News: RHP Luis Vizcaino received a 50-game suspension for testing positive for a performance enhancing drug from Major League Baseball on Wednesday. Vizcaino tested positive for Stanozolol.
Analysis: Vizcaino has not pitched in the majors since 2009. This suspension makes it less than likely he will return to pitch in the majors. Continue to ignore him in Fantasy.
News: Veteran reliever Luis Vizcaino, who signed a minor league contract with the Yankees last December, had the deal voided by the organization on Wednesday, according to the New York Post. He tore his Achilles tendon during the recently-completed winter league season and is not expected to pitch in 2011. Vizcaino also missed all of the 2010 season and has not pitched in the majors since 2009 because of arm trouble. He had signed a one-year contract that would have paid him $750,000 if he was added to the 40-man roster.
Analysis: Vizcaino has been hampered with injuries the last few seasons and has not pitched more than 50 innings since 2007. The 36-year-old spent that season with New York, but last pitched in the majors with Cleveland in 2009. He was released after posting a 4.11 ERA in 11 appearances. Vizcaino owns a career 4.33 ERA and 35-30 record; leave him unowned in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Yankees agreed to sign RP Luis Vizcaino to a minor league deal on Sunday. He has not pitched in either the majors or minors since being released by the Indians in mid-2009. Vizcaino would get a $750,000, one-year contract if added to the 40-man roster and the chance to earn an additional $850,000 in performance bonuses. Vizcaino posted a 5.40 ERA in 11 2/3 innings with Cleveland two seasons ago.
Analysis: The Yankees were the last team to see Vizcaino pitch effectively, as he made 77 appearances for them back in 2007. The right-hander is now 36 and has no recent track record of success. He can be avoided for Fantasy purposes.
News: The Indians have released veteran reliever Luis Vizcaino on Tuesday.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than organizational depth at this point in his career. Ignore him in all Fantasy leagues right now.
News: Cleveland recalled left-hander Tony Sipp from the Clippers and designated right-hander Luis Vizcaino for assignment Tuesday.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than organizational depth at this point in his career. Ignore him in all Fantasy leagues right now. Sipp has long-term potential, but he is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men.
News: Cleveland RP Luis Vizcaino got a three-inning save on Wednesday against the Rays. He pitched the final three innings of the game for his first save of the season. He allowed only one hit in the three innings, striking out four.
Analysis: Vizcaino was signed as a free agent about two weeks ago to add depth to the team's bullpen. This was an impressive outing, but he won't be challenging Kerry Wood for saves any time soon. Leave him for AL-only leagues that reward true middle men.
News: The Cleveland Indians signed free agent RHP Luis Vizcaino to a free agent contract and have added him to the 25-man roster. To allow room for Vizcaino on the big league roster, the Indians optioned LHP Jeremy Sowers to Triple-A Columbus after Wednesday's game vs. Chicago.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men at this point.
News: Free agent RP Luis Vizcaino threw to hitters before Tuesday's game between the White Sox and the Indians. He's expected to sign with the Indians soon.
Analysis: Vizcaino has struggled over the last couple seasons, which is why he doesn't have a job right now. Even if he signs with the Indians, you wouldn't want to touch him in Fantasy.
News: Looking for help for their beleaguered bullpen, the Indians gave a tryout to free agent right-hander Luis Vizcaino. The 34-year-old threw a bullpen session in Cleveland on Friday. "We worked him out today, but I want to talk with (pitching coach) Carl Willis about it," manager Eric Wedge said before the Indians opened a three-game series against the Tigers.
Analysis: Vizcaino, designated for assignment by the Chicago Cubs on April 23 and later released, has a career record of 34-27 with seven saves and a 4.31 ERA in 532 games for seven teams since 1999. He is merely a low-end reliever and not worth owning in Fantasy.
News: The Cubs released RP Luis Vizcaino on Monday. They had designated him for assignment April 23.
Analysis: Cut and ignore Vizcaino in all Fantasy leagues. He's nothing more than a low-end middle reliever when on an active roster anyway.
News: The Cubs called up right-hander Jeff Samardzija from Triple-A Iowa and designated right-hander Luis Vizcaino for assignment Thursday. Samardzija, who made a name for himself as a star receiver at Notre Dame, was impressive as a rookie reliever in 2008. The Cubs sent him to Iowa to begin this season to groom him as a starter but manager Lou Piniella wanted another power arm in the bullpen.
Analysis: Vizcaino was nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of NL-only leagues that use true middle men. You can ignore him while he is out of a job.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Jeff Samardzija will be called up prior to the Cubs' afternoon game against Cincinnati. Luis Vizcaino is expected to be designated for assignment. "He'll help out in the sixth-, seventh-inning role to start out with," manager Lou Piniella said of Samardzija. Luis Vizcaino is expected to be designated for assignment.
