News: The Cardinals reassigned 10 players to minor league camp Monday: RHP Mitchell Boggs, RHP Dewon Brazelton, LHP Jaime Garcia, RHP Adam Ottavino, RHP P.J. Walters, RHP Tyler Herron, RHP Stuart Pomeranz, C David Carpenter, C Nick Derba and C Brandon Yarbrough. They now have 57 players in camp, which doesn't include Juan Encarnacion (eye), who is out for the season and perhaps for his career after being hit by a pitch last year.
Analysis: Brazelton is a bust of a former No. 1 pick by the Rays. The rest of these players are nothing more than organizational depth and can be ignored in all Fantasy leagues on Draft Day.
News: The Sports Xchange notes: RHPs Cliff Politte and Dewon Brazelton were held back early in camp after some issues were raised on their physicals. Politte, who had shoulder surgery a couple of years ago, was cleared to start throwing again, but Brazelton is only playing catch and doing shoulder work.
Analysis: Neither of these pitchers should be considered outside of very large NL-only formats.
News: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the Cardinals have enough concern over RHP Dewon Brazelton's range of motion and strength in his right shoulder that they won't let him throw for several weeks. They'll put him on a program to get his arm in better condition and evaluate him later in camp. Obviously, it doesn't give him much of a chance of winning a major-league role. "First things first," La Russa said. "If you’re not healthy, you can’t compete anyway."
Analysis: Brazelton, 27, is a former No. 1 pick who has struggled to find himself as a pro. He is a reclamation project for famous messiah pitching coach Dave Duncan. Considering the current state of his arm, though, he really doesn't have much sleeper potential -- not even in the deepest of NL-only leagues.
News: The Cardinals signed C Jason LaRue to a one-year contract and signed RHP Dewon Brazelton and RHP John Wasdin to minor league deals.
Analysis: Brazelton, 27, is a former No. 1 pick who has struggled to find himself as a pro. He is a reclamation project for famous messiah pitching coach Dave Duncan. Consider Brazelton nothing more than a low-end flier for the deepest of NL-only leagues as a middle reliever if he is pitching well in spring and looking like he could make the roster as a long man and spot starter.
News: The Pirates signed former Tampa Bay right-hander Dewon Brazelton, who has an 8-25 career record, to a minor league contract. He will be assigned to Double-A Altoona.
Analysis: Brazelton, 26, was 8-25 with a 6.38 ERA in 63 games, 43 starts, with Tampa Bay (2002-05) and San Diego (2006). Consider the first-round amateur draft bust nothing more than a minor leaguer and ignore him in Fantasy.
News: Dewon Brazelton, who spent parts of the last five seasons in the major leagues, is close to signing a minor-league contract with the Pirates and being assigned to Double-A Altoona.
Analysis: Brazelton, 26, was 8-25 with a 6.38 ERA in 63 games, 43 starts, with Tampa Bay (2002-05) and San Diego (2006). He carries little Fantasy value at this time.
News: Royals SP Dewon Brazelton is struggling down at Triple-A Omaha. He is 0-4 with a 7.11 ERA through four starts. In his last start on April 23, he allowed eight hits and seven earned runs.
Analysis: Brazelton has been a huge disappointment as a top prospect and his road back to the majors could be a long one if he keeps on struggling. Ignore him in all leagues at this time.
News: The Royals optioned LHP Neal Musser, LHP Danny Christensen and RHP Carlos Rosa to the minors and reassigned RHP Dewon Brazelton, C Max St. Pierre and INF Richard Lewis.
Analysis: Brazelton is an ex-prospect who will try to work his way back to the big leagues, but he can be ignored in all Fantasy leagues at this point -- along with all of these other stiffs.
News: The Royals optioned RHP Luke Hochevar to Double-A, OF Mitch Maier to Triple-A, and RHP Carlos Rosa to Class-A. They reassigned P Dewon Brazelton, Billy Buckner, Wayne Franklin, Roberto Giron, Tyler Lumsden and Matt Wright; C Damaso Espino and Jared Price; and 1B Graham Koonce to minor league camp.
Analysis: Hochevar and Buckner could impact AL-only leagues before the end of the year. Consider them minor league stashees at this point and good picks in long-term keeper leagues. Maier could be considered a marginal prospect. Consider him in deeper AL-only leagues if and when he sees time on the big-league roster. Brazelton is nothing more than a low-end AL-only option if he gets a call-up in 2007. Consider Lumsden, a top pitching prospect, a candidate to get starts early this season. All of the other players here are worthless even in the deepest of AL-only leagues on Draft Day.
News: Not so encouraging was the one inning Dewon Brazelton threw Monday. The Angels, who have beaten the Royals all three times they've played this spring, scored five runs on six hits against the right-hander.
Analysis: Brazelton is nothing more than a low-end AL-only option if he gets a call-up in 2007. The former No. 1 pick is a bust and should be ignored on Draft Day.
News: Kansas City's Dewon Brazelton allowed one run and four hits in three innings against the White Sox, who have lost seven of nine. Brazelton, a non-roster invitee with an 8-25 career major-league record, gave up Josh Fields' solo homer in the second.
Analysis: Brazelton is a long shot to make the Royals this spring and will likely open the year in Triple-A. He's a one-time top prospect, though, and still not yet old. Consider him a sleeper in deeper AL-only leagues in the event he makes starts for the Royals. That's a sub-.500 team to pitch for, though.
News: The Kansas Royals agreed to terms with C Jared Price, C Damaso Espino, RHP Dewon Brazelton, RHP Roberto Giron, RHP Matt Wright, LHP Wayne Franklin, 1B Graham Koonce, RHP Barry Armitage, RHP Cody Smith, LHP Ed Yarnall, INF Luis Castillo, INF Justin Gemoll, INF Omar Pena, INF Mike Stodolka, RHP Leoncio Estrella, RHP Arthur Santos, RHP Martin Vargas, LHP Jason Cromer, C Cody Clark, OF Adam Greenberg and OF Onil Joseph on minor-league contacts.
Analysis: Brazelton is the most intriguing name of this group of minor-league roster fillers. The one-time first-round pick and ex-Devil Rays prospect could be a candidate for the bullpen after showing some progress in Triple-A last season. All of the other players here are worthless even in the deepest of AL-only leagues on Draft Day. None of them are long-term keeper-league options. By the way, that Luis Castillo above is not the ex-Marlin and current Twins 2B. Adam Greenberg had one at-bat in his career and was beaned in the head and hasn't been the same since.
News: Dewon Brazelton's numbers in Triple-A look awesome right now (4-3, 2.67).
Analysis: Barring a rotation injury, Brazelton won't be a candidate for a call-up before September, so consider him nothing more than a potential middle reliever in the season's final month after rosters expand to 40.
News: Dewon Brazelton strained oblique) threw two innings, allowing two runs – none earned – on a hit and two walks on July 14 while rehabbing in the Arizona Rookie League.
Analysis: Brazelton was improving in Triple-A before the injury but he now looks like nothing more than a September call-up as a long reliever. Consider him only as a minor league flier in the deepest of long-term keeper leagues at this point.
News: Dewon Brazelton, who has a 3.79 ERA in Triple-A, is out with a strained oblique.
Analysis: Brazelton was improving in Triple-A before the injury but he now looks like nothing more than a September call-up as a long reliever. Consider him only as a minor league flier in the deepest of long-term keeper leagues at this point.
News: Dewon Brazelton has nine Ks in seven innings and hasn't surrendered a run through his two apperences for Triple-A Portland.
Analysis: He doesn't have any Fantasy value.
News: Called upon Thursday afternoon vs. Milwaukee to follow Jake Peavy, Brazelton inherited an 8-0 lead to open the eighth. He never got an out. Triple, single, single, walk and he was gone. Instead of having Brazelton close out an easy game, Padres manager Bruce Bochy had to use three more relievers -- Brian Sweeney, Alan Embree and Scott Linebrink -- to close out what became an 8-5 win over the Brewers. Immediately after the game, Brazelton was outrighted to Triple-A Portland. He already had cleared waivers, meaning the 25-year-old has been dropped from the Padres 40-man roster.
Analysis: Brazelton is a safe drop from all rosters at this point.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed four earned runs, three hits and a walk while failing to retire a single batter in Thursday's appearance at Milwaukee as his ERA ballooned to 12.00.
Analysis: Brazelton had it going in the right direction until Thursday's implosion. Avoid using him in any Fantasy format until he gets his mechanics straightened out.
News: RHP Dewon Brazelton's ERA fell by 5.8 runs -- from 24.16 to 18.36 -- Wednesday with two scoreless innings of relief work in Denver. It was Brazelton's first appearance since he was removed from the Padres rotation on April 13 after his second start.
Analysis: Brazelton could be stuck in the 'pen until the Padres need an emergency starter. That would be his first chance to prove his Fantasy value again. Reserve or drop him in NL-only play for now.
News: San Diego has made a switch in its pitching rotation: Dewon Brazelton is out, Clay Hensley is in. Padres manager Bruce Bochy decided to send Brazelton to the bullpen after he went 0-2 with a 24.16 ERA in his first two starts, giving up 17 hits, 17 runs, six walks and four homers in 6 1-3 innings. Hensley hasn't been all that great, either, going 0-1 with an 11.25 ERA out of the bullpen. But Bochy wants to see what he can do as a starter, believing the sinker-ball pitcher will benefit from more innings. His first start will come Tuesday at Colorado. "This something that will be good for Clay," Bochy said. "When he goes out there for one inning, it's kind of tough to find your stuff."
Analysis: He had a nice spring, but he'll need to pick it up before the Padres decide to move him back into the rotation. Reserve, or drop, him in NL-only play for now.
News: When it comes to pitching on the road, Dewon Brazelton can't even beat the Florida Marlins. Brazelton gave up eight runs in four-plus innings Thursday and fell to 0-16 lifetime on the road when the Marlins defeated the San Diego Padres 9-2. The lone bright spot for Brazelton: He drove in a run in the second with his first major-league hit, a two-out double that made him 1-for-22 lifetime.
Analysis: Brazelton (0-2) gave up two homers, two doubles, two infield singles and four walks. He has allowed four homers in 6 1-3 innings this season and has an ERA of 24.16. On the road, the right-hander's career ERA is 8.59 in 25 games. His winless streak on the road is the longest since Kent Peterson of Cincinnati lost his first 18 away decisions in 1947-49. Brazelton came within four outs of a no-hitter against the Marlins with Tampa Bay in 2004. Obviously, the touch he had that day was not with him Thursday. He had a nice spring, but he'll need to pick it up before the Padres decide to move him to the bullpen or the minors. Reserve him in NL-only play for now.
News: The team's official website reports Dewon Brazelton will have his first start of the season pushed back to Saturday against the Rockies following Tuesday's postponement due to rain.
Analysis: Brazelton might have some decent success pitching in Petco Park, but he is only recommended in NL-only leagues. Avoid him in mixed leagues unless he gets off to a huge start.
News: San Diego pitcher Dewon Brazelton allowed six hits and five runs in five innings against the Cubs Saturday in Las Vegas.
Analysis: Brazelton was named the team's fourth starter this week. He was the Devil Rays' opening day starter a year ago, but after a rough year, he has rebounded. becomes immediately important in NL-only leagues and perhaps larger mixed leagues. The disappointing prospect still has talent and is finally adding results to go with a second opportunity.
News: The Padres finally set their rotation, and Dewon Brazelton completed a sensational turnaround by being named the fourth starter. Brazelton had a spring training ERA of 1.17; last season with Tampa Bay he went 1-8 with a 7.61 ERA and had off-field problems. "This is something he's earned. He's pitched very well, and we're looking for a good season from him," Bruce Bochy said. He has been lights-out this spring, allowing two earned runs in 15 1/3 innings. "I'm full of emotion at this point," he said. "I don't know whether to cry or smile. I had a lot to overcome to get this. I had a bad year, which was highly publicized. I don't want to blow it out of proportion, but this was a significant accomplishment. I went through a lot to get it, and it wasn't easy."
Analysis: Brazelton said he ironed out some problems with his mechanics while playing winter ball in Puerto Rico. He contends he could have had this comeback even if he'd have remained with the Devil Rays. "I made some mistakes, yes," said Brazelton, 25. "But it's not a good idea to give up on anybody at a young age, period." Brazelton becomes immediately import in NL-only leagues and perhaps larger mixed leagues. The disappointing prospect still has talent and is finally adding results to go with a second opportunity. Take a flier on him, especially if you can stash him away to see if his spring stuff holds water in the regular season.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed one hit in 3 1/3 innings of relief Tuesday.
Analysis: Park stunk up the joint and Brazelton is a renaissance prospect now in San Diego, having posted a 1.17 ERA this spring. Consider Brazelton a deep sleeper in deeper leagues if he makes the rotation. The former No. 1 pick, out of purgatory in Tampa, is all but certain to make the bullpen and will have value there, too, because he won't be far from joining the rotation.
News: Dewon Brazelton bolstered his bid to make the Padres' rotation, allowing one unearned run on two hits in four innings in San Diego's 8-6 win over the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday. By winning his first game of the spring, the 25-year-old right-hander lowered his ERA to 1.50 in 12 innings. "I try to pitch every game like its the last game I'm going to start," Brazelton said. "I want to leave an impression." He appears to be doing just that. Acquired in a December trade with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Brazelton is making a strong push to be San Diego's No. 5 starter, or possibly a long reliever. "He's certainly pitching very well and making it difficult on what we're going to do," Padres manager Bruce Bochy said.
Analysis: Brazelton's 2005 season was peppered with bad news at every turn. From seven losses in his first eight starts, to going AWOL after being sent to the minors, to two separate suspensions for fights on the field, Brazelton was turmoil and controversy personified. A custody battle for his son is finally over, so his off-the-field issues should be behind him. He's looking like he could emerge as a sleeper in DL NL-only leagues.
News: Dewon Brazelton, trying to win a spot in the Padres' rotation, allowed four hits and two runs in a three-inning stint. Brazelton let the leadoff hitter reach in each of his innings.
Analysis: Brazelton's 2005 season was peppered with bad news at every turn. From seven losses in his first eight starts, to going AWOL after being sent to the minors, to two separate suspensions for fights on the field, Brazelton was turmoil and controversy personified. A custody battle for his son is finally over, so his off-the-field issues should be behind him. He'll compete for a big-league spot, but he's nothing more than a flier in the deepest of NL-only leagues.
News: Dewon Brazelton pitched three scoreless innings against the Diamondbacks on Thursday in Peoria. He allowed three hits and a walk but struck out six. Brazelton has not allowed a run in five innings over two starts. He has seven strikeouts.
Analysis: Brazelton's 2005 season was peppered with bad news at every turn. From seven losses in his first eight starts, to going AWOL after being sent to the minors, to two separate suspensions for fights on the field, Brazelton was turmoil and controversy personified. A custody battle for his son is finally over, so his off-the-field issues should be behind him. He'll compete for a big-league spot, likely in long relief, but he's nothing more than a flier in the deepest of NL-only leagues.
News: Padres starter Dewon Brazelton, acquired in an offseason trade with Tampa Bay, bolstered his chances of making the team with a second consecutive strong outing. He struck out the side in the first inning and finished with six strikeouts in three scoreless innings. Brazelton hasn't given up a run in five innings this spring. "I think the change of scenery has been good for him," Padres manager Bruce Bochy said. "He's getting an opportunity and he's taking advantage of it."
Analysis: Brazelton's 2005 season was peppered with bad news at every turn. From seven losses in his first eight starts, to going AWOL after being sent to the minors, to two separate suspensions for fights on the field, Brazelton was turmoil and controversy personified. A custody battle for his son is finally over, so his off-the-field issues should be behind him. He'll compete for a big-league spot, likely in long relief, but he's nothing more than a flier in the deepest of NL-only leagues.
News: Padres starter Dewon Brazelton, acquired in an offseason trade with Tampa Bay, bolstered his chances of making the team with a second consecutive strong outing. He struck out the side in the first inning and finished with six strikeouts in three scoreless innings.
Analysis: It's an understatement to say Brazelton's 2005 was rocky. He has a lot to prove after a lot of on-field and off-field problems. He'll compete for a big-league spot, likely in long relief, but he's nothing more than a flier in the deepest of leagues.
News: San Diego starter Dewon Brazelton pitched two hitless innings on Sunday vs. Seattle.
Analysis: It's an understatement to say Brazelton's 2005 was rocky. He has a lot to prove after a lot of on-field and off-field problems. He'll compete for a big-league spot, likely in long relief, but he's nothing more than a flier in the deepest of leagues.
News: Here's the latest on San Diego's rotation: Jake Peavy is No. 1. After that, it's anyone's guess: Shawn Estes and Chris Young have spots won, and Woody Williams and Chan Ho Park have the inside track on the final spots. The Padres had been counting on working out a trade with Boston for the return of David Wells. With that hope fading, the club is short. Tim Stauffer and Dewon Brazelton have a shot at cracking the rotation, and first-round 2005 draft pick Cesar Carrillo might be given a shot by the end of the season.
Analysis: It's an understatement to say Brazelton's 2005 was rocky. He has a lot to prove after a lot of on-field and off-field problems. He'll compete for a big-league spot, likely in long relief, but he's nothing more than a flier in the deepest of leagues.
News: The Padres agreed Tuesday to a one-year deal with right-hander Dewon Brazelton and gave catcher Todd Greene a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. The Padres obtained Brazelton from Tampa Bay for third baseman Sean Burroughs on Dec. 7. The Padres lost their exclusive negotiating rights with him when they didn't offer him a contract by Dec. 20, but anticipated re-signing him as a free agent.
Analysis: Brazelton's 2005 season was peppered with bad news at every turn. From seven losses in his first eight starts, to going AWOL after being sent to the minors, to two separate suspensions for fights on the field, Brazelton was turmoil and controversy personified. A custody battle for his son is finally over, so his off-the-field issues should be behind him. He'll compete for a big-league spot, likely in long relief, but he's nothing more than a flier in the deepest of leagues.
News: The Padres allowed Dewon Brazelton and Craig Breslow to become free agents Tuesday night, but the team hopes to re-sign both pitchers. "I think we'll sign him back," GM Kevin Towers said. "We wanted to negotiate a better deal. We lose exclusivity, but we were down the road with both of them. We're hoping we'll be able to sign those two back." The 25-year-old Brazelton was Tampa Bay's opening-day starter last season, going 1-8 with a 7.61 ERA in eight starts and 12 relief appearances. Breslow had a 2.20 ERA in 14 relief appearances.
Analysis: Brazelton's 2005 season was peppered with bad news at every turn. From seven losses in his first eight starts, to going AWOL after being sent to the minors, to two separate suspensions for fights on the field, Brazelton was turmoil and controversy personified. A custody battle for his son is finally over, so his off-the-field issues should be behind him. He'll compete for a big-league spot, likely in long relief, but he's nothing more than an NL-only prospect flier.
News: Third baseman Sean Burroughs was traded from the Padres to the Devil Rays on Wednesday for right-hander Dewon Brazelton. "This is a classic change of scenery trade involving two former No. 1 draft picks that are still young players with tremendous upsides," Devil Rays executive vice president Andrew Friedman said.
Analysis: Brazelton's 2005 season was peppered with bad news at every turn. From seven losses in his first eight starts, to going AWOL after being sent to the minors, to two separate suspensions for fights on the field, Brazelton was turmoil and controversy personified. A custody battle for his son is finally over, so his off-the-field issues should be behind him. He'll compete for a big-league spot, likely in long relief, but he's nothing more than an NL-only prospect flier.
News: There was talk the Padres would deal third baseman Sean Burroughs to the Devil Rays for right-hander Dewon Brazelton.
Analysis: It's highly unlikely Brazelton earns a rotation spot with any team next spring. Consider him nothing more than a high-risk flier in the deepest of Fantasy leagues at this point. Perhaps a change of scenery to a pitcher's park like Petco would be just what the former first-round pick needs to revitalize his woebegone career.
News: Right-hander Wade Townsend, the Devil Rays' top draft pick in June, has a torn ligament in his right elbow. He is scheduled to visit team orthopedic physician Dr. Koco Eaton next week for further tests, the Devil Rays said Thursday. The 22-year-old righty was pitching for the team's affiliate in the Arizona Fall League, and league orthopedic surgeon Dr. Angelo Mattalino diagnosed the torn ulnar collateral ligament.
Analysis: This has nothing to do with Dewon Brazelton outside the fact the Devil Rays have yet another first-round pitcher bust on their hands. Brazelton or Townsend are not worth owning as keepers anymore.
News: RHP Dewon Brazelton began serving his three-game suspension for his role in an April 24 brawl with Boston. The suspension was reduced from five games to three.
Analysis: Brazelton might get a start or two toward the end of the season as the team begins the long process of figuring out what the troubled pitcher's future with the team is: starter, reliever or minor-leaguer? His value is limited to deeper AL-only leagues as a flier for a spot start.
News: RHP Dewon Brazelton and INF/OF Eric Munson were with the Devil Rays after they were called up following Sunday's game.
Analysis: Brazelton might get a start or two toward the end of the season as the team begins the long process of figuring out what the troubled pitcher's future with the team is: starter, reliever or minor-leaguer? His value is limited to deeper AL-only leagues as a flier for a spot start.
News: Manager Lou Piniella said they'll recall RHP Dewon Brazelton and INF-C Eric Munson after the Triple-A season ends Monday.
Analysis: Brazelton might get a start or two toward the end of the season as the team begins the long process of figuring out what the troubled pitcher's future with the team is: starter, reliever or minor leaguer?
News: RHP Dewon Brazelton struggled in his second start Friday at Triple-A Durham. He allowed six runs, six hits and four walks over 4 1/3 innings in a 14-1 loss to Charlotte.
Analysis: Brazelton appears to be a bust of a prospect. Consider him nothing more than a flier in the deepest of keeper leagues.
News: The Devil Rays optioned Dewon Brazelton to Triple-A Durham on Tuesday.
Analysis: Brazelton might be back when rosters expand in September, but he has no Fantasy appeal until he gets himself straightened out.
News: Manager Lou Piniella said he hasn't heard anything yet about RHP Dewon Brazelton's appeal of a five-game suspension the pitcher received in April for his role in two bench-clearing brawls against Boston.
Analysis: As the team's current long reliever, he has little Fantasy value anyway. But, if he replaces Mark Hendrickson in the rotation, this pending suspension could be a hassle.
News: Dewon Brazelton, who went AWOL earlier in the season, returned to action in Monday's 4-3 win over Toronto. He allowed one run on one hit in 2/3 of an inning.
Analysis: Brazelton remains a work in progress. Don't start him in AL-only leagues until he returns to the rotation and can piece together a decent start or two.
News: Tampa Bay recalled demoted opening day starter Dewon Brazelton from Double-A Montgomery and plan to use him in the bullpen.
Analysis: Brazelton remains a work in progress. Don't start him in AL-only leagues until he returns to the rotation and can piece together a decent start or two.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports Dewon Brazelton, in his first start since his demotion to the minors May 11, pitched three shutout innings for Double-A Montgomery, allowing two hits and no walks and striking out six.
Analysis: Brazelton was placed on the restricted list May 16 for failing to report to Triple-A Durham after dropping to 1-7 with a 6.43 ERA after a loss against Chicago on May 11. He disappeared for three weeks before resurfacing and refusing to discuss the specifics about his disappearance.
News: The Tampa Tribune reports Dewon Brazelton is scheduled to return to the mound Tuesday for his first start since his mysterious disappearance last month. Brazelton was assigned to Double-A Montgomery on Monday and will start against Tennessee.
Analysis: Brazelton was placed on the restricted list May 16 for failing to report to Triple-A Durham after dropping to 1-7 with a 6.43 ERA after a loss against Chicago on May 11. He disappeared for three weeks before resurfacing and refusing to discuss the specifics about his disappearance. The Rays removed him from the restricted list earlier this month, and he began working out on his own at the team's minor-league complex.
News: The Tampa Tribune reports Dewon Brazelton is expected to resume his career next week at Double-A Montgomery. He was optioned to Triple-A Durham the day after a loss to the White Sox dropped his record to 1-7. Five days later, when he failed to report to the Bulls, Major League Baseball put him on its restricted list. He returned without explanation about two weeks later and was reinstated June 2.
Analysis: The Devil Rays have until July 2 to evaluate Brazelton before having to pay him. He has been working out at the Naimoli Complex. "Brazelton's getting closer to going to a minor-league club and we hope sometime next week that that is the case," GM Chuck LaMar said. "We'll probably start him out in Double-A when that time comes and then [he will] go to Triple-A."
News: Dewon Brazelton worked out Friday for the first time since being reinstated from major league baseball's restricted list, however he did not shed any light on why he went into hiding for three weeks after being demoted to the minors.
Analysis: Brazelton was placed on the restricted list May 16 for failing to report to Triple-A Durham, where he was optioned after allowing five runs on four hits and six walks in a loss to the Chicago White Sox on May 11. He led the AL in losses at the time of his demotion and he has lost 11 of his past 12 starts. He is not worth owning in Fantasy play at this stage.
News: The Devil Rays reinstated Dewon Brazelton Thursday after three weeks after he was demoted to Triple-A Durham. He is scheduled to work out in St. Petersburg, but there has been no explanation for his absence from their team.
Analysis: Here's an explanation for Brazelton's absence from your team: He is not good. Once he figures out how to pitch on the road, he might earn a spot in your roster again, but for now, leave him on the free-agent pile.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports the Devil Rays don't appear any closer to getting Dewon Brazelton back on the mound. "We've had communication with his agent throughout the process," GM Chuck LaMar said. "Dewon continues to work out, and hopefully he will report to Durham in the near future."
Analysis: Brazelton remains on the restricted list after failing to report to Triple-A Durham following a May 11 demotion.
News: The Tampa Tribune reports Brazelton was reached on his cellular phone this week, but the Devil Rays still don't know his location. "I'm not ready to talk about that," Brazelton said. "It will all come out in a couple of days. Maybe [Thursday]."
Analysis: Brazelton (1-7) went AWOL after being demoted to Triple-A Durham on May 12. When asked if he was OK, Brazelton said: "I'm fine. I just don't want to answer any questions yet."
News: Devil Rays manager Lou Piniella has not heard from Dewon Brazelton, who was placed on the restricted list May 16 after failing to report to Triple-A Durham. "I think what it's showing is there's a problem and he's trying to get the problem straightened out before he reports," Piniella said. "And I hope he does."
Analysis: Brazelton (1-7) was notified of his demotion last Wednesday after a terrible outing against the Chicago White Sox. Players sent to the minors have 72 hours to report and are subject to fines and/or a suspension if they don't report on time.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports Dewon Brazelton still has not reported to Triple-A Durham and remains on the restricted list, but his agent, Bo McKinnis, did issue a statement: "On behalf of Dewon, I would like to thank everyone - the fans, Dewon's teammates, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays organization, and the media - for their concern. I ask everyone to please respect Dewon's privacy as he deals with this personal matter. Dewon looks forward to updating you with positive news at the appropriate time."
Analysis: Brazelton (1-7) was notified of his demotion last Wednesday after a terrible outing against the Chicago White Sox. Players sent to the minors have 72 hours to report and are subject to fines and/or a suspension if they don't report on time.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports Dewon Brazelton has still not reported to Triple-A Durham and is now on the restricted list. The suspension will cost him about $6,142 a day out of his $1.124-million contract.
Analysis: Brazelton's agent, Bo McKinnis, said he had "no comment on Dewon's situation" in an email to the Times.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports Dewon Brazelton has not reported to Triple-A Durham. Calls to his cell phone were not answered, a message left on his agent's office phone was not returned and Durham spokesman Matt DeMargel said the Bulls had not heard from him.Rays general manager Chuck LaMar did not return a message left on his cell phone.
Analysis: Brazelton (1-7) was notified of his demotion Wednesday after a terrible outing against the Chicago White Sox. Players sent to the minors have 72 hours to report and could be subject to fines and/or a suspension if they don't report on time.
News: The Tampa Tribune reports Dewon Brazelton's stint with Triple-A Durham might be longer than expected. "He needs to go down there and help himself," manager Lou Piniella said. "He started to struggle up here and I think he started to doubt himself. He needs to take a look at himself. He started to walk a lot of people, and that started to give him some problems. He has taken a step backward. Now he needs to work and get back to where he was."
Analysis: Brazelton (1-7) will be replaced in the starting rotation by Casey Fossum, who now warrants consideration in AL leagues.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports the Devil Rays have demoted Brazelton to Triple-A Durham. "It's time for him to establish whether he is a major-leaguer or not," GM Chuck LaMar said. "Dewon is truly at that crossroads. It's not an age factor any longer. It's really not even an experience factor. He's got to prove to himself, and in turn to the organization, that he's a major-league starting pitcher."
Analysis: Brazelton (1-7) will be replaced in the rotation by Casey Fossum, who now warrants consideration in AL leagues.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed five earned runs, four hits and six walks in only 4 2/3 innings on Wednesday against the White Sox to become baseball's first seven-game loser.
Analysis: It is a wonder that manager Lou Piniella has stuck with him this long, as he has exhibited a quick trigger in the past when shuffling up his rotation. Casey Fossum worked 4 1/3 scoreless innings in relief and would be in line to be plugged into the rotation if the Rays decide to change things up. Brazelton has walked 29 batters in 42 innings, so he is a player to avoid in all Fantasy leagues until he can iron things out.
News: Manager Lou Piniella decided to keep RHP Dewon Brazelton (1-6, 6.03 ERA) in the rotation, one day after considering a change. "We're just going to give him a chance to work out of it," Piniella said. Brazelton is looking to be more positive when he pitches. "I want to do so well, I try not to pitch bad, not pitch," Brazelton said.
Analysis: Brazelton is a risky start from week to week while he struggles through being a young pitcher. He should only be owned in AL-only leagues right now and only started out of necessity.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed five hits and four runs in 3 2/3 innings Friday against the Twins. He struck out three and walked three in his shortest start of the year.
Analysis: Brazelton is 0-4 with a 6.45 ERA in his four starts against the American League East. If he continues to pitch like this, he'll likely be removed from the rotation.
News: Dewon Brazelton's career-opening road losing streak reached 14 games. He gave up five runs -- four earned -- nine hits and three walks in six innings. He is 0-3 in three road starts this year, and his skid is the longest on the road for a pitcher at the start of his big league career since Cincinnati's Kent Peterson lost his first 18 decisions from 1947-49. "I haven't won on the road -- I know that," said Brazelton, who said a disputed two-run Mora homer in the first changed the complexion of the game. "You take away those two runs and it's a whole different ballgame. I can only go out there and control what I can control."
Analysis: Brazelton has limited value in AL-only leagues at this point. His road struggles likely make him too risky to start in any league when he is pitching on the road. Not to mention the Devil Rays remain one of the worst teams in baseball despite some developing young talent.
News: According to MLB.com, Dewon Brazelton has been suspended five games for his participation in on-field incidents during the April 24 game vs. the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.
Analysis: Brazelton is expected to appeal the suspension, so what games and how many he misses remains uncertain.
News: Dewon Brazelton, who didn't pitch on Sunday, was ejected because of his involvement in the beanball battle between the Devil Rays and the Red Sox.
Analysis: It's possible Brazelton could be suspended, which might put his start(s) this week in jeopardy.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed two runs and six hits in 6 1/3 innings against Texas on Thursday to pick up his first win of the season.
Analysis: Brazelton improved to 8-6 with a 3.69 ERA in 22 games at Tropicana Field. He is 0-12 with an 8.42 ERA in 16 games on the road.
News: Dewon Brazelton (0-3) remained winless in his career on the road, dropping to 0-12 in 16 starts. He allowed six runs on six hits in 3 2/3 innings while walking six and striking out one. "There are no excuses for what happened," Brazelton said. "It was just bad. I was horrible." He is 0-7 in his past 10 starts.
Analysis: Brazelton is not a suggested starter in Week 3 vs. Kenny Rogers and Texas -- even at home. Consider other options at this point. Brazelton has talent, but he is not a great Fantasy option right now because of his struggles and the lack of promise in Tampa Bay.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed three earned runs and five hits in 7 1/3 innings against the Blue Jays in Monday's regular season opener.
Analysis: Brazelton is the seventh different Tampa Bay starter in as many seasons. The last six starters were not on the active roster when the next season started.
News: Devil Rays opening day starter RHP Dewon Brazelton allowed two runs -- one earned -- two hits, four walks and struck out two in a minor-league game. He threw 76 pitches.
Analysis: He is on track for his opening-day start and will be an interesting late-round pick in Fantasy leagues this season. He is a talented arm, who had a noticable difference in success between home and away last season. He was 6-3 with a 2.90 earned-run average at home in 2004 and just 0-5 with a 9.62 ERA on the road.
News: Dewon Brazelton pitched four innings Wednesday and learned he'll be the Tampa Bay Devil Rays' opening-day starter vs. the Blue Jays. Brazelton allowed five hits and two runs, but the news he received from manager Lou Piniella was the biggest deal of all. "This is my dream come true," Brazelton said after the Devil Rays beat the Detroit Tigers 4-3. "It's really an honor. I have always said I want to be the No. 1 man in the rotation, but this means everything to me."
Analysis: Brazelton will make his first three starts at home, where he was 6-3 with a 2.90 earned run average in 2004. He was 0-5 with a 9.62 ERA on the road. Brazelton has never won away from home and knows will have to change if he wants to lead the Devil Rays' rotation. "Obviously, I plan to take it out when I get on the road," Brazelton said. "I have always been a different pitcher on the road, but I'm going to change that this year."
News: The St. Petersberg Times reports Manager Lou Piniella said Tuesday that Dewon Brazelton and Mark Hendrickson have pitched well enough to be among the starting five. "I like the way Hendrickson is throwing the ball and I like the way Brazelton is throwing the ball," Piniella said. "I think they've been the two most impressive pitchers rotation-wise. I would think that you can expect Brazelton and Hendrickson in our rotation."
Analysis: Brazelton finished the season going 0-4 with a 7.96 ERA in his final seven starts. The young right-hander is still winless on the road in his career, but is a solid late-round selection because of his success at Tropicana Field.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed 11 hits and six runs in 5 2/3 innings Thursday against the Tigers. He struck out four and walked a pair in the loss.
Analysis: Brazelton ended the season going 0-4 with a 7.96 ERA in his final seven starts. Despite the recent cold stretch, Brazelton is a solid young pitching prospect and should be targeted in the late rounds during next year's Draft Day.
News: Dewon Brazelton fell to 0-11 in his career on the road with a lop-sided defeat to the Yankees on Thursday. He gave up nine hits and seven runs in three innings.
Analysis: Brazelton is 0-3 with a 11.48 ERA in his past three starts. He'll face Boston next week and is 0-1 with a 37.80 ERA in his only start against them this year.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed five hits and one run in seven strong innings Sunday against the Athletics. He has three wins in August now.
Analysis: Brazelton is 4-1 with a 3.35 ERA in his past seven starts. He'll face Oakland again next week.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports that Lou Piniella might rework his rotation so that Dewon Brazelton can avoid pitching on the road. His next two starts, against Anaheim and Aug. 22 against Oakland, are already at home. "I don't know why if you can pitch at home, why it's that much different to pitch on the road."
Analysis: Brazelton is 0-9 with a 7.18 ERA on the road throughout his career. At home, he has a 5-2 career record.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed just two hits and one unearned run in seven efficient innings Friday against Seattle. He struck out three and walked four, while not factoring in the decision.
Analysis: Brazelton has allowed only seven runs in his last five starts. He lowered his ERA to 2.56 after the impressive start. He is a very solid option in all Fantasy formats and has tremendous keeper value, as well.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed one earned run and three hits in 6 2/3 innings on Sunday against Toronto to improve to 4-3.
Analysis: Brazelton has won consecutive starts and is emerging into a useful Fantasy starter in AL-only leagues. He is also a tremendous prospect for keeper leagues.
News: Dewon Brazelton pitched 6 2/3 innings and allowed eight hits and four runs on Monday. The Orioles broke a 2-2 tie with two runs in the seventh inning and that proved to the difference in the game. He struck out five and did not walk a batter in the loss.
Analysis: Brazelton has pitched very well for Tampa Bay this year. If you don't count his start on June 19 against Arizona, Brazelton has posted a 1.74 ERA and allowed just 23 hits in 31 innings. He'll start against the Yankees later in the week.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed just one hit over 7 2/3 strong innings on Friday against Florida. He combined with Danys Baez to shutout the Marlins. Brazelton walked six and struck out five in the 125-pitch outing.
Analysis: Brazelton showed what he is capable of Friday night. He has been one of the Devil Ray's most coveted prospects the past couple seasons. This tremendous effort should solidify him in their rotation for a while. He is worth a shot in all Fantasy formats.
News: Dewon Brazelton allowed just two runs over seven strong innings on Sunday against Colorado. He now has a 1.54 ERA in his two games this season. He did not factor in the decision.
Analysis: Brazelton has excellent keeper value and is worth starting in AL-only formats, especially if he can earn a spot in Tampa's rotation.
News: Dewon Brazelton will start against Colorado on Sunday.
Analysis: Brazelton allowed one unearned run in 4 2/3 innings of relief on Tuesday. He should only be used if you are desperate for pitching help in an AL-only league.
News: The Tampa Bay/Baltimore game was rained out on Saturday. That will cost Dewon Brazelton his scheduled start on Sunday.
Analysis: He might be used out of the bullpen in Tampa Bay's next couple games. Devil Ray's manager Lou Pinella has not announced when Brazelton will start again.
News: Tampa Bay promoted Dewon Brazelton from Triple-A Durham to start Sunday's game at Baltimore. He replaces Paul Abbott in the rotation.
Analysis: Brazelton was the No. 3 pick in the 2001 draft. In 10 starts at Durham this season, he is 4-4 with a 4.71 ERA in 49 2/3 innings without giving up a home run. Consider picking him up as a reserve pitcher in AL-only leagues.
News: The Devil Rays optioned Dewon Brazelton to Triple-A Durham on Wednesday.
Analysis: Brazelton pitched well this spring, and it shouldn't be long before he's recalled. He's still worth stashing away in AL-only leagues.
News: Dewon Brazelton will likely start the season at Triple-A Durham, according to the St. Petersburg Times.
Analysis: Brazelton has pitched well in the spring, but the youngster looks like more seasoning would be good for his psyche.
News: Dewon Brazelton pitched three scoreless innings, allowing only three hits, against Cleveland Friday.
Analysis: Brazelton's problems in the past couple seasons in Tampa Bay seem to be more mental than physical. The team rushed him to the Show a little early after being selected with their first-round pick. Manager Lou Piniella showed great patience last season as he let Brazelton work out his problems in Double-A Orlando. More positives for selecting him late in an AL-only league include a rotation in Tampa Bay that is not completely set, and an above-average offense supporting him this season.
News: Manager Lou Piniella told the Tampa Tribune not to expect Dewon Brazelton back with Tampa Bay once Double-A Orlando's season comes to an end. "I like Brazelton's ability, but he wasn't ready for this when he came up the first time," Piniella said. "Truthfully, we should have put him in the bullpen."
Analysis: Brazelton is only worth a roster spot in keeper leagues at this point. He will compete for a starting job in spring training next season.
News: Brazelton tossed seven scoreless innings for Class A Bakersfield on Saturday.
Analysis: The impressive performance was his best since being optioned to Bakersfield on June 25.
News: Dewon Brazelton will start Tuesday's game against the Yankees, according to published reports.
Analysis: Avoid using Brazelton in this most unfavorable matchup. He is not a useful Fantasy pitcher in AL-only leagues.
News: The Tampa Tribune says Dewon Brazelton's next start will come in the minor leagues.
Analysis: Brazelton will work out of the bullpen for now. He has minimal value in yearly Fantasy leagues.
News: Dewon Brazelton has been pushed back from Tuesday to Wednesday against Cincinnati, according to the St. Petersburg Times.
Analysis: There isn't a member of the Devil Rays' rotation worth using in Fantasy leagues right now.
News: Dewon Brazelton (back) started in Friday's game against Anaheim. He allowed four runs on four hits in six innings, earning his his first of the season.
Analysis: Despite the win, Brazelton still has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Dewon Brazelton had an apparent neck problem during Sunday's start. He was removed from his fourth loss after five innings.
Analysis: The rookie right-hander was charged with five runs - three earned - and five hits. He struck out seven and walked two. His current sttaus is day to day.
News: Brazelton was much improved on Thursday in his second start, allowing three earned runs, seven hits and two walks on Thursday against Minnesota. He pitched seven innings.
Analysis: Brazelton is 0-1 with a 4.26 ERA in his two starts thus far. He is not worth using in AL-only leagues, but is a good keeper prospect.
News: Dewon Brazelton was recalled from Triple-A Durham on Saturday. He started Saturday's game at Detroit and allowed three earned runs and six hits in 5 2/3 innings.
Analysis: Brazelton still only has Fantasy in keeper leagues.
News: The Tampa Tribune says Dewon Brazelton will be called up from the minors to pitch Saturday at Detroit.
Analysis: It is unclear how Tampa Bay will adjust its roster to accomodate Brazelton right now.
News: Dewon Brazelton will remain at Triple-A Durham for the time being. The team decided to give Seth McClung the start Friday against Baltimore and keep Brazelton at Durham for a couple of additional starts.
Analysis: Brazelton will likely be a mainstay in the Tampa Bay starting rotation by the end of May, but keep him reserved until he is officially recalled by the team.
News: The Tampa Tribune says Dewon Brazelton is likely to be called up from the minors, and might start on Thursday.
Analysis: Brazelton, Jorge Sosa and Seth McClung are candidates to replace Nick Bierbrodt in the rotation. All three pitchers have minimal Fantasy value.
News: Manager Lou Piniella will likely add Dewon Brazelton to the rotation in the upcoming week, according to the Tampa Tribune. The odd-man-out will likely be Nick Bierbrodt, unless he pitches lights-out during his scheduled start on Sunday.
Analysis: Brazelton is still very young and he will likely experience growing pains in the majors. He is worth adding in keeper leagues, but monitor his first few starts before considering him in AL-only leagues.
News: The Devil Rays want to give Dewon Brazelton one or two more starts in the minors before recalling him. He has a 1.92 ERA in two starts at Triple-A Durham.
Analysis: Brazelton is only worthy of a reserve spot in AL-only leagues.
News: Dewon Brazelton lost the race for the fifth spot in the rotation, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Steve Parris won the job. Brazelton will start the season in the minors.
Analysis: Brazelton is not a useful Fantasy player.
News: Dewon Brazelton left Tuesday's game in the second inning due to tightness in his left groin. Brazelton said that he has been bothered by the injury for the past five or six days and had hoped to play with the injury. The team was unhappy with his performance on Tuesday and decided to shut him down. His return date is unclear.
Analysis: Brazelton is competing for the fifth starter spot with Steve Parris and Jorge Sosa. The injury might hurt his chances of winning the job.
News: Dewon Brazelton, who previously had a knee injury, allowed two runs on five hits in three innings Wednesday against Pittsburgh, according to the Tampa Tribune. It was his first spring start. "Sometimes I think I can be a little erratic with my mechanics," Brazelton said. "But with repetition and doing that, it's going to get better. I haven't been in a bunch of ballgames, and I've been hurt a little bit, so I'm just trying to get back in a groove again."
Analysis: Brazelton is still likely to open the year in the Tampa Bay rotation, and he's worth using to round out your staff in an AL-only league. However, he'll have a hard time winning many games without much run support.
News: Dewon Brazelton (knee) made his exhibition debut Friday against Houston. He tossed a scoreless inning in the game.
Analysis: Brazelton remains an intriguing sleeper in AL-only leagues, but he'll have a hard time winning many games with Tampa Bay.
News: Devil Rays manager Lou Piniella told the Tampa Tribune that Dewon Brazelton (sore right knee) successfully completed an agility drill on Tuesday. Brazelton will make his scheduled start Friday against Houston.
Analysis: Brazelton's Fantasy value shouldn't be altered by this injury. He is still an intriguing youngster to consider in AL-only leagues.
News: The Tampa Tribune says Dewon Brazelton (knee) threw two innings in a simulated game on Monday. Lou Pinella said Brazelton should return to the mound in three days.
Analysis: Brazelton, who is competing for a starting job, won't help Fantasy leaguers much this season.
News: Dewon Brazelton was limping around the Tampa Bay clubhouse Thursday. He tweaked his knee in sliding drills on Wednesday, but tests on Thursday determined the injury is not serious. "That's good news," manager Lou Piniella said. "We're going to hold him back a couple of days. I would say that by no later than Monday we'll get him going."
Analysis: Brazelton is competing for a job in the starting rotation. He is worth a roster spot in AL-only leagues, but will have minimal Fantasy value pitching for the weak-hitting Devil Rays.
News: Prospect Dewon Brazelton injured his right knee during a sliding drill and will miss Thursday's intrasquad game. The extent of the injury will be determined when he is examined by a doctor on Thursday. "I can't honestly say it's nothing, but I don't think it's a big deal," Brazelton said. "I'm not worried about it at all."
Analysis: Brazelton is competing for a job in the starting rotation. He will have minimal Fantasy value pitching for the Devil Rays, but is worth a roster spot in AL-only leagues.
News:The Tampa Tribune reports Brazelton has been scratched from his scheduled start Tuesday in New York because of what was perceived to be a tired arm. "It's precautionary. He says he's OK, but it has bothered him," manager Hal McRae said. "He threw the ball well, but it's given him difficulty and some difficulty between starts. We'll give him 10 days off, and he might make his last start. There's a possibility that he could be shut down." Brazelton's final two starts would have been against the Yankees and Red Sox this week anyway, and those would have been bad matchups. He's not worth using in Fantasy leagues this week.
Analysis:
News: The Devil Rays are expected to call up several players when Triple-A Durham ends the International League playoffs this week. Brazelton is expected to make a couple starts for the Devil Rays. Monitor this situation. Brazelton, the Devil Rays' top pitching prospect, might be productive as a Fantasy pitcher.
Analysis:
News: Brazelton was optioned to the minor leagues by Tampa Bay on Thursday. He does have good stuff, but Brazelton needs to develop more command of his pitches before receiving any real Fantasy consideration.
Analysis:
News: Brazleton has shown good stuff in early workouts, but his control is still not as good as it could be. He can hit 95 mph on the radar gun, and his changeup is one of the best on the team. He could win the fifth spot in the starting rotation with a solid spring, but he'll likely begin the season in Double-A.
Analysis:
