News: The Indians announced Wednesday that reliever Dan Wheeler was outrighted to Triple-A Columbus. He was designated for assignment on Sunday.
Analysis: Wheeler is a veteran MLB reliever. He posted a 8.76 ERA before being placed on waivers, which is why teams probably shied away from him. Wheeler can be ignored in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Indians designated reliever Dan Wheeler for assignment on Sunday. Wheeler posted an 8.76 ERA in 12 appearances this season.
Analysis: Wheeler made the Indians' bullpen after signing a minor-league deal in the offseason but couldn't pitch well enough to hold onto his job. While the 34-year-old has proven to be a reliable middle reliever in the past, continue to ignore him in all Fantasy formats going forward.
News: Cleveland Indians GM Chris Antonetti confirmed to MLB.com that Dan Wheeler has made the bullpen. Wheeler signed a minor-league deal with Cleveland in January.
Analysis: Wheeler didn't have a spectacular spring, posting an 8.00 ERA over nine innings, but he did strike out nine batters. Over his career, he sports a 3.88 ERA, and has 43 career saves, the most recent coming with Tampa Bay in 2010. While he's not likely to work his way into the saves mix this season, he could find his way into several holds -- for leagues that use the stat as a scoring category -- out of the middle relief role.
News: The Indians signed RP Dan Wheeler to a minor league deal with a spring training invite on Thursday, according to CBSSports.com Senior Baseball Writer Danny Knobler. Wheeler compiled a 4.38 ERA in 47 games with the Red Sox last season, though his season ended early due to forearm issues.
Analysis: Wheeler showed his usual sharp command last season, but he did a poor job of stranding the baserunners he put on. He is a strong candidate to win a spot in the Indians' bullpen and to have a comeback year. Wheeler is worth rostering in leagues that use middle men.
News: The Red Sox declined their $3 million option on RP Dan Wheeler for 2012 on Monday. Wheeler posted a 4.38 ERA in 47 appearances for the Red Sox in 2011 and was shut down early because of tightness in his forearm. "The way I look at it, I didn't really come in and exactly do what they wanted me to do," he told the Providence Journal on Monday. "I didn't pitch in as many games as I think they would have hoped -- and as I was hoping, too. I would have definitely liked to come back, and they've left the door open to keep the lines of communication open."
Analysis: Wheeler had several good seasons as a setup man for the Astros and, more recently, the Rays, even getting occasional opportunities as a closer. He wasn't his usual self in 2011, but injuries no doubt were a factor. As long as he signs somewhere to have a predominant role in the bullpen, he'll retain some low-end appeal in league-specific formats.
News: Boston RP Dan Wheeler is making progress with the tightness in his forearm that has kept him out since Sept. 7, reports the Providence Journal. That said, Wheeler will not pitch again in the regular season for the Red Sox. "There's no structural damage with it," he said. "It's just, at my release point, I feel a grab, a tightness that doesn't allow me to finish my pitch. With me, that's everything, my life at the end -- the life on my sinker, the life on my cutter. When I'm not able to do that consistently, it's a grind for me to get my arm through my arm slot. It's frustrating because it's definitely gotten a lot better from when it happened. It's just still not where it's good enough where I can be out there."
Analysis: Wheeler gave up just one earned run from July 18 until the first of September over 16 1/3 innings and was one of the more reliable bullpen guys for the Red Sox. Now Boston will be without him for the final few games of the regular season as they try to get into the playoffs. Wheeler pitched 49 1/3 innings this season and finished with a 4.38 ERA with a 2-2 record and 39 strikeouts over 47 appearances. He has low-end Fantasy value as a middle reliever entering next season.
News: Boston RP Dan Wheeler remains unavailable out of the bullpen, reports the Providence Journal on Tuesday. Wheeler continues to have tightness in his right forearm. "It's very frustrating. You want to be out there helping out, doing any part that you can," said Wheeler. "I'm not able to do that right now."
Analysis: Wheeler may not make it back before the end of the regular season. He wasn't helping Fantasy owners regardless and can continue to be ignored in most Fantasy formats.
News: MLB.com reports that Red Sox reliever Dan Wheeler, who has not pitched since Sept. 7, is dealing with an issue with his right forarm. "He had some forearm stiffness," said Red Sox manager Terry Francona. "We tried to stay away from him ... well we did stay away from him for a few days. He started to, I think, come through, and hopefully you'll see him in a game pretty soon."
Analysis: Wheeler will pitch in middle relief when healthy and is not a viable Fantasy option in most formats at the moment. Do not expect him to make an impact down the stretch.
News: Red Sox RP Dan Wheeler (1-1) hurled a scoreless inning of relief during Boston's 10-3 victory over Baltimore on Friday night. Wheeler pitched for the second time in the last three games and fanned two batters. He now has 22 strikeouts in 28 1/3 innings pitched this season.
Analysis: After some early-season struggles, Wheeler has started to produce as a solid option in the bullpen. He lowered his ERA in July to 1.93 after posting marks of 8.31 and 7.11 in April and May, respectively. Fantasy owners should view him as a marginal option in deeper AL-only formats.
News: Red Sox RP Dan Wheeler (calf) was activated from the 15-day disabled list on Friday. He had been on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Pawtucket. "I was just making sure that my direction is getting back on track, just really making some quality pitches," he told the Providence Journal. "That's one of the things I really focused on when I was down there."
Analysis: Wheeler has allowed 13 earned runs in 10 1/3 innings this year. He will pitch in middle relief when healthy and is not a viable Fantasy option in most formats at the moment.
News: Boston RP Dan Wheeler (calf) is expected to be removed off the disabled list and rejoin the Red Sox bullpen on Friday, reports MLB.com on Tuesday. Wheeler, who struggled while healthy this season, has made two rehab appearances for Triple-A Pawtucket. "[Matt] Albers has done a terrific job and we certainly have [Daniel] Bard," said manager Terry Francona. "But it's nice to have another guy and I think we all, when we signed Wheeler, we hoped that's what he would fill -- and we still feel that way."
Analysis: Wheeler has allowed 13 earned runs in 10 1/3 innings this year and seemed to be in need of some adjustments. As a middle reliever, his Fantasy appeal will be minimal even while healthy.
News: Red Sox reliever Dan Wheeler pitched a shutout inning in relief for Triple-A Pawtucket on Thursday afternoon. He allowed a walk, getting three outs on 10 pitches.
Analysis: Wheeler was assigned to Pawtucket Thursday to begin a 30-day rehab assignment. He was placed on the disabled list with a calf injury a week earlier. Wheeler has allowed 13 earned runs in 10 1/3 innings this year and seemed to be in need of some adjustments. As a middle reliever, his Fantasy appeal will be minimal even while healthy.
News: The Boston Globe reports that BoSox reliever Dan Wheeler has been assigned to rehab with Triple-A Pawtucket. He's dealing with a calf injury.
Analysis: Sounds like Wheeler could be back with the Red Sox soon, but he will pitch in middle relief when he comes back and typically is not a viable Fantasy option in most formats at the moment.
News: The Red Sox placed RP Dan Wheeler on the 15-day disabled list prior to Thursday's afternoon game against the Angels. Wheeler allowed two runs while recording just one out in Wednesday night's 5-3 loss to the Angels. He has been diagnosed with a left calf injury.
Analysis: Wheeler has allowed 13 earned runs in 10 1/3 innings this year and something did not seem right with him. The Red Sox will give him a chance to regroup and recover before deciding on activating him again possibly in a couple of weeks. He will pitch in middle relief when healthy and is not a viable Fantasy option in most formats at the moment.
News: Despite the early-season struggles of RP Dan Wheeler, manager Terry Francona has not lost faith in RP Dan Wheeler. "He actually has been better lately," Francona told MLB.com. "I mean, I know he gave up the home run last night. It's a little bit like [Scott Atchison]. The cutter guy, it's a great pitch until you leave it over the middle. Then it gets whacked. That's kind of what Wheels is. He's not overpowering. It's crisp. He's got that nice cutter, but when you leave it over the middle, that's the pitch that can get hit." Wheeler has posted a 9.90 ERA through 10 appearances this season.
Analysis: Wheeler has been pitching when the Red Sox are either winning by a lot or trailing over the past week or so. Still, he continues to struggle out there and has now allowed four runs over his last 4 2/3 innings pitched. While Francona said he has not lost faith in the right-hander, that could change if he doesn't get things figured out quickly. Fantasy owners should continue to consider the 33-year-old as nothing more than a low-end option for the deepest of AL-only formats that utilize middle men going forward.
News: With just eight appearances this season, Boston RP Dan Wheeler is still adjusting to his position as a situational reliever during his first year with the Red Sox. The 33-year-old had been a key member in the Tampa Bay bullpen, registering 18 saves in the previous three years. Now, he rarely enters games in close situations. "We went through that one stretch and won a bunch, eight of nine," Red Sox manager Terry Francona told the Providence Journal. "They were relatively close games, so guys had their roles and went through that week."
Analysis: In his limited action, Wheeler has struggled and allowed a run in half of his outings this season for a lackluster 9.82 ERA. Wheeler has pitched just twice in the first eight games of Boston's current road trip and that has been with the Red Sox either holding a big lead or down several runs. But the team would like that to change as the season progresses. "His role right now is probably when we're down a couple keep it close, especially (to) right-handed hitters, and that really hasn't been the case," Francona said. Fantasy owners should consider Wheeler a marginal RP option in AL-only formats until he receives more playing time.
News: Red Sox RP Dan Wheeler entered Sunday's game against the Blue Jays in the ninth inning with his team leading by seven. He needed just eight pitches to retire the side in order and lower his ERA to 11.81 in the 8-1 win. "It's good to go out there and put up some outs," he told the Providence Journal. "It's good to have that feeling back."
Analysis: Wheeler has allowed seven earned runs in just 5 1/3 inning thus far but has yet to walk a batter. "I feel like I'm still making some pitches," he said. "I've got to get into a groove. I hate to say it's early. It's not an excuse or a reason. But it just boils down to not making pitches, and I feel like I can make pitches no matter who's in the box, lefty or righty." The right-hander has posted an ERA under 4.00 each of the last three seasons so he should be fine over the long haul but since he is not likely to see many save chances in Boston, continue to view Wheeler as nothing more than a low-end option for the deepest of AL-only formats that utilize middle men going forward.
News: RP Dan Wheeler was just one of the major bullpen additions the Red Sox added this offseason, with the other being Bobby Jenks. Jenks, Daniel Bard and Jonathan Papelbon are likely to get most of the work in the late innings, meaning Wheeler will be a valuable arm in the middle innings. “(He’s a) veteran guy who can throw an inning or multiple (innings),” Red Sox manager Terry Francona told the Providence Journal. “He doesn’t shy away from big innings.”
Analysis: Wheeler allowed less than a base runner per inning during his three seasons with the Rays prior to joining Boston. Wheeler even posted an impressive 0.98 WHIP during that span. Wheeler faced three times as many right-handed hitters as lefties in 2010, but Francona said “we didn’t just get (Wheeler) to be a righthanded specialist." Since he won't get many saves, Wheeler is best used in Rotisserie Fantasy leagues that use true middle men for his ERA, WHIP and strikeouts.
News: The Boston Red Sox have upgraded their bullpen by adding former Tampa Bay reliever Dan Wheeler. Wheeler's deal is for $3 millions for one year with a $3 million option for 2012.
Analysis: Wheeler has been a reliable middle reliever over the last several seasons. He won't be closing games for the Red Sox, and so is just a middle relief option for Fantasy leagues that use them.
News: The Rays have declined a $4.25 million option on RP Dan Wheeler, who will now get a $1 million buyout. Wheeler is a veteran of 11 major league seasons who has spent parts of seven seasons with the Rays. He went 2-4 with three saves and a 3.35 ERA in 64 games in 2010.
Analysis: Wheeler has been a reliable middle reliever over the last several seasons. He has not made much of his opportunities to close games, but he still has appeal in Fantasy leagues that use true middle men.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler earned his third save of the season in Monday's 4-2 win over the Twins. Wheeler pitched a scoreless two-thirds of an inning to nail down the save. He did not record a walk or strikeout.
Analysis: Wheeler was used on Monday because Tampa's regular closer Rafael Soriano had pitched the last three days in a row. He has been very productive for the Rays out of the bullpen this season and seems to be the backup closer Soriano is unavailable. Wheeler continues to be a nice Rotisserie option in formats that use holds and WHIP.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler claimed his second save of the season Thursday when he closed out Tampa Bay's 4-2 win over the Tigers. Wheeler pitched for two scoreless innings, striking out two.
Analysis: We're not sure why Wheeler was filling in for usual closer Rafael Soriano on Thursday, but Wheeler's few owners in deeper AL-only leagues won't be complaining by any means. Wheeler continues to be a nice Rotisserie option in formats that use holds and WHIP.
News: Tampa Bay RP Dan Wheeler (foot) was able to pitch on Tuesday in Baltimore. Wheeler came on to pitch in the 12th inning and walked a batter over an inning of work as the Orioles won in the bottom of the 13th. Wheeler threw 13 pitches and his ERA is at 2.93 on the year.
Analysis: Wheeler has given up two earned runs over his last 11 appearances for the Rays over nine innings pitched and has done well in relief. Unfortunately for his Fantasy value, Wheeler is merely a middle-relief option in Fantasy leagues that use them.
News: Tampa Bay reliever Dan Wheeler was hit in the right foot by a line drive in the ninth on Monday against the Orioles. He sustained a bruise, but X-rays were negative. Wheeler pitched a full inning and struck out one batter. His ERA is at 3.03 on the year.
Analysis: Wheeler has allowed just two runs over his last 10 appearances spanning eight innings. He's been solid in middle relief for the Rays but is just a middle-relief option in Fantasy leagues that use them. He shouldn't miss any time considering he finished the game after getting hit.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler pitched a scoreless 1 2/3 innings on Thursday night against the Indians to pick up his first save of the year. The right-hander allowed a hit but struck out one in the 5-2 win. It was his 500th career strikeout. It was the second night in a row that the Rays used someone other than Rafael Soriano to close out the game. Soriano rested again after pitching four straight days.
Analysis: Wheeler has not allowed an earned run in six straight outings and has a 2.93 ERA on the year. Saves chances are few and far between for Wheeler, so Fantasy owners should not get used to this. Still, he has proved to be a solid setup man in Tampa Bay and should be be active in AL-only formats that value middle men.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler only recorded two outs on Sunday, but it proved to be enough to earn the win in a 2-1 victory over the Mariners. He entered the game in the eighth with the score tied at 1-1. After recording the final two outs in the top half of the inning, the Rays scored the game-winning run in the bottom of the eighth to give the right-hander his second win of the season. Wheeler has a 2.19 ERA in 16 outings this season.
Analysis: Second time this season that a Rays comeback equated to a Wheeler victory. Tampa Bay did it for him on April 24 as well. Wheeler is a solid setup man on a great team but with Rafael Soriano on the team, he does not stand to get many closing opportunities. Leave him for AL-only formats at this point that value middle men.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler only faced one batter on Saturday, but that was all he needed to earn the win against the Blue Jays. Wheeler struck out Alex Gonzalez with two on and two outs in the eighth to end that threat. The Rays then put up seven runs in the bottom half of the inning to give the Rays, and Wheeler, the 9-3 win.
Analysis: This was Wheeler's first win of the year in eight outings. He got a big out when it mattered and was rewarded with the 22nd win of his career. Wheeler probably won't get many save opportunities this season with Rafael Soriano in the bullpen, so he is viable mostly in AL-only leagues.
News: Rays manager Joe Maddon said closer J.P. Howell has been shut down for the rest of the season. "The last few years, he's thrown more relief innings than any pitcher in baseball and there's nothing positive to be derived from having him pitch for the last 10 games, so we decided to shut him down," Maddon said.
Analysis: The Rays didn't say who would close in Howell's place, but would you really want to take a chance on a newcomer this late in the season? Most likely, they'll turn to a committe, perhaps one led by Dan Wheeler and Randy Choate. You shouldn't bother with either of them outside of AL-only leagues, though. As for Howell, he pitched well enough to close for the Rays next season. If he does, he'll be a No. 2 Fantasy RP for an expected contender.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: RHP Dan Wheeler allowed his 11th homer of the season Tuesday, matching his 2007 career high. The 32 homers he has allowed over the last three seasons are the most of any reliever.
Analysis: Wheeler is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men for the final Fantasy Week 26 (Sept. 28-Oct. 4).
News: Tampa Bay RP Dan Wheeler got the final two outs in Wednesday's win over Boston for his 2nd save of the season.
Analysis: Wheeler has appeal in larger AL-only Rotisserie formats for his help in ERA and WHIP, but he should not be relied upon for saves.
News:Dan Wheeler worked the ninth inning Thursday afternoon against Toronto for his first save of the season. He did not allow a baserunner and struck out one batter in the outing.
Analysis: The Rays had begun to use a closer-by-committee approach when Troy Percival went down with an injury, but Wheeler never got a chance to close out any games until now. J.P. Howell pitched 2 2/3 innings over the last two days and was not used Thursday despite being the team's closer at the moment. Wheeler has appeal in larger AL-only Rotisserie formats for his help in ERA and WHIP, but he should not be relied upon for saves.
News: Rays reliever Dan Wheeler has not allowed an earned run in 10 outings. He allowed just two earned runs in the Month of June, earning a 1.80 ERA during the month.
Analysis: The Rays had begun to use a closer-by-committee approach when Troy Percival went down with an injury, but Wheeler never got a chance to close out any games. J.P. Howell has taken over as the regular closer now, but Wheeler still has appeal in larger AL-only Rotisserie formats for his help in ERA and WHIP.
News: The Rays used Dan Wheeler and Randy Choate in the bottom of the ninth inning Saturday at the Yankees to hang on to get the final three outs of a 9-7 win. Wheeler allowed two runs in 2/3 of an inning before giving way to Choate, who got the final out for his third save.
Analysis: The Rays continue to use a closer-by-committee approach while Troy Percival is on the disabled list. Choate seems to be the most successful at the moment, but just about anybody can get a save on any given night for the Rays. None are worth more than a flier in AL-only at this time.
News: The St. Pete Times reports that Rays manager Joe Maddon will use "the whole bullpen" to finish games with Troy Percival on the 15-day DL.
Analysis: Well, this is just a big slap in the face for Fantasy owners. One reliever might emerge from the pack at some point, but with such a big group of contenders (Jason Isringhausen, Dan Wheeler, Joe Nelson, Grant Balfour, J.P. Howell, Dale Thayer), it's just way too much of a risk to take a flier on just one of them. Continue to monitor this mess.
News: With Troy Percival going on the 15-day DL Friday, the closer's job in Tampa is now up for grabs. The leading contenders appear to be RPs Joe Nelson (5.60, two saves), Grant Balfour (5.12, one save), Dan Wheeler (5.40, no saves) and Dale Thayer (0.93, six saves in Triple-A). J.P. Howell could also be an option.
Analysis: Wheeler finished second on the team behind Percival last year with 13 saves, but he hasn't pitched particularly well so far in 2009. He's the likely favorite to get the majority of opportunities, but a by-committee approach is also a probable option. Thayer is definitely the wild card option in this bunch, as he had five straight 20-save seasons in the minors before last year.
News: Rays reliever Dan Wheeler has not allowed a run in his last five outings, allowing him to lower his ERA to 7.00 from 13.50. He has recorded holds in each of his last two outings.
Analysis: Wheeler had a bounce-back season last year, posting a 3.12 ERA with 26 holds and he even posted 13 saves in the absence of Troy Percival. He got off to a bad start, but appears to be straightened out now and Fantasy owners could take advantage of the fact that he'll be lowering his ERA considerably the rest of the way.
News:Carlos Quentin and Jim Thome hit back-to-back homers as the White Sox beat the Rays 12-2 on Sunday. Quentin hit his seventh homer of the season -- a two-run shot -- and Thome followed with his 544th career home run in the eighth inning off Dan Wheeler.
Analysis: Wheeler is not getting save chances and is pitching like a junk reliever right now. It might be time to find another reliever even in deeper leagues.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler, who recorded 13 saves last year and served as the team's closer for much of its playoff run, will resume setup duties with Troy Percival healthy to start the season.
Analysis: Percival is no spring chicken, so Wheeler could still find himself getting occasional save chances this season. Of course, the Rays also have Grant Balfour, who has better overall numbers than Wheeler. Even when not closing, Wheeler helps enough in other categories to deserve a roster spot in deeper Rotisserie leagues.
News: Rays closer Dan Wheeler couldn't preserve a three-run lead Thursday in Game 5 of the ALCS at Boston. He allowed three runs on three hits in 1 1/3 innings, walking one and striking out one. The blown save was his second of the postseason and, for the moment at least, cost the Rays a spot in the World Series.
Analysis: Wheeler is more of a decent setup man than a top closer, but he can be a sleeper for deeper formats in spring 2009. Track his progress through the postseason and the winter to see if he ends up a ninth-inning guy again.
News: Rays closer Dan Wheeler couldn't preserve the lead in the ninth inning Saturday in Game 2 of the ALCS against the Red Sox, allowing the tying run to score on a wild pitch. He ended up pitching 3 1/3 innings as the game went 11 total. He allowed one hit and two walks, recording four strikeouts.
Analysis: Wheeler is more of a decent setup man than a top closer, but he can be a sleeper for deeper formats in spring 2009. Track his progress through the postseason and the winter to see if he ends up a ninth-inning guy again.
News: Rays closer Dan Wheeler saved the first postseason game in the history of the franchise, allowing a solo home run in an otherwise perfect ninth inning. He also recorded a strikeout.
Analysis: Wheeler is more of a decent setup man than a top closer, but he can be a sleeper for deeper formats in spring 2009. Track his progress through the postseason and the winter to see if he ends up a ninth-inning guy again.
News: Tampa Bay might go without closer Troy Percival in their series with the White Sox. Team officials have told Percival it is likely he will left off the first-round playoff roster. "Right now it doesn't look like I'm going to be on it," Percival said. "They're not 100 percent positive yet. There's nothing I can do about it. It is what it is, and I understand I've spent the good majority of two months not healthy and not pitching well." Percival, who closed out the Angels' championship in the 2002 World Series, provided key leadership for the upstart Rays, who are in the postseason for the first time ever. "I'm not going to argue with them," Percival said. "They're going to do what they think is best. If it includes me great, if it doesn't then I'll be here clapping." Dan Wheeler filled in for Percival during his two stints on the disabled list (left hamstring and right knee), and converted 13 of 18 save opportunities.
Analysis: Wheeler is more of a decent setup man than a top closer, but he can be a sleeper for deeper formats in spring 2009. Track his progress through the postseason and the winter.
News: Rays closer Dan Wheeler pitched a perfect ninth inning on Tuesday in the first game of a doubleheader against the Orioles to earn his 13th save on the year.
Analysis: It is obvious that Wheeler is the Rays' choice to close over the season's final week. If he enters 2009 as the team's closer, he'll be nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Rays closer Dan Wheeler allowed one hit in two-thirds of an inning to record his 13th save Monday at Baltimore. He also recorded a strikeout.
Analysis: The Rays haven't been so clear about their closer situation during the final month, but Wheeler appears the favorite over Troy Percival and Grant Balfour for now. If he enters 2009 as the team's closer, he'll be nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News:Dan Wheeler (5-5) struck out the only batter he faced to bail Tampa Bay out of a ninth-inning jam and get the victory Tuesday. "We're finally getting to the point now where we're starting to believe that we can beat these guys, and that's very important," manager Joe Maddon said. "You've got to believe you can beat all the guys in the division if you're going to win it."
Analysis: Wheeler can save games from time to time, but he is mostly a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men down the stretch, barring another injury to Troy Percival.
News: Tampa Bay took a 3-1 lead in the fourth and still led 3-2 with two outs in the eighth Tuesday when Dan Wheeler (4-5) walked Kevin Youkilis and then Jason Bay barely cleared the Green Monster to give Boston the lead. Bay, acquired at the trade deadline, homered for the third straight game.
Analysis: Wheeler can save games from time to time, but he is mostly a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men down the stretch, barring another injury to Troy Percival.
News: Even with Troy Percival off the DL, the Rays turned to RP Dan Wheeler for the save Thursday against the Yankees. He only needed to record one out.
Analysis: Wheeler came on in the middle of an inning, which might have affected the Rays' decision to go with him instead of Percival. Percival still figures to get more saves down the stretch, so treat Wheeler as nothing more than a middle reliever.
News: Orioles RF Nick Markakis hit a game-tying solo homer with two outs in the ninth Saturday off Rays reliever Dan Wheeler (3-5), who blew his third save in 13 opportunities. Wheeler finished the game as the Rays won it in the bottom of the ninth and Wheeler picked up his third win of the year. In one inning, Wheeler allowed one hit and one run and struck out two.
Analysis: Wheeler really hasn't been the closer the Rays would have hoped for with Troy Percival out with injury. Percival, however, looks to be returning in Fantasy Week 23 (Sept. 1-7) so Wheeler will become just a middle-relief option again. Check back on this situation, but both Wheeler and Percival are risky starts next week.
News: Rays closer Dan Wheeler pitched a perfect ninth inning Thursday against the Blue Jays, striking out two to record his 10th save and second in two days.
Analysis: Wheeler has thrived since taking over for the injured Troy Percival (knee), but the Rays act like Percival will return next week. If you own Wheeler in a mixed league, he doesn't look like a safe start anymore.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler pitched a scoreless ninth inning for his ninth save in 11 chances during Wednesday's 1-0 win against the Blue Jays. He needed 10 pitches to retire the side, which included a strikeout of Jose A. Bautista.
Analysis: Wheeler has five saves since Aug. 17 and has allowed just one run in his last eight appearances. Tampa Bay manager Joe Maddon has said the Rays will use a closer by committee approach with Troy Percival on the DL but so far Wheeler has shut the door the last four opportunities and looks like the man that Maddon will trust with the ball in the ninth. Consider Wheeler a viable Fantasy stopgap option while he is closing out games.
News: Tampa Bay RP Dan Wheeler notched himself another save on Saturday against the White Sox. Wheeler pitched a perfect ninth and struck out a batter for his 8th save.
Analysis: Tampa Bay manager Joe Maddon has said the Rays will use a closer by committee approach with Troy Percival on the DL but so far Wheeler has shut the door the last four opportunities and looks like the man that Maddon will trust with the ball in the ninth. If Wheeler is the closer from here on out he automatically becomes Fantasy viable in deeper mixed leagues because he'll be closing games for a team that figures to win quite a few of them down the stretch.
News: Tampa reliever Dan Wheeler finished off a 4-2 victory over the Angels on Tuesday night by striking out two in an inning of work. He earned his seventh save of the season.
Analysis: With Troy Percival on the DL until late August, the Rays have opted to go with a closer-by-committee approach. However, Wheeler has worked the ninth in three straight games and appears to be manager Joe Maddon's top choice at this time. Consider him a stopgap Fantasy RP.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler needed just 12 pitches to retire the side in the ninth inning during Monday's 6-4 win against the Angels for his sixth save. Wheeler struck out one in the perfect ninth and got his save second in as many days.
Analysis: With Troy Percival on the DL until late August, the Rays have opted to go with a closer-by-committee approach. However, Wheeler has worked the ninth in recent days and appears to be manager Joe Maddon's top choice at this time. Consider him a stopgap Fantasy RP.
News: Four Tampa Bay relievers each worked a scoreless inning Wednesday to preserve the victory. J.P. Howell pitched the sixth, Grant Balfour struck out a pair in the seventh, Dan Wheeler handled the eighth and Troy Percival wrapped it up in the ninth for his 23rd save in 25 opportunities. It was the 346th save of Percival's career, tying him with Randy Myers for eighth on the all-time list.
Analysis: Balfour is the best of the Rays setup man, because of his knockout stuff and potential to close if Percival goes down again. Howell and Wheeler are nothing more than middle relievers for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men.
News: Tampa Bay reliever Dan Wheeler came on in the ninth inning Saturday against the Blue Jays in relief of struggling pitcher Al Reyes. Wheeler got the last two outs in the game for his fourth save on the year.
Analysis: Wheeler's ERA is 2.34 and he proved he can handle a save every now and then. With Troy Percival on his way back, though, he won't get too many more chances. He remains mostly an NL-only middle relief option who has the chance to close every now and again.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler, acting as closer with Troy Percival on the DL, pitched 1 1/3 innings to record his third save Wednesday against the Red Sox. He allowed one unearned run on one hit, recording one strikeout.
Analysis: Wheeler has a nifty 1.82 ERA and some prior experience closing with the Astros, so consider him a decent stopgap until Percival returns, especially since he pitches for a contender.
News: Tampa Bay managed a walk-off victory over Houston Saturday as Gabe Kapler singled home two runs in the bottom of the ninth. The winning pitcher for the Rays was former closer -- when Troy Percival was out with injury -- Dan Wheeler. Wheeler pitched 2/3 of an inning and was perfect to pick up his second victory of the season.
Analysis: Wheeler extended his scoreless appearance streak to six games with Saturday's victory over the Astros. Still, with Percival returning as the full-time closer for the second-place Rays, Wheeler's Fantasy value is nothing more than a middle-relief option in leagues that use them.
News: According to The Sports Xchange notes: RHP Troy Percival passed the final test of his sore left hamstring, throwing about 30 pitches to Jonny Gomes in a simulated game Tuesday, and he is ready to be activated when eligible Friday. "Went fine," Percival said. Dan Wheeler will go back to being a setup man this weekend.
Analysis: Percival is expected to return in the closer's role, so consider him a viable option in any league where you need saves. The Rays are a solid source of them, because of their much-improved rotation. Wheeler goes back to being nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men. Long term, we think Wheeler has a good chance to see more save opportunities since Percival is old and a periodic injury risk.
News: Tampa Bay closer Troy Percival was expected to throw a simulated game Monday or Tuesday in Anaheim and could be closing games again by the end of the week. Dan Wheeler will go back to being his setup man.
Analysis: Percival is too risky of a start outside of deeper AL-only leagues at this point. Since Wheeler will be a half-week closer, too, he is in the same boat. Long term, we think Wheeler has a good chance to see more save opportunities since Percival is old and a periodic injury risk.
News: Tampa Bay RP Dan Wheeler, subbing for injured closer Troy Percival, got four outs for his second save in as many chances Saturday against Texas. With the score 5-3 in the ninth, Ramon Vazquez singled off Wheeler and went to third on Ian Kinsler's second double of the night. Wheeler walked Chris Shelton to load the bases, and had to face major league RBI leader Josh Hamilton, whose fielder's choice drove in his 69th run. Milton Bradley was retired on a ground ball to end the game.
Analysis: Wheeler will get the first crack at saves right now. His 2.22 ERA is impressive, and he saved 11 games between Houston and Tampa Bay last season, so take a flier on him in Fantasy for as long as Percival remains sidelined.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler, presumably the closer with Troy Percival on the DL, couldn't quite nail down his second save Saturday against the White Sox. He recorded the first out of the ninth inning, but after allowing a hit and a walk, he gave way to left-hander Trever Miller. Grant Balfour ended up recording the save.
Analysis: The Rays probably wanted to play matchups more than anything else. We still say Wheeler will get the first crack at saves right now. His 2.08 ERA is impressive, and he saved 11 games between Houston and Tampa Bay last season, so take a flier on him in Fantasy for as long as Percival remains sidelined.
News: Rays RP Dan Wheeler, expected to take over as closer with Troy Percival on the DL, got a win, not a save, Friday against the White Sox. He worked a scoreless top of the ninth inning, walking one batter, before Cliff Floyd won the game on a walk-off home run.
Analysis: Wheeler now has one win and one save this season. His 2.10 ERA is impressive, and he saved 11 games between Houston and Tampa Bay last season, so take a flier on him in Fantasy for as long as Percival remains sidelined.
News: 620 WDAE reports that Troy Percival has been placed on the 15-day disabled list Thursday, and the Rays brought up Willy Aybar (hamstring) to take his roster spot.
Analysis: Percival went for an MRI after injuring his hammy Wednesday afternoon. It sounds like it will be a minimal stay on the DL, into mid-June. Dan Wheeler will likely get the majority of save chances in his place, with Al Reyes also a candidate for a few. Consider Wheeler in mixed leagues, since he now closes games for the team with the best record in the major leagues. Reyes is more of an AL-only option.
News: Rays closer Troy Percival left Wednesday's afternoon game against Texas in the top of the ninth inning after twisting his left ankle while making a pitch. He recorded the first two outs of the inning and was in line for a save, but was unable to remain in the game after trying to throw a warmup pitch from the mound. He was replaced by Dan Wheeler, who picked up the final out for the save after allowing an RBI single.
Analysis: Percival took one pitch from the mound and immediately walked off, which makes us believe he'll be out for at least a couple of games. A DL stint seems like a possibility, but that's purely conjecture at this point. Think about adding either Wheeler or Al Reyes as insurance as insurance in AL-only leagues. It appears Wheeler would have the heads up for saves by the fact that he was used Wednesday to get the final out.
News:Dan Wheeler has allowed three earned runs in his past two outings this past weekend in St. Louis (1 1/3 IP, 2 HA, 1 BB, 1 K).
Analysis: Wheeler's ERA climbed to a still respectable 2.31, and his WHIP is still below 1.00 (0.86). Continue using him in AL-only leagues for help in those categories. He's third in line for saves on the Rays behind Troy Percival and Al Reyes.
News:Kevin Youkilis had four RBI on Sunday, spoiling the return of Rays ace Scott Kazmir. Youkilis had a pair of doubles and a solo shot, his third home run of the season off Dan Wheeler in the seventh inning for a 5-3 lead. His two-run double in the eighth off Scott Dohmann extended Boston's lead to 7-3.
Analysis: Wheeler and Dohmann are nothing more than a middle relievers for the Rays and the deepest of AL-only leagues.
News:Dan Wheeler (0-2) allowed one run and three hits in 1 2/3 innings to get the loss at Minnesota Wednesday.
Analysis: Wheeler has a 2.25 ERA working in the later innings for the Rays. Wheeler will be one of Troy Percival's primary setup men along with Al Reyes, currently on the 15-day disabled list with a bad shoulder. Consider him nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler worked another 1 1/3 scoreless innings Tuesday, making it 5 1/3 for the season with just one runner allowed.
Analysis: Wheeler will be one of Troy Percival's primary setup men along with Al Reyes this season. Consider him nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men.
News:Carl Crawford's $8.25 million for 2009 was exercised Tuesday by the Rays, who declined Rocco Baldelli's $6 million option and agreed to a $10.5 million, three-year deal with reliever Dan Wheeler. Wheeler will earn $2.8 million this season, $3.2 million in 2009 and $3.5 million in 2010. The 2011 option is for $4 million with a $1 million buyout.
Analysis: Wheeler will be one of Troy Percival's primary setup men along with Al Reyes this season. Consider him nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men.
News:Dan Wheeler came on and pitched a scoreless ninth against Tampa Bay Monday.
Analysis: Wheeler will be one of Troy Percival's primary setup men along with Al Reyes, who also came in for two-thirds of an innings. Neither of these players are worth owning outside of AL-only play.
News: RP Dan Wheeler and the Rays avoided arbitration, agreeing Tuesday to a $2,875,000, one-year contract. The 30-year-old right-hander was obtained in a trade that sent Ty Wigginton to Houston last July.
Analysis: Wheeler was 0-5 with a 5.76 ERA in 25 appearances for the Rays after going 1-4 with a 5.07 ERA in 45 games with the Astros. He might pick up a save here or there but only has Fantasy value in the deepest of leagues that use true middle men.
News: Dan Wheeler pitched the eighth inning in Monday's game at Boston and closer Al Reyes got his 24th save in 26 chances with a perfect ninth.
Analysis: Wheeler's Fantasy value remains limited to deeper AL-only Fantasy leagues which use true middle relievers.
News: Dan Wheeler (0-3) was charged with four earned runs in the eighth inning of Tuesday's appearance against the Orioles. "It's kind of frustrating because I've been throwing the ball good and to go out there and do that," Wheeler said.
Analysis: Wheeler has been terrible since coming over from the Astros in a trade, posting 11 earned runs in 13 2/3 innings (7.24 ERA). He should be reserved in all AL-only Fantasy leagues until he starts pitching consistently again.
News: Tampa Bay's pitching was battered all night on Tuesday in Detroit. Starter Jason Hammel remained winless in 13 career starts, giving up five runs and 10 hits with a walk in four innings. Relievers Juan Salas and Dan Wheeler combined to give up four runs in 3 1/3 innings. The Devil Rays have lost three straight overall, eight straight on the road and 19 of 21 away from home. "I made good pitches that they hit, and I made bad pitches that they hit," Hammel said. "That's a good-swinging ballclub."
Analysis: Wheeler has managed an 0-1 record with a 7.36 ERA since coming over from the Houston Astros in the Ty Wigginton trade. He did not allow any runs in his other two Tampa Bay appearances. He remains useful in AL-only Fantasy leagues which use true middle relievers.
News: Manager Joe Maddon is hopeful that RHP Dan Wheeler, acquired from Houston Saturday, will become the eighth-inning setup man and fill in for Al Reyes when the closer is not available.
Analysis: Neither Reyes or Wheeler were moved by the Devil Rays at the trade deadline. Wheeler's Fantasy appeal is limited to the deepest of AL-only leagues which use true middle relievers.
News: The Houston Astros added some much-needed offense, trading reliever Dan Wheeler to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays for infielder Ty Wigginton.
Analysis: Wheeler took over as the Astros' closer when Brad Lidge struggled earlier in the season. He had 11 saves in 15 chances and a 5.07 ERA for Houston. Lidge recently won back the job and has converted six straight saves. This move by the Devil Rays might have an underlying story. Devil Rays closer Al Reyes' name has come up repeatedly in trade discussions, and by obtaining Wheeler, perhaps the team is ready to deal Reyes for some prospects. For now, Wheeler comes in as a middle reliever, but he might develop into a closer if Reyes is dealt. Stay tuned.
News: RHP Brad Lidge, who came off the DL last week, mvoed back into the closer's role, replacing Dan Wheeler.
Analysis: Wheeler is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of NL-only leagues that use true middle men at this point. He would resume his role as closer if (when?) Lidge is dealt before the trade deadline.
News: Brad Lidge (oblique) will pitch one inning Wednesday in Double-A to start a rehab assignment, according to MLB.com. "I feel great," Lidge told the official website Sunday. "I'll go to Frisco on Wednesday, and I'm hoping to be as close to 100 percent as I can, and hopefully be ready to go on Friday in Chicago." Manager Phil Gardner said Lidge will work as a middle reliever before resuming his closer's duty, though. Dan Wheeler will get the save chances to open the Cubs series.
Analysis: Wheeler is a candidate to use as a closer in deeper leagues for Fantasy Week 15 (July 12-15). He might lose his save opportunities to Lidge as early as Sunday, though. Wheeler will be a setup man after Lidge works an inning or two in middle relief after the break.
News: Despite Woody Williams' strong start Monday, the Astros' bullpen still almost blew it. Houston started the ninth with a 7-3 lead before Dan Wheeler gave up a leadoff double to Ryan Howard. After an out, a walk and a hit batsman, Carlos Ruiz hit a two-run double. Wheeler was replaced by Trever Miller, who got two outs for his first save in three chances.
Analysis: Wheeler is struggling, but still a decent source of saves in deeper leagues. With Brad Lidge on the verge of returning, however, that won't last for long.
News: Dan Wheeler, who had pitched four scoreless innings in two-inning stints over the previous two games, was unavailable Friday night.
Analysis: Wheeler is struggling, but still a decent source of saves in deeper leagues. He will go back to being a setup man once Brad Lidge is ready to come off the DL in July.
News: When asked about his shaky bullpen situation, manager Phil Garner said his closer was Dan Wheeler and his setup man was "et al."
Analysis: Wheeler is struggling, but still a decent source of saves in deeper leagues. He will go back to being a setup man once Brad Lidge is ready to come off the DL in July.
News: Dan Wheeler (1-4) pitched two innings, allowing three home runs in a span of seven batters. Chad Qualls pitched the 10th for his second save in four chances.
Analysis: Wheeler is the closer again with Brad Lidge on the disabled list. He has blown four saves this year, but he did get the win anyway. He's someone to consider in larger Rotisserie leagues for saves, but he could hurt your ERA.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Astros RP Dan Wheeler will close games while Brad Lidge is on the disabled list recovering from a strained left oblique. Wheeler has been the Astros' closer for much of the season but was replaced by Lidge earlier this month after going 11-for-13 in save opportunities as closer. "I'm going to try to view it as another opportunity," Wheeler said. "It's tough luck for Brad. The way he's been throwing was tremendous, and he's earned that spot back. I try to go out there and take advantage of every opportunity I can and just show whomever I can close, and maybe someday in the future there's a chance I can."
Analysis: With Lidge on the mend, Wheeler will once again be a must-start in all NL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: The Houston Astros placed closer Brad Lidge on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday night because of a pulled oblique muscle in his left side. That means Dan Wheeler will step back into the closer's role for at least the next two weeks.
Analysis: With Lidge on the mend, Wheeler will once again be a must-start in all NL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Mark Kotsay led off the ninth inning with a homer off Brad Lidge, who was trying to close out a game for the first time since April, when manager Phil Garner demoted him from the role. Kotsay hit Lidge's third pitch, a hanging slider, into the right-field seats for his first home run of the season. Kotsay went 4-for-5, his best game since coming off the DL on June 1. He'd never faced Lidge. "I've been watching him on TV," Kotsay said. "I knew he was a fastball, slider guy." Dan Wheeler, deposed from the closer role after blowing a save last Thursday in Colorado, shut out the A's in the eighth before Garner turned to Lidge.
Analysis: Garner said he's sticking with Lidge as his closer. "He's been throwing the ball so well," Garner said. "He just tried to make a superhuman, unbelievable nasty slider (to Kotsay) and he doesn't have to do that. He just has to throw a nice one." Lidge had pitched well lately as a setup man, allowing only one earned run in his last 19 2/3 innings. He's 0-for-3 on save opportunities this season. "I've been feeling really good and I was still feeling good focus tonight," Lidge said. "I maybe got a little too overamped on an 0-2 pitch. I tried to throw too good of one and probably left it up for him a little bit too much." Lidge is a risky closer for deeper leagues, but one with strikeout potential. Wheeler is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of NL-only leagues that use true middle men.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler, who had been the Astros' closer since April 9, pitched a scoreless eighth inning in his first appearance as a setup man. Phil Garner informed him and Brad Lidge that Lidge has regained the closer's role, according to The Sports Xchange.
Analysis: Wheeler should still get some save chances, but he's not a great option at the closer position in most leagues at this point. Lidge has been hot.
News: The Astros appear ready to hand the closer's duties back to RP Brad Lidge, according to MLB.com. Astros manager Phil Garner said the change might not be immediate, but the wheels are already in motion for Lidge to overtake current closer Dan Wheeler. "I still believe that we're at our best if Lidge is doing what he's doing now, and Wheeler and (Chad) Qualls and (Trever) Miller are all doing their things," Garner said.
Analysis: The Astros skipper talked with both Lidge and Wheeler about the change Saturday. "(Wheeler's) disappointed, but I'm not so sure he's sure he's not disappointed in the way he's pitching," Garner said. "When I made this move (to use Wheeler as the closer), it was understood that if Lidge gets back on track, he goes back to his role. The good news is Danny's done a heck of a job here. The key phrase here is I'm going to transition (Lidge) back. You may not see it for a few games." Wheeler still might receive a few save chances during Fantasy Week 11 (June 11-17), but his days as a full-time closer are done. He goes back to being a middle reliever in Fantasy leagues that use true middle men.
News: Dan Wheeler took care of the ninth inning for his 11th save Friday at the White Sox, bouncing back a night after suffering his second blown save and third loss of the season.
Analysis: Wheeler has allowed three earned runs in three of his last five appearances. The whispers have already begun about Brad Lidge possibly regaining his closer's role. However, Wheeler might have save his skin for another week with Friday's great outing. He still remains the closer in Houston and is a viable option for saves in all Fantasy formats.
News: A day after a ninth inning meltdown against the Rockies, the Astros went right back to Dan Wheeler to close out Friday's 5-2 win over the White Sox. Wheeler pitched a flawless ninth inning and struck out two along the way. It was his second save in five days.
Analysis: Wheeler has allowed three earned runs in three of his last five appearances. The whispers have already begun about Brad Lidge possibly regaining his closer's role. However, Wheeler might have save his skin for another week with Friday's great outing. He still remains the closer in Houston and is a viable option for saves in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Astros were ahead 6-4 on Thursday against the Rockies when Dan Wheeler, who had converted 10 straight save chances, took over from former closer Brad Lidge to start the ninth. Kaz Matsui doubled leading off and scored on a single by Matt Holliday, his fourth hit of the game. Todd Helton lined the ball off the glove of left fielder Carlos Lee for a single, Garrett Atkins loaded the bases with a walk and Brad Hawpe tied the score with a sacrifice fly. Troy Tulowitzki hit a 1-2 pitch under the glove of shortstop Adam Everett, scoring pinch-runner Jamey Carroll for the winning run.
Analysis: Wheeler has allowed three earned runs in three of his last four appearances. The whispers have already begun about Brad Lidge possibly regaining his closer's role. Wheeler owners might want to take a flier on Lidge, just in case it happens. Wheeler remains the Astros closer for now.
News: Dan Wheeler blew another save Thursday. RHP Brad Lidge, who has the best ERA on the pitching staff at 2.60, pitched his 10th consecutive scoreless inning Thursday. Coming into the game, in 22 outings since April 22, he had a 0.77 ERA in 23 1/3 innings.
Analysis: Take an immediate flier in all leagues on Lidge if you need a closer. He has strikeout potential and has the potential to be a dominant closer again. The Astros have intended of making him the closer again and his hot streak with Wheeler's slump is a perfect time to make the switch. An announcement should be coming. Beat your league mates to the waiver wire on Lidge!
News: RHP Dan Wheeler pitched a perfect ninth inning Tuesday for the Astros' first save since May 16 against Cincinnati.
Analysis: Wheeler has to be feeling the heat from a red-hot Brad Lidge in middle relief. He remains the closer, though, at least temporarily. Consider him an option for saves in deeper leagues for as long as he's able to hold off Lidge.
News: The Astros decided to bring in RP Dan Wheeler during a non-save situation Sunday against the Cardinals and the move worked out for one inning. Wheeler pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning as the game was tied at 5. He even had two strikeouts in the inning. However, the 10th inning didn't turn out so well. He allowed a one-out homer to So Taguchi. Then David Eckstein singled and two batter later, Albert Pujols drove a 3-2 pitch into left center for his second homer of the game. Wheeler's night ended after that. He also allowed three earned runs in a relief appearance against the Cardinals on Friday.
Analysis: As long as Wheeler doesn't have to face the Cardinals, he is solid on the mound for the most part. The Cardinals did some damage to his ERA this weekend, but he is still not in jeopardy of losing his closer's job...yet. He still remains a viable source of saves in all Fantasy formats.
News: Astros closer Dan Wheeler recorded the final two outs of the eighth inning Sunday in a loss vs. Arizona. He has not had a save chance since May 16.
Analysis: Wheeler is 7-for-8 in save opportunities, but remains a low-end closer option at the moment. His job is far from guaranteed this summer and he's seeing save chances hard to come by at the moment.
News: Astros RP Dan Wheeler closed the door on the Giants during Wednesday's 2-1 win for his ninth save. He worked a scoreless and hitless ninth inning, and struck out one. His last save came back on April 9.
Analysis: Wheeler has had some rough times as of late, allowing at least one run in three of his last five apperances. But no one is challenging him for the closer's job in Houston and remains a solid No. 2 option in mixed leagues.
News: Brad Lidge retired the four batters he faced Wednesday at Cincinnati, and Dan Wheeler pitched the ninth for his third save of the series, leaving him 7-of-8 overall.
Analysis: Wheeler's last six saves have come against the Reds. Wheeler is 7-for-8 in save opportunities, but has allowed three earned runs in his past three appearances, showing a little bit of a chink in the armor. Deposed closer Brad Lidge has been looking good, but there is still no plan for a change in Houston by manager Phil Garner. Keep Wheeler active in all formats.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler pitched a scoreless ninth inning Wednesday for his third save in as many games and his fifth against the Reds in eight days.
Analysis: Wheeler is 8-for-8 in save opportunities, but has allowed three earned runs in his past three appearances, showing a little bit of a chink in the armor. Deposed closer Brad Lidge has been looking good, but there is still no plan for a change in Houston by manager Phil Garner. Keep Wheeler active in all formats.
News: Brad Lidge (2-0) got the win, striking out Ryan Freel -- the only batter he faced -- to end the sixth inning in Tuesday's game at Cincinnati. Closer Dan Wheeler earned his seventh save, allowing one earned run, but hanging out in the ninth inning.
Analysis: Wheeler is still 7-for-7 in save opportunities, but he has allowed three earned runs in his past two appearances, showing a little bit of a chink in the armor. Deposed closer Brad Lidge has been looking good, but there is still no plan for a change in Houston by manager Phil Garner.
News: Dan Wheeler gave up Alex Gonzalez's two-run homer in the ninth inning on Monday in Cincinnati before getting his sixth save in seven chances.
Analysis: Dan Wheeler is 6-for-6 in save opportunities, but he saw his streak of 10 consecutive scoreless innings over his past eight appearances come to an end. Despite the rocky night, Wheeler is a must-start in all NL-only leagues and most deeper mixed formats.
News: Deposed closer Brad Lidge had two successful outings in the three-game series, working two scoreless innings Friday and allowing one hit with two strikeouts in a scoreless seventh inning Sunday in St. Louis. "His mechanics are a whole lot better and I think his confidence level is up," manager Phil Garner said. "I think he has a very clear idea what he wants to do and I think he's back on track."
Analysis: Dan Wheeler is 5-for-5 in save opportunities with 10 consecutive scoreless innings over his past eight appearances. Regardless of how good Lidge looks, Wheeler has done nothing to give up the closer's role. Lidge is only worth a look in the deepest of NL-only Fantasy leagues and as insurance for owners of Wheeler just in case he falters or suffers a long-term injury. Wheeler is a must-start in all NL-only leagues and most deeper mixed formats.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler recorded his second save in as many nights Thursday and is 5-for-5 in save opportunities this year. Wheeler has a 1.50 ERA in his past 12 innings.
Analysis: He is a solid Fantasy closer in all NL-only leagues and most larger mixed formats at this point.
News: Dan Wheeler got three outs in Thursday's game against the Reds for his fifth save in six chances, inducing Ken Griffey Jr. to ground into a game-ending double play with two on.
Analysis: Wheeler is a solid Fantasy closer in all NL-only leagues and most larger mixed formats at this point.
News: Astros RP Dan Wheeler pitched a scoreless ninth inning in a 3-1 win over the Reds Wednesday for his fourth save of the season. He had one strikeout, while not allowing a hit. It was his first save since April 19.
Analysis: Wheeler has been on his game in his last seven outings. He has not allowed an earned run in nine innings. He remains the team's closer and will hold down the job until further notice. Continue to use him in Fantasy leagues and hope the saves start to rise.
News: Astros RHP Dan Wheeler has pitched eight consecutive scoreless innings over his past six outings, allowing two walks and striking out 10 batters.
Analysis: While Wheeler is pitching well, he's not racking up saves. He remains the team's closer and will hold down the job until further notice. Continue to use him in Fantasy leagues and hope the saves start to rise.
News: Astros RP Dan Wheeler entered Sunday's game against the Brewers in a non-save situation with his team down 3-1. He pitched a scoreless ninth inning, allowing one hit and one walk, while striking out one. His last four innings of relief have come in non-save opportunities.
Analysis: Wheeler is stuck on three saves and has not had once since April 19. Wheeler remains the team's closer and will hold down the job until further notice. Continue to use him in Fantasy leagues as a cheap source for saves.
News: Astros CL Dan Wheeler pitched a scoreless ninth inning Thursday against the Reds for his third save of the season. He had a strikeout in the game and has pitched four scoreless inning in his last three appearances.
Analysis: Wheeler remains the team's closer and will hold down the job until further notice. Continue to use him in Fantasy leagues as a cheap source for saves.
News: Astros CL Dan Wheeler struck out the side in the ninth inning Friday for his second save during a 9-6 win over the Phillies.
Analysis: Friday's performance was just what Wheeler needed to assure the Astros he is the right guy for the closer's job. Continue to use him in Fantasy leagues as a cheap source for saves. He is the team's closer until further notice.
News: RHP Brad Lidge lost the closer role to RHP Dan Wheeler but the demotion might not last long. Manager Phil Garner is intent on seeing Lidge return to form. "I do not believe that this is a long-term deal," Garner said. "I believe that Brad Lidge will get back." Wheeler entered Tuesday's game with a career mark of 23 2/3 scoreless innings over 21 appearances against Chicago but allowed two runs and four hits in the 4-2 victory. And guess who was warming up in the bullpen as the Cubs were rallying? Lidge. Wheeler was struggling with his control and Garner said he was ready to call on Lidge. "If we would have needed to do it, he was going to come in. That's kind of the scenario that I had painted," Garner said. "I didn't expect it to happen today, but if I've used all the guys to get to that point and we have a glitch, then I'll use Lidge."
Analysis: Lidge is toast right now and his year could be strangely similar to last year, when he was unable to be a consistently reliable Fantasy closer. Consider him an intriguing middle reliever and Wheeler a risky closer in any league right now.
News: Dan Wheeler, pitched a perfect ninth for his first save in two chances. Wheeler was became the Astros closer before the game, replacing struggling Brad Lidge.
Analysis: Wheeler is obviously going to be a nice pickup this week as Lidge's replacement. If he pitches well, he could be a 30-save candidate on this team -- good enough for mixed league play.
News: Brad Lidge has been removed as the Astros closer and is getting replaced by Dan Wheeler, according to MLB.com.
Analysis: Lidge is now nothing more than a middle reliever with some strikeout potential. He has been toast thus far and was awful last year. Wheeler has value as a sleeper for saves, so pick him up if he's available in your league.
News: RP Dan Wheeler could not hold onto the lead for SP Jason Jennings in his Astros debut on Tuesday against the Pirates. Wheeler worked one inning, allowing three hits, two runs and one walk. He took the loss as the Pirates won 3-2.
Analysis: Wheeler was able to hold onto the lead on Monday, but he just needed one out to do so. He is still a solid setup man and could be in line for a few saves this season. Use him as a middle reliever in Fantasy leagues at this time.
News: The Astros called on RP Dan Wheeler to hold onto the team's 2-1 lead in the eighth inning as starter Roy Oswalt left the game after going 7 2/3 innings. Wheeler did his job and got the last out of the inning.
Analysis: The 29-year-old Wheeler held opponents to a .221 batting average, including .184 after the All-Star break. He had a 1.11 ERA after the All-Star break, fifth-best among NL relievers. The Astros used him in some save situations last year when closer Brad Lidge struggled, and he shared setup duties with Chad Qualls. He will once again be closing insurance for Lidge, who happened to blow another save opportunity Monday.
News: Dan Wheeler has allowed two earned runs in 7 1/3 innings so far this spring. He has also struck out seven batters while allowing four hits and walking none.
Analysis: The 29-year-old Wheeler held opponents to a .221 batting average, including .184 after the All-Star break. He had a 1.11 ERA after the All-Star break, fifth-best among NL relievers. The Astros used him in some save situations last year when closer Brad Lidge struggled, and he shared setup duties with Chad Qualls. He will once again be closing insurance for Lidge, who the Astros said will enter spring as the closer.
News: Right-hander Dan Wheeler, one of the primary setup men in Houston's bullpen, agreed Monday to a $2.1 million, one-year contract with the Astros. Wheeler was 3-5 with nine saves and a 2.52 ERA in 75 games last season, when he made $950,000. He is 5-8 with a 2.38 ERA and 12 saves in three seasons with Houston. Acquired from the New York Mets in August 2004, Wheeler is 11-17 with a 3.82 ERA in 257 major league outings, all but nine as a reliever. He reached the big leagues with Tampa Bay in 1999.
Analysis: The 29-year-old Wheeler held opponents to a .221 batting average, including .184 after the All-Star break. He had a 1.11 ERA after the All-Star break, fifth-best among NL relievers. The Astros used him in some save situations last year when closer Brad Lidge struggled, and he shared setup duties with Chad Qualls. He will once again be closing insurance for Lidge, who the Astros said will enter spring as the closer.
News: Manager Phil Garner said the team will pull out all the stops in its frenzied effort to make the playoffs - but there are limits. For instance, RHP Dan Wheeler appeared in nine games during a 14-day span Sept. 12-25. "You have to use common sense," Garner said. "You have to be bold, but ... it seems like Wheeler has been in the game or up getting ready every day of September. Somewhere, some time he might need a day where he doesn't pick up a ball."
Analysis: Wheeler continues to pick up save opportunities and he appears to be a solid Fantasy player down the stretch.
News: Astros closer Dan Wheeler pitched a perfect ninth inning Thursday to earn his seventh save of the season. He struck out one in the 6-5 win.
Analysis: Wheeler will continue to pick up some save opportunities, but Brad Lidge is expected to be the future closer still. Lidge is just still so unreliable that they'll probably split chances for two more weeks.
News: Dan Wheeler allowed pinch-hitter Todd Hollandsworth's solo homer in the ninth before finishing for his sixth save in eight chances.
Analysis: Wheeler will continue to pick up some save opportunities, but Brad Lidge is expected to be the future closer still. Lidge is just still so unreliable that they'll probably split chances for two more weeks.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler struck out Preston Wilson for the final out for his fifth save in seven attempts Wednesday against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Since the All-Star break Wheeler has allowed one earned run in 22 innings for an 0.41 ERA, best among NL relievers. While it appears Brad Lidge has regained the closer duties in Houston, Wheeler still might get the occasional save. But unless you are in need of ERA or WHIP, he's nothing more than a low-end flier for the potential to close.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler came into the week with an 0.44 ERA since the All-Star break, the lowest of any NL reliever. He had not allowed a run in 23 of his past 24 appearances since July 18.
Analysis: It appears Brad Lidge has regained the closer duties in Houston. Wheeler still might get the occasional save, but unless you are in need of ERA or WHIP, he's nothing more than a low-end flier for the potential to close.
News: Astros RHP Dan Wheeler threw a scoreless inning Friday in the Astros 4-3 win over the Brewers to lower his ERA to 0.44 since the All-Star break, which is the lowest of any National League reliever with at least 15 appearances.
Analysis: While Wheeler has been pitching lights out since the All-Star break, it appears that Brad Lidge has regained the closer duties in Houston. Wheeler still might get the occasional save, but unless you are in need of innings, Ks, or WHIP, then it is time to cut Wheeler.
News: Manager Phil Garner said RHP Chad Qualls, RHP Dan Wheeler and LHP Trever Miller will get their turns as closers after Brad Lidge blew his fifth save by giving up Matt Murton's ninth-inning homer on Tuesday night. Garner said he would adopt -- with skepticism -- a "closer-by-committee" for the short term. "Almost always, when your bullpen is pitching well, they'll say, 'Well, our roles are defined, we knew what we're going to do,"' Garner said. "Not too many times, do you see the bullpen-by-committee work the way you'd like to see it work. But if it's not working the other way, you need to do some things."
Analysis: Wheeler is likely the best option of the three to get consistent save chances late in the season. He has allowed only one earned run since June 24. Pick him up in larger mixed Rotisserie leagues. Qualls is among the league leaders in appearances this season. Consider grabbing him in NL-only play if Wheeler is already taken. Miller is a left-handed specialist that even the Devil Rays didn't use to close out games.
News: Dan Wheeler pitched a scoreless eighth, his 10th consecutive appearance without allowing a run, on Tuesday against the Pirates.
Analysis: Wheeler is recommended in deeper NL-only formats for bullpen help.
News: Dan Wheeler came in for a struggling Brad Lidge on Friday night and closed out the Diamondbacks for his third save of the season.
Analysis: Wheeler is only recommended in deeper NL-only formats for bullpen help or for really deep rosters as a possible future closer for Houston.
News: Chad Qualls and Dan Wheeler each worked a hitless inning in relief Tuesday, while struggling closer Brad Lidge fanned three in the ninth for his 24th save in 28 opportunities.
Analysis: Wheeler is only recommended in deeper NL-only formats for bullpen help or for really deep rosters as a possible future closer for Houston.
News: The Astros' bullpen allowed only two hits in the final four innings Wednesday. With a three-run lead and a save situation, Brad Lidge came on the ninth, striking out a batter and allowing a hit and a wild pitch before being lifted against a lefty, which Trever Miller faced and retired. Dan Wheeler finished for his second save.
Analysis: Ut oh. This stinks of "bullpen by committee." Lidge should have been plenty capable of finishing this one on his own, but he didn't have his manager's confidence. That's not a good thing. Consider Lidge the primary closer if this is indeed a committee, but it's apparent everything isn't going through him now. Consider Wheeler an option for token save ops in deeper leagues that value the stat.
News: Astros RHP Dan Wheeler, brought in to protect a one-run lead with two on and no outs in the eighth, saw the Cardinals mount a four-run rally to go ahead 5-2 Sunday.
Analysis: Wheeler could be a sleeper for saves at some point as a fill-in closer, but nothing is imminent. Consider Wheeler a good middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use them.
News: Brad Lidge has struggled this season but is still 20-for-23 in his save opportunities. Dan Wheeler won't be taking over as the closer anytime soon.
Analysis: Wheeler could be a sleeper for saves at some point as a fill-in closer, but nothing is imminent. Consider Wheeler a viable middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use them.
News: The Cubs, who had a three-game winning streak snapped, loaded the bases with one out in the eighth on three straight singles before Dan Wheeler struck out Nevin and got Matt Murton on a grounder to third.
Analysis: Wheeler is back to serving as Brad Lidge's setup man, but Lidge is still having periodic issues. Consider Wheeler a sleeper for saves in the second half if Houston loses faith in their postseason pariah.
News: Astros manager Phil Garner said he's not ready to push the panic button over reliever Brad Lidge, whose ERA rose to 6.53 after he failed to retire a batter in the eighth inning Wednesday night at Washington. "I haven't given him consistent work, so I'm going to have to take some of the blame on that," Garner said.
Analysis: Wheeler would probably move into Houston's closer's role if Lidge gets demoted. That should be enough for a savvy Fantasy player to pick up Wheeler on a whim and start rooting against Lidge (or use Wheeler as insurance for Lidge).
News: Astros RHP Dan Wheeler relieved Roy Oswalt with the score tied at 1 in the eighth and gave up a leadoff triple to Ryan Zimmerman Wednesday at Washington. He was pulled one out later and suffered the loss.
Analysis: Wheeler was the temporary closer for the Astros while Brad Lidge took some time off from that role, but with Lidge back as the game saver, Wheeler is back to being a set-up man. Wheeler is worth owning in NL-only leagues because of his probable chances to be Lidge's replacement if Lidge ever falls apart. He's also a quality middle reliever in leagues that use those players.
News: Astros RHP Dan Wheeler, who had not pitched in five days, threw a scoreless ninth inning Monday at Washington.
Analysis: Wheeler was the temporary closer for the Astros while Brad Lidge took some time off from that role, but with Lidge back as the game saver, Wheeler is back to being a set-up man. Wheeler is worth owning in NL-only leagues because of his probable chances to be Lidge's replacement if Lidge ever falls apart. He's also a quality middle reliever in leagues that use those players.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler, one of the men who will close until RHP Brad Lidge regains his job, warmed up Sunday and was almost set to enter in the ninth inning with a 3-0 lead to protect, but he wasn't needed.
Analysis: Manager Phil Garner said he will try to get Lidge in sometime after the sixth inning, but he might still be used in the ninth if he has to use his other pitchers early in a game. Wheeler and Chad Qualls will likely fill in as closer during this stretch. Wheeler should be picked up in NL-only leagues by owners desperate for saves.
News: Astros closer Brad Lidge will probably not be used in save situations for the next couple of games as he makes adjustments that manager Phil Garner hopes will be a remedy for his recent struggles. Garner told Lidge of the decision Friday before Houston's game against the Colorado Rockies. Lidge has had trouble locating his pitches this season and almost squandered a three-run lead in the ninth inning Thursday night before being replaced by Dan Wheeler with the bases loaded and two outs. Wheeler retired Kenny Lofton to preserve a 4-2 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Analysis: Garner said he will try to get Lidge in sometime after the sixth inning, but he might still be used in the ninth if he has to use his other pitchers early in a game. Wheeler and Chad Qualls will likely fill in as closer during this stretch. Wheeler should be picked up in NL-only leagues by owners desperate for saves.
News: Dan Wheeler replaced an ineffective Brad Lidge in the bottom of the ninth inning on Thursday at L.A. Dodgers, as he needed just two pitches to get the the final out and get out of a bases loaded jam.
Analysis: Lidge allowed an earned run and walked three batters to get himself in trouble. With 16 walks in 16 1/3 innings so far this season, Lidge might be in line for a temporary demotion if he cannot get it together. Wheeler is worth keeping an eye on, as he might get the call to serve as closer if Lidge is indeed skating on thin ice.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler, who pitched a scoreless eighth inning Thursday, hasn't allowed a run in six of his last seven outings.
Analysis: Wheeler is worth owning in NL-only leagues because of his probable chances to be Brad Lidge's replacement if Lidge ever falls apart. He's also a quality middle reliever in leagues that use those players.
News: Dan Wheeler (0-1) took the loss in relief of Astros starter Wandy Rodriguez. He allowed two earned runs on two hits in 1 2/3 innings of relief.
Analysis: Wheeler is still worth owning in NL-only leagues because of his probable chances to be Brad Lidge's replacement.
News: RHP Brad Lidge, who blew save opportunities Monday and Tuesday for the first consecutive blown saves of his career, was not used Wednesday even though the Dodgers loaded the bases with no outs in the ninth and the Astros ahead 8-2. RHP Dan Wheeler was called in with the bases loaded and no outs, and he threw a scoreless inning even though he let all three inherited runners score.
Analysis: Wheeler continues to be a solid setup man for the Astros. If Brad Lidge gets injured, Houston would likely turn to Wheeler, which makes him a nice setup pitcher to own in NL-only play.
News: Wheeler struck out two batters in one inning against the Dodgers Monday.
Analysis: Wheeler continues to be a solid setup man for the Astros. If Brad Lidge gets injured, Houston would likely turn to Wheeler, which makes him a nice setup pitcher to own in NL-only play.
News: Astros RHP Dan Wheeler has pitched three scoreless innings this year.
Analysis: Wheeler, the Astros' setup man, was 2-3 with a 2.21 ERA and three saves last year. He had a first-half ERA of 1.64 and was tough at home, posting a 1.45 ERA in 35 outings. In his role, Wheeler is nothing more than a middle reliever for deeper Fantasy leagues. If something happened to Lidge, Wheeler would be the first in line to save games, though.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler gave up three hits and two runs with two strikeouts over two innings in a minor league game Wednesday. He threw 23 of his 40 pitches for strikes.
Analysis: Wheeler, the Astros' setup man, was 2-3 with a 2.21 ERA and three saves last year. He had a first-half ERA of 1.64 and was tough at home, posting a 1.45 ERA in 35 outings. In his role, Wheeler is nothing more than a middle reliever for deeper Fantasy leagues. If something happened to Lidge, Wheeler would be the first in line to save games, though.
News: Brad Lidge and Dan Wheeler looked just fine in their first game back from the World Baseball Classic. Houston's top two relievers, Lidge and Wheeler each pitched a perfect inning Sunday in a 5-2 loss to the Detroit Tigers. "It turned out to be better than I thought," Astros manager Phil Garner said. "I was concerned that they were going to throw too much too soon, try to go too hard too soon. As it turned out they probably didn't throw as much as they would have thrown had they been with us, even though when they did throw it was a little more intense. "I don't think it's caused any problems." In the six games the United States played in the WBC, Lidge threw only two innings and Wheeler three. "I think they're really good," Garner said. "Probably right on track. So we've got time to get them both ready and we can do that."
Analysis: Wheeler, the Astros' setup man, was 2-3 with a 2.21 ERA and three saves. He had a first-half ERA of 1.64 and was tough at home, posting a 1.45 ERA in 35 outings. The right-hander has never allowed a run in seven NLCS games. In his role, Wheeler is nothing more than a middle reliever for deeper Fantasy leagues. If something happened to Lidge, Wheeler would be the first in line to save games, though.
News: Against the Indians in spring training play, Astros RP Dan Wheeler started and pitched an inning without giving up a run or a hit. He did not K anybody.
Analysis: Wheeler, the Astros' setup man, was 2-3 with a 2.21 ERA and three saves. He had a first-half ERA of 1.64 and was tough at home, posting a 1.45 ERA in 35 outings. The right-hander has never allowed a run in seven NLCS games. In his role, Wheeler is nothing more than a middle reliever for deeper Fantasy leagues. If something happened to Lidge, Wheeler would be the first in line to save games, though.
News: MLB.com reports that the Astros will start Dan Wheeler, not Brad Lidge, in their first spring training game vs. Cleveland. "It's simple," pitching coach Jim Hickey said. "Wheeler's got more time in the big leagues. He's got seniority. We do it by the hierarchy, and Wheeler's the senior member of the club." Lidge doesn't mind and expects to pitch in the game. "It doesn't bother me," Lidge said. "Put it this way. If we went out there in a different order, we might get confused and run out backward. This is probably a good idea." Both players will head off to play in the WBC after the game.
Analysis: Wheeler, the Astros' setup man, was 2-3 with a 2.21 ERA and three saves. He had a first-half ERA of 1.64 and was tough at home, posting a 1.45 ERA in 35 outings. The right-hander has never allowed a run in seven NLCS games. In his role, Wheeler is nothing more than a middle reliever for deeper Fantasy leagues. If something happened to Lidge, Wheeler would be the first in line to save games, though.
News: All-Star closer Brad Lidge and reliever Dan Wheeler agreed to one-year contracts with the Astros on Tuesday, avoiding salary arbitration. In 71 appearances last season, Wheeler was 2-3 with a 2.21 ERA and three saves. He had a first-half ERA of 1.64 and was tough at home, posting a 1.45 ERA in 35 outings. The right-hander has never allowed a run in seven NLCS games.
Analysis: Wheeler is 8-12 with a 4.18 ERA in 182 career appearances. "He has quietly become one of the best setup guys in baseball," GM Tim Purpura said. "People don't know much about Dan ... but he's a real steadying force in the bullpen. It's not an easy role to have to go in there and always be in the thick of things." In his role, Wheeler is nothing more than a middle reliever for deeper Fantasy leagues. If something happened to Lidge, Wheeler would be the first in line to save games, though.
News: The Astros offered a contract to Dan Wheeler, who is eligible for salary arbitration and would have become a free agent if Houston did not offer him a contract before the midnight ET deadline.
Analysis: Wheeler has some NL-only Rotisserie value in deeper leagues as a middle reliever.
News: Dan Wheeler, who had his scoreless streak snapped at 11 1/3 innings Friday, allowed no hits with three strikeouts in a season-high three innings Sunday.
Analysis: Wheeler has some NL-only Rotisserie value as a middle reliever because of his hot streak.
News: Wheeler worked a perfect ninth inning in Wednesday's game against the Padres to pick up his third save.
Analysis: Wheeler got another save opportunity with the team playing it safe with Brad Lidge (biceps).
News: Dan Wheeler got his second save in three tries this season at Cincinnati Saturday. He also got the save on Friday while closer Brad Lidge remains day to day with a slight elbow problem.
Analysis: Consider picking up Wheeler in NL-only leagues as insurance on Lidge.
News: RHP Dan Wheeler has retired 18 of the past 20 batters he has faced and struck out eight of the past 13. He hasn't allowed a run in 13 of his past 14 and 19 of his past 21 appearances.
Analysis: Wheeler warrants some NL-only value in deeper formats, especially while he is lights out. He is a streaky reliever, though, so be carefully you don't have to rough stretch.
News: Dan Wheeler started serving his three-game suspension from Major League Baseball on Friday.
Analysis: Wheeler is worth consideration in NL-only formats for teams that need help with ERA or WHIP. He'll be back Monday against St. Louis.
News: The Astros acquired Dan Wheeler from the Mets in exchange for Adam Seuss on Friday.
Analysis: Wheeler went 1-0 with a 2.45 ERA in five games at Triple-A Norfolk before the trade. He struck out 10 and walked two in 7 1/3 innings. He'll be used in middle relief and has no Fantasy value.
News: The Mets recalled Dan Wheeler from Triple-A Norfolk on Thursday. He will take the roster spot of Matt Ginter, who was sent to the minor leagues.
Analysis: Wheeler went 1-0 with a 2.45 ERA in five games with Norfolk. He'll pitch in middle relief for the Mets. He has no Fantasy value at this point.
News: The Mets recalled Dan Wheeler from Triple-A Norfolk Friday. He will take the roster spot of Shane Spencer, who was placed on the disabled list.
Analysis: Wheeler will pitch out of the bullpen for the Mets. He is a solid middle reliever, but does not have any Fantasy appeal at this time.
News: The New York Post reports that Dan Wheeler was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk Wednesday to make room for David Wright.
Analysis: Wheeler has no Fantasy value.
News: Dan Wheeler started Thursday's game at Atlanta in place of Scott Erickson (hamstring). He allowed three earned runs in four innings.
Analysis: Wheeler will likely return to the bullpen after making the emergency start. Wheeler has no Fantasy appeal.
News: Dan Wheeler replaced a struggling John Franco on Tuesday at Philadelphia. He retired the last batter in the ninth inning to earn his second save of the season.
Analysis: Wheeler is unlikely to replace veteran John Franco just yet as closer, but keep an eye on the situation. Franco has struggled in a few of his previous appearances.
News: Dan Wheeler is a candidate to replace Al Leiter (knee) as the starter against the Braves on Tuesday, according to the New York Daily News. Other possibilities include Jeremy Griffiths, Jason Roach and Pedro Feliciano.
Analysis: Watch this situation over the next few days. A matchup against the Braves would not be favorable.
News: Dan Wheeler had his contract purchased from Triple-A Norfolk by the Mets on Tuesday.
Analysis: Wheeler does not warrant adding to your Fantasy team.