Analysis: Samardzija was in the starting rotation at Triple-A Iowa and took a no-hitter into the sixth inning Saturday. The Cubs plan on using him in the same way they use Aaron Heilman, which is a bit of a hybrid middle/long relief role. For now, he is only worth owning in leagues that reward the use of those types of middle relievers. Vizcaino hasn't walked a batter or allowed a run in four appearances, but he doesn't have the upside, track record or confidence from the organization that other bullpen members do. He would very likely be picked up by another team, but would remain useful only in leagues that reward the use of middle relievers.
News: Cubs RHP Luis Vizcaino, who is expected to make the club as a reliever, saw his first action of the spring Tuesday against the Athletics after getting a late start because of visa problems. He struck out one in one inning.
Analysis: Vizcaino struggled in his first year with Colorado, going 1-2 with a 5.28 ERA in 43 relief appearances. Since he won't close with the Cubs, consider him nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of NL-only leagues that use true middle men.
News: The Rockies have bolstered their starting rotation, acquiring right-hander Jason Marquis from the Cubs for reliever Luis Vizcaino. The Rockies also receive cash as part of the deal.
Analysis: Vizcaino struggled in his first year with Colorado, going 1-2 with a 5.28 ERA in 43 relief appearances. Since he won't close with the Cubs, consider him nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of NL-only leagues that use true middle men.
News: Rockies pitcher Luis Vizcaino was arrested Monday and police said he was driving under the influence. Officers said he was going 71 mph in a 45 mph zone early Monday morning. Police said Vizcaino's eyes were glassy and bloodshot and he smelled of alcohol, with a blood alcohol level just over the legal limit. The 34-year-old reliever, who lives in Florida, was bailed out of jail just before noon on Monday. The Rockies did not immediately return calls, and it was not known if Vizcaino had an attorney. He was 1-2 this season with a 5.28 ERA.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men at this point in his career.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Rockies RP Luis Vizcaino, who signed a two-year, $7.5 million contract after last season, is finally starting to earn his money. Thirteen of his past 15 outings have been scoreless, and Vizcaino has allowed one run in his past eight outings, working 11 innings in that stretch and allowing eight hits and two walks, one intentional, with 11 strikeouts. Vizcaino's ERA has dropped to a season-low 5.06. Vizcaino has stranded the last nine runners he has inherited, eight of them coming in his past six outings.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of NL-only leagues that use true middle men at this point in his career.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Colorado reliever Luis Vizcaino has missed 58 games this season because of a strained right shoulder. Vizcaino will fail to make 70 appearances for only the second time in seven seasons. His 2 1/3-inning appearance on Thursday was his longest since June 29, 2005, when he also went 2 1/3 innings for the White Sox against Detroit.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of NL-only leagues that use true middle men at this point in his career.
News: The game was tied at 8 entering the ninth Monday when the Padres jumped on Rockies closer Brian Fuentes (1-4). He gave up five of the seven runs before being lifted for Luis Vizcaino, who served up Jody Gerut's three-run homer.
Analysis: Gerut has developed into a decent NL-only option this season, especially since the Padres are outfield-needy and able to get him regular at-bats. Vizcaino is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of NL-only leagues that use true middle men at this point in his career.
News: The Colorado Rockies activated pitcher Luis Vizcaino from the disabled list before their game with the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday night. The right-handed Vizcaino has made two appearances this season, allowing four earned runs in 1 1/3 innings. He's been out since April 4 because of a strained right shoulder. "I feel good. I'm ready to go," Vizcaino said. To make room for Vizcaino on the roster, Colorado optioned left-handed pitcher Glendon Rusch to Triple-A Colorado Springs.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy.
News: Colorado Reliever Luis Vizcaino made his fourth rehab appearance with the Triple-A Sky Sox on Thursday, and could be activated as soon as Saturday. Vizcaino has been out since April 4 with a strained right shoulder.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy.
News:Luis Vizcaino (shoulder) began a Triple-A rehab assignment Wednesday with a scoreless inning and a strikeout.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy. Ignore him in Fantasy while on the DL.
News: The Denver Post reports that Luis Vizcaino (shoulder) threw 12 pitches in a simulated game Monday in Tucson, moving him a step closer to rejoining the team. "I'd like to see him get up to 25 pitches, but now it's a matter of getting him ready to pitch at a major-league level," pitching coach Bob Apodaca said. "His health is fine, his velocity is fine. But now he's got to regain his touch and timing. We'll see how long that takes."
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy. Ignore him in Fantasy while on the DL.
News: According to The Sports Xchange notes: RHP Luis Vizcaino (strained right shoulder) went on the 15-day DL retroactive to April 4. He had significant soreness and called off an April 20 batting practice session when the issue reappeared following a bullpen session. He threw batting practice May 13 and a simulated game May 16. He will pitch one more simulated-game outing.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy. Ignore him in Fantasy while on the DL.
News: Rockies head trainer Keith Dugger said SP Jason Hirsh (shoulder) threw three innings and 45 pitches in a simulated game Friday and RP Luis Vizcaino (shoulder) threw two innings and 25 pitches Friday. Both were pain free.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy. Ignore him in Fantasy while on the DL.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Rockiers RP Luis Vizcaino (strained right shoulder) is scheduled to throw lightly in the bullpen Tuesday or Wednesday.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy. Ignore him in Fantasy while on the DL.
News: MLB.com reports that Luis Vizcaino's MRI revealed inflammation but no extensive damage. Vizcaino, 33, hasn't pitched since April 2 and was placed on the 15-day disabled list after not being able to loosen up for a game against the Braves on April 5. He was throwing bullpen sessions and was scheduled to have a live batting practice session Saturday when soreness returned.
Analysis: Rockies head athletic trainer Keith Dugger said the MRI confirmed that there wasn't a major injury. But the Rockies are going to back away from having Vizcaino on a throwing program until the inflammation calms. He is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy. Ignore him in Fantasy while on the DL.
News: MLB.com reports that Rockies RP Luis Vizcaino had a Saturday throwing session scrapped because of soreness in his injured shoulder. The session was supposed to be Vizcaino's last step before starting a rehab assignment. "We held him off, so until we get back to Denver and get a better handle on it, it's out of my hands," pitching coach Bob Apodaca said. "We're going to be conservative with it, making sure this isn't something that's going to be longer than it needs to be. We'll be on the safe side and let our doctors look at it."
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy. Ignore him while on the DL.
News: According to the Sports Xchange notes: RHP Luis Vizcaino, placed on the disabled list because of shoulder tightness, is not yet playing catch. Vizcaino was bothered in spring training by elbow stiffness. "We aren't sure if the elbow contributed to the shoulder, or is the shoulder another issue?" manager Clint Hurdle said.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men, when healthy. Ignore him while on the DL.
News: The Rockies placed RP Luis Vizcaino on the 15-day disabled list because of a right shoulder strain after their 7-2 loss to the Diamondbacks on Saturday. The team called up righty Ryan Speier from Triple-A Colorado Springs to take Vizcaino's place. The move is retroactive to April 4.
Analysis: Vizcaino has a 27.00 ERA in two games with three walks and one strikeout. This is his first time on the disabled list in his career. He is a low-end reliever for NL-only leagues. The 27-year-old Speier was on Colorado's postseason roster last season. He went 3-1 with a 4.00 ERA in 20 appearances in 2007. Leave him on waivers.
News: The Denver Post reports that setup man Luis Vizcaino was torched for three hits and four runs against Arizona Wednesday. His spring ERA has now climbed up to 18.69. "I am concerned," general manager Dan O'Dowd said. "He didn't have good fastball command."
Analysis: Vizcaino had elbow problems and family issues he had to deal with this spring, which could be contributing to his struggles. Even when he's on, he's only worth looking at in larger NL-only leagues.
News: Rockies SP Luis Vizcaino, suffering from an elbow injury, returned to the mound Saturday at the Diamondbacks. He pitched a scoreless inning, allowing one hit.
Analysis: Vizcaino was 8-2 with a 4.30 ERA with the Yankees last season, making a career high 77 relief appearances and struggling for much of the first half. His eight wins tied him for the major-league lead among relief pitchers. Since he doesn't have any real shot at collecting saves, his Fantasy value remains limited to NL-only leagues.
News: Rockies RP Luis Vizcaino allowed one hit in one inning, striking out one in the intrasquad scrimmage Wednesday. He has not pitched in a Cactus League game since March 4 after being bothered by inflammation in his right elbow.
Analysis: Vizcaino was 8-2 with a 4.30 ERA with the Yankees last season, making a career high 77 relief appearances and struggling for much of the first half. His eight wins tied him for the major-league lead among relief pitchers. Since he doesn't have any real shot at collecting saves, his Fantasy value remains limited to NL-only leagues.
News: The Denver Post reports that Luis Vizcaino (elbow tightness) felt "good" Saturday, and he expects to pitch Sunday. He said he would have been available to pitch Saturday if this were the regular season.
Analysis: Vizcaino is important to the quality of this Rockies bullpen, especially if Matt Herges falters. Vizcaino was 8-2 with a 4.30 ERA with the Yankees last season, making a career high 77 relief appearances and struggling for much of the first half. His eight wins tied him for the major-league lead among relief pitchers. Since he doesn't have any real shot at collecting saves, his Fantasy value remains limited to NL-only leagues.
News: The Denver Post reports that Luis Vizcaino looked much better Sunday against the Mexican national team, compared to not being able to escape one inning in his debut last week. "I got my arm in a better position. It felt much better," Vizcaino said.
Analysis: Vizcaino is important to the quality of this Rockies bullpen, especially if Matt Herges falters. Vizcaino was 8-2 with a 4.30 ERA with the Yankees last season, making a career high 77 relief appearances and struggling for much of the first half. His eight wins tied him for the major-league lead among relief pitchers. Since he doesn't have any real shot at collecting saves, his Fantasy value remains limited to NL-only leagues.
News: Rockies RP Luis Vizcaino was a day late reporting because of visa problems in his native Dominican Republic, according to The Sports Xchange. "We don't have anything in the cement except that Manny will be at the back end, and (Brian Fuentes) will pitch in front of him," manager Clint Hurdle said of his bullpen. "Vizcaino has shown he has been able to do that, too, which is important because Brian and Manny are not going to be available every day."
Analysis: Vizcaino was 8-2 with a 4.30 ERA with the Yankees last season, making a career high 77 relief appearances and struggling for much of the first half. His eight wins tied him for the major-league lead among relief pitchers. Since he doesn't have any real shot at collecting saves, his Fantasy value remains limited to NL-only leagues.
News: The NL champion Rockies filled a vacancy in their bullpen Friday by agreeing to a $7.5 million, two-year contract with right-hander Luis Vizcaino. "Luis provides valuable experience and durability to the back end of our bullpen," Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd said in a release. Vizcaino receives $3.5 million in each of the next two seasons, and the Rockies have a $4 million option for 2010 with a $500,000 buyout. The option would become guaranteed if Vizcaino appears in 135 games combined in 2008-09 or 68 games in 2009.
Analysis: Vizcaino was 8-2 with a 4.30 ERA with the Yankees last season, making a career high 77 relief appearances and struggling for much of the first half. His eight wins tied him for the major league lead among relief pitchers. He got off to a rough start in 2007, but by the end of the year he was one of the Yankees more reliable setup men. He won't be a candidate to close this spring, so consider him nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men.
News: Among those who declined arbitration offers Friday and remained free agents are outfielder Mike Cameron (San Diego), third baseman Pedro Feliz (San Francisco), reliever Eric Gagne (Boston), pitcher Livan Hernandez (Arizona), left-hander Ron Mahay (Atlanta), left-hander Trever Miller, catcher Mike Piazza (Oakland), outfielder Aaron Rowand (Philadelphia), outfielder Shannon Stewart (Athletics) and reliever Luis Vizcaino (Yankees).
Analysis: Track the offseason destinations on these veterans before finalizing a judgment of their Fantasy value.
News: The Yankees continued their efforts to keep RP Luis Vizcaino by offering him arbitration on Saturday.
Analysis: Vizcaino got off to a rough start in 2007, but by the end of the year he was one of the Yankees more reliable setup men. He won't be a candidate to close this spring, so consider him nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men.
News: After reaching agreements to re-sign Alex Rodriguez, Mariano Rivera, Jorge Posada and Jose Molina -- deals that are awaiting completion -- Yankees senior vice president Hank Steinbrenner said the Yankees have turned their attention to relievers. GM Brian Cashman has said the team hopes to keep Luis Vizcaino. "Obviously, I think the big thing for us now is shoring up the bullpen all that we can," Steinbrenner said. "Brian is looking into several different things."
Analysis: Vizcaino got off to a rough start in 2007, but by the end of the year he was one of the Yankees more reliable setup men. He won't be a candidate to close this spring, so consider him nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men.
News: Yankees right-handed reliever Luis Vizcaino filed for free agency Monday.
Analysis: Vizcaino got off to a rough start in 2007, but by the end of the year, he was one of the Yankees more reliable setup men. He won't be a candidate to close this spring, so consider him nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men.
News: RHP Luis Vizcaino, slowed by a tired arm, is expected to be available during the three-game series at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men when healthy.
News: Yankees RP Luis Vizcaino (sore back, sore shoulder) was ready to pitch Thursday against the Blue Jays. Vizcaino had not pitched since Sept. 4 at Seattle, but entered the eighth inning and pitched a perfect frame. He struck out two hitters in the inning.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men when healthy.
News: RHP Luis Vizcaino's sore back felt better Wednesday, manager Joe Torre said. Vizcaino, who has also been bothered by a sore shoulder, threw a side session Wednesday and could be ready to pitch Thursday or Friday.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men, when healthy.
News: RHP Luis Vizcaino (sore shoulder) said his arm is feeling better but he was bothered by a stiff back, the result of sleeping badly. If he feels better, Vizcaino said he might throw in the bullpen before Wednesday's game.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men, when healthy.
News: Luis Vizcaino (shoulder) might be held out until the Red Sox series this weekend.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men, when healthy.
News: On Wednesday, Yankees RP Luis Vizcaino had an MRI exam on his right shoulder, which felt sore when he pitched against Seattle on Tuesday night. Manager Joe Torre said Vizcaino wouldn't be available through the weekend series against the Royals.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues when he's healthy. He is an injury-risk option for Fantasy Week 24 (Sept. 10-16).
News: Luis Vizcaino (arm) allowed one earned run on two hits in two-thirds of an inning at the Angels on Monday.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues when he's healthy.
News: The Yankees avoided using reliever Luis Vizcaino on Sunday, as they hoped. Vizcaino's arm felt tired.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men.
News: RHP Luis Vizcaino has allowed just four earned runs since June 1, which covers his last 32 innings.
Analysis: Vizcaino turns 33 on Monday. He's a solid AL-only middle reliever to help with ERA.
News: Yankees reliever Luis Vizcaino earned his seventh victory of the season Saturday afternoon vs. Tampa Bay in the first game of a doubleheader. He pitched one inning, allowed one hit and struck out two in the outing.
Analysis: Vizcaino has earned the trust of manager Joe Torre and is being used in big spots. He could take over the setup role if Kyle Farnsworth continues to struggle and would be in line for save chances if anything were to happen to Mariano Rivera.
News: Luis Vizcaino worked a scoreless inning for the win on Tuesday against the Blue Jays, as he improved to 6-2 and lowered his ERA to 4.53. He allowed a hit and struck out one batter. Toronto stranded 12 runners for the second consecutive game.
Analysis: Despite the impressive win total, Vizcaino's Fantasy appeal remains limited to the deepest of AL-only leagues which use true middle relievers.
News: Luis Vizcaino worked a perfect inning against the top three batters in Toronto's lineup on Monday night despite an earlier vote of confidence for the struggling Kyle Farnsworth from manager Joe Torre.
Analysis: Torre said he's sticking with shaky reliever Kyle Farnsworth (4.58 ERA) as his eighth-inning setup man, but it was Vizcaino who worked a perfect eighth in Monday's win to setup closer Mariano Rivera for his 14th save. Both the Farns and Vizcaino are only worth a look in deeper AL-only Fantasy leagues which use true middle men.
News: Luis Vizcaino worked a perfect seventh inning in Thursday's game at Tampa Bay and Kyle Farnsworth pitched a scoreless eighth before Mariano Rivera finished up for the Yankees.
Analysis: Vizcaino's Fantasy appeal remains limited to the deepest of AL-only leagues which use true middle relievers.
News: RHP Luis Vizcaino earned his fourth win this year Friday at San Francisco. He has held opponents scoreless in his last eight outings, covering 7 2/3 innings.
Analysis: In that span, Vizcaino has allowed five hits and six walks and has six strikeouts. Vizcaino is regaining the trust of skipper Joe Torre, but he remains just a middle reliever who won't help much in Fantasy play at this juncture.
News: Luis Vizcaino (3-1) replaced struggling rookie Tyler Clippard in the fourth inning Saturday vs. the Mets and pitched 1 2/3 scoreless innings for the win.
Analysis: Vizcaino is slowly regaining the trust of skipper Joe Torre, but he remains just a middle reliever who won't help much in Fantasy play at this juncture.
News: Yankees RP Luis Vizcaino worked a solid 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief Monday against the Blue Jays to help lower his ERA from 7.66 to 7.27.
Analysis: Vizcaino has not been a steady relief option out of the bullpen for the Yankees in 2007 and is a risky AL-only option at this time.
News: RHP Luis Vizcaino saw his ERA climb to 7.50 on Thursday. He gave up three earned runs on two hits and two walks in one inning against Texas.
Analysis: Vizcaino just isn't providing Fantasy dividends from a middle relief right now.
News: Yankees RP Luis Vizcaino allowed four runs -- all earned -- in Thursday's win over Cleveland. He was on the hook for a loss until the Yankees rallied to erase his four-run defecit in the bottom of the ninth. Vizcaino allowed two hitsand two walks, but the big blow came on a three-run blast surrendered to Victor Martinez.
Analysis: Chalk this off as a bad outing for Vizcaino, but he had been outstanding heading into this game. So much so that the Yankees have toyed with him in the setup role, but he came on in the seventh on Thursday. Vizcaino and Kyle Farnsworth are both seen as eighth-inning options for the Yankees and would have a chance at the closer job if anything were to happen to Mariano Rivera, making them viable in deeper AL-only leagues. Vizcaino is already worth starting in leagues that reward true middle relievers.
News: Kyle Farnsworth gave up a game-tying, seventh-inning home run to Oakland's Eric Chavez Friday at Oakland, two nights after entering a tie game in the ninth and surrendering four runs at Minnesota. Usually the Yankees' eighth-inning setup man, Farnsworth entered Friday's game in the seventh, before Luis Vizcaino, who had previously been the seventh-inning reliever.
Analysis: Vizcaino looks to have at least temporarily moved into the setup job and is therefore the likely replacement for Mariano Rivera should their be a need.
News: Yankees reliever Luis Vizcaino tossed a 1-2-3 seventh inning on opening day Monday vs. Tampa Bay and ended up being the winning pither as the Yanks defeated the Devil Rays.
Analysis: Vizcaino is still nothing more than a setup man, so he won't see any save opportunities with the Yankees. Consider him an option only in the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men for his potential to post a decent ERA.
News: Newly acquired reliever Luis Vizcaino and the Yankees reached agreement Tuesday on a one-year contract worth $3 million before the sides exchanged salary arbitration figures. The Diamondbacks traded Vizcaino and three minor leaguers to the Yankees this month for Randy Johnson. The 32-year-old righty is 25-23 lifetime with a 4.24 ERA in eight seasons with Oakland, Milwaukee, the Chicago White Sox and Arizona.
Analysis: Vizcaino was 4-6 last season with a 3.58 ERA in 70 games and is nothing more than a setup man, so he won't see any save opportunities with the Yankees. Consider him an option only in the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men for his potential to post a decent ERA.
News: The Diamondbacks gave Randy Johnson a $26 million, two-year contract and traded right-handed reliever Luis Vizcaino and three minor leaguers to the Yankees: right-handers Ross Ohlendorf and Steven Jackson, and shortstop Alberto Gonzalez. Johnson, who had back surgery in October, passed his physical Monday and was introduced as a D-Back on Tuesday.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a setup man, so he won't see any save opportunities with the Yankees. Consider him an option only in the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men for his potential to post a decent ERA. Ohlendorf and Jackson are pitching prospects who don't figure to impact Fantasy in 2007, while Gonzalez is a decent shortstop prospect who won't get much of a chance with the Yankees in the near future. Consider those prospects only in the deepest of long-term keeper leagues.
News: The Yankees reached a tentative agreement with Arizona on Thursday to trade Randy Johnson to Arizona for reliever Luis Vizcaino and three minor leaguers, a move that allows the Big Unit's agents to get him a contract extension. New York would receive Vizcaino and minor league right-handers Ross Ohlendorf and Steven Jackson, and shortstop Alberto Gonzalez, a baseball official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The Yankees also would pay $2 million of Johnson's $16 million salary this year. Teams are granted a 72-hour window by the commissioner's office to close tentative deals, and the Yankees and Diamondbacks must finalize the trade by 5 p.m. ET on Sunday.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a setup man, so he won't see any save opportunities with the Yankees. Consider him an option only in the deepest of AL-only leagues that use true middle men for his potential to post a decent ERA.
News: The Yankees are still trying to trade Randy Johnson, hoping to get a tentative deal in place that then would allow the Big Unit's agents to get him an extension. Arizona reliever Luis Vizcaino reportedly would be sent to New York in the swap.
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a setup man, so he won't see any save opportunities in either locale for 2007. Consider him an option only in the deepest of leagues that use true middle men for his potential to post a decent ERA.
News: Brandon Medders, Luis Vizcaino, Brandon Lyon and Jorge Julio each pitched an inning of relief for the Diamondbacks, with Julio recording the final three outs for his 16th save in 19 opportunities. "We needed it," Arizona manager Bob Melvin said. "When you have a little more rested bullpen you can get results like that."
Analysis: Vizcaino is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of Rotisserie leagues that use true middle men.
News: Vizcaino (elbow) worked an inning in Saturday's game at Houston, allowing an earned run, two hits and a walk in his return.
Analysis: Vizcaino had been sidelined by a sore right elbow. He is only worth using in larger NL-only Roto leagues at this point.
News: Right-handed reliever Luiz Vizcaino threw in the bullpen on Friday, but manger Bob Melvin was holding him out until Saturday as Vizcaino recovers from a sore right elbow. Vizcaino suffered the injury playing catch before Tuesday's game and hasn't pitched since.
Analysis: Vizcaino is only worth owning in deeper NL-only Rotisserie formats when healthy.
News: Arizona RHP Luis Vizcaino says he's rediscovered his mechanics, enabling him to return to throwing his signature sharp-breaking slider. Vizcaino said that when he opens up early in his delivery, it causes him to release the ball from the side instead of over the top. His results are proof enough. He hasn't allowed a run in his past four appearances after struggling for the better part of three weeks.
Analysis: With Jose Valverde in the minors, Vizcaino is essentially Jorge Julio's backup in the closer's spot. Consider picking him up in larger NL-only leagues.
News: Vizcaino has thrown only 2 2/3 innings for the month of July so far.
Analysis: With Jose Valverde in the minors, Vizcaino is essentially Jorge Julio's backup in the closer's spot. Consider picking him up in larger NL-only leagues.
News: Vizcaino came in Friday for just one out at Texas. He has proven to be a solid middle reliever for Arizona.
Analysis: Vizcaino has allowed only one earned run in his past 12 appearances for the Diamondbacks. Start him in NL-only play for help in ERA and WHIP.
News: Arizona relievers Brandon Medders and Luis Vizcaino each pitched a scoreless inning at the Mets on Monday before closer Jose Valverde blew a save opportunity to cost the D-Backs the win.
Analysis: Valverde has blown two saves and allowed nine ER in his last five appearances, so look for manager Bob Melvin to shake up his bullpen. Medders, Vizcaino, Brandon Lyon and the newly acquired Jorge Julio are all candidates to take over for Valverde.
News: RHP Brandon Medders has joined RHP Luis Vizcaino as the primary setup men in the Diamondbacks' bullpen. Manager Bob Melvin says Medders' recent good outings lifted him into the role and gave the team a chance to ease up on Vizcaino, who might have been used too much early in the season.
Analysis: Vicaino remains a viable option in deeper NL-only Rotisserie leagues as a middle reliever for help in ERA, WHIP and holds.
News: Luis Vizcaino (2-2) got the win against the Cardinals Sunday, despite pitching just one-third of an inning.
Analysis: Vicaino remains a viable option in deeper NL-only Rotisserie leagues as a middle reliever for help in ERA and WHIP.
News: RHP Luis Vizcaino pitched in five of Arizona's previous seven games, and manager Bob Melvin acknowledged he probably overused the pitcher. "But he's got a very resilient arm," Melvin said. "This is a guy who's pitched 75-plus games for three years in a row. ... But we don't want to use him five out of seven all the time."
Analysis: Vizcaino remains a viable option in deeper Rotisserie leagues as a middle reliever.
News: Arizona watched its 7-6 lead disappear when J.D. Drew led off the seventh inning with a home run off Luis Vizcaino (1-2), who blew the save for Jason Grimsley but got the relief victory.
Analysis: Vizcaino's season's ERA is still just 2.57 and he's a decent setup man for the D-Backs. Consider him viable in deeper Rotisserie leagues as a middle reliever.
News: Vizcaino has allowed only two earned runs in 10 innings of relief this season.
Analysis: Vizcaino doesn't do enough as an aging arm in the D-Backs' bullpen.
News: Unlike Orlando Hernandez, RHP Luis Vizcaino said Thursday he had yet to receive his World Series ring from the Chicago White Sox.
Analysis: He has minimal Fantasy value as a middle reliever.
News: Diamondbacks RHPs Orlando "El Duque" Hernandez and Luis Vizcaino, both members of the 2005 World Series champion White Sox, left for Chicago after Monday's game to take part on Tuesday's ceremonies and receive their rings at U.S. Cellular Field.
Analysis: He has minimal Fantasy value as a middle reliever.
News: RHP Luis Vizcaino, formerly of the White Sox, hit two Chicago batters in one inning during Tuesday's 12-5 win in Tucson, drilling Joe Crede and Jim Thome and nearly unsettling things in both dugouts.
Analysis: Vizcaino has the edge in being Valverde's setup man, which makes him little more than a Rotisserie helper in NL-only leagues. His ERA and WHIP should make him a decent pickup in your final rounds and some saves possibilities could be in his future as well.
News: In Arizona, Jose Valverde is the closer, and Melvin said four others -- Jason Grimsley, Luis Vizcaino, Brandon Lyon and Brandon Medders -- are all in the running for setup duties. With an expected 12-man pitching staff, that leaves two spots open in the 'pen, and one of them is almost certain to go to a left-hander, most likely Terry Mulholland, with Felix Heredia and Randy Choate also in the mix.
Analysis: Vizcaino has the edge in being Valverde's setup man, which makes him little more than a Rotisserie helper in NL-only leagues. His ERA and WHIP should make him a decent pickup in your final rounds and some saves possibilities could be in his future as well.
News: The Arizona Republic reports that Vizcaino (family illness) threw his first bullpen session Wednesday.
Analysis: Vizcaino will work as Jose Valverde's setup man, which makes him little more than a Rotisserie helper in NL-only leagues. His ERA and WHIP should make him a decent pickup in your final rounds and some saves possibilities could be in his future as well.
News: Relief pitcher Luis Vizcaino and the Diamondbacks avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year contract Friday before the union submitted the filings.
Analysis: Vicaino has been dealt for the second consecutive offseason and will make a return to the NL. With the D-Backs, the right-hander will serve as the setup man for emerging closer Jose Valverde. In that role, Vizcaino's Fantasy value is limited to larger NL-only leagues for ERA and WHIP help. Valverde, while talented, has been anything but a sure thing in past years, so Vizcaino could find some save opportunities at some point.
News: The World Series champion White Sox agreed to acquire right-hander Javier Vazquez from Arizona for right-hander Orlando Hernandez, reliever Luis Vizcaino and minor-league outfielder Chris Young. The deal was first reported by CBS.SportsLine.com. Vizcaino pitched well in the second half after a slow start and finished 6-5 with a 3.73 ERA. He has an 89-93 career record.
Analysis: Vicaino has been dealt for the second consecutive offseason and will make a return to the NL. With the D-Backs, the right-hander will serve as the setup man for emerging closer Jose Valverde. In that role, Vizcaino's Fantasy value is limited to larger NL-only leagues for ERA and WHIP help. Valverde, while talented, has been anything but a sure thing in past years, so Vizcaino could find time in the closer's spot at some point.
News: Vizcaino allowed six earned runs, five hits and three walks in 2 1/3 innings in Thursday's game against the Indians. He also took his first American League loss.
Analysis: Vizcaino has allowed an earned run in each of his first two appearances for the White Sox since coming over in the big Carlos Lee-Scott Podsednik deal.
News: The Chicago White Sox agreed to terms with RHP Luis Vizcaino on a one-year contract.
Analysis: Vizcaino will work as a middle reliever in Chicago this season. This is detrimental to his Fantasy value because he will no longer be in the heir to the closer's role. He can still help a Roto team as a middle reliever in WHIP, ERA and relief wins, though.
News: The Brewers traded Vizcaino and outfielder Scott Podsednik to the White Sox on Monday for outfielder Carlos Lee.
Analysis: The addition of Vizcaino will likely mean he will be the team's top right-handed setup man for closer Shingo Takatsu. His addition also likely means Dustin Hermanson will be plugged into the rotation. It will all get hashed out during spring training.
News: Luis Vizcaino is not the favorite to serve as Milwaukee's closer following the trade of Danny Kolb to Atlanta. He might get a shot if new closer Mike Adams falters early on.
Analysis: Vizcaino posted a respectable 1.18 WHIP last season with the Brewers. Keep an eye on his early in spring training before investing too heavily in him on Draft Day.
News: Vizcaino, once considered a closer-in-waiting for the Brewers, has seen his ERA stay above 10.00 for nearly the entire season. After lowering it to 9.39 with 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief Thursday against the Cubs, he was tagged for two runs in one-third an inning on Saturday to raise it back to 10.34.
Analysis: Vizcaino's 7.20 May ERA is a definite improvement over his April mark, but he's still nowhere near becoming an effective Fantasy reliever, let alone a closer hopeful. If you need the roster spot, you might as well cut him.
News: Vizcaino (quadriceps) pitched a scoreless inning on Sunday. He had missed two weeks due to the injury.
Analysis: Vizcaino will be used as a setup man and has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Vizcaino has a 1.23 ERA and 0.614 WHIP in his past 14 appearances. The 24-year-old right-hander, acquired in a preseason trade from Texas, has developed into a solid reliever in NL-only 4x4 leagues. Vizcaino might eventually get some save chances later this season, but only if Mike DeJean or rehabbing Curtis Leskanic becomes ineffective over the long haul.
Analysis:
News: The Texas Rangers acquired Vizcaino from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for right-hander Justin Duchscherer on Monday night. Vizcaino is still developing as a reliever and won't provide much help right now. He split last season between Oakland (2-1, 4.55 ERA, one save in 36 games) and Triple-A Sacramento (2-2, 2.14, seven saves in 27 games).
Analysis:
News: Send down to Triple-A Sacramento. With his 11.41 ERA in his last five outings, Manager Art Howe wants him to get regular work. He will likely start for Sacramento and get another callup at some point this year.
Analysis:
News: Optioned to Triple-A Sacramento to make room for new call-up Mark Mulder. The hard-throwing Vizcaino, posted a 5.40 ERA with 9 strikeouts and 4 walks in 8.1 innings of work. His last outing was his worst, giving up 3 runs in 1.1 inning against Boston. That aside, he will likely get a call-up again this year.
Analysis:
News: He'll start the season in the bullpen. He was very impressive in spring posting a 2.03 ERA and throws heat. Looks to be part of the Oakland starting rotation of the future, but for now will see action in middle relief.
Analysis:
