting his assessment a day earlier when he stated he was finished for the season because of a separated left shoulder. "I was very confused yesterday," Polanco said. "I said it because I was really frustrated about a lot of things. We had just lost the game that we should have won, I'm not able to do anything and my arm is extremely hurting." Neifi Perez started at second base Monday night.
Analysis: Polanco said his shoulder felt much better Monday and he was able to take BP. "I do apologize about (Sunday)," Polanco said. "It was frustration. I was in a lot of pain. I regret it. I should have never said it." Polanco is batting .294 with three homers and 44 RBI. Consider him an option for the final week of the season, but track his progress through next weekend in Kansas City.
News: Just when the Tigers were hoping to have Placido Polanco back in the lineup, the second baseman said his season is over. "I'm out for the year," Polanco said after the Tigers lost to Baltimore 12-8 Sunday. Polanco was put on the disabled list on Aug. 16 with a separated left shoulder after making a tumbling catch at Boston. He was expected to be out four to six weeks and was hurt five weeks ago Tuesday. Polanco recently started to hit and was sore after batting practice Saturday, Leyland said, and did not hit before Sunday's game. "If (Polanco) can't play, he's hurt," Tigers closer Todd Jones said. "He must be worse off than we all thought. We thought he would be ready for Chicago."
Analysis: If Polanco is out for the season -- and not just reacting emotionally to a possible setback -- it would be a blow to the slumping Tigers and his Fantasy owners. Tigers trainer Kevin Rand said Polanco still has day-to-day status, according to team spokesman Rick Thompson, so don't cut him just yet. He is one of Detroit's best players in the field and at the plate, where he ranks among AL leaders with a .374 batting average with runners in scoring position. Polanco, a contact hitter on a free-swinging team, is hitting .294 with 44 RBI and 17 doubles in 103 games. He cannot be used for Fantasy Week 25 (Sept. 18-24) at this point.
News: 2B Placido Polanco took some swings off a tee Tuesday, manager Jim Leyland said. Polanco, who was hitting .294, has been on the DL for nearly a month with a separated shoulder. The Tigers hope he can return next week on the road against the Chicago White Sox.
Analysis: Polanco could be an option for deeper AL-only leagues in Fantasy Week 25 (Sept. 18-24). Track his news through the weekend.
News: 2B Placido Polanco, recovering from a separated left shoulder, took some swings with a light stick. "It's still sore, tired and weak, but it's getting better," Polanco said.
Analysis: It will be very late in the Fantasy season if Polanco does return, so don’t' feel bad if you have to drop him for roster space.
News: The middle of Detroit's infield was still missing at the start of the four-game series against the Twins on Thursday. SS Carlos Guillen's strained right hamstring is about 80 percent, manager Jim Leyland said. He's able to hit, but not play the field yet. Leyland said he doubted Guillen would be ready to play Friday. And 2B Placido Polanco, recovering from a separated left shoulder, is still about two to three weeks away from returning, Leyland said.
Analysis: It will be very late in the Fantasy season if he does return and you should go ahead and drop him if you need the roster space.
News: Placido Polanco, out with a left shoulder injury, is expected to be out of the lineup for at least a couple more weeks.
Analysis: It will be very late in the Fantasy season if he does return and you should go ahead and drop him if you need the roster space.
News: Placido Polanco can only hope his stay on the disabled list doesn't last long. The Detroit Tigers second baseman went for X-rays on his separated left shoulder Wednesday and was waiting for the results before his team played the Boston Red Sox. Polanco was injured while making a tumbling catch Tuesday night at Fenway Park - a costly blow to the surprising Tigers, who have the best record in the major leagues. Detroit put him on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday and recalled infielder Ramon Santiago from Triple-A Toledo. "It's 15 days at the least. Maybe on the 16th I'll be ready to go," Polanco said.
Analysis: Polanco landed on his shoulder after making a lunging catch of Doug Mirabelli's popup in shallow center field during Detroit's 3-2 win over the Red Sox. He said his shoulder hurt less on Wednesday than the night before. Now, Polanco just wants to return in time to help the Tigers down the stretch and perhaps in the playoffs. Detroit has been mostly injury-free all season. "I'll do anything I can," Polanco said. "Whatever it takes. We're having fun this year. But I've never had anything with my shoulder, so I don't know." It will be very late in the Fantasy season if he does return.
News: The Detroit Tigers placed Placido Polanco on the 15-day disabled list with a separated left shoulder early on Wednesday morning.
Analysis: Polanco might miss the rest of the season after getting hurt in Tuesday's game. Omar Infante will start at second base in his absence and Ramon Santiago was summoned from Triple-A Toledo to serve as backup.
News: The team's official website reports Placido Polanco has been diagnosed with a separated left shoulder. He suffered the injury in the eighth inning of Tuesday's game at Boston.
Analysis: Polanco will be further evaluated on Wednesday, but this sounds like a pretty serious injury. Omar Infante will serve as the team's starting second baseman as long as Polanco is sidelined.
News: Placido Polanco chased down Doug Mirabelli's popup to short center field and made a fabulous acrobatic catch to end the inning. But he landed funny on his right shoulder and writhed around in pain. Manager Jim Leyland and the Tigers' trainers ran out to check on him.
Analysis: Trainers helped Polanco off the field and this looks like it could be an injury that costs him a few games at least. They actually held his arm for him as they walked him off. Ivan Rodriguez replaced Polanco at second base, with Vance Wilson coming in to catch.
News: 2B Placido Polanco's back must be in pretty good shape. Polanco had a pair of RBI singles Sunday and has his average up to .299 as he keeps giving the Tigers good at-bats.
Analysis: Polanco hit to center and right, one of his strengths, as he was the leadoff hitter with CF Curtis Granderson not starting. He’s a nice option in all AL-only and deeper mixed leagues.
News: Placido Polanco went 3-for-5 with two doubles and two RBI on Sunday at Minnesota.
Analysis: He’s a nice option in all AL-only and deeper mixed leagues.
News: Placido Polanco (head) was back in the starting lineup for Tuesday's game at Cleveland. He is batting second and starting at second base for manager Jim Leyland.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Polanco back into the active Fantasy lineup in all AL-only leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: Placido Polanco (head) is out of the starting lineup for the Monday's game at Cleveland after being beaned by Oakland's Esteban Loaiza on Sunday.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Omar Infante is getting a start in his absence at second base.
News: 2B Placido Polanco had X-rays and a CT scan after being hit in the head by Esteban Loaiza's pitch, but all tests were negative. "We don't have any signs of a concussion," trainer Kevin Rand said. "Obviously, that's a good thing. He's got some swelling on the side of his face, but hopefully he may be ready tomorrow."
Analysis: Consider Polanco day-to-day, and the fact that he was able to get up and leave on his own is a good sign. Detroit has a three game series coming up at Cleveland starting on Monday with an off day on Thursday, so it is conceivable that Polanco could have two days off.
News: Detroit Tigers second baseman Placido Polanco left Sunday's game against Oakland in the first inning after being hit in the head by a pitch from Esteban Loaiza. After Curtis Granderson led off with a single, Polanco squared to bunt but couldn't get out of the way of Loaiza's high-and-inside pitch. The ball, which was clocked by the stadium radar gun at 84 mph, hit him on the left earflap, knocking off the helmet. Polanco immediately got up, then walked off the field under his own power after being examined by Detroit trainers. He was replaced by Omar Infante.
Analysis: Consider Polanco day-to-day, but the fact that he was able to get up and leave on his own is a good sign. Detroit has a three game series coming up at Cleveland starting on Monday with an off day on Thursday, so it is conceivable that Polanco could have two days off.
News: Carlos Guillen wasn't in the starting lineup Saturday night because he's "a little banged up," according to manager Jim Leyland. With the team having an off day on Monday, Leyland is giving Guillen two-of-three days off. And he plans to rest both C Ivan Rodriguez and 2B Placido Polanco on Sunday to give them two consecutive off days.
Analysis: Set your daily lineups accordingly. Polanco will be back in the lineup for Tuesday's series opener against the White Sox after Monday's scheduled day off.
News: Manager Jim Leyland said he plans on resting Carlos Guillen (general soreness), Ivan Rodriguez and Placido Polanco for Sunday's game against the Royals.
Analysis: Set your daily lineups accordingly. Polanco will be back in the lineup for Tuesday's series opener against the White Sox after Monday's scheduled day off.
News: At the All-Star break, Tigers 2B Placido Polanco is hitting .285 with three HR, 32 RBI, 39 runs and a steal through 319 AB. Polanco also has a seven-game hitting streak going on right now, connecting in every game in July so far with three RBI recorded.
Analysis: Polanco has been a disappointment this season, but he has been improving. He's still a fallback option in mixed leagues at second base, even if more powerful options are out there.
News: Placido Polanco got a day off Tuesday, a little earlier than Detroit manager Jim Leyland had planned. He wanted to rest Polanco on Wednesday to go with Thursday's day off, but he changed his mind after deciding he wanted Polanco to face Andy Pettitte of Houston on Wednesday.
Analysis: Polanco is batting just .208 this season against lefties compared to .316 against right-handers, but his career mark against southpaws is .321. "The average doesn't show it, obviously," Leyland said, "but I didn't want to sit 'Polly' against the left-hander."
News: 2B Placido Polanco was not in the lineup Tuesday, manager Jim Leyland said, to give him two days of rest in three days with Thursday being an off day for the team.
Analysis: Polanco has been a disappointment this season, but he has been improving in June, hitting .295 with two homers, 12 RBI and 16 runs scored. He's still a fallback option in mixed leagues at second base, even if more powerful options are out there right now.
News: Carlos Guillen, Magglio Ordonez and Placido Polanco had three hits apiece to lead the Detroit Tigers to a 9-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday for their eighth victory in 10 games.
Analysis: Polanco scored three runs and drove in one. Polanco seems healthy enough to activate once again if you had reserved him due to his tender back.
News: Placido Polanco was out of the lineup Sunday as Detroit manager Jim Leyland let him rest his tender lower back. Polanco, despite a recent power surge, said his back is still a problem sometimes and probably will be a source of concern all season.
Analysis: Barring setbacks, Polanco will be back in the lineup Monday when Detroit returns home for a three-game series against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.
News: 2B Placido Polanco was given another day off Sunday as his back continues to bother him. Detroit is off Monday, and Polanco is expected to return to the lineup Tuesday in Chicago.
Analysis: Polanco played in just one of the weekend games against Boston and has been doing exercises to keep his back fit. While it seems like he might be a risky start, second base is pretty thin, so even four or five games from him might be better than who you'd use as his replacement this week.
News: Placido Polanco (back) was one of two Detroit regulars not in the starting lineup Thursday night against the N.Y. Yankees. Chris Shelton was also not in the lineup, though he did pinch hit in the eighth inning.
Analysis: Polanco was hitless in nine straight at-bats, and his swings were not good. Manager Jim Leyland replaced him at second with Omar Infante. Consider Polanco questionable for Friday's contest against Boston.
News: Placido Polanco went 1-for-6 with one run scored in Tuesday's 11-6 loss to the N.Y. Yankees. He also stranded three runners in the contest.
Analysis: Polanco (.290 BA) has recorded five hits in his past 18 at-bats. He should remain active in all AL and some mixed formats.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco was not in the starting lineup Sunday vs. Cincinnati as manager Jim Leyland continues to protect his sore back. Polanco hasn't complained of pain, but Leyland is monitoring it and opted to rest his starting second baseman with Sunday being a windy, chilly day following a night game.
Analysis: Polanco is expected to start Monday night in Kansas City. Keep him active for Fantasy Week 8 (May 22-28).
News: Placido Polanco collected three singles Friday night and has been hitting well despite some continuing discomfort with his lower back.
Analysis: Polanco sat out a game earlier this week but has persisted in playing. He may not have his power but he continues to be able to grind out hits.
News: Placido Polanco was 3-for-5 with a solo home run in Thursday's game against Minnesota. The blast was his first of the season.
Analysis: Polanco had just one-extra base hit and an RBI over the past nine games, so don't expect the power numbers to be a regular occurrence. He can be helpful in the batting average and runs scored categories, however.
News: Placido Polanco (back) was back in the lineup for Wednesday's game at Baltimore. He was 2-for-5 with a double and a run scored.
Analysis: Give Polanco at least one more game to prove his health before re-inserting him into your active Fantasy lineup.
News: Placido Polanco (sore back) was originally in the starting lineup for Tuesday's game at Baltimore, but manager Jim Leyland scratched him two hours before gametime and replaced him with Omar Infante.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day and nearing a return. He is expected to avoid the 15-day disabled list and might be able to play on Wednesday.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports Placido Polanco (back) has been diagnosed with a strained muscle in his back after visiting a doctor in Baltimore on Monday. "He is day-to-day," the head athletic trainer said. "He feels better (Tuesday)."
Analysis: Polanco has missed the past four games due to his muscle strain. It appears he will avoid a stint on the 15-day disabled list, although it still remains a possibility if the injury lingers on for the next few days.
News: Placido Polanco was scheduled to see a back specialist Monday when Detroit arrived in Baltimore to start a three-game series. "I don't think it's too good," Detroit manager Jim Leyland said. "It's been four days, so we're going to get it checked out. You can't keep going and going, letting it get to eight, 10 or 11 days. If it's going to be a situation like that, you're better off putting him on the disabled list. But we're not near that point yet."
Analysis: Polanco missed all three of Detroit's weekend games at Minnesota due to a sore back. If he doesn't improve, he could be headed for the disabled list. Fantasy Baseballers should look for healthier alternatives. Omar Infante would be the probable replacement if Polanco is out of action.
News: Manager Jim Leyland said Placido Polanco's sore back hasn't landed him on the 15-day disabled list just yet. "We can't wait if it keeps going and going eight, 10, 11 days and have him sit," Leyland said. "We would have to put him on the DL but we are not nearly to that point yet. It has been bothering him for quite a while. It is a situation where he could wake up and feel fine."
Analysis: Polanco's availability for the team's series against the Orioles is questionable. Polanco added that it hurts him while bending down, so it does not appear he is near a return. Avoid using him in a Fantasy Week 6 (May 8-14) if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco missed his third straight game with a sore back Sunday at Minnesota.
Analysis: Leyland had indicated he would give Polanco another day off on Sunday to save him from the Metrodome's artificial turf. At this point, consider him a risky start for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Placido Polanco missed his second straight game Saturday with a sore back.
Analysis: Leyland indicated he might give him another day off on Sunday to save him from the Metrodome's artificial turf.
News: Placido Polanco said he would miss Friday's game with tightness in his back, something he has been battling for three or four weeks. "I think it's a day-to-day thing. We did some exercises and some treatment to release some of the tightness and it feels better already." He knows that playing on the Metrodome turf would not be wise. "You could be 100 percent, and you play one game here and the next day you all beat up."
Analysis: He lacks big-time power, but he has a nice contact bat and is a consistent performer for owners when healthy.
News: Placido Polanco went hitless in four at-bats in Thursday's loss to the Los Angeles Angels.
Analysis: Polanco (.287 BA) had a modest five-game hitting streak snapped in the contest.
News: Placido Polanco enters Tuesday's game needing one more run to reach 1000 for his career.
Analysis: Polanco (.297) is a decent option at second base in any Fantasy league. He lacks big-time power, but he has a nice contact bat and is a consistent performer for owners.
News: MLB.com reports Detroit manager Jim Leyland has been impressed with Placido Polanco this season. "Placido is a great contact hitter, because he hits so well with two strikes," said Leyland. "Hitting with two strikes, he's able to let the ball travel a little longer. He doesn't panic. He lets the ball get a little deeper to him."
Analysis: Polanco has hit safely in 15 of his first 18 games for a .320 BA. Coming into Tuesday night's game, he was batting .345 for the team's current nine-game road trip, including a pair of hits on Monday night against the L.A. Angels.
News: Placido Polanco was 4-for-5 with three RBI in Wednesday's game at Oakland to raise his batting average to .345.
Analysis: Despite the outstanding performance on Wednesday, Polanco remains useful only in AL-only leagues and deeper mixed formats.
News: Placido Polanco went 1-for-4 in Monday's 10-2 loss to Cleveland. He is now hitting .304 for the season.
Analysis: Polanco has little power but can hit for a decent average. His value is limited to AL formats and some deeper mixed leagues.
News: Magglio Ordonez (knee), C Ivan Rodriguez (ankle) and 2B Placido Polanco (hamstrings) all got Saturday off, but Tigers manager Jim Leyland expects them to be in Sunday's lineup.
Analysis: Polanco is a solid Head-to-Head second baseman because of how few times he strikes out. He's also a nice middle infielder in Rotisserie play.
News: Polanco went 3-for-4 with an RBI and three runs scored at Kansas City Wednesday.
Analysis: Polanco is a solid Head-to-Head second baseman because of how few times he strikes out. He's also a nice middle infielder in Rotisserie play.
News: Tigers manager Jim Leyland has finally settled on a lineup to start the season. Curtis Granderson will lead off followed by: Placido Polanco, Ivan Rodriguez, Magglio Ordonez, Dmitri Young, Craig Monroe, Carlos Guillen, Shelton and Brandon Inge.
Analysis: Polanco has proven that he can hit for average, and he'll have countless opportunities to produce as a regular starter in Detroit. He was the 127th overall selection (Round 13) in the recent B.I.G.S. AL Head-to-Head Experts League.
News: Tigers manager Jim Leyland intends to use a different batting order nearly every day to take advantage of matchups, and he's looking at Placido Polanco as the team's leadoff man against left-handed starters. Curtis Granderson would lead off against right-handers and hit eighth or ninth against lefties.
Analysis: Polanco has proven that he can hit for average, and he'll have countless opportunities to produce as a regular starter in Detroit. He was the 127th overall selection (Round 13) in the recent B.I.G.S. AL Head-to-Head Experts League.
News: Placido Polanco was the 75th overall selection (seventh round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a .331 BA with nine home runs, 56 RBI and four steals in 501 AB in 2005.
Analysis: Polanco has proven that he can hit for average, and he'll have countless opportunities to produce as a regular starter in Detroit. Expect him to be worth a sixth- to seventh-round selection in most AL leagues.
News: Tigers 2B Placido Polanco is the only fixture in new manager Jim Leyland's early lineup. Polanco will play second and hit second. "He's a tremendous, solid major league player and a solid individual," Leyland said. "He's one of those guys that sometimes gets lost in the shuffle because managers take him for granted. A guy like him, if he's playing in New York, he'd be in the headlines every other day."
Analysis: Polanco will have plenty of opportunities to do well in Detroit and makes for a desirable 2B in both AL-only and mixed leagues.
News: Placido Polanco had his third straight multi-hit game Thursday and is batting .462 over his last seven games.
Analysis: Polanco deserves to start in all formats over the final weekend. He will also likely be a top 10 second basemen next season in mixed league Fantasy drafts.
News: Placido Polanco (personal) went 2-for-5 batting second against the White Sox Thursday.
Analysis: Polanco is safe to activate in daily leagues again for the final weekend. He's stellar in Head-to-Head play because his strikeouts are few and far between.
News: Detroit C Ivan Rodriguez (left calf) did not play Tuesday, while 2B Placido Polanco was not with the team to attend to a family matter.
Analysis: Both players will be in and out of the lineup with the Tigers playing out the string, making them risky starts in Fantasy leagues.
News: 2B Placido Polanco returned to the Detroit lineup after not starting the prior two games with a sore shoulder.
Analysis: Polanco has been a solid middle-infield sleeper after his midseason trade brought him out of Chase Utley's shadow. Consider him a viable start in most leagues here on out.
News: Placido Polanco has been the toughest hitter in the majors to strike out this season, fanning once every 23.38 plate appearances.
Analysis: Polanco went 0-for-5 at the Angels Thursday, but he has not struck out since Aug. 31 at Cleveland, a span of 58 plate appearances. In Head-to-Head leagues, that's pure gold since he only delivers positive points.
News: Placido Polanco's consecutive four-hit games Saturday and Sunday made him the first Tiger to do that since Ray Boone on July 11-12, 1957.
Analysis: Polanco has been a great pick-up in AL-only leagues after the trade to Detroit, where he will be locked in as a starting second baseman. He has a nice Fantasy bat for a middle infielder.
News: 2B Placido Polanco has 26 multihit games in 56 played since being acquired from the Phillies in June.
Analysis: Polanco is a solid Fantasy second baseman in almost any league. Keep him active.
News: The Tigers agreed to terms Tuesday with infielder Placido Polanco on a four-year contract extension that will stretch through the 2009 season. Polanco was acquired by Detroit from the Phillies on June 8 in the deal that sent right-handed reliever Ugueth Urbina and infielder Ramon Martinez to Philadelphia.
Analysis: The 29-year-old second baseman is batting .358 with 22 runs scored, eight doubles, a triple, two home runs and 17 RBI in 31 games with the Tigers. He is a must-have Fantasy second baseman in AL-only leagues and viable in mixed leagues, too. His return to health means it is back to the bench for recently resurgent Omar Infante.
News: Placido Polanco (hamstring) was activated from the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday. He started against the Mariners at Safeco Field and was 3-for-5 with a double, run scored and RBI.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Polanco back into the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues which allow daily moves.
News: The Tigers are expected to activate Placido Polanco (strained left hamstring tendon) from the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday for the game at Seattle.
Analysis: Polanco is batting .324 in 27 games since coming over in a trade from Philadelphia. Keep him reserved until he can play at least two games in a row to prove his health.
News: The Tigers placed Placido Polanco on the 15-day disabled list on Friday due to a strained left hamstring tendon. The move is retroactive to July 12.
Analysis: Polanco will be eligible to return on July 27 and he said he expects to be ready. Keep him reserved for the upcoming scoring period until he is able to officially return to the starting lineup. Omar Infante will fill in for him until he is able to come back.
News: Polanco (hamstring) missed his eighth straight start on Thursday against the Red Sox after it was expected he would return to the lineup.
Analysis: Polanco remains day to day, but the team is expected to place him on the 15-day disabled list if the injury continues to linger on.
News: The Detroit News reports that Placido Polanco (hamstring) is expected to return to the lineup against Minnesota Thursday.
Analysis: Polanco is a solid middle infielder in mixed leagues, when healthy, since coming over to the AL. He was close to being placed on the DL after missing seven straight games.
News: Placido Polanco (hamstring) missed his seventh straight game on Wednesday at Chicago White Sox.
Analysis: Polanco might be headed for the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to last week. Omar Infante got the start and homered in his absence on Wednesday.
News: Placido Polanco (hamstring) missed his sixth straight game on Tuesday at Chicago White Sox.
Analysis: Polanco remains day to day, although the team may consider placing him on the 15-day disabled list retroactively if he is unable to go on Wednesday.
News: Tigers manager Alan Trammell hopes Placido Polanco, nursing a strained left hamstring, will be ready to play by Tuesday.
Analysis: Polanco has been an outstanding pick-up in AL-only leagues, despite his recent injury woes. He should ready return to active lineups at full strength by the start of the next scoring period.
News: Placido Polanco (hamstring) missed his fifth straight game on Monday at Chicago White Sox.
Analysis: Polanco remains day to day. Omar Infante got the start at second base in his absence.
News: With Placido Polanco (hamstring) missed his fourth consecutive game Sunday.
Analysis: Polanco remains day to day and is not expected back until Tuesday at Chicago White Sox. Consider reserving him for Fantasy Week 16 (July 18-24) in smaller mixed leagues.
News: Placido Polanco (hamstring) is out of the starting lineup for the third straight game on Saturday against the Royals.
Analysis: Polanco remains day to day and is not expected back until Tuesday at Chicago White Sox. Kevin Hooper is starting at second base in his absence.
News: Placido Polanco (hamstring) was unable to start for the second straight game on Friday against the Royals.
Analysis: Polanco remains day to day. Omar Infante got his second straight start at second base in Polanco's absence.
News: Polanco missed Thursday's game against the Royals due to a strained left hamstring tendon.
Analysis: Polanco suffered the injury on Sunday and is considered day to day. Omar Infante got the nod at second base in his absence.
News: 2B Placido Polanco, batting .352 since being acquired from Philadelphia June 8, was moved to the leadoff spot. He went 1-for-4 with a run scored.
Analysis: Polanco has outstanding value as a second baseman in AL-only leagues. If he remains this productive, he should be owned and active in most every Fantasy league.
News: Placido Polanco went 2-for-4 with a home run and a career-high five RBI against the Yankees Friday.
Analysis: Polanco has two homers and 14 RBI since joining the Tigers on June 10. Start him as a middle infielder in mixed league play.
News: Placido Polanco is hitting .378 in nine games since the Tigers acquired him in a trade with Philadelphia.
Analysis: Polanco has a hit in 18 of his past 19 games, including six two-hit games, four three-hit games and a four-hit game. With eligibility at 2B, 3B, MI and CI, Polanco warrants starting consideration in all leagues.
News: Manager Charlie Manuel was asked if the June 8 trade of INF Placido Polanco, who had complained about playing time, to Detroit had made his life any easier. "No," he said, "because I looked and he had three hits yesterday and two the day before that. I knew what kind of player he was. It might have been one of the toughest decisions I've had to make as a manager."
Analysis: Polanco has outstanding value as a second baseman in AL-only leagues. If he remains this productive, he should be owned and active in most every Fantasy league.
News: Placido Polanco was 3-for-4 with a run scored and three RBI in Wednesday's game against San Diego to extend his hitting streak to 14 games.
Analysis: Polanco has been golden with the Tigers so far, going 10-for-20 (.500) in five games.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Placido Polanco went 1-for-4 in his Tigers' debut, hitting in the No. 2 spot in the order. "Since I started playing ball, I knew I wasn't going to be a home-run hitter," Polanco said before Friday's game. "I figured I had to make contact and make something happen and get good at it. Something that has worked out for me through the years is put the ball in play and give myself a chance and the team a chance to make something happen."
Analysis: Polanco struck out just seven times in 132 at-bats this season in the No. 2 spot for Philadelphia. Start him in all AL-only leagues.
News: Placido Polanco will join the Tigers on Friday for their game in Colorado. Trammell said he'll bat second and be their everyday second basemen.
Analysis: Polanco has a career .296 batting average and a dependable glove. He made three errors in 109 games at second last season and hasn't made any errors this season at any of the four positions (second, third, shortstop and left field) he's played.
News: Ugueth Urbina and infielder Ramon Martinez were dealt Wednesday for infielder Placido Polanco. "We hated to trade 'Polly,'" GM Ed Wade told MLB.com. "He is a professional, winning player and a tremendous person. He will be missed in our clubhouse. But we knew that there was a lot of interest in Urbina and we had to pay a steep price to get him."
Analysis: Polanco will start at second base over Omar Infante. He has outstanding AL-only value immediately and should be picked up for help at second, third and/or outfield (he has a few games there).
News: Placido Polanco was 3-for-4 with a double in Sunday's game against Cincinnati.
Analysis: Polanco is 14-for-28 (.500) over the past seven games to raise his average from .229 to .280.
News: Fans have complained about 2B Placido Polanco taking away playing time from 2B Chase Utley this season and Phillies manager Charlie Manuel addressed the issue again before Saturday's game. "Chase Utley is going to be the starting second baseman at some point. I think Placido knows that something is going to come to an end." Manuel wouldn't elaborate further. Polanco started at second base while Utley played at first for the injured Jim Thome.
Analysis: Polanco might become trade bait if they decide to improve the club. He has serious value because of his offense, defense and versatility. Also, with David Bell's big contract, and Utley deserving full-time consideration, Polanco is the most dealable piece. The injury-hit Cubs (shortstop?) and Cardinals (third base as Scott Rolen four to six weeks) could be very interested.
News: Manager Charlie Manuel said before the season started he would assess the team after 35 games. The Phillies are 15-20 and in last place in the NL East, and the skipper admits it is time to meet with his staff. "I think it's time to sit and talk about our club," Manuel said. "I'm not sending a message in any way, I just want to sit down and talk about it."
Analysis: Polanco might become trade bait if they decide to improve the club. He has serious value because of his offense, defense and versatility. Also, with David Bell's big contract, and Chase Utley deserving full-time consideration, Polanco is the most dealable piece. The injury-hit Cubs (shortstop?) and Cardinals (third base if Scott Rolen is out as long as six weeks?) could be very interested.
News: Placido Polanco went 2-for-4 with a home run Wednesday against the Brewers. It was his first long ball of the year.
Analysis: Polanco entered the game 3-for-24 (.125) in his previous seven games. This year, he's got four starts at third base and four in the outfield, so his eligibility will be expanding soon.
News: Placido Polanco, usually a second baseman, made his second consecutive start -- and second career outfield start -- in left field because of injuries to OFs Pat Burrell (right groin) and Kenny Lofton (hamstring). Lofton got a pinch single in the eighth and remained in the game in center field.
Analysis: Polanco is not a great hitter, but his versatility makes him more intriguing in NL-only leagues. He should play the three games in the outfield it will take to get him eligible there this season. He is best served as a second baseman in Fantasy still, though.
News: Placido Polanco got his first-career start in the outfield on Monday at Washington with Pat Burrell (groin) and Kenny Lofton (hamstring) out with injuries.
Analysis: Polanco will have even more Fantasy value in leagues with lax eligibility requirements if you can use him in the outfield.
News: Placido Polanco upstaged Chase Utley on Sunday as his bases-loaded single gave the Phillies a 2-1 victory over the Braves in 10 innings Sunday night. "That was very good for Poly," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said. "We all know Poly is a great player. So is Utley. That's probably the toughest job I've had as a manager." The decision to platoon Utley and Polanco is not popular among Philadelphia fans, who have booed the veteran Polanco. "It was very important to get a game-winning hit," said Polanco, who had been slumping. "It's good for the confidence."
Analysis: Polanco will play vs. all left-handed starters. He is a solid option in NL-only leagues and might be someone to consider in deeper mixed leagues when the Phillies play vs. a number of lefties in a given week.
News: Placido Polanco will get the start at second base over Chase Utley for Monday's regular season opener against Washington. "I wish I could play both of them, but that's how it is," manager Charlie Manuel said. "I feel like I've got two regular second baseman and that's not all bad. I feel like it makes the team stronger. I know both of them want to play. It's up to us to work it out."
Analysis: This is certainly bad news for Chase Utley's Fantasy owners, as it looks like the team will have three players getting at-bats at two positions until a possible injury occurs. David Bell, Polanco and Utley will likely continue competing against each other for at-bats throughout April with the hot hands seeing more time.
News: Placido Polanco homered Saturday as he is playing in place of injured David Bell at third base this spring.
Analysis: Polanco plays better defense than Bell at third, hits with more consistency and arguably more pop, so why are the Phillies saying Bell will start once he returns from his back problem in April? The Phillies have a way of messing Fantasy owners up, but Polanco can do everyone a service by continuing to take hold of the Phillies' third-base job.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Placido Polanco will hit eighth and play third base in place of David Bell (back), who is out for at least three weeks. "I don't know if I'm going to be a good eighth hitter," said Polanco. "I've never done it. If you're hitting eighth, they're going to pitch around you to face the pitcher a lot of times."
Analysis: Polanco doesn't do a great sales job to his prospective Fantasy owners, does he? His aggressive nature might not be a great fit for that spot in the order, but he'll have to make due. Considering that he'll get more at-bats than his previous role as reserve infielder, he should be happy enough.
News: Placido Polanco doesn't like the reality of being a backup second baseman to Chase Utley this spring and reportedly would like the team to trade him. "It's a situation I can't control," Polanco told the AP before the team's first full-squad workout. "I don't like to be in this situation. I hate to be in this situation, but I have to live with it."
Analysis: Polanco is a useful player in NL-only leagues because of his versatility and somewhat solid bat. The Phillies have a great hitter's park, so if Polanco comes into a significant amount of playing time, he could become a decent sleeper. His best chance for that is at third, where David Bell only rates as average at best in Fantasy.
News: "The biggest thing will be [Kenny] Lofton and Utley in our lineup," Charlie Manuel told the Philadelphia Inquirer. "But I also could see Polanco in the opening-day lineup, too. It's way too early for me to commit. ... Polanco could be in there playing somewhere opening day. It's not like we've ruled that out. With Polanco around, that makes us stronger. We need to find a way to get him at-bats. Utley is definitely going to play more than he did last year. But at the same time, it doesn't mean we can't get Polanco at-bats. Polanco can play a lot of different positions. It'll play itself out."
Analysis: At best, Polanco will be the right-handed portion of a true platoon with Utley, a promising lefty-swinging second baseman with pop. The right-handed hitter traditionally gets a 1/3 of the at-bats, so Polanco has a better chance at significant playing time by stealing at-bats from David Bell at third base.
News: Placido Polanco signed a one-year deal with Philadelphia on Tuesday.
Analysis: Polanco will backup Chase Utley at second base this season. Only consider him in NL-only leagues at this point.
News: Placido Polanco went 3-for-5 with a double, RBI and a run Sunday against the Marlins. He finished the season with a nine-game hit streak that included six multi-hit contests.
Analysis: Polanco batted .342 (38-for-111) with four home runs, 18 RBI and 17 runs scored in September.
News: Placido Polanco went 3-for-4 with a run scored Sunday against Montreal.
Analysis: Polanco is batting .340 (32-for-94) with four home runs, 14 RBI and 14 runs scored in September. He is a quality option in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Placido Polanco went 3-for-4 with a home run and two RBI against San Francisco Saturday.
Analysis: Polanco started at third base while David Bell (back) was sidelined.
News: The San Jose Mercury News reports that the Phillies might trade Placido Polanco to Oakland for Ricardo Rincon, who would go to the Yankees, with Kenny Lofton being shipped to Phialdelphia.
Analysis: Polanco is having an ugly season but a change of address could be helpful. His versatility in Fantasy leagues is worth picking him up in AL-only leagues if he is traded. He would likely play second base for the A's.
News: According to the phillyBurbs.com, Philadelphia and St. Louis have had trade discussions that would send Kevin Millwood and Placido Polanco to St. Louis in exchange for Matt Morris and Steve Kline.
Analysis: Placido Polanco ranks second among National League second basemen with a .992 fielding percentage. He would likely start over Tony Womack, who ranks last with a .974 mark. Therefore, Polanco's Fantasy value would not change very much.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) was activated from the 15-day disabled list on Sunday.
Analysis: Polanco might return for Tuesday's game at Chicago White Sox. It appears safe to get him in the active lineup in NL-only leagues as he is expected to reclaim his starting job.
News: Placido Polanco (left quad) started a minor-league rehab assignment on Thursday.
Analysis: Polanco is expected to be activated on Tuesday and should return to the Philles' starting lineup.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Placido Polanco (left quad) might begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre this weekend. He has been on the disabled list since May 8.
Analysis: Once healthy, Polanco will most likely return to his starting position at second base. Chase Utley is expected to lose at-bats when he Polanco returns. He might rejoin the team by Monday.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Placido Polanco (strained left quadriceps) still felt his injury when he stretched.
Analysis: Polanco has no idea when he will be able to start his minor league rehab assignment. Chase Utley continues to play well in his absence.
News: The Burlington County Times notes Placido Polanco (quadriceps) experienced pain while trying to run twice this week.
Analysis: Polanco will not attempt to run again until at least Sunday.
News: The Burlington County Times said Placido Polanco ran on his strained left quad for the second time in four days, and it did not go well.
Analysis: Polanco was hoping to return by next week, but it appears that timetable is not applicable.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Placido Polanco will test his injured quadriceps Tuesday.
Analysis: Meanwhile, Chase Utley is adequately replacing Polanco at second base. Expect fewer at-bats or a position change if Utley continues to tear through National League pitching.
News: Placido Polanco felt tightness in his strained quadriceps when testing the leg in a base-running drill Saturday.
Analysis: Polanco is replaced by a red-hot Chase Utley at second base.
News: Placido Polanco’s strained left quadriceps is healing well. He has been doing running drills, taking batting practice and fielding grounders over the past few days.
Analysis: Polanco is eligible to return from the disabled list on May 23. Allow Polanco to prove he is healthy before activating him in NL-only leagues.
News: The Phillies placed Placido Polanco (strained calf) on the 15-day disabled list Friday. He said the injury had been bothering him for a couple weeks until he finally aggravated it at Arizona Friday.
Analysis: Polanco spent 16 games on the disabled list with the same injury last season. Chase Utley will be called up from Triple-A Scranton to take his place at second base.
News: Larry Bowa might move Placido Polanco to the leadoff spot if Marlon Byrd doesn't hit well there. Byrd was re-inserted back into the top spot on Wednesday. "That probably would be the next step," Bowa told the Burlington County Times. "I just hate to move Poly because he's a good two hitter. We'll see what happens."
Analysis: Polanco's Fantasy owners should keep a close watch on Byrd's play, because it's clear Bowa no longer can depend on Jimmy Rollins atop the order.
News: Placido Polanco signed a one-year contract with Philadelphia Friday.
Analysis: Polanco is a consistent hitter that should be starting in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The Trenton Times notes that when David Bell (back) returns to the lineup at Florida Tuesday, Placido Polanco will move back over to second base.
Analysis: Polanco is batting .200 with one homer and one RBI in his past six games.
News: Placido Polanco (strained left quadriceps) went 1-for-5 with a run scored in his first action after missing 16 games.
Analysis: Keep Polanco reserved until he can play consecutive games without lingering effects from his injury.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) was not in the starting lineup on Tuesday.
Analysis: Polanco is still considered day to day. Keep him reserved until he can play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) told the Philadelphia Inquirer that he has "improved a lot in the last two or three days."
Analysis: Polanco has been sidelined for 15 games due to the injury. Keep him reserved until he can play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Placido Polanco (quadriceps) experienced some discomfort when he ran on Thursday.
Analysis: It is possible that Polanco will miss the rest of the regular season with this injury. Tomas Perez continues to start in his absence.
News: The Phillies' official team website notes that Placido Polanco (quadriceps) is taking batting practice and fielding grounders, while also starting some light jogging. Running full out will be his last step before returning. Polanco plans on playing at Pittsburgh sometime this weekend.
Analysis: Keep Polanco reserved in NL-only leagues until he is able to play without lingering effects from his injury.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Placido Polanco (quadriceps) took infield batting practice on Wednesday. He hasn't played since August 30.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in NL-only leagues.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Placido Polanco's (quadriceps) injury is improving. An MRI confirmed no tear in the muscle.
Analysis: It is still unclear when Polanco will return. He might miss at least one more week. Keep him reserved until he can play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) was unavailable again on Monday.
Analysis: Polanco might be shut down for the season. Consider adding Tomas Perez if you need a temporary replacement in NL-only leagues.
News: PhilllyBurbs.com reports that Placido Polanco (quadriceps) had an MRI taken on Sunday. "He said it feels a little better today," said Phillies manager Larry Bowa. "But we wanted to get it checked out. When the doctor gets here, we'll have an idea of just how long it will be."
Analysis: Polanco could be gone for the rest of the season. Tomas Perez continues to get at-bats in his absence. He does not warrant Fantasy consideration.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) missed the weekend series against the Mets.
Analysis: Polanco is still considered day to day, although he is uncertain exactly when he will return to the lineup. Keep him reserved if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) says his injury has not improved, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Analysis: Polanco is still considered day to day. Tomas Perez continues to play in his absence.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) was out of the lineup again against the Mets on Friday.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Nick Punto played third in his absence.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) missed his fifth straight game on Thursday.
Analysis: Polanco is still considered day to day. Keep him reserved until he is able to play consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) was not in the lineup on Wednesday.
Analysis: Polanco is still considered day to day. Keep him reserved in NL-only leagues which allow daily moves.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) did not play in Tuesday's game against the Expos.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Chase Utley started at second base and Tomas Perez was the third baseman on Tuesday.
News: Phillies manager Larry Bowa told the Philadelphia Inquirer that Placido Polanco (quadriceps) might be able to play Tuesday against Montreal. Polanco missed his second straight game with the injury on Monday.
Analysis: Polanco should be kept reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he officially returns to the lineup.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) returned to the starting lineup on Thursday. He was 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBI.
Analysis: It is safe to get Polanco back in the active lineup in NL-only leagues.
News: Placido Polanco (quadriceps) was unable to play on Wednesday, missing his second consecutive game.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Nick Punto started in his absence. Keep him reserved.
News: Placido Polanco missed Tuesday's game due to his sore left quadriceps muscle.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Nick Punto will likely start in his absence until he is healthy.
News: Placido Polanco (shin) was in the starting lineup on Monday. He was 1-for-5 with a double and stolen base.
Analysis: It is safe to get Polanco back into the active lineup in NL-only leagues.
News: Placido Polanco left Sunday's game in the third inning due to a left shin contusion.
Analysis: Polanco is considered day to day. Nick Punto replaced him at second base.
News: Placido Polanco continues to hit the ball well in July. He was 4-for-5 with two runs scored and four RBI on Thursday.
Analysis: Polanco is 33-for-81 (.407) in 21 games in the month of July.
News: Placido Polanco was 4-for-5 with a solo home run on Tuesday at Montreal.
Analysis: Polanco is 12-for-24 (.500) with a double, triple, home run and four RBI over his past six games.
News: Placido Polanco went 3-for-5 with three RBI against the Cubs on Thursday. He was a home run short of the cycle.
Analysis: Polanco has been hot lately, and should be activated in NL-only leagues.
News: Placido Polanco (calf) was in the starting lineup on Friday. He went 1-for-4 with a home run and two RBI in Philadelphia's 4-2 win over Montreal.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Polanco active.
News: Placido Polanco missed Thursday's loss to the New York Mets due to a sore calf. However, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports he could have played if needed.
Analysis: The injury isn't considered serious, so Fantasy owners in daily leagues should keep Polanco active.
News: Placido Polanco was activated by the Phillies after Wednesday's game.
Analysis: Polanco should be activated in leagues that allow daily transactions.
News: Placido Polanco told the Philadelphia Daily News he will start on Thursday.
Analysis: Polanco has been taking extra batting and fielding practice and he said the fractured tip of his right ring finger hurts less and no longer causes strain on his arm.
News: Placido Polanco (finger) told the Philadelphia Inquirer that he expects to be ready to play this week. He is eligible to be activated from the 15-day disabled list on Thursday.
Analysis: Keep Polanco reserved until he is officially activated from the DL. Chase Utley and Tomas Perez will continue to start at second until Polanco returns.
News: Placido Polanco was placed on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 16, due to a contusion of the right ring finger. He is eligible to return on May 1.
Analysis: Tomas Perez or Chase Utley will start at second base until Polanco is ready to return. Neither has any Fantasy appeal.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer says Placico Polanco took batting practice on Tuesday.
Analysis: Polanco says he expects to return to the lineup on Wednesday.
News: Placido Polanco (finger) did not participate in batting practice as scheduled on Sunday due to soreness in his right ring finger.
Analysis: Polanco might return on Tuesday, but should be kept reserved if you have healthier options.
News: X-rays on Placido Polanco's right ring finger revealed a fracture, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. He could not grip a bat or throw a ball on Thursday. However, manager Larry Bowa expects him to return to action within the next few days.
Analysis: Polanco remains day to day. Tomas Perez will continue to replace him at second base. Nick Punto will be the top backup middle infielder.
News: Placido Polanco (bruised finger) missed his second straight game on Thursday.
Analysis: He is still considered day to day. Keep him reserved in leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: Placido Polanco (brused right ring finger) told the Philadelphia Inquirer he wasn't sure he would be able to play Thursday against Florida.
Analysis: Polanco's status remains day to day. Keep him reserved in leagues that allow daily transactions.
News: The Philadelphia Daily News reports that Placido Polanco (finger) is likely to miss Wednesday's game against Florida. He will probably lose the nail on his ring finger, which was hit by a Josh Beckett fastball on Tuesday.
Analysis: Polanco remains day to day, and you should reserve him if you play in a daily league.
News: Placido Polanco left Tuesday's game early after being hit by a pitch. He was hit in the right ring finger by a Josh Beckett pitch in the seventh inning.
Analysis: He suffered a bruise and is considered day to day.
News: Placido Polanco (groin) was back in the lineup Thursday. He was 1-for-3 with a double.
Analysis: Polanco is a respectable Fantasy player who can be helpful in the batting average category.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer says Placido Polanco is expected to return from a groin injury on Thursday.
Analysis: Polanco offers help to Fantasy leaguers in the batting average category, but he is a mediocre Roto player overall.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer says Placido Polanco aggravated a groin injury on Sunday.
Analysis: Polanco can help Fantasy teams in the batting average category. But his statistics tend to be mediocre from an overall perspective.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer says Placido Polanco has a sore groin muscle. "It's just a little tight," he said. "No big deal. It's good."
Analysis: Polanco is a respectable Fantasy player who can be helpful in the batting average category.
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Phillies are thinking about using Placido Polanco as their leadoff batter in 2003. Jimmy Rollins has not had a good spring and has been hitting in the second spot.
Analysis: Polanco might have increased Fantasy value in 5 x 5 Roto leagues if he can secure the leadoff job.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch notes Polanco's playing time has been reduced because of Eli Marrero's recent success. Marrero has been seeing much action in left field, pushing Albert Pujols to third base often. Polanco has been trying to hit his way back into the lineup more often, but he is a very risky Fantasy player right now.
Analysis:
News: Polanco returned to the Cardinals' starting lineup Tuesday and went 1-for-4 at the plate. He was limited to pinch-hitting in the previous game because of a hand injury.
Analysis:
News: Polanco (hand) did not start once again on Sunday, but he did pinch-hit. Polanco should return to action this week, but manager Tony La Russa doesn't know if Polanco will play on Tuesday. Consider reserving him. He doesn't produce enough offensively to gamble on in the upcoming week.
Analysis:
News: Polanco will be St. Louis' regular third baseman . Albert Pujols will start in left field, and while the move may throw off some plans to play him in the outfield in Fantasy leagues, the decision does guarantee him continued regular playing time.
Analysis:
News: Polanco (sore arm) took balls in left field on Saturday for the first time this spring, and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says he will probably begin the season as the Cardinals' starter at that position. But he may not stay there on a permanent basis. "He's going to play second, short and third," La Russa said. Polanco will provide Fantasy leaguers with a good batting average and he can be plugged in at more than one position.
Analysis:
News: Polanco, who was expected to contend for the left field job, is expected to do about 90 percent of his spring work in the infield, says the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Where he plays this season will largely be determined by circumstance, and he may play quite a few positions this year.
Analysis:
News: Polanco returned to the Cardinals' lineup Thursday after missing three games because his father-in-law was severely hurt in a traffic accident. Polanco started at shortstop and went 1-for-4.
Analysis:
News: Started in place of Fernando Vina Sunday in the Cards 7-5 win over the Pirates Sunday. Polanco had three hits and three RBIs. Vina was out with a sore shin, but hopes to play Tuesday.
Analysis:
News: Left Thursday's game in the first inning with a bruised right forearm. Edgar Renteria replaced him at shortstop. This may keep Polanco out for a game or two at most.
Analysis:
News: The Cardinals called up INF Placido Polanco from Triple-A Memphis to fill the roster spot caused by the trade of Shawon Dunston to the Mets. He has no Fantasy value.
Analysis:
News: Saw limited playing time last year. He'll be in the lineup for his defense, and will provide Fantasy leaguers with minor bits of power and speed. There are too many players at his position that will give you better offensive production. His prospects are bleak now that St. Louis has signed Carlos Baerga.
Analysis:
