News: The Twins reassigned Casey Fien, J.R. Towles, Brian Dozier and Brian Dinkelman to minor-league camp on Sunday.
Analysis: All of these players were either vying for a spot in middle relief or on the Twins bench. Their impacts would have been minimal in Fantasy. Continue to ignore them.
News: The Twins signed C J.R. Towles to a minor league deal on Thursday, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. Towles hit .184 with three home runs in 147 at-bats with the Astros in 2011.
Analysis: Towles will provide insurance in case Joe Mauer goes down with an injury, though the Twins have already signed Ryan Doumit to be the second-string catcher. Towles does have a little bit of power, but he doesn't hit for average, and he is unlikely to see much, if any, playing time. He can be ignored in all formats.
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, the Astros outrighted pitchers Jose Valdez, Alberto Arias and catcher J.R. Towles to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Thursday. All three cleared waivers and were the latest moves to the 40-man roster. Towles hit .184 with 3homers and 11 RBI in his 147 at-bats in 2011.
Analysis: Houston will likely reinstate Jason Castro to the active roster, which means Towles was expendable. He hasn't done much with his opportunities and should be ignored on Draft Day in 2012.
News: The Astros recalled several players from Triple-A Oklahoma City on Thursday. J.B. Shuck, Brett Wallace, Chris Johnson, J.R. Towles, Jordan Lyles, Lucas Harrell and Enerio Del Rosario were all added to the roster.
Analysis: Towles is batting .180 with three homers and 10 RBI in 44 games in the majors this season but will not have a huge role with the Astros down the stretch. Continue to ignore the 27-year-old in all but the deepest of NL-only formats going forward.
News: The Astros activated Humberto Quintero off the disabled list on Wednesday night and optioned J.R. Towles back to Triple-A Oklahoma City. Towles had plenty of opportunity to prove he belonged while Jason Castro and Quintero were both out for Houston. He failed.
Analysis: Towles went 0 for 5 at Pittsburgh on Tuesday and was hitting .180 at the time of his demotion back to Triple-A. He's done little to establish himself in the eyes of Houston manager Brad Mills and so he's headed back to Oklahoma City. Towles has little Fantasy value at this time.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles (chin) was back in the starting lineup posted for Thursday's game against the Rangers. He had not been behind the plate since a hard hit to the mask on Friday after requiring 11 stitches. He was 0 for 4 in his return, but the Astros would go on to beat the Rangers, 7-0.
Analysis: Towles had been made available for defense and was treated on a day to day basis. He said he has had some discomfort with his mask rubbing up on his stitches, but felt good enough to give it a go on Thursday. Hitting below .200 this season when healthy, he is not somebody Fantasy owners should be in a rush to activate in any format.
News: MLB.com reports Wednesday that Astros C J.R. Towles, who hasn't been behind the plate since a hard hit to the mask on Friday, is available for defensive purposes. He didn't start once again Wednesday against the Rangers, as Carlos Corporan got the nod.
Analysis: Towles tried to wear a hockey-style mask, but it pressed against the injured chin. Instead, he added some padding to his normal catcher's mask and he feels that it is ready to go. Towles hasn't been on the field for 11 starts in a 12-game span, so the news is a bit surprising coming off such a gap in playing time. Fantasy owners should not rely on him until he shows that he can play with the issue, though the catcher is just a .200 hitter anyway and not worth more than marginal play.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who recently returned from an extended absence for general soreness only to take a foul tip to the chin that required 11 stitches on Friday, was out of the lineup for a fourth straight game and an 11th time in 12 games on Wednesday against the Rangers. Carlos Corporan once again started in his absence.
Analysis: Towles said on Tuesday that he is still dealing with soreness and is having trouble putting on a catcher's mask that doesn't run the stitches the wrong way. Towles has been able to pinch hit, but he is not ready to resume catching duties. Hitting below .200 this season when healthy, he is not somebody Fantasy owners should be in a rush to activate in any format.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who recently returned from an extended absence for general soreness only to take a foul tip to the chin that required 11 stitches on Friday, was out of the lineup for a third straight game and a 10th time in 11 games Tuesday against the Rangers. Carlos Corporan once again started in his absence. "My jaw is more swollen than anything and that's what is bothering me," Towles told MLB.com. "I can't bite down all the way. As far as the stitching in the chin, it's a little sore. Other than that, it's fine. Trying to get a mask to where it doesn't rub me is another issue."
Analysis: Towles did make an appearances as a pinch-hitter on Friday, so he's not completely useless right now. Check that: He's not physically incapacitated right now. He's still pretty bad with a .195 batting average and is pretty much only starting for the Astros because they lack decent alternatives. You can leave him for the deepest of NL-only leagues.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who recently returned from an extended absence for general soreness only to take a foul tip to the chin that required 11 stitches Friday, was out of the lineup for a second straight game Sunday against the Rays. Carlos Corporan started in his absence.
Analysis: Towles is considered day to day with the laceration on his chin and shouldn't miss too much time. The former top prospect continues to disappoint, batting under .200 this season, so you shouldn't be particularly excited about activating him in Fantasy even when he returns. At this point, he's pretty much only starting for the Astros because they lack decent alternatives.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who returned from an injury but left Friday night's contest against the Rays after taking a pair of foul tips off his mask in the third inning, was not in the starting lineup on Saturday against Tampa Bay. Towles received 11 stitches on his chin. Towles is being considered day to day by the team at this point.
Analysis: Towles just made his return to the lineup after missing the past week with some bumps and bruises. Now he has a huge laceration on his chin but was able to pass the concussion test. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status moving forward, although he is likely to sit out for at least a few games. However, Towles doesn't hold much value even when healthy.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles left Friday night's contest against the Rays after taking a pair of foul tips off his mask in the third inning. He was replaced replaced behind the plate by Carlos Corporan and received 11 stitches on his chin. Towles is being considered day to day by the team at this point.
Analysis: Towles just made his return to the lineup after missing the past week with some bumps and bruises. Now he has a huge laceration on his chin but was able to pass the concussion test. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status moving forward, although he is likely to sit out for at least a few games. However, Towles doesn't hold much value even when healthy.
News: Houston manager Brad Mills said Tuesday that he didn't expect to have catcher J.R. Towles back in the lineup until Friday against Tampa Bay. Mills was true to his word as Towles did not start in Wednesday's series finale against the Rangers. He's day to day with leg soreness and has missed five straight starts. Carlos Corporan continued to start in Towles' absence. Towles returned behind the plate late in the game after Corporan was pinch-hit for. He finished 0 for 1 and is batting .197.
Analysis: Towles was playing a ton initially after Humberto Quintero went down with an injury, but as of late Corporan has been in the starting lineup. It mostly has to do with Towles' injury. Towles is once again struggling offensively after a decent start to the season. He has mainly NL-only Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles (soreness) did not return to the starting lineup Tuesday against the Rangers. It is the fourth straight game he has missed. Carlos Corporan continued to start in Towles' absence. "[Towles] said he was better, but it was hard to stick him in the lineup because you could lose your catcher," Astros manager Brad Mills said to MLB.com. "Ideally for him, he probably won't be able to start until Friday. We'll see how it goes."
Analysis: Towles was playing a ton initially after Humberto Quintero went down with an injury, but as of late Corporan has been in the starting lineup. It mostly has to do with Towles' injury. Towles is once again struggling offensively after a decent start to the season. He has mainly NL-only Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles was not in the starting lineup posted for Monday's series opener at the Rangers. He has been out of the lineup since being scratched for Saturday's game with what the team called "general soreness."
Analysis: Towles has been seeing increased playing time so far this season with Jason Castro and Humberto Quintero on the DL but he has not been doing much offensively. Even when healthy, he remains little more than an emergency stopgap measure for deep NL-only formats.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles was not in the team's starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Dodgers, after missing Saturday's game as a late scratch with general soreness. Carlos Corporan again got the start behind the plate in his place. Towles is not expected to go on the DL.
Analysis: Towles is dealing with the bumps and bruises of playing every day behind the plate, something he hasn't had to do much in his career at all. However, injuries to Jason Castro and Humberto Quintero have forced him into much more action than anticipated, so maybe it's just catching up to him. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status, though Towles is just a marginal NL-only option at best anyway.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles was a late scratch from Saturday's lineup against the Dodgers due to general soreness, according to MLB.com. Carlos Corporan instead got the start behind the plate. Towles has gone 6 for 33 (.182) so far in June with four RBI and seven strikeouts.
Analysis: Towles has been seeing increased playing time so far this season with Jason Castro and Humberto Quintero on the DL but he has not been doing much offensively. While his three homers and 10 RBI put him on pace for a career year, his .198 batting average is not wowing many Fantasy owners. He should be fine for Week 12 (June 20-26) but keep an eye on his status going forward just to be safe. But since he continues to split time at catcher with Corporan, when healthy, continue to view Towles as more of an NL-only option.
News: After fouling a ball off his exposed ankle during an at-bat in Wednesday's game, Houston C J.R. Towles said he plans on wearing a protective pad on his left ankle. He had been wearing the pad after a similar incident in May, but took it off after a couple weeks. "I just need it for precautionary reasons," Towles told MLB.com. "It's funny because I haven't been wearing it and when I was wearing it I didn't get hit, and I get it off and I get hit."
Analysis: Towles is hitting just .198 in 38 games this season and has displayed limited power. The 27-year-old has clubbed three homers and six doubles, including a pair of two-base hits in the last seven games. Towles, who also has 10 RBI this season, has seen increased playing time with Humberto Quintero on the disabled list. However, he will return to the bench when Quintero returns, though he remains out indefinitely. Consider Towles a marginal C option in deeper NL-only formats for now.
News: With Humberto Quintero landing on the disabled list due to an ankle injury, Astros C J.R. Towles stands to see the majority of the playing time behind the plate going forward. Towles had been limited to catching primarily Wandy Rodriguez and Aneury Rodriguez, but he will now have to work more with Bud Norris and J.A. Happ, who he caught on Sunday. "It's been set up that way," manager Brad Mills told MLB.com. "We want guys to be comfortable who they're catching and who they're throwing to, instead of mixing and matching. So it's going to take [Towles] some time, it's no doubt." Towles went 0 for 4 with a strikeout in Sunday's 4-2 loss, making him just 4 for 45 (.089) with one RBI in May.
Analysis: Towles has really struggled at the plate since pretty much April but he will see the majority of the at-bats at catcher going forward, and hopefully will be able to post numbers closer to what he did at the beginning of the year. Robinson Canel is currently the only other backstop on the roster, but he is a 35-year-old career minor leaguer. Towles have never quite lived up to begin a former top prospect but Fantasy owners in NL-only formats might want to look to him over the next few weeks.
News: Houston catcher J.R. Towles broke out of an 0 for 32 slump with three hits on Wednesday, including an RBI single with two outs in the ninth inning against Los Angeles that gave the Astros the 2-1 victory. Towles was 3 for 4 in the game as he raised his average to .229. He said on Monday that he is seeing the ball and getting pitches to hit, he just hasn't been able to get on track.
Analysis: Towles has definitely been struggling and shares time behind the plate with Humberto Quintero. Both those factors hurt his Fantasy value. But his two home runs and five RBI through 22 games this year don't help his cause either. The good news is that he's out of his slump and that his extra work with hitting coach Mike Barnett has paid off. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a low-end option in NL-only formats.
News: MLB.com reports that Astros C J.R. Towles remains confident in his abilities despite going through a career-worst slump heading into Monday's game against the Dodgers. "When you go in a slump, things aren't working for you no matter what you do," he said. "You see other people getting balls right over the infield or broken-bat singles, but it's got to fall sometime sooner or later. I'm seeing the ball and getting pitches to hit, and it's not falling for me. They're making good plays, but I'll continue to battle through it and keep my approach."Towles is 0 for 32 over the last eight games he's started, as Humberto Quintero got the starting nod Monday.
Analysis: Towles is working with hitting coach Mike Barnett to combat the issue, and the focus thus far has been to get the catcher's hands back in order to get the bat on the ball sooner. "I still have confidence in myself," Towles said. "I've gone through some down times before, and it's definitely not the worst thing out there. I'm still healthy and still seeing the ball well, and as long as I'm seeing the ball it's going to be OK. I'd really have a problem if I wasn't. I have to keep a good attitude and control what I can control." Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his playing time, though he doesn't see regular playing time anyway. Towles' average is down to .197 because of the slump, and he has just two homers and four RBI to this point. He is an NL-only option at best moving forward.
News: Houston C J.R. Towles entered Saturday with a career-worst 0-for-28 slump, reports MLB.com. Towles, who is now down to .210 with his batting average, was batting .361 on May 4. "What he's going through now is a tough situation for him," Houston manager Brad Mills said. "We've kind of settled into a [catching rotation with Towles and Humberto Quintero] and it's tough for him to get consistent at-bats and be able to get it together and get it going. He's trying to work though the best that he can."
Analysis: Towles catches Wandy Rodriguez and Aneury Rodriguez, and Quintero catches Brett Myers, J.A. Happ and Bud Norris. Towles helps do the little things for the Astros, but his Fantasy value is low due to his lack of hitting and his part-time scheduling. He's just an NL-only Fantasy option, at best.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles batted in the No. 2 spot in the lineup for the first time in his career in Monday's series opener against the Reds. He entered the game batting .325 on the year with two homers and four RBI. "I thought it would be a good spot for [Towles] to be able to hit behind the runner, move runners," manager Brad Mills told MLB.com. "He's a good fastball hitter and hopefully, he'll get some more fastballs with Michael Bourn getting on. All those things will be big."
Analysis: Towles has not seen a ton of playing time so far this season but he has hit when called upon. The 27-year-old could finally be realizing his potential, and should only see more time behind the plate if he continues to produce. He likely won't remain near the top of the lineup and since he will continue to split time with Humberto Quintero, leave Towles for NL-only formats.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles drew the start Wednesday against the Cardinals to catch J.A. Happ. It was the first time Towles caught Happ after Humberto Quintero caught the left-hander's first four starts. "We're still trying to decide when we want to use those guys, when we don't and when they need off-days and so forth," manager Brad Mills said. "A lot of this had to do with J.R.'s ankle, getting him two days off and then [Tuesday] giving that ankle a chance to heal." Quintero is expected to catch the next two games with right-handers Nelson Figueroa and Brett Myers pitching. Towles has been used exclusively with left-hander Wandy Rodriguez. "We don't want to stretch out Q, plus we want to see J.R. stay fresh with the bat and also working with different pitchers behind the plate," Mills said.
Analysis: If you recall, it took a season-ending injury to Jason Castro for Towles to make the Astros' roster. Now, he is one of the team's best offensive players. He is hitting .385 with two homers and four RBI in eight games. The Astros still won't play him every day, but if he keeps hitting like he is, then Towles will still get enough at-bats to make a difference. It's just that Towles still has minimal Fantasy appeal because we have a feeling a market correction is coming.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles hit his second home run of the season in a 4-1 loss to Milwaukee on Sunday. The eighth-inning shot was his only hit in the game, as he went 1 for 3, actually lowering his batting average to .385 on the year. It was the third game that Towles had played since missing several days with an ankle injury.
Analysis: Towles does have some power, but he is not a reliable Fantasy catcher, as he does not play every day and cannot be counted on in most scoring categories. He is especially risky for batting average, as he strikes out and flies out frequently. Save him for NL-only leagues, despite his hot start.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who missed the last four games with a sprained ankle, was back in the lineup Tuesday against the Mets. "All systems go," manager Brad Mills said. "He caught a bullpen on Sunday and felt good. He did some throwing on Sunday where he put some torque on the ankle and felt good, so with Sunday off after that and yesterday off, he should be good to go."
Analysis: Towles is off to a solid start this season, going 9 for 21 (.429) in six games played. He does not get regular playing time, however, and his Fantasy appeal is limited to the deepest of NL-only leagues as a possible stopgap measure.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that Astros C J.R. Towles (ankle) is "still on track" for a Tuesday return to action. The Astros begin a series at the Mets on Tuesday. Towles was a late scratch for Saturday's game against the Padres due to a sprained ankle.
Analysis: Towles has gotten off to a solid start at the plate this season, going 7 for 19 (.368) in five games played. He does not get regular playing time, however, and his Fantasy appeal is limited to the deepest of NL-only leagues as a possible stopgap measure. Now that he is not 100 percent, however, is not the best time to rely on him even in those leagues.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that Astros C J.R. Towles was a late scratch for Saturday's game against the Padres due to ankle soreness. Humberto Quintero replaced him behind the plate against right-hander Mat Latos.
Analysis: Towles is batting .368 with one homer and two RBI so far this season so keep an eye on his status over the weekend to see if he will be ready for Fantasy Week 3 (April 18-24). While he continues to split time with Quintero, the 27-year-old could finally be in for a decent season based on his start. But since he will not see regular playing time, when healthy, Towles should be considered as more of an NL-only option.
News: Houston catcher J.R. Towles was behind the plate for pitcher Wandy Rodriguez on Friday night against Florida. Not only did he help Rodriguez get through seven strong innings of work, he also contributed at the plate. Towles went 3 for 4 and hit his first home run of the season off Ricky Nolasco in the third inning. The Astros would end up losing the game, 4-3.
Analysis: Towles has been dubbed Rodriguez's primary catcher, but he'll share backstop duties with Humberto Quintero for the time being. If one of them starts to get hot though it may be tough to bench him. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the Houston catching situation, but for now both Quintero and Towles should be viewed as NL-only Fantasy options.
News: Houston catcher J.R. Towles will be the primary backstop for pitcher Wandy Rodriguez this year, with Jason Castro likely on the shelf for the season. Manager Brad Mills told MLB.com that Towles and Humberto Quintero will share the duties behind the plate this year. Prior to Saturday's contest in Philadelphia, Towles hadn't caught for Rodriguez since 2008. Towles went 1 for 4 at the plate on Saturday, but wouldn't contribute anything else. The Phillies went on to beat the Astros, 9-4. Towles had been battling back spasms towards the end of spring training.
Analysis: Towles won't be the full-time catcher in Houston which severely limits his Fantasy value. While he could win the job by the end of the year, owners should view him as a low-end NL-only option at this time. He'll be guaranteed at least one outing every five games -- if Rodriguez stays healthy.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles received his first start of the 2011 campaign in Saturday's game against the Phillies. He had been battling back spasms the past week.
Analysis: Towles is expected to split time behind the plate this season with Humberto Quintero so it's good to see him get back behind the plate. The 27-year-old will be given the opportunity to make up for his career .189 average and could surprise some people this season as a former top prospect. Keep an eye on how he does early on before picking him up in larger formats. Consider Towles a low-end option in NL-only formats until he proves more.
News: Despite the fact that the Astros had listed J.R. Towles (back) among their likely starters for Friday's opener in Philadelphia, it was Humberto Quintero who got the start behind the plate. Towles dealt with back spasms over the last week of spring training.
Analysis: Towles and Quintero are expected to split at-bats anyway, so there is not too much to read into here. Towles may not be 100 percent yet, but the fact that the Astros are carrying just two catchers on the roster indicates that he is ready to play. Towles remains merely an NL-only reserve option for now. Keep tabs on this situation as it develops.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who has been battling back spasms, was listed as the starter behind the plate for Friday's game against the Phillies. Manager Brad Mills posted the lineup on Thursday. Towles, who is expected to split time at catcher with Humberto Quintero this season, batted .300 with three homers and seven RBI during spring training.
Analysis: The injury to Jason Castro opened the door for Towles this spring and he opened some eyes with the bat by posting a .575 slugging percentage in 40 at-bats. He has shown that he can hit in the minors but he has batted just .189 in 101 games in the majors. The 27-year-old should see some decent at-bats this season so keep an eye on how he does early on. But until Towles proves he can hit in the majors, he is best left for deeper NL-only formats.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports Astros C J.R. Towles, who is battling back spasms, said Tuesday he is "feeling a lot better" and is likely to be available by the team's season opener on Friday. Manager Brad Mills said he would like to play Towles in Wednesday's spring finale against the Red Sox.
Analysis: Towles was headed back to the minors at the start of camp, but Jason Castro's knee injury means Towles should make the opening-day roster as long as he is healthy. He'll share time behind the plate with Humberto Quintero. Towles has had his chances in the majors and has disappointed. He is a low-end NL-only Fantasy option until further notice.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles stayed back in Kissimmee on Monday morning to take 25 swings in the batting cage as he continues to deal with lingering back spasms that have bothered him for the last three days. "It was good to see him do some baseball activity," manager Brad Mills told MLB.com. "He played catch and threw. He still felt it in his back, but he felt much better. To have him go out there and do some baseball activity is huge." Mills said that it is still too soon to know whether the team needs to replace him in the roster to begin the season. "We'll see how he is [Tuesday] for the flight to Oklahoma City, and we'll go from there," he said.
Analysis: Mills said that he is a bit concerned about the team's flights out of Florida will impact Towles' back. There is a possibility this ailment could postpone the start of his regular season, but his impact as a backup catcher is likely to be minimal in Fantasy leagues anyway. If you are looking for roster depth in NL-only play, keep looking.
News: Houston C J.R. Towles could not get behind the plate on Sunday as his sore back was still not 100 percent, though improved, reports MLB.com. "I'm feeling better," Towles said. "It's still just real tight and real sore when I make quick, short movements. I don't think it's going to be too much longer."
Analysis: Towles, who was last year's opening day catcher, should make the club as a backup this season with Jason Castro likely out for the year. That said, Towles is just a career .189 hitter. Continue to view Towles as more of an NL-only option.
News: MLB.com reports that Astros C J.R. Towles was scratched from Saturday's game against the Nationals due to back tightness. Towles, who was the opening day catcher a year ago, is expected to split time behind the plate with Humberto Quintero to start the season.
Analysis: Towles won the starting job out of spring training last season but the 27-year-old hit just .191 with 12 strikeouts in 47 at-bats before the Astros went in another direction. He will receive another shot at redemption with the injury to Jason Castro so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how he does. But since he is just a career .189 hitter, continue to view Towles as more of an NL-only option.
News: With spring training winding down, the Astros seem prepared to break camp with Humberto Quintero and J.R. Towles as the catchers on the 25-man roster, with Jason Castro likely gone for the season. Quintero will catch Brett Myers on opening day, but the duo are expected to share the catching duties this season, reports MLB.com. Manager Brad Mills said Towles has carried himself differently this spring. "I think the experience of going through that last year [trying to win a job in Spring Training] has definitely helped," he said. "It's more about the way he carries himself and how he interacts with the pitchers and how he interacts with the staff and his demeanor."
Analysis: Towles won the job out of spring training last season but the 27-year-old hit just .191 with 12 strikeouts in 47 at-bats before the Astros went in another direction. He's hitting well this spring with a .314 average entering Wednesday with two homers and six RBI. As a part-time catcher, at best, Towles will only have NL-only Fantasy value.
News: Houston C J.R. Towles is still a candidate for the starting job behind the plate for the Astros, reports the Houston Chronicle Tuesday. With Jason Castro missing most or all of the season after knee surgery, Towles is still in the running with Humberto Quintero to start for Houston. On Tuesday against the Mets, Towles went 1 for 3 with a home run in the fourth inning off Pat Misch. “I just want to see the ball and put a good swing on it,” Towles said. “You can’t do anything besides that.”
Analysis: Towles was the opening day catcher for the Astros in 2010 but was back in the minors by May and then suffered a season-ending tear in his right thumb. Healthy again, Towles is expected to back up Quintero at the moment. However, still in the running, Towles could certainly have some sleeper Fantasy appeal, especially in NL-only leagues.
News: With the news Friday that Astros C Jason Castro will miss most, if not all, of the season with a torn ACL as well as a torn meniscus in his right knee, J.R. Towles suddenly has a chance to make the roster as the backup to Humberto Quintero.
Analysis: Towles is a former prospect who has failed in repeated opportunities to secure a regular job in the majors. He may have some sleeper appeal in the deepest of NL-only leagues with this news, but most Fantasy owners should continue to avoid him.
News: With starting Astros catcher Jason Castro coming down with a knee injury, the chances of J.R. Towles making the Houston squad out of spring training suddenly got a lot better.
Analysis: With his career .189 average, Towles has been a pretty solid bust after being a former prospect, but he will be in his prime year of 27 entering the 2011 season, so there is still some hope for him. He is likely to, at best, split starts with Humberto Quintero to start the year if Castro isn't ready, so don't worry about Towles just yet in NL-only play.
News: MLB.com reports that Astros C J.R. Towles took ground balls at first base on Friday, and will take reps at third base and in the outfield in order to improve his chances of breaking camp with the big club. "A couple of days ago he came in and we had a little talk, and he said he had played some first before," manager Brad Mills said. "He does a good job behind the plate, but this does nothing but increase his value to be able to do those things." Towles used to be Houston's top catching prospect, but he has been surpassed by Jason Castro. "I feel I'm athletic enough to play other positions than just catch," Towles said. "They're going to work with me for a while first and show me what to do, and what not to do. I like playing other positions."
Analysis: Towles has seen his batting average drop each of the last three seasons in the minors and he is a career .189 hitter in 281 major-league at-bats. He won the starting job out of spring last season but hit just .191 in 17 games before being sent down to Double-A. He tore a ligament in his thumb sliding into a base five games into his Double-A stint and eventually had surgery. His new-found versatility could pay dividends in the end so keep an eye on how he does during the spring. But since his track record is suspect at best, leave Towles for the deepest of NL-only formats on Draft Day.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles was once considered a top prospect in the organization but he has not produced much at the major-league level. He is a career .189 hitter in 101 games with eight homers and 39 RBI. With Jason Castro now considered the catcher of the future in Houston, Towles will have to fight for a spot in the 25-man roster this spring. "You always assess the situation, but then I try not to think about it too much," he told MLB.com. "I try to stay upbeat and not get too down. It's hard when you see everybody else playing and doing well and you know you're capable of being out there with them and helping the team win, and you're not. It is a little discouraging at times. You have to keep a good attitude and keep your head up and be ready for whatever is next."
Analysis: Towles won the starting job out of spring last season but hit just .191 in 17 games before being sent down to Double-A. He tore a ligament in his thumb sliding into a base five games into his Double-A stint and eventually had surgery. "It was a lost year for J.R., and the little bit I had a chance to talk to him [Thursday], he was in with a very good attitude and he knows he has to come and compete," Astros general manager Ed Wade said. "Every time we make a plan, something interjects itself into the plan and things can change. All that he can do right now is go out there and show that he's healthy. He plays a premium position and can be an asset to the ballclub." Towles, who is a career .297 hitter in the minors, will really have to open some eyes this spring to get his career back on track so keep an eye on how the 26-year-old does. But since his track record and role is suspect at best, leave Towles for the deepest of NL-only formats on Draft Day.
News: The Astros agreed to a $424,000, one-year contract with C J.R. Towles on Thursday. Towles missed most of last season with a torn ligament in his thumb. He hit .191 in 47 at-bats for Houston.
Analysis: Towles used to be a top prospect, but Jason Castro has replaced him on the organizational depth chart. If he doesn't win a backup role, Towles will likely begin the season on waivers. You have no reason to draft him in Fantasy.
News: Catcher J.R. Towles, who was sent to Double-A Corpus Christi by the Astros on May 4, broke a bone in his hand May 13 and still has not played since.
Analysis: Towles was once a strong catcher prospect, but now his future appears to be that of a backup major-leaguer. Cut and ignore him in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Catcher J.R. Towles, who was sent to Double-A Corpus Christi by the Astros on May 4, broke a bone in his hand. The Houston Chronicle reports that he will miss approximately four to six weeks.
Analysis: In case you were waiting around for Towles' promotion back to the majors, you now have one more reason to drop him. There is little reason to even keep him on reserves in any format.
News: Houston C J.R. Towles will play every day at Double-A Corpus Christi, reports MLB.com. Towles was just sent down all the way to Double-A as he was hitting .191 with a homer and eight RBI in 17 games with Houston. "It's going to be good for J.R. to get some consistent playing time all the way down there," Houston manager Brad Mills said. "There are things we want him to get accomplished [to] develop the skills that he has."
Analysis: This is not the first time that Towles began the season with Houston to only face a demotion to the minors after a slow start. Only this time, he might find it very difficult to get back to the majors. Towles was hitting just .192 before his demotion. He was primarily an NL-only Fantasy option and can be cut in Fantasy. If you are looking to store an Astros' catcher, then make it Jason Castro, who is a top prospect at Triple-A.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who had been sharing time behind the plate with Humberto Quintero, was optioned to Double-A Corpus Christi on Tuesday, reports MLB.com. Towles was sent to Double-A, so top prospect Jason Castro can continue catching every day at Triple-A Round Rock. Kevin Cash had his contracted purchased from Round Rock.
Analysis: This is not the first time that Towles began the season with Houston to only face a demotion to the minors after a slow start. Only this time, he might find it very difficult to get back to the majors. Towles was hitting just .192 before his demotion. He was primarily an NL-only Fantasy option and can be cut in Fantasy. If you are looking to store an Astros' catcher, then make it Castro.
News: Houston C Humberto Quintero started on Tuesday against Arizona with J.R. Towles on the bench.
Analysis: Towles has more offensive potential than Quintero, but the fact he is having to split with him behind the plate really only makes him viable in deeper NL-only leagues.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: C Humberto Quintero, who during the offseason was vocal about his desire to get the everyday job, is pleased with his playing time so far. Quintero began the season as the backup to J.R. Towles but has since caught half of the Astros' games. "I'm both happy and thankful that the manager is giving both of us games," Quintero said.
Analysis: Quintero has less offensive potential than Towles, but the fact he is stealing starts makes him a viable option in the deepest of NL-only leagues. Without full-time at-bats, Towles is merely an NL-only option, too, at this point.
News: Astros catcher J.R. Towles went 3 for 4 with two RBI, including a solo home run, in Saturday's game at the Cubs. He scored two runs in the game and also struck out once. He came into the game hitless in his previous five games.
Analysis: Towles got a few days off to regroup and he appears to have reacted well to the time off. He could continue to split at-bats with Humberto Quintero, but we expect the Astros will continue to go with the hot hand. Both Towles and Quintero are merely NL-only options.
News: Astros C Humberto Quintero got the start over J.R. Towles for Friday's game against the Cubs. Towles does not have a hit since April 5 against San Francisco.
Analysis: Towles is likely just getting the day off for an afternoon game, but with a .056 batting average (1 for 18) through six games he could use the day off to regroup. Quintero has not done much with his at-bats this season, either, so both players should be avoided in Fantasy leagues until further notice.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles sat for the second time in three days Monday as Houston opened a series in St. Louis. Humberto Quintero got the start instead.
Analysis: Towles has a .067 (1 for 15) average so far this season. The Houston backstop situation is an offensive mess at the moment, and both Quintero and Towles should really be avoided like the plague in all Fantasy formats.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles recorded an RBI double off of Brandon Medders in Monday's opener against the Giants. Towles finished 1 for 4 with a strikeout and a runner left on base.
Analysis: Towles beat out prospect Jason Castro for the starting catcher job this spring. While he does have upside, it is limited and Castro could find his way into the mix later in the season. Consider Towles an NL-only option in most formats, but he could be used in the deepest of mixed leagues because he should see substantial playing time.
News:J.R. Towles has won the competition to be the Astros' everyday catcher and prospect Jason Castro has been reassigned to minor league camp. Infielder Edwin Maysonet and reliever Wilton Lopez also were optioned to minor league camp on Tuesday. In other moves, the team said non-roster invitee reliever Casey Daigle will be reassigned to minor league camp after he pitches with the big league club Thursday. Non-roster invitee relievers Gary Majewski and Gustavo Chacin, infielders Chris Shelton and Drew Meyer, and catcher Kevin Cash will stay with Houston through its home exhibition series against the Blues Jays and then be reassigned to minor league camp. The Astros must make four more cuts by Sunday afternoon to get to the 25-man limit.
Analysis: Towles is a must-add in deeper NL-only leagues immediately. There is potential here, even if it has been the case for years. Castro is an elite prospect, so the Astros must really have some confidence in Towles right now. Castro will eventually be the Astros' backstop of choice, but playing time figures to make Towles a nice add in deeper leagues.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: The Astros expect to take every minute of the time allotted up to the April 4 roster deadline to decide on a starting catcher. J.R. Towles and Jason Castro both started spring training with an impressive two weeks at the plate, and both drew praise for the rest of their game. "J.R. and Jason both know that this is a great opportunity for them here in the short term, and they have done everything that they possibly could do to put themselves in position to win the job," general manager Ed Wade said. "As we sit here today, we're sort of in an enviable position of having two really good solid young guys, both of whom have a chance to win the job here." Towles had been among the Astros' top hitters in camp, collecting 11 hits, including five doubles, in his first 23 at-bats. Castro, meanwhile, had eight hits in his first 20 at-bats. Despite the hot starts of Towles and Castro, manager Brad Mills still wants Humberto Quintero for the backup spot because of his experience and strong throwing arm.
Analysis: Castro is the long-term option at this point and would be our pick in mixed leagues at this point. Towles just doesn't match the offensive potential, even if he earns full-time at-bats out of the gate. Towles is more of an NL-only option if he wins the job. Quintero is nothing more than a reserve for the deepest of NL-only formats.
News: Houston C J.R. Towles continues to impress in his quest to grab the starting catcher job for the Astros this spring over Humberto Quintero. Both players saw action on Tuesday against the Boston Red Sox. Towles got the start behind the plate while Quintero was the DH against the American League Sox. Towles went 2 for 3 with two singles and is batting .550 on the spring. Quintero went 1 for 3 with a single and was caught stealing in the game. He's batting .211 this spring.
Analysis: Towles is tied for the team lead with 11 spring hits over 20 at bats and already has five doubles and a triple. Quintero has just four hits in 19 at bats and has yet to drive in a run. Jason Castro is also in the mix for job. At this point, Quintero and Towles would be just NL-only Fantasy options regardless of who wins the job.
News: Houston's J.R Towles, trying to win the starting role at catcher, drove in the Astros' lone run in the eighth off Chad Jenkins in Monday's exhibition loss to Toronto. Towles, playing DH, went 3 for 4 and accounted for three of Houston's seven hits in the game.
Analysis: Towles has seen 12 at bats this spring and has eight hits for a .667 batting average with five doubles, 13 total bases and two RBI. He's making his case to be the team's starting catcher on opening day. Even if he wins the job, he still would likely split his time with Jason Castro. That is why his value is best used in NL-only formats.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who is in competition with Jason Castro for the starting catcher job, went 2 for 3 with two RBIs and two runs scored Thursday against the Nationals.
Analysis: Although Towles is competing for starting time at the catcher spot, it is highly likely he could split time with Castro. That is why his value is best used in NL-only formats.
News: Houston agreed to one-year contracts Friday with catcher J.R. Towles ($406,500) and infielder Chris Johnson ($400,000).
Analysis: Towles will compete for starts, but he is merely an NL-only Fantasy option on Draft Day -- albeit one that once had intriguing potential. Johnson is nothing more than a reserve for the deepest of NL-only leagues if he gets time on the roster this season.
News: Houston's J.R. Towles has been awarded a home run after umpires checked a video replay following his second-inning drive off Philadelphia's Pedro Martinez. Towles' shot to left-center Wednesday night was initially ruled a double. Astros interim manager Dave Clark quickly came out to question the call and the umpires went to the video. It didn't take long for them to change it to a home run. The ball bounced off the flower bed behind the railing and back onto the field. Phillies manager Charlie Manuel didn't argue. Towles, a career .187 hitter, finished with two homers against Philadelphia Wednesday. He has two on the season.
Analysis: Consider Towles a potential rebound candidate in 2010, but we have to rank him outside of the top 25 catchers at this point. He could surprising in NL-only formats, though.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: Catcher J.R. Towles, a September call-up who was on the Astros' opening-day roster in 2008 after a magical September in 2007, likely will play in three of the first five games of the road trip as interim manager Dave Clark tries to help him regain his confidence. "More so than anything it could possibly be a confidence thing with him," Clark said. "You can even go back to this year at Triple-A. He was a hurt a little bit and he didn't get a whole lot of at-bats at Triple-A. We're getting him here, and he's not playing on an everyday basis. With any young guy you're going to go out and put a little too much pressure on yourself. I think that's what he's doing. The last couple days or so we've had a conversation about him relaxing and stop looking for the perfect pitch, because you may be waiting all year to get that. You're hitting in front of the pitcher, so you're going to get a mixture of a lot of crap. Anything close, you got to swing the bat. ... Two years ago, no one really got him out when I had him at Double-A. And even when he came up here in September, he put on a pretty good show."
Analysis: In 2007, Towles sprinted through Class A Salem, Double-A Corpus Christi and Triple-A Round Rock to reach the majors. He set a franchise single-game RBI record with eight against the Cardinals. Since then, however, Towles has not hit well in the majors. Since being recalled Sept. 5, he was 2 for 26 through Monday night. "He's going to be given an opportunity to be our guy. That's what I believe in," Clark said. "Two years ago he was one of our top guys, and we have to get him back into that point." Consider Towles a potential rebound candidate in 2010, but we have to rank him outside of the top 25 catchers at this point. He could surprising in NL-only formats, though.
News:J.R. Towles is struggling at the plate, hitting .115 (3 for 26) this year after hitting .137 in his short-lived stint as the Astros' starting catcher in 2008.
Analysis: Towles is nothing more than a deeper NL-only option at this point of his career. He appears to have been dramatically overrated as a prospect years ago.
News: The Astros have recalled C J.R. Towles from the minors.
Analysis: At 25, Towles still has a chance to make a major league impact at some point down the road, but for now is just organizational depth. Ignore him in seasonal formats.
News: The Houston Astros optioned catcher J.R. Towles to Triple-A Round Rock Express on Monday. The move is made in anticipation of a return by backup catcher Humberto Quintero.
Analysis: Towles could still have a future in the major leagues as a starting catcher, but this season he is nothing more than organizational depth. Ignore him outside of the deepest of long-term keeper leagues at this point.
News: The Houston Astros placed catcher Humberto Quintero on the 15-day disabled list Saturday because of a strained right shoulder. Quintero was injured in a collision with Milwaukee's Mike Cameron on Friday night. Quintero took a throw from right fielder Hunter Pence in the fourth inning and blocked the plate as Cameron barreled into the catcher. Quintero held onto the ball but had to leave the game. The Astros recalled catcher J.R. Towles from Triple-A Round Rock to fill in for Quintero.
Analysis: Towles is hitting .344 in 11 games with one home run and three RBI in the minors this season. He'll be just a backup catcher with Houston behind Ivan Rodriguez so you don't need to go picking him up off waivers in any league.
News: The Astros reassigned SP Bud Norris and C J.R. Towles to minor league camp on Friday.
Analysis: Norris is a nice young talent and might be up with the Astros at some point in 2009. Continue to follow his progress closely in keeper and deeper NL-only leagues. Towles has had a rough spring and he can continue to be ignored in all Fantasy formats.
News: Houston C J.R. Towles went 0-for-1 in a game against the Cardinals and is batting just .182 on the spring in 22 at bats. Towles, likely Houston's third option behind the plate behind Humberto Quintero now that Ivan Rodriguez is in town, has just two extra base hits and only a single RBI.
Analysis: Towles saw 54 games for Houston last season and hit just .137 over 146 at bats with four homers and 16 RBI. He showed some potential in 2007 when he hit .375 with 12 RBI in just 14 games for the Astros but has since done little and is unlikely to make the roster out of spring training. He's still quite young but his Fantasy value is little to nothing. Leave him on waivers in all leagues.
News: The Astros and catcher Ivan Rodriguez are closing in on a $1.5 million, one-year contract, a person familiar with the talks told The Associated Press on Monday. The deal would contain $1.5 million in performance bonuses based on games and plate appearances, the person said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the agreement had not yet been announced by the team. Houston needed a veteran catcher to replace Brad Ausmus, who became a free agent and signed with the Dodgers. The Astros have several young catchers in camp who need time to develop. Houston used Brad Ausmus, J.R. Towles and Humberto Quintero at the position last season. It appeared earlier Quintero would be the starter this season, but hell likely move to a backup role.
Analysis: Towles has potential, especially at the thin catcher position, but now he is unlikely to be a starter in Houston or anywhere to start the season, his value is very minimal. You are better off ignoring him for now until his situation improves.
News: Houston C J.R. Towles homered, his first of the spring, and went 1-for-3 in Saturday's 3-1 loss to the Yankees. Towles is batting just .133 on the spring in 15 at bats.
Analysis: Towles has potential, especially at the thin catcher position, but he still needs to earn a spot on the roster at this point. Consider him a flier in NL-only leagues until it becomes apparent he can make the team and handle major league pitching.
News: From the The Sports Xchange: C J.R. Towles, who earned a spot on last year's opening day roster as a rookie, is doing a solid job in spring after struggling in the majors and landing in Triple-A for most of the 2008 season. "He's working on his approach offensively and he's making progress," assistant GM Ricky Bennett said. "We're hoping that we see results as we go through spring training. It's still early in the spring, and those decisions will be made as we wind down and get closer to the regular season."
Analysis: Towles has potential, especially at the thin catcher position, but he still needs to earn a spot on the roster at this point. Consider him a flier in NL-only leagues until it becomes apparent he can make the team and handle major league pitching.
News: The Houston Astros called up five players from Triple-A Round Rock on the first day of roster expansion on Monday. The team recalled pitchers Jack Cassel, Fernando Nieve and Alberto Arias, along with catcher J.R. Towles, and purchased the contract of infielder Edwin Maysonet. Manager Cecil Cooper said Cassel and Nieve would both be used in middle relief.
Analysis: Towles has played in 50 games for the Astros this season, hitting .143 with four homers and 16 RBI. He was hitting .304 with seven home runs and 28 RBI in 48 games for Round Rock. The Astros might give Towles a decent amount of at-bats down the stretch as they get him prepped for 2009, but he can't be considered anything more than a NL-only Fantasy option.
News: The Houston Astros activated catcher Humberto Quintero from the disabled list and optioned catcher J.R. Towles to Triple-A Round Rock after Monday's 9-3 loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Towles is hitting .143 in 60 games with the Astros this season. He was 3-for-23 since being recalled from the minors to replace Quintero. He started the season well with four homers in April, but has been slumping ever since. Towles is not a recommended Fantasy option at this time and should be dropped in most Fantasy formats.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles was hitless in four at-bats Sunday against the Nationals and left three runners on base. Towles is just 3-for-18 (.167) with two RBI in six games since his recall from Triple-A.
Analysis: Towles was hitting well in the minors before the Astros recalled him after Humberto Quintero landed on the disabled list with a concussion. Well, Towles hasn't had as much luck at the plate in the majors. There is potential with Towles, but he remains a low-end Fantasy option until his plate discipline improves.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles had a single and one run in four at-bats Monday against the Pirates. Towles is 3-for-15 (.200) with two RBI in four starts since returning from the minors.
Analysis: Towles was hitting well in the minors before the Astros recalled him after Humberto Quintero landed on the disabled list with a concussion. Well, Towles hasn't had as much luck at the plate in the majors. There is potential with Towles, but he remains a low-end Fantasy option until his plate discipline improves.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that Astros C J.R. Towles, who was called up Tuesday from Triple-A after Humberto Quintero landed on the disabled list with a concussion, will catch four of the five starters in the rotation. "He'll probably just take Q's load, which is four out of five," Astros manager Cecil Cooper said of Towles.
Analysis: Towles hit .145 (17-for-117) in his first stint of the season with the Astros before he was demoted to Round Rock. He worked on his swing down in the minors, and was hitting .288 with five homers and 11 RBI in 18 games with Round Rock. If he can just keep a consistent swing in the majors, Towles might end up being a decent Fantasy catcher.
News: Houston Astros catcher Humberto Quintero suffered a concussion when his helmet was struck by a bat in Tuesday night's game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Quintero was taken to a hospital where tests were negative. The Astros said Quintero suffered a concussion and would be kept at the hospital overnight. He was placed Quintero on the 15-day disabled list after the game and the team recalled J.R. Towles from Triple-A Round Rock.
Analysis: Towles was sent down to Round Rock in early June after suffering a horrific slump at the plate that resulted in his average dropping to .148. Towles worked on his swing down in the minors, and is hitting .288 with five homers and 11 RBI in 18 games with Round Rock. If he can just keep a consistent swing in the majors, Towles might end up being a decent Fantasy catcher.
News: Houston optioned C J.R. Towles to Triple-A Round Rock after Thursday's game against the Pirates and purchased the contract of C Humberto Quintero from its top affiliate.
Analysis: Towles homered four times in his first 14 games of 2008 and appeared on his way to being a breakout star. He then got cold at the plate in late April and never recovered. It seemed like only a matter of time before Houston optioned Towles, who is hitting .148, to the minors. He will get a chance to work on his confidence for a possible recall later this season. Stash Towles in NL-only formats.
News: According to The Sports Xchange notes: Brad Ausmus was in the starting lineup Tuesday at catcher, allowing struggling rookie J.R. Towles to have three consecutive days off. Towles won't start Wednesday when Roy Oswalt pitches but will return to the lineup in Thursday's series finale. Towles is hitting .145 after going 0-for-3 with three strikeouts Sunday. "Sunday I saw a lot of frustration in J.R.," manager Cecil Cooper said. "He was really, really frustrated and had a couple of at-bats where he looked like he was disgusted with the situation and himself and he just needs to not think about it so much." Towles admitted he was frustrated, but he maintains his confidence is still there. "I always want to play, but I know I'm struggling and I can't hide that," he said. "I'm willing to do whatever's best for the team. I'm not doing as well as I can right now, and I want to try to get back in there and work the kinks out and get on the right track."
Analysis: Despite his struggles, Towles expects to find his groove at some point this year. "Things happen for a reason, and some good will come out of it in the end," he said. "Right now I'm trying to keep my hip in there and trying to keep my weight on my back leg and keep my head steady. It's nothing major. Just little things, and it's the little things in this game that turn into big ones. I'm trying to work on it and get the kinks out." Towles has potential, while Ausmus does not. Consider Towles the pick in NL-only leagues right now between the two, but don't use either in mixed formats at this point.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Astros C J.R. Towles realizes he has been brutal at the plate this season, but knows defense is his No. 1 priority. "Definitely, my hitting is struggling a little bit right now," Towles said. "There's no way of hiding that. But the one thing I can do is do well behind the plate and not let my hitting affect my defense. One thing I take pride in is doing well behind the plate. I'd rather, like I've said before, go do extremely well behind the plate than go 4-for-4 at the plate. Any time I can help those pitchers out in any way, it makes me feel good. It makes me feel like I've had a job well done."
Analysis: That's all nice and good, J.R., but Fantasy owners don't get many points for a lack of passed balls and things like that. A hot sleeper coming into the season, Towles is hitting a miserable .145 so far, and should only be used in NL-only formats at this point.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that C J.R. Towles is currently mired in a 3-for-49 slump.
Analysis: Towles has been nothing short of awful since stroking four homers by April 19. He has lost his power swing and pretty much anything else that resembles a major league hitter at the plate. He is not starting as much because of his offensive woes and he isn't helping Fantasy owners. Until Towles breaks out of his funk, he remains just a NL-only Fantasy option.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles snapped a 1-of-18 slump with a RBI double in the fourth inning Sunday against the Rangers. It ended up being his only hit in four at-bats as he struck out twice. He did increase his batting average to .149.
Analysis: Towles has been nothing short of awful since stroking four homers by April 19. He has lost his power swing and pretty much anything else that resembles a major league hitter at the plate. He is not starting as much because of his offensive woes and he isn't helping Fantasy owners. Until Towles breaks out of his funk, he remains just a NL-only Fantasy option.
News:J.R. Towles snapped an 0-for-20 stretch with his two-out single in the second at San Francisco Tuesday.
Analysis: Towles is still pressing at the plate right now and can't be trusted outside of a No. 2 Fantasy catcher in mixed leagues. He's not in jeopardy of losing his status as Houston's No. 1 catcher, and he is still a talented catcher, so if you have room to reserve him on your bench it is recommended rather than dropping him. His average has dipped all the way down to .157.
News: Catcher J.R. Towles went 0-for-2 against the Dodgers on Sunday. He is currently in an 0-for-20 slump -- and he has just one base hit in his past 10 games (24 at-bats).
Analysis: Towles is still pressing at the plate right now and can't be trusted outside of a No. 2 Fantasy catcher in mixed leagues. He's not in jeopardy of losing his status as Houston's No. 1 catcher, and he is still a talented catcher, so if you have room to reserve him on your bench it is recommended rather than dropping him.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles' struggles at the plate continued Sunday against the Brewers. Towles was hitless in three at-bats and how has just one hit in his last 19 plate appearances (.053). His season average has dropped to .176.
Analysis: Towles has also gone without a home run in 11 games after popping four in his first 14. He is really pressing at the plate right now and can't be trusted outside of a No. 2 Fantasy catcher in mixed leagues. Towles is not in jeopardy of losing his status as Houston's No. 1 catcher, and he is still a talented catcher, so if you have room to reserve him on your bench it is recommended rather than dropping Towles.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles led off the bottom of the third with his fourth home run of the season Saturday as Houston fell 3-2 to the Rockies.
Analysis: Towles, a rookie, has shown plenty of power so far this year, slugging four homers in only 34 at-bats. His ceiling remains high, and he's at the point where you can think about using him as a No. 1 catcher in mixed leagues.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who hadn't started for three games because of a bone bruise in his left hand, returned to the lineup Friday against the Rockies. He went 1-for-3 with a walk and an RBI.
Analysis: Towles, a rookie, has shown plenty of power so far this year, slugging three homers in only 33 at-bats. His ceiling remains high, and he's at the point where you can think about using him as a No. 1 catcher in mixed leagues.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles, who had missed the past two games with a bone bruise in his left hand, felt well enough to pinch hit in Thursday's 10-2 loss to the Phillies. Towles flied out in the fifth inning.
Analysis: The fact that Towles was able to hit Thursday is a good sign for his Fantasy owners and he should be back behind the plate sometime this weekend. The ceiling remains high for the slugging catcher, but is still a low-end No. 1 Fantasy catcher in mixed leagues when healthy.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles (hand) did not play Wednesday against the Phillies. He has missed the last two games, but has reported improvement since getting plunked Sunday. "My hand feels pretty good," Towles said. "It's just pretty sore, but it feels better than I thought it would be. They just said it's a bone bruise, there's no broken bone in there, and that it's going to be sore for a little while and I have to take it easy for a few days."
Analysis: Towles has been plunked three times this season, and all three times he has managed to avoid any serious injuries. The ceiling remains high for the slugging catcher, but is still a low-end No. 1 Fantasy catcher in mixed leagues when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Astros C C J.R. Towles, who suffered a bone bruise in his left hand when he was hit by a pitch in the eighth inning Sunday, noted some improvement Tuesday. "My hand feels pretty good," he said. "It's just pretty sore, but it feels better than I thought it would be. They just said it's a bone bruise, there's no broken bone in there, and that it's going to be sore for a little while and I have to take it easy for a few days."
Analysis: Towles has been plunked three times this season, and all three times he has managed to avoid any serious injuries. The ceiling remains high for the slugging catcher, but is still a low-end No. 1 Fantasy catcher in mixed leagues when healthy.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles did not start Tuesday's game against the Phillies after getting hit on the left hand by a Kevin Gregg pitch Sunday. Manager Cecil Cooper said Towles will likely see limited action in the three-game series against Philadelphia.
Analysis: Towles has been plunked three times this season, and all three times he has managed to avoid any serious injuries. The ceiling remains high for the slugging catcher, but is still a low-end No. 1 Fantasy catcher in mixed leagues when healthy.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that the Astros purchased the contract of catcher Humberto Quintero from Triple-A Round Rock and DH/OF David Newhan for assignment Monday. There were no broken bones in starter J.R. Towles' hand. “But he said there is a good chance he's going to be pretty sore and may be limited for the Philadelphia series (April 15-17),” manager Ed Wade said. “He may be limited in what he can do," he said. “He may be able to do certain things for us, that’s why we’re not disabling him. Obviously, we want our best nine on the field every night, and so far we’ve had a difficult time getting to that point."
Analysis: Quintero had a great spring and Houston was scared someone would grab him on the waiver wire. “We weren’t optimistic that we would get him through waivers,” Wade said. “Lo and behold, he gets through and accepts his assignment. Fortunately, that gives us some measure of insurance.” Quintero has a measure of NL-only value, as does veteran catcher Brad Ausmus. Newhan isn't worth holding onto in any Fantasy formats for now.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that the first X-rays on J.R. Towles' hand were negative Sunday night, but he's going to be examined by the team physician on Monday. "Right now, it's just a little sore," said Towles, who also hit a home run and had three RBI in the series finale against the Marlins. "Initially you always worry, especially on the hand, because there are so many small bones in there. After I came out and started moving it, I felt a little better."
Analysis: "It hurts, but right now it's not broken," Towles said. "Let's hope it stays that way." He is batting just .207, but he has three homers and seven RBI. He's hopeful he won't miss any games this week -- Houston is off Monday, before starting a three-game series at Philadelphia. The Astros could use Brad Ausmus or bring up Humberto Quintero from Triple-A Round Rock. Towles has been hit by a pitch three times already this season, so expect him to have hand injuries throughout the year -- until he backs up off the plate just a bit. He prefers not to wear protective equipment, which is bad news for Fantasy owners. He's an injury-risk starter this week. Neither Ausmus or Quintero would be worth using outside of NL-only formats.
News:J.R. Towles and Michael Bourn homered to lead the Astros over the Florida Marlins 5-1 on Sunday. Darin Erstad got Houston going with a double to right-center in the second inning. Towles followed with a homer to left, his third of the season, on what Burke Badenhop called "a fat pitch." However, it wasn't all good for the rookie catcher. Towles was hit on his left hand by a pitch from Kevin Gregg in the ninth inning. He left the game and was replaced by Brad Ausmus. Towles finished the game 1-for-2 with three RBI and one walk.
Analysis: Towles is hitting just .207 this season, but has already stroked three homers and is starting to look the part of a No. 1 Fantasy catcher. Let's hope this hand injury is minor because Towles is on his way to becoming a reliable Fantasy option at a weak position.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that J.R. Towles has been told by manager Cecil Cooper to expect to catch Roy Oswalt on Friday. Brad Ausmus has been the pitcher's personal catcher in his first two starts this season. "I want to do what's best for the team," Towles said.
Analysis: Towles is buried toward the bottom of the Astros lineup, but is making his presence known with his power swing. Treat him as a must-start NL-only Fantasy catcher and No. 2 option in mixed leagues.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles hit a solo home run off Kelvin Jimenez in the eighth inning of Monday's game against the Cardinals. It was his lone hit in two at-bats. He also drew a walk. Towles has now homered in two of his last three games and has hit safely in four of five.
Analysis: Towles is buried toward the bottom of the Astros lineup, but is making his presence known with his power swing. He will lose some starts to Brad Ausmus, but is still the starting catcher for Houston. Treat him as a must-start NL-only Fantasy catcher and No. 2 option in mixed leagues.
News:J.R. Towles did a handstand after he was hit by a pitch in the second inning, then homered in the fourth, as the Houston Astros beat the Cubs 4-3 Friday and sent Chicago to its third loss in four games. SP Rich Hill walked Mark Loretta with two outs. Towles followed with a drive down the left-field line for his second career homer, the first since Sept. 20 at St. Louis.
Analysis: Towles is batting .231 so far on the young season, and we like him as a No. 2 catcher in mixed leagues, although Brad Ausmus is still going to get some starts when Roy Oswalt pitches.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles didn't start Houston's opener on Monday, but manager Cecil Cooper suggests Towles' Fantasy owners shouldn't be worried about the talented backstop's starting status for long, reports the Houston Chronicle. "The reason why I'm doing it is I want my starting pitcher to be comfortable," Cooper said. "This is a big year for us, and I want to make sure that he is comfortable and slowly kind of work the kid in catching Roy (Oswalt) instead of just dropping the hammer on him, because that's not the right way to do it. We're going to slowly work him in. He'll catch the other guys for the most part. He and I have already talked about it. He is just happy to be here and be a part of this team."
Analysis: Towles had a very nice spring, despite missing a couple weeks with a hamstring issue. Once he gets comfortable, he's going to be the primary catcher in Houston and is a good young option with some upside. View him as a No. 2 catcher in mixed formats, but expect some inconsistency.
News: Astros catcher J.R. Towles was back in the lineup Saturday against Cincinnati after missing about two weeks with an injured hamstring. He played six innings and went 1-for-3 with a double.
Analysis: Towles is hitting .444 this spring and appears to be just fine after his setback. He's going to be the primary catcher in Houston and is a good young option with some upside. View him as a No. 2 catcher in mixed formats, but expect some inconsistency.
News: Astros catcher J.R. Towles, who has been out since injuring a hamstring March 8, played six innings in a minor league game on Friday and is scheduled to return to the Astros starting lineup Saturday.
Analysis: Towles is hoping to continue his red-hot start to the spring, one that drew comparisons to Hunter Pence's spring breakout in 2007. He's a solid selection as a No. 2 catcher in mixed leagues at this point.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that J.R. Towles (strained left hamstring) could return to action this weekend. He'll catch a minor league game Friday before playing Saturday against Florida.
Analysis: Towles is hoping to continue his red-hot start to the spring, one that drew comparisons to Hunter Pence's spring breakout in 2007. He's a solid selection as a No. 2 catcher in mixed leagues at this point.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that J.R. Towles (strained hamstring) might rejoin the team Wednesday or Thursday, according to GM Ed Wade. Towles played in an exhibition game on Sunday.
Analysis: Towles is hoping to continue his red-hot start to the spring, one that drew comparisons to Hunter Pence's spring breakout in 2007. He's a solid selection as a No. 2 catcher in mixed leagues at this point.
News: Houston catcher J.R. Towles, who has been out with an injured hamstring, caught in a minor league game Sunday. He is feeling better, but still isn't able to run full speed.
Analysis: Towles ripped through the Astros' farm system last season and is now ready for his shot at the majors. Because he is inexperienced and will lose some starts to Brad Ausmus, he heads into the season as a No. 2 Fantasy catcher. However, he has the potential to be much more.
News: MLB.com reports Astros C J.R. Towles was forced to miss workouts Monday with a strained right hamstring that is expected to sideline him for 3-5 days. He is allowed to catch bullpen sessions, but can't block balls in the dirt. The Astros have pretty much limited him to riding a stationary bike and walking on a treadmill. "I can't run, but I can walk," Towles said.
Analysis: Towles ripped through the Astros' farm system last season and is now ready for his shot at the majors. Because he is inexperienced and will lose some starts to Brad Ausmus, he heads into the season as a No. 2 Fantasy catcher. However, he has the potential to be much more.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Astros C J.R. Towles, who hit .375 over 14 games when he was called up last September, is off to a terrific start at the plate this spring with a .467 average in seven games. The Astros have tabbed Towles, who began last year at Class A Salem, as their starter for 2008. "There's not many pitches that he doesn't handle well," manager Cecil Cooper said. "A young kid might have some problems with breaking balls, but he gets to it good, and he puts a good swing on it most of the time. He stays balanced."
Analysis: Towles ripped through the Astros' farm system last season and is now ready for his shot at the majors. Because he is inexperienced and will lose some starts to Brad Ausmus, he heads into the season as a No. 2 Fantasy catcher. However, he has the potential to be much more.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that J.R. Towles is having such a great start to his spring, it's reminding the team of what Hunter Pence did last March. "Things are feeling good," Towles said after hitting two doubles Tuesday to bring his average up to .600 (6-for-10) this spring. "I feel comfortable at the plate. I'm seeing the ball well and I'm fortunate enough to put a good swing on it."
Analysis: Pence hit .571 with two homers and nine RBI last spring as a non-roster invitee. "I don't know if there's such a thing as a Pence-like spring," Pence said. "I just think he's a good player. A game like (Tuesday), it just shows you what he can do on any given day. He's got all the tools to play the game. It's just about going out there and getting the opportunity." In 40 major-league at-bats, Towles hit .375 with one strikeout. He clearly knows how to hit and makes for a great No. 2 catcher in Fantasy.
News: Astros rookie C J.R. Towles went 3-for-3 with two doubles and a three-run homer Tuesday against the Tigers. He scored a total of three runs, drove in a total of four and is hitting .600.
Analysis: Towles started last season in Class A Salem before reaching the majors in September. In 40 major-league at-bats, Towles hit .375 with one strikeout. He clearly knows how to hit and makes for a great No. 2 catcher in Fantasy.
News:J.R. Towles follows Brad Ausmus wherever he goes at spring training. The 24-year-old rookie will succeed Ausmus as the Astros' everyday catcher in 2008, and he's trying to absorb every lesson he can from the 38-year-old veteran, who's seen just about everything in 14 seasons. "He has a way of explaining things that make senses to me," Towles said. "Everything he says is a help. I just listen."
Analysis: The Crosby, Texas, native started last season in Class A Salem and considered getting to the major leagues a goal that would take years to reach. By last September, he had already made it, playing well in nine starts and even setting a team record for RBI in a game. "It's definitely not anything you think about, going from A-ball to the big leagues in one season," Towles said. In 40 major-league at-bats, Towles hit .375 with one strikeout. He clearly knows how to hit and makes for a great No. 2 catcher in Fantasy.
News: Astros C J.R. Towles struck out for the first time in his career Friday, a span of 38 at-bats.
Analysis: Towles has outstanding long-term potential and might even have done enough down the stretch to warrant starting consideration going into spring 2008. Consider Towles in deep sleeper in all Fantasy formats.
News: Rookie C J.R. Towles got a day off Sunday after going 6-for-10 with 10 RBI in the first three games of the series. Veteran Brad Ausmus always catches Roy Oswalt. "He's kind of Roy's guy, really, and I don't want to disrupt that," interim manager Cecil Cooper said. "This is your ace."
Analysis: Towles has outstanding long-term potential and might even have done enough down the stretch to be considered a viable starter going into spring 2008. Consider Towles in deeper formats for Fantasy Week 26 (Sept. 24-30) and all long-term keeper leagues.
News: The Astros envisioned a half-dozen starts this month for rookie C J.R. Towles before he had a team-record eight RBI on Thursday and hit a key two-run double Friday. Towles, who also made a nice defensive play to prevent a wild pitch, made his third straight start on Saturday and sixth overall. "I'm going to keep running him out there," manager Cecil Cooper said.
Analysis: Towles, a 23-year-old catcher, began the year at Single-A Salem and was among the September callups, going 3-for-13 with one RBI in five games before Thursday. The Astros might have found their everyday catcher for 2008. Treat Towles as a stopgap Fantasy option for Week 26 (Sept. 24-30), if he can stay hot at the plate.
News: Rookie J.R. Towles had a key two-run double for the Houston Astros in a 6-3 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Friday night that eliminated last year's World Series champions from postseason contention. Towles, who set a franchise record on Thursday with eight RBI, had been 0-for-2 with a walk but gave the Astros a 5-2 lead with his two-run double off Ryan Franklin in a three-run eighth.
Analysis: Towles, a 23-year-old catcher, began the year at Single-A Salem and was among the September callups, going 3-for-13 with one RBI in five games before Thursday. Interim manager Cecil Cooper wasn't planning on having Towles in the lineup on Friday, but how can he bench him at a time like this. The Astros might have found their everyday catcher for 2008. Treat Towles as a stopgap Fantasy option for Week 26 (Sept. 24-30), if he can stay hot at the plate.
News: J.R. Towles justified his jump from Class A to the major leagues in one brilliant game. Towles went 4-for-4 with a franchise-record eight RBI and the Houston Astros reached season highs in runs and hits in an 18-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday night. "I can't even describe it," Towles said. "This is the last thing I thought would happen. Coming up to the big leagues was pretty impressive and this is beyond words."
Analysis: Towles hit a two-run double off Braden Looper (12-11) in the second to open the scoring. He added a two-run single in the fourth, an RBI double in the sixth and a bases-loaded walk in the eighth before hitting his first career homer in the ninth off Aaron Miles. Towles, a 23-year-old catcher, began the year at Single-A Salem and was among the September callups, going 3-for-13 with one RBI in five games before Thursday. Interim manager Cecil Cooper wasn't planning on having Towles in the lineup on Friday, but that's out the window.
News: Manager Cecil Cooper likes the poise he's seen from C J.R. Towles, recalled from the minors on Sept. 4. Towles started the last two games of the Pittsburgh series over the weekend. "He's handled some veteran pitchers, he's not afraid to go out to the mound and talk to them in key situations," Cooper said. "That's a rookie doing that, so that's pretty impressive."
Analysis: Towles is only worth a look in the deepest of NL-only formats at this point.
News: Interim manager Cecil Cooper said C J.R. Towles and SS Cody Ransom would get some playing time this weekend against Pittsburgh. Towles and Ransom were called up from Triple-A Round Rock on Sept. 4. Cooper said Towles might start on Saturday and Sunday.
Analysis: Set your daily Fantasy lineups accordingly. Each player is only worth a look in the deepest of NL-only formats at this point.
News: LHP Troy Patton was in the bullpen at the Mets Friday just in case he was needed. He's scheduled to start next Saturday against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Minute Maid Park. Cooper says Patton will probably get two more starts this season. "And right now, I'm probably thinking we're going to match him up with (recently promoted catcher) J.R. Towles," Cooper said.
Analysis: Towles won't see enough at-bats to make him worth owning in most Fantasy formats.
