News: The Giants announced on Friday that they have agreed to terms on a minor league contract with veteran pitcher Brad Penny. Penny, who had been pitching in Japan before being released last week, will report to the Giants’ spring training facility in Arizona. San Francisco sees a May 30 target to get Penny to the majors.
Analysis: Penny made just one start for the Softbank Hawks of the Pacific League before his release. The 33-year-old went 11-11 with a 5.30 ERA for the Tigers last season, and the Giants are reportedly seeking to put him in the bullpen now. In fact, manager Bruce Bochy said Penny could even close on days Santiago Casilla is unavailable. They could use some help there, however if he is just pitching in middle relief, he would have very little Fantasy value.
News: Veteran major league SP Brad Penny has signed a one-year contract with the Softbank Hawks of Japan’s Pacific League, the club announced Sunday. The 33-year-old right-hander is expected to arrive in Japan on Wednesday. Financial terms of the deal were not released.
Analysis: Penny went 11-11 last season for Detroit with a 5.30 ERA and 74 strikeouts in 31 games. He has compiled a 119-99 record and a 4.23 ERA over a 12-year major league career that included stints with Florida, the Dodgers, Boston, San Francisco and St. Louis. He developed problems with consistency toward the end of his major league career and should obviously be ignored in all Fantasy drafts for the upcoming season.
News: ESPN.com reported on Friday that Brad Penny is "weighing an opportunity" to pitch for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks of Japan's Pacific League. The right-hander went 11-11 with a 5.30 ERA in 31 starts for the Tigers last season.
Analysis: Penny has pitched for five different teams over the past four seasons and has a 5.11 ERA over that span. It looks as though there are not many major-league offers for the 33-year-old out there, so he might be better off going overseas. Even if he stays in America, Penny is not shaping up to be a viable option in Fantasy in 2012 so plan on ignoring him in all formats on Draft Day.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny yielded five runs and seven hits in just 1 2/3 innings during the Tigers' 15-5 loss to Texas in Game 6 of the ALCS on Saturday night. Penny, who had two walks and a strikeout, was one of five relievers used in the game as he replaced RP Ryan Perry in the sixth inning. It was his first outing of the postseason after making 31 starts during the regular season. Penny was charged with two home runs -- both in the seventh inning -- as Michael Young and Nelson Cruz both took him deep to build a 15-4 lead.
Analysis: Penny was hardly used in the postseason as he posted an ERA of 5.50 or higher during the last three months of the regular season. The veteran right-hander completed seven innings in only two of his final 15 starts as he finished with a woeful 5.30 ERA and 11-11 record. Penny has not recorded more than 11 wins in a season since 2007 and will be entering his 12th major league campaign next year. Fantasy owners should not rely heavily on him too much in 2012 drafts as he might have to compete for a job in the starting rotation.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny finished the regular season on a high note on Sunday as he got his 11th win of the year. He gave up three earned runs on five hits over 5 1/3 innings of work. Penny did issue three free passes to the Orioles and struck out just two batters, but it was enough for Detroit. The Tigers would win the game, 10-6.
Analysis: Penny finishes the regular season with an 11-11 mark for Detroit. The veteran hasn't been stellar this year, which is evident by his 5.30 ERA. But he has done enough to warrant Fantasy attention. Owners should continue to view him as an AL-only pitching option as he can't be counted on for anything more.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny may be the odd man out of the rotation for the playoffs, especially after his latest outing on Tuesday night in Kansas City. The Detroit veteran starter was hit hard early and often as Alex Gordon got things started with a solo homer to lead off the game against him. Things didn't get any easier for Penny, who ended up allowing seven earned runs on 10 hits and two walks over four innings in the defeat. Penny fell to 10-11 on the season with the loss as he struck out just one and gave up two homers in the game. Penny only threw 65 pitches and his ERA is now at 5.31 on the year.
Analysis: Penny had been pitching better lately for the Tigers as he allowed just one earned run over six innings in his last start and earned a win in the start prior, despite allowing four runs over five innings. Still, Penny has not shown that he can get deep in games lately and hasn't been deeper than six frames since going seven back on July 23 in Minnesota. Penny might not make the rotation for the playoffs as it stands right now, unless of course he can shine in his final regular-season test. His next start comes Sunday against Baltimore in his final start of the regular season. Treat Penny as just an AL-only Fantasy option at this point.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny, who was looking to move over .500 for the first time since July 17, had to settle for a no-decision Wednesday at the White Sox. He allowed five runs -- one earned -- on eight hits with three walks and three strikeouts in six innings and was in line for the loss before the Tigers rallied in the ninth. Penny himself committed the error that led to the four unearned runs in the second inning.
Analysis: Penny has an ERA of 5.07 this season, so he has allowed plenty of earned runs too. The Tigers have relied on the 33-year-old as the veteran presence in their starting rotation, but his performance alone hasn't merited him keeping a rotation spot. He's not worth using outside of AL-only leagues for his next start, which is scheduled for Tuesday at Kansas City, making him a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 25 (Sept. 19-28).
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny received more than enough run support in his outing against the Twins on Friday. He allowed four runs on five hits over five innings of work in the 8-4 win. The right-hander surrendered all of his damage in the first, when he gave up a walk and four straight hits with one out. He would cruise over his final four frames and was done after throwing 96 pitches, 56 for strikes. Penny also struck out one and walked three while earning his 10th win of the season. "This team, they've been doing this all year. They're going to score a lot of runs," Penny said. "If you can keep them somewhat close, you've got a chance to win."
Analysis: Penny picked up his first win since Aug. 23 on Friday and has now posted double-digit wins for the sixth time in his career. But his 5.19 ERA on the year is nearly a full run over his career mark. The 33-year-old has been anything but spectacular this season but plays on a good team that gives him run support so continue to view Penny as a viable option in AL-only formats. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the White Sox. In four starts against Chicago this season, Penny has gone 3-0 with a 3.80 ERA.
News: After giving up seven runs over five innings his last time out, Tigers SP Brad Penny did not look much sharper on Saturday against the White Sox. He allowed eight runs (four earned) on 10 hits over five innings of work. The right-hander gave up one in the first before being tagged with a five-spot in the fourth. He would give up two more in the fifth and left in line for the loss. Luckily his teammates were able to battle back for the 9-8 win. Penny, who threw 102 pitches, also struck out two and walked one in the no-decision.
Analysis: Penny went 2-1 with a 4.44 ERA over his first four starts in August but since then has allowed 11 earned runs over 10 innings. He has seen his ERA rise from 4.82 to 5.13 over that span, which is nearly a full run over his career mark. The 33-year-old is having a down campaign all around for the Tigers and should continue to be viewed as a low-end Fantasy SP. His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Twins. In four starts against Minnesota this season, Penny has gone 0-2 with a 7.13 ERA.
News:Luke Hughes hit two home runs to help the Minnesota Twins take out their hitting frustration on Brad Penny and the Detroit Tigers, stopping a seven-game losing streak with an 11-4 victory on Sunday. Penny (9-10) gave up eight hits, seven runs and two walks in five innings. He struck out five, but this was another non-Justin Verlander flop by the rotation. The Tigers fell to 52-52 when their dazzling, dominant right-hander doesn't start the game; they're 21-8 when he does.
Analysis: Penny has pitched in 2011 as his record has indicated -- average. Injuries have really warped Penny's career and now he is just an average MLB arm. The Tigers are contenders, but Penny remains an AL-only Fantasy SP. He will be back on the hill Friday against the White Sox. Penny is 3-0 with a 2.89 ERA in three starts against Chicago this season.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny was able to notch his ninth win of the season during Tuesday night's contest against the Rays. Penny, who was making his 25th start of the season, allowed just one run on eight hits over 6 1/3 innings in the 2-1 victory. The only run he did surrender came on a RBI double off the bat of Ben Zobrist in the third inning. Penny was able to keep Tampa Bay off the scoreboard over his final 3 1/3 innings of work and was pulled after throwing 101 pitches. He finished with two strikeouts and a walk while improving to 9-9 on the season.
Analysis: Penny pitched very well on Tuesday night and was rewarded with his ninth victory after the game. The right-hander has now allowed three runs or less in two straight starts for Detroit and seems to be settling into a groove. However, Penny's 2011 campaign has been mired by inconsistent performances, so we would not recommend starting him in deeper formats, especially with the playoffs right around the corner. He will be looking to pick up his 10th win of the year when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Sunday at Minnesota. Penny earned a no-decision in his last start against the Twins, allowing three runs over six innings. Only owners in AL-only formats should be using him at this point in the year.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny gave up three earned runs on five hits in his six innings of work on Wednesday night against Minnesota. He was tagged for two home runs, while issuing three walks and striking out three batters. Penny would not be able to win back-to-back starts, however, as the Tigers lost to the Twins 6-5. Penny earned the no-decision.
Analysis: Detroit would love for Penny to get into a groove, but that doesn't seem possible. He's 8-9 on the year with a 4.97 ERA for the Tigers. He is truly nothing special and should be viewed as an AL-only Fantasy option. Penny will take the mound next on Tuesday in Tampa Bay. He'll be in line for two starts in Week 21 (Aug. 22-28), the second coming against the Twins on the road. Penny holds a 4-5 record and 6.40 ERA in 10 road starts this season.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny earned his eighth win of the season during Friday night's contest against the Orioles. Penny, who was making his 23rd start of the season, allowed four runs on seven hits over 5 1/3 innings during the 5-4 victory. Most of the damage the right-hander surrendered came off the bat of J.J. Hardy, who homered twice and drove in three runs off Penny. He was pulled after throwing 91 pitches and finished with two strikeouts and a walk while improving to 8-9 on the season. "I didn't have the command I normally have," Penny said. "We won, and that's all I care about."
Analysis: Penny picked up the win on Friday, but it definitely wasn't one of his stronger outings. The veteran has been struggling of late and has allowed at least four runs in each of his last four outings, including Friday's effort. Still a win is a win and Penny will now look to keep things rolling when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Wednesday against the Twins. He is 0-1 with a 6.23 ERA in two starts against Minnesota this season. Fantasy owners should view Penny as merely an AL-only option heading into his next start.
News: The Tigers tweaked the rotation heading into the upcoming series against Cleveland. Manager Jim Leyland slotted the rotation as Doug Fister for Tuesday, Rick Porcello for Wednesday and Justin Verlander, who starts on Saturday against the Royals, on Thursday. Originally, Brad Penny was scheduled to pitch on Wednesday with Porcello going Thursday. Penny will likely make his next start during the upcoming series in Baltimore.
Analysis: Penny has allowed at least four earned runs in four of his last five starts and has lost three straight. His record is 7-9 and his ERA is at 4.92. Right now, Penny should be avoided in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Tigers starter Brad Penny continued his struggles on Thursday afternoon against Texas, giving up 11 hits over 6 2/3 innings. He walked three batters, giving up five runs -- four earned -- in his third consecutive loss.
Analysis: Penny has given up at least four runs in three consecutive starts and four of his last five. After a strong start to the season, he seems to have hit a wall that he cannot overcome and has become toxic in Fantasy play. Avoid him at all costs for his upcoming start against the Indians in Cleveland.
News: Tigers starter Brad Penny suffered through a frustrating afternoon on Thursday in a loss against the Angels. He allowed seven runs over just 3 1/3 innings before being chased, however, ultimately taking the loss. He and catcher Victor Martinez got into a heated argument on the mound in the second inning after Penny issued consecutive hits to begin the third inning. The two were calmed down by pitching coach Jeff Jones, but Penny was pulled two batters later after allowing an RBI single. Penny downplayed the incident, saying it was a discussion about how Martinez was calling the signs with a runner on second base, but the catcher refused to talk about the incident. "Next question," Martinez said. "Don't ask about that."
Analysis: Penny, Martinez and manager Jim Leyland will have some issues to straighten out going forward. Penny, however, has more than just ideological disagreements to worry about. He has now allowed 18 runs combined over his last four starts and seems to have hit a wall after a decent first half. Given these circumstances, he is a pitcher that Fantasy owners should be looking to keep out of active Fantasy lineups for his upcoming start against a very solid offensive club like the Rangers.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny took his seventh loss of the season during Saturday afternoon's contest against the Twins. Penny, who was making his 20th start of the season, allowed four runs on seven hits over seven innings, including a solo home run off the bat of Danny Valencia. The right-hander was also touched up for a two-run double by Delmon Young in the fourth and was pulled after throwing 102 pitches. He finished with four strikeouts and three walks while falling to 7-7 on the season.
Analysis: Penny was not sharp at all on Saturday but was still able to keep his team in the game by working his way out of several jams. Despite this recent setback, Penny has been pitching pretty well of late. He has already has only allowed more than three runs twice over his last six outings and is 2-1 with a 3.64 ERA over that stretch. He has also pitched at least six innings during that run and will look to get back on the winning side of things when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Thursday against the Angels. Penny beat Anaheim earlier in the season, allowing four runs over 6 1/3 innings back on July 6. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the right-hander as a viable option in deeper and AL-only formats heading into Week 17 (July 25-31).
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny ran into a tough inning Sunday against the White Sox, but he was able to overcome it on the way to a win in his first start since the All-Star break. He forced three ground-ball outs in the first inning, but the Chicago bats came alive in the second. Penny yielded a pair of doubles, a single, a sacrifice fly and a walk before retiring two batters in the frame. The spurt led to a 3-0 deficit for Detroit, and the offense broke through in the sixth inning to take a 4-3 lead. Penny recorded two more outs in the seventh, and the lead held up. He gave up three runs on nine hits on the afternoon, working 6 2/3 innings while striking out a pair of batters an walking one. "Some teams are different. Those guys are really aggressive, and they're doing me a favor by swinging first and second pitch every time," Penny said. "I'm throwing strikes, and they're helping my pitch count, when they had me a little bit on the ropes in the second inning."
Analysis: Penny showed some resiliency after a tough frame got the team into an early hole. Nonetheless, he tossed a quality start for the fourth time over his last five starts on the way to a seventh win. Penny now stands 7-6 on the year -- the first time he has been above .500 since June 5 -- while sporting a 4.47 ERA through 19 starts. The right-hander won't provide may strikeouts, with just nine over his last four stars, so wins are crucial to his value. Fantasy owners should consider him to be a low-end option going forward, with the Twins on tap for his only start in Week 16 (July 18-24). Penny was hit hard for five runs against Minnesota at homer earlier in the year, though he was left out of the decision in the May 30 matchup.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny is projected to start the Tigers' third game following the upcoming All-Star break against the White Sox on Sunday. Penny owns a 6-6 record with a 4.50 ERA in 18 starts this season, his first with Detroit. He has posted a 47:35 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 110 innings.
Analysis: Penny won his first decision in his last six starts with his victory over the Angels last Wednesday. The veteran right-hander started the month of May strong, but has relapsed since and carried an ERA above four since May 8. He also has not fanned more than five batters in any of his outings. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end option in AL-only formats against Chicago. He is 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA against the White Sox.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny's final line looked uglier than opposing starter Tyler Chatwood's on Wednesday afternoon in his start against the Angels. Of course, while Chatwood settled for a no-decision, Penny stayed in the game just long enough to earn a win. Penny improved to .500 at 6-6 on the season as he allowed four earned runs on six hits and two walks over 6 1/3 innings. He got enough offense from Victor Martinez and Miguel Cabrera to hold off the Angels for the win. Penny struck out three and threw 99 pitches in the start. His ERA is now at 4.50 on the year.
Analysis: Penny finished the unofficial first half of the season with a 6-6 record and an ERA he's not really proud of. His WHIP of 1.41 is also a little high for his liking. Penny, however, entered Wednesday's final start before the All-Star break having allowed just five earned runs in his previous 19 2/3 innings. He ends the first half on a bit of a roll, slowed a bit by Wednesday's outing, but doesn't strike out nearly enough batters to matter outside deeper mixed Fantasy leagues. Penny should mostly be considered an AL-only option at this time. His next start, likely coming in Week 15 (July 11-17) following the All-Star break, is yet to be determined. The Tigers have Justin Verlander starting the opener against the White Sox, but manager Jim Leyland has not decided the rotation yet after that.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny threw seven innings of one-run baseball on Friday night against San Francisco. He issued two walks, had two strikeouts and gave up seven hits, but left the game trailing 1-0. His team would tie the game in the eighth inning getting Penny off the hook for the loss. The Tigers would not be able to get the win though as they lost to the Giants, 4-3.
Analysis: Penny lowered his ERA to 4.43 after Friday's outing, but couldn't get back to the .500 mark on the year. He's earned two straight no-decisions, lowering his ERA in both outings. He may not have gotten the win, but he was able to go deep into the game, which is always good for the bullpen. Unfortunately that doesn't help his Fantasy value out much as he remains more of an AL-only option. Penny takes on the Angels in his next trip to the mound, which falls on Wednesday in Fantasy Week 14 (July 4-10). In eight career starts versus the Halos Penny is 2-3 with a 5.48 ERA.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny's knee was just fine as he went 6 2/3 innings in a no-decision against the Diamondbacks on Sunday. Penny, who tweaked his knee batting in his last start, was in line to lose the game before the Tigers scored seven times in the eighth inning. Penny allowed just two earned runs on eight hits and a walk over 6 2/3 innings in the no-decision. He struck out two and his ERA is now at 4.66 on the season.
Analysis: Penny has given up two runs in back-to-back starts spanning 12 2/3 innings. That is a good sign, but at 5-6 on the year with a high ERA and few strikeouts, Penny is just an AL-only Fantasy option at this point. His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Giants in Week 13 (June 27-July 3).
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny, who tweaked his knee while batting in his last start but managed to stay in the game, was in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Diamondbacks.
Analysis: This injury doesn't seem to be a big deal, so if you own Penny in a daily league, it shouldn't keep you from starting him. Of course, his numbers might. He has a 4.80 ERA on the season and a 6.00 ERA over his last six starts. Pitching for a contender, he'll pick up a few cheap victories, but as a non-strikeout pitcher who allows a lot of baserunners, he's generally not an advisable Fantasy option.
News:Brad Penny appeared to tweak his knee during Monday night's contest against the Dodgers. Penny sustained the injury while batting in the top of the sixth inning and was very slow getting out of the batter's box. He came back out to pitch in the bottom of the inning and did not seem to show and ill-effects from his injury on the mound. Penny allowed two runs on seven hits over his six innings of work and was pulled after throwing 96 pitches. He finished with four strikeouts and three walks while falling to 5-6 on the season.
Analysis: Penny said after the game he feels fine, although lets wait to see how he feels in the morning. The right-hander pitched pretty well on Monday but unfortunately ran into a red-hot Clayton Kershaw. He is scheduled to make his next start on Sunday against the Diamondbacks. However, Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status moving forward. Penny has only won once since May 14 and should only be viewed as a solid low-end Fantasy option, when healthy. Stay tuned.
News:Brad Penny couldn't hold a three-run lead and was done after 3 1/3 innings on Wednesday against the Indians. Penny worked out of trouble in the first three innings and carried a 3-0 lead into the fourth. But after three RBI singles tied the game, manager Jim Leyland replaced Penny with Charlie Furbush, who was greeted by a Grady Sizemore sac fly. Penny avoided the loss as Detroit tied the game in the bottom of the fourth. Penny was charged with four runs on eight hits and two walks. He failed to record a strikeout. "His command wasn't good -- he was just all over the place," Detroit manager Jim Leyland said of Penny.
Analysis: The last time Penny failed to go five innings was his first start of the season against New York, when he lasted just 4 1/3 innings. He has been up-and-down all season, but he usually makes it far enough to save the bullpen. Injuries have turned Penny into just another run-of-the-mill rotation arm. He remains just a low-end Fantasy SP. Penny will be back on the hill Monday to face one of his old teams -- the Dodgers. He is also lining up for two interleague starts in Week 12 (June 20-26). Penny is 8-13 with a 5.07 ERA and 1.39 WHIP in his career in interleague play.
News: Despite tossing his sixth quality start of the season, Tigers SP Brad Penny took the loss in Thursday's matchup against the Mariners. He gave up a solo homer to Justin Smoak in the first inning, but settled and cruised into the fifth with the lead before he gave up a tying RBI. The game remained tied until Carlos Peguero took Penny out of the park on a solo shot. He exited after the frame with the team down 3-2, which ended up being the final score. He gave up three runs on eight hits over seven solid innings of work on the way to the loss. The right-hander struck out just two batters but didn't walk one during the 92-pitch outing.
Analysis: Penny gave up eight hits for the second straight start, holding the opponent to three runs for the second time in a row as well. The only difference is that he won in his last outing. The loss drops Penny to an even 5-5 this season, though his ERA actually improved to 4.69 on the night. He will be back on the hill Wednesday against the Indians, who he has faced just once as a starter. In the 2009 tilt with the Tribe, Penny was left out of the decision after giving up four runs in just 2 2/3 innings of work. Fantasy owners shouldn't expect a similar scenario going forward, in his only start of Week 11 (June 13-19). Utilize the 33-year-old as a low-end option going forward, as he hasn't shown too much consistency on the hill thus far.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny received more than enough run support in his start against the White Sox on Sunday. He pitched five innings, allowing three runs on eight hits in the 7-3 win. He gave up a pair of runs in the first and a solo homer to Gordon Beckham in the fourth for his only damage on the outing. He was done after throwing 100 pitches, 65 for strikes. Penny also struck out five and walked two while picking up his fifth win of the year. "(The White Sox) had a lot of foul balls to get his pitch count up," manager Jim Leyland said. "He had good stuff. It wasn't his best, but he battled through it and picked up a win."
Analysis: After giving up five earned runs in each of his previous two starts, Penny looked better on Sunday and picked up his fourth win in his last six starts. He has posted a 3.52 ERA over that span with a 15-to-10 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 38 1/3 innings. The 33-year-old has a potent offense backing him up in Detroit and should be considered a low-end Fantasy SP heading into Week 10 (June 6-12). His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Mariners. When Penny faced Seattle on April 28, he gave up four runs over seven innings while taking the loss.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny did not look his sharpest in his outing against the Twins on Monday. He pitched six innings, allowing five runs on 10 hits. He made it through his first three frames unscathed before giving up an RBI single to Michael Cuddyer in the fourth. Then in the fifth, the right-hander gave up a four-spot. He left the the game tied at five. Penny also struck out two and walked one in the no-decision.
Analysis: Penny has given up five earned runs in each of his last two outings, and has seen his ERA balloon from 4.11 to 4.72 over that span. He had gone 3-0 with a 0.83 ERA in his previous three starts before that hopefully he will be able to bounce back in his second outing of Week 9 (May 30-June 5). The 33-year-old has proven to be a viable Fantasy option when going well so continue to view him as a low-end option in deeper mixed leagues at this point. His next start is scheduled for Sunday against the White Sox. When Penny faced Chicago on April 23, he pitched seven innings of one-hit ball in the win.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny held a 2-0 lead after three innings of work on Wednesday afternoon against the Rays. Unfortunately, that effort will be completely erased from the record books after the game was postponed due to rain. With the game being made up later in the summer, Penny will have to wait for his next turn through the rotation as he threw 47 pitches during his time in the game Wednesday.
Analysis: With the Tigers keeping their rotation in order, Penny will make his next scheduled start on Monday against the Twins at Comerica Park. Penny was looking to rebound Wednesday from an ugly start at Pittsburgh on May 20 in which he allowed five runs over 5 2/3 innings and took the loss to fall to 4-4 on the year. Penny has not been great this season with a 4.45 ERA, but he will pitch twice in Week 9 (May 30-June 5). That gives him some value in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny (4-4) surrendered five runs and six hits in just 5 2/3 innings during the Tigers' 10-1 loss to Pittsburgh on Friday night. Penny came into the interleague matchup with wins in four of his last five starts, but yielded more runs than his last three outings combined (two). The veteran right-hander posted four strikeouts and issued a season-high five walks. His walk to Ronny Cedeno in the third was his first free pass allowed since May 3, a span of 22 1/3 innings. "Just too many walks and they got three infield hits off me," Penny said. "It just wasn't my night. I didn't pitch well enough to win."
Analysis: Penny did little to help himself as his earned-run average swelled to 4.45 with his fourth loss of the season. In his last five starts, the 32-year-old has permitted only six walks and registered a glossy 1.51 ERA over that span. He nearly matched that total Friday, when 52 of his 105 pitches failed to hit the strike zone. Still, he managed to avoid any real trouble until the sixth when the Pirates crossed the plate six times. Fantasy owners should consider Penny a decent SP option in AL-only formats for his next scheduled start Wednesday against Tampa Bay. He is 3-1 with a solid 1.82 ERA in five outings at home this year.
News: Sunday's game featuring the Tigers hosting the Kansas City Royals was postponed due to rain and Detroit will push back its starting rotation, keeping everyone on schedule. That means Brad Penny's next start is pushed back to Friday to open interleague play at Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Penny, originally facing Boston on Thursday, will still get one start in Week 7 (May 16-22). For his career in interleague play, Penny has gone 8-12 with a 4.96 ERA. That said, he's only won one interleague game since the beginning of 2008 and is 1-2 over that span with a very high ERA. Penny should only be considered an AL-only option for his upcoming scoring period.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny (4-3) hurled eight scoreless innings with plenty of help from his defense in the Tigers' 3-0 victory over Kansas City on Saturday. Penny allowed only five hits as he decreased his earned run average for the fifth consecutive game and now stands at a manageable 4.11. The veteran right-hander struck out only two batters but did not permit more than one baserunner in any inning he pitched. "We had some awesome plays today," Penny said. "That's probably the best defense I've had, personally, in one start in my career."
Analysis: Penny threw 110 pitches before giving way to Jose Valverde, who earned his 10th save. Penny has pitched at least six innings without allowing an earned run in three of his last five starts. "He commanded the ball and threw strikes, he threw curves for strikes, he moved the ball in and out," Royals manager Ned Yost said. "He didn't make three mistakes we could crush, and their defense played great." Fantasy owners should begin to trust Penny as a decent SP option in AL-only formats again, including his next projected start Thursday at Boston. He is 1-1 and allowed seven runs in his last two starts on the road.
News: After allowing just one unearned over six innings in his previous start, Tigers SP Brad Penny put together another solid outing on Sunday against the Blue Jays. He pitched 7 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on seven hits in the 5-2 win. A two-run homer by Jose Bautista in the third inning was the only damage he would give up. The right-hander responded to the third-inning shot by retiring 10 straight batters and 14 of the next 15. Penny also struck out one and did not walk a batter while earning his third win of the year. "What you saw today is exactly the reason we wanted to get him," manager Jim Leyland said. "He gave us some innings and gave us a chance to win the game. He pitched a good game his last start and he pitched a good game today. Hopefully he can get on a little bit of a roll."
Analysis: Penny has gotten back on track after a few rough outings to begin the year as he has gone 3-1 with a 1.95 ERA over his last four starts with an 8-to-5 strikeout-to-walk ratio. The 32-year-old has never been known as a strikeout pitcher but he's proved in the past to be a viable Fantasy SP and appears to be back on that path. Consider him a viable option in deeper Fantasy formats for Week 6 (May 9-15). His next start is scheduled for Saturday against the Royals. In two career starts against Kansas City, Penny is 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny gave up one run on six hits in Tuesday's 4-2 win over New York. That runs was unearned as he improved to 2-3 on the season. He issued two walks and struck out one batter over his six innings of work. "They had me on the hook," Penny said. "I'm [around] 50 pitches in the second inning, so I've got to come over the plate. I have no choice. Luckily they were pounding it in the ground tonight. ... It's a tough lineup. You've got to work."
Analysis: Penny outdueled CC Sabathia on Tuesday and has won two of his last three starts. The veteran right-hander owns a 5.23 ERA over his seven starts for the Tigers this season, so there is still room for improvement. Fantasy owners should continue to view Penny as an AL-only option until he can string a few solid outings in a row. Penny faces the Blue Jays on Sunday to finish Week 5 (May 2-8). In his seven starts against Toronto, Penny is 3-1 with a 4.10 ERA.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny (1-3) went seven innings Thursday against the Mariners, but took the loss as he was out-pitched by rookie Michael Pineda. Penny allowed four runs on nine hits with three strikeouts and a walk.
Analysis: Penny has now gone seven innings in each of his last two outings, but this start wasn't nearly as good as his last one, when he allowed only one hit and no runs. Penny's trouble on Thursday came every time he put the lead runner on, and Miguel Olivo made him pay with a key homer that gave Seattle a 4-2 lead. In Fantasy Week 5 (May 2-8), Penny will get two starts against the Yankees and Blue Jays. In his first start of this season, Penny was shelled for eight runs in 4 1/3 innings by New York, and against Toronto he is 3-1 with a 4.10 ERA in seven career starts. Penny remains more of an AL-only option than anything for the time being.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny was nearly unhittable during Saturday's 9-0 win over the White Sox. Penny took a no-hit bid through 5 1/3 innings against Chicago, before Brent Morel ended the bid by reaching on an infield single. With one-out in the sixth inning, Morel hit a chopper down the third-base line. Brandon Inge backhanded it behind the bag and made a throw in the dirt that first baseman Miguel Cabrera couldn't field cleanly to attempt a tag on Morel. The official scorer ruled it a hit, which drew boos from fans at Comerica Park. Penny walked the next batter he faced but then settled back down and retired the next two batters consecutively to end the inning. He was finally pulled after the seventh inning, allowing just one the one hit during his outing. Penny threw 95 pitches and finished with three strikeouts and two walks while earning his first win of the season. "I still don't think I would've thrown a no-hitter," Penny said. "My pitch count was getting up there. I'm sure I would've given up a hit at some point."
Analysis: Penny has never thrown a no-hitter and thanks to the official scorer at Comerica Park, that trend continued on Saturday. Still, the right-hander would have had to get through two more innings and was already at 95 pitches when he was pulled. More importantly is the fact that Penny turned in his strongest outing of the season after struggling a bit during his first three starts. He was able to keep the struggling White Sox off balance all game long and finally was able to pitch past the sixth inning. Penny will now look to build off his latest outing when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Thursday against the Mariners. However, until he can string a few more quality outings together, Fantasy owners should continue to view the 32-year-old as a AL-only option heading into Week 4 (April 25-May 1). Penny is 0-1 with a 5.25 ERA in two career appearances against Seattle.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny (0-2) gave up five runs on four hits in five innings during the Tigers' 5-1 loss to Oakland on Sunday. Penny struck out five batters but matched a season-high with four walks as he lost for the second time this season in four starts. It's the first time in his 12-year career he has started a season 0-2. Penny, who retired nine of the first 10 batters he faced, has now allowed 20 runs this season for a 8.44 ERA. Detroit's one run marked their fewest in the last six games. "Once again it was a lack of offense," Tigers manager Jim Leyland said. "We have to upgrade the concentration level a little."
Analysis: Penny matched Athletics SP Trevor Cahill (eight innings, one run) early but gave up a run in the fourth on a ball that appeared to be going foul. Daric Barton walked and took third on Conor Jackson's single. After a strikeout, Hideki Matsui hit a dribbler that Penny grabbed just as the ball rolled onto the chalk along the first base line. He threw to first for the out but Barton scored to make it 1-0. He unraveled from there as he allowed three runs in the fifth and one in the sixth. Penny is now a risky Fantasy option in AL-only formats, including his next projected start April 23 at the White Sox, which ranks among the top three in the AL for runs scored.
News: Despite leaving Tuesday's afternoon start against the Rangers with a lead, Tigers starter Brad Penny did not factor in the final decision. He pitched well over 6 2/3 innings, allowing a season-low three earned runs off seven hits and a walk. He struck out two batters.
Analysis: Penny has improved in each outing since his first start of the season at the Yankees on April 2, when he surrendered eight runs over 4 1/3 innings. He allowed four runs over 5 1/3 on April 7 in Baltimore and produced his first quality start on Tuesday. He is far from a solid play in Fantasy for now, but he should at least be viewed as an AL-only viable stopgap measure. His next start is slated for Sunday in Oakland. He might not be particularly productive in any category, but he will pitch in a good pitcher's ballpark this season for a team that has an above-average offense. He can eat innings and will be a possible cheap source for wins if he can stay healthy.
News: After getting lit up in his season debut, Tigers SP Brad Penny looked sharper in his outing against the Orioles on Thursday. He threw 5 1/3 innings, allowing four runs on six hits. Two runs in the second were his only damage over the first five frames but he ran into some trouble in the sixth. In that inning he gave up a one-out double to Luke Scott before surrendering a two-run homer to Adam Jones. He was pulled for Brayan Villarreal after serving up the gopher ball. Penny also struck out three and walked three in the no-decision. "This team battled and we had a chance to win that game," Penny said. "I let it go in the sixth and it kind of snowballed from there. This team is going to hit. Once we start pitching, it's going to be a fun year."
Analysis: Penny looked much better in his second outing of 2011 and could have came away with the win had it not been for the late meltdown. He has given up 12 earned runs -- including three homers -- in 10 2/3 innings pitched so far this season so keep an eye on him over his next few starts to see if he can settle down. The right-hander lines up as a two-start pitcher for Fantasy Week 2 (April 11-17) so considering Penny a viable option in AL-only formats for the upcoming scoring period. He is scheduled to face off against the Rangers on Tuesday, followed by the A's on Sunday.
News: Detroit SP Brad Penny started Saturday's outing by getting New York OF Brett Gardner out. The next three batters would score for the Yankees giving them a 3-0 lead after the first inning. That score would double after the second frame after Mark Teixeira blasted a three-run homer to right field. "That was a terrible pitch. Probably the worst pitch I've thrown in, I can't remember," Penny said. "I gave in. I'm down 2-0 in that situation and I gave in and threw it right down the middle." Penny lasted just 4 1/3 innings for the Tigers. He gave up eight runs on seven hits and four walks. The Yankees went on to win the game, 10-6, handing Penny his first loss of the season.
Analysis: Penny was limited to nine starts last year while he was in St. Louis as he dealt with a back injury. He's trying to bounce back this year with Detroit, but it won't be an easy road. He'll need to get some help defensively if he wants to be productive in 2011. He struck out three batters on Saturday, but starts the year off with a 16.62 ERA. That is not what any Fantasy owner likes to see. Consider him a low-end SP option in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues to start the season. He's worth more in AL-only formats, but after Saturday's outing he's not helping anyone. Penny is slated to start again on Thursday at Baltimore. In two career starts against the Orioles, Penny is 1-0 with a 7.71 ERA.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny finished the spring with a win over the Astros on Sunday. Penny allowed two runs on seven hits and two walks in six innings. He only allowed his runs in the second inning, pitching five other scoreless frames. He struck out four as he improved to 2-1 and lowered his spring ERA to 3.91. “That was a very meaningful spring training outing,” Tigers manager Jim Leyland said. “He was working on some splits (split-finger fastballs) and things. Overall, very good.” Penny felt very comfortable with his pitches after the outing. “I felt better today,” Penny, 32, said. “I can throw any of my pitches in any count.”
Analysis: Penny deserves a round of applause for making it through the spring without any setbacks from a back injury that cost him most of the 2010 season. He'll open the season as the Tigers' No. 2 pitcher and has a chance for double-digit wins as long as he stays healthy. Penny remains a late-round Fantasy flier on Draft Day.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny, who was named the team's No. 2 starter on Monday, didn't exactly look like one on Tuesday against the Mets. Penny allowed five runs on eight hits over four innings, walked three and struck out three. Willie Harris did most of the damage, swatting a grand slam.
Analysis: Penny was pitching well this spring until Tuesday, just like he was last season until he came down with an abdominal issue. While he is 32, Penny should have some life left in his arm still, and if Detroit can play up to expectations, he should get plenty of run support, too. Continue to draft him late in deeper mixed leagues.
News: Tigers manager Jim Leyland announced on Monday that Brad Penny will be the team's No. 2 starter and will start the second game of the regular season, reports MLive.com. Phil Coke will begin the year in the bullpen as the No. 5 starter and won't make his first start of the year until April 9. "We made the decision," said Leyland.
Analysis: Penny has racked up a 2.35 ERA this spring in four starts with eight strikeouts over 15 1/3 innings. The 32-year-old veteran has a big role in the rotation for Leyland and the Tigers this season and he will look to improve upon the 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA he had in less than half a season last year. His year ended early due to an abdominal injury. Penny could bounce back nicely and is worthy of a pick in mixed Fantasy leagues near the end of the middle rounds.
News:Brad Penny, recovering from an abdominal injury last May that ended his season, allowed three runs and walked two in five innings Thursday against the Twins, raising his spring ERA to 2.35. He allowed a home run to Luke Hughes in his final inning, but said he felt ready to start the season. "I actually felt better than I did last time out," Penny said. "I think I am right where I want to be right now."
Analysis: Penny has a very nice 2.35 ERA this spring, which would be a great number if he could pitch this well at the bottom of the Detroit rotation. If he can stay healthy, the veteran will be a nice late-round pick in deeper mixed leagues, as he pitched well in St. Louis last season before going down with a back injury.
News: Making his third spring start on Saturday against Toronto, Detroit SP Brad Penny gave up his first earned run in the Grapefruit League. Penny, who projects as the No. 5 starter for Detroit this year, allowed two runs in the game, but one was unearned. He allowed four hits over five innings with one walk and one strikeout. "I didn't feel great, so I wasn't trying to throw hard at all," Penny told MLB.com. "My location wasn't good, either, so that's not a good combination. But I made some pitches when I needed to. It's kind of nice to have that experience -- have people on second and third with no outs and then have to try to make pitches. It makes you focus a little bit more." His spring ERA is now just 0.87.
Analysis: The way Penny has pitched this spring, it makes him sound like one heck of a No. 5 starter. He might even hop over Phil Coke. Penny only made nine starts last year and health is going to be his biggest issue heading into the regular season. That said, he could be an excellent sleeper if he can just stay healthy. Consider him at best a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day but realize the potential is there for the 32-year-old.
News: After throwing to Detroit prospects last Thursday, Tigers SP Brad Penny threw against major leaguers during Monday's spring game against the Mets. Penny came away victorious after tossing 3 1/3 scoreless innings. He allowed three hits and no walks, while striking out four. "I felt better than I expected to for this being just my second time of throwing to hitters since last year," Penny told reporters. "My changeups were great. I don't feel I put any more effort into my fastball (than his last start), but I felt a little stronger. That's going to come." Penny has tossed 5 1/3 scoreless innings this spring, striking out five. "I'm usually horrible," Penny said of his past springs. "It's hard for me to get outs in spring training. I just want to get my work in and throw strikes. I'm not where I need to be, but right now, you can pitch and that's what I'm doing. I'm not throwing as hard as I can, I'm just trying to mix it up and get everything going for April."
Analysis: The biggest issue with Penny is his health and thus far he has been able to pitch without any setbacks. Now, he just has to stay that way for a few more weeks. The right-hander was pitching well before going down with the back ailment last May that ended his season early. Unfortunately, Penny has made it to 30 starts just once in the last three seasons, so he has become an injury-risk player. Consider him at best a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News: Tigers SP Brad Penny threw in a scrimmage against Detroit prospects Thursday and didn't fare as well as you would have thought. The veteran was tagged for two runs on five hits -- three for extra bases -- in three innings of work. Surprisingly, Penny told The Detroit News that he wasn't bothered by the results. "Just trying to get my pitches in -- basically it's like throwing a bullpen session," Penny said. Penny added that he wasn't throwing full throttle. "I never really throw hard till the last one or two (spring) starts," he said. "I felt like I could let it go more than I did out there, but I don't want to do anything stupid." It wasn't all bad for Penny. He did strike out four and didn't issue a walk. “He was just getting his work in,” Leyland said. “He gave up a couple runs off the bat…but then threw the ball very well.”
Analysis: Penny is back on the mound after not throwing in a major-league game after May last year because of a back problem. Taking the steps to staying healthy is most important to Penny. The right-hander was pitching well before going down with the back ailment. Unfortunately, Penny has made it to 30 starts just once in the last three seasons, so he has become an injury-risk player. Consider him at best a late-round Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News:Brad Penny was concentrating on keeping his pitch count down. Detroit's new right-hander did just that on Sunday as the Tigers beat the Blue Jays 1-0 in an exhibition game. "I was just throwing a nice, easy sinker," Penny said after tossing the first two innings of the Tigers' second straight shutout. "I got three ground-ball outs [in the second], and I don't know if I've ever gotten three ground-ball outs because I usually don't throw a sinker." The 32-year Penny, who was limited to nine starts for St. Louis last season by an injury to his shoulder, has been trying to develop a more reliable sinker this spring. "He used to get the four-seamer up all the time because he was a big power guy, but you can't live up there," said Tigers manager Jim Leyland. "He was making a good, conscious effort to get the ball down today and I was very impressed with that."
Analysis: Penny said he threw three or four sinkers in his first spring start, and might gain more confidence in it as the spring goes on. "We'll see," he said. "If it works I'll use it, if it doesn't, I don't know." Penny is trying to build on his 2010 campaign, when he posted a 3.23 ERA and a 1.29 WHIP in his nine starts. He still throws hard and is a sleeper to win a dozen games for the Tigers. Penny will likely go undrafted in mixed leagues, but he could factor before season's end.
News: MLB.com reports Tigers SP Brad Penny is not only healthy after back issues that shut him down last season, but he is getting into his routine earlier than usual this season. "He's working his [tail] off," manager Jim Leyland said. "I went up to him and said, 'You're a young guy yet.'" Penny, 32, has been doing the same routine for several years now. "When you get into your routine, it makes it a lot easier," Penny said. His manager took it a bit further. "Brad Penny could be a big part of this team," Leyland said.
Analysis: Penny pitched well for St. Louis last season before going on the disabled list in late May with a back injury. Although it was believed at the time to be a minor injury, he didn't pitch again. Penny says he was throwing toward the end of the season, trying to prepare himself in case the Cardinals made the playoffs. They didn't, and now he's with the Tigers trying to build on his 2010 campaign, when he posted a 3.23 ERA and a 1.29 WHIP in his nine starts. He still throws hard and is a sleeper to win a dozen games for the Tigers. Penny will likely go undrafted in mixed leagues, but he could factor before season's end.
News:Brad Penny insists he's healthy again and ready to help the Detroit Tigers compete for a division title. The Tigers signed Penny to a one-year deal earlier this month. They're confident enough in his durability that they traded Armando Galarraga almost immediately after Penny arrived to join the starting rotation. Penny pitched well for St. Louis last season before going on the disabled list in late May with a back injury. Although it was believed at the time to be a minor injury, he didn't pitch again. Penny says he was throwing toward the end of the season, trying to prepare himself in case the Cardinals made the playoffs. They didn't, and now he's with the Tigers.
Analysis: Penny posted a 3.23 ERA and a 1.29 WHIP in his nine starts for the Cardinals, seemingly responding well to the tutelage of pitching coach Dave Duncan. He struggled in his only other stint in the AL with the Red Sox in 2009, but he was coming off a shoulder injury then. He still throws hard and is a sleeper to win a dozen games for the Tigers. He'll likely go undrafted in mixed leagues, but he could factor before season's end.
News: The Tigers finalized their one-year, $3 million contract with SP Brad Penny on Tuesday. The two sides agreed to terms a week ago. Penny pitched for the Cardinals last season, but he was limited to only nine starts because of a strained muscle in his back. "We gave him some very thorough physicals," general manager Dave Dombrowski said. "He passed all of them."
Analysis: Penny posted a 3.23 ERA and a 1.29 WHIP in his nine starts for the Cardinals, seemingly responding well to the tutelage of pitching coach Dave Duncan. He struggled in his only other stint in the AL with the Red Sox in 2009, but he was coming off a shoulder injury then. He still throws hard and is a sleeper to win a dozen games for the Tigers. He'll likely go undrafted in mixed leagues, but he could factor before season's end.
News: SP Brad Penny agreed to a one-year, $3 million deal with the Tigers on Tuesday, according to MLB.com. Penny pitched for the Cardinals last season, but he was limited to only nine starts because of a strained muscle in his back.
Analysis: Penny pitched well for the Cardinals, posting a 3.23 ERA and a 1.29 WHIP to follow up a brilliant performance for the Giants late in 2009. Penny still throws hard, but his only other stint in the AL didn't go so well. Coming off the injury, he's little more than a late-round flier in Fantasy, but if he manages to stay healthy, he could surprise with a dozen wins or so.
News: Cardinals manager Tony La Russa told MLB.com that Brad Penny (back) has been shut down for the season. Penny made nine starts before suffering a strained right lat muscle.
Analysis: Penny can be cut and ignored from all Fantasy leagues now. He should find a team this winter that will allow him to compete for a rotation spot next season. He will be an injury-risk sleeper in the right situation on Draft Day.
News: Cardinals starter Brad Penny (back, shoulder) did not throw this weekend and has yet to attempt a bullpen since July. Manager Tony La Russa has refused to rule out Penny from pitching again this season at some point, even in relief. Penny is returning from a lat muscle injury.
Analysis: Penny pitched fairly well while healthy with a 3-4 record and a solid 3.23 ERA over nine starts with 35 Ks. Penny is not going to return before the very end of August, it seems, and might not even start when he does come back. Fantasy owners could continue to stash Penny, if they have extra DL spots. If he does return to the rotation, he could be viable in mixed Fantasy leagues again.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny is optimistic he'll pitch again this season. He's just not sure when. Penny, sidelined since late May with an upper back injury, said Monday he's played catch every day for about a week, but the team has yet to schedule a bullpen session. "Just playing catch," Penny said. "No changed status for me, at all. I'll be able to tell you something when I find out." Penny is hungry to to return to a rotation that was bolstered by the trade deadline acquisition of Jake Westbrook. "I hope so," Penny said. "I'll do everything I can. But like I said, I've got to test it. It's not like when you throw on flat ground, just regular catch."
Analysis: Penny went 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA in his nine starts for the Cards this year and struck out 35. It appears Penny is slowly progressing in his rehab, but is most likely weeks away from returning to the majors. Fantasy owners should continue to stash Penny, if you have extra DL spots. Penny is a viable SP in mixed leagues, when healthy.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: SP Brad Penny (upper back, shoulder ailments) isn't throwing and doesn't appear close to returning to action.
Analysis: You have to figure Penny is at least a month away from returning to the majors at this point. Consider him merely a DL stashee in deeper leagues. When healthy, he can be a must-have in mixed leagues, but he has fought with injury woes and inconsistency his entire career.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny (back) pitched off flat ground on Monday, but according to MLB.com there is still no timetable or sign when the veteran will be ready to play anytime soon. St. Louis is one of the team's interested in Houston's SP Roy Oswalt, but manager Tony La Russa is just taking everything one game at a time. "We just do the best we can," La Russa said. "Right now, there's uncertainty about Penny, but Lohse is really making progress. So with Lohse out, do we need another pitcher? I don't know. In the meantime, the games count."
Analysis: Penny went 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA in his nine starts for the Cards this year and struck out 35. Fantasy owners should continue to stash Penny, if you have extra DL spots. With no sign of when he'll pitch again, it isn't known how long or how effective Penny will be when he does return. When he is healthy he is a viable SP in mixed leagues.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny threw lightly off flat Monday, reports MLB.com. Penny, who is on the disabled list with with a strained right lat muscle, is not sure when he will throw again. "Just playing catch," Penny said. "You can't tell anything [from that]."
Analysis: Penny suffered a setback right before the All-Star game and their is still no timetable for his return. He went 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA in his nine starts for the Cards this year and struck out 35. Fantasy owners should continue to stash Penny, if you have extra DL spots. Penny is a viable SP in mixed leagues, when healthy.
News: According to MLB.com, St. Louis SP Brad Penny (back) suffered a setback in his rehab before the All-Star break and now general manager John Mozeliak says a timetable for his recovery in unclear. He did say he expects Penny to pitch again this year, but made no guarantees that Cardinals fans would see the righty in 2010. "I would say that he will pitch again this season, but eight weeks wrong today, it doesn't serve me well to try and guess again," Mozeliak said.
Analysis: Penny went 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA in his nine starts for the Cards this year and struck out 35. He wasn't pitching poorly this year, but with no timetable for his return, his Fantasy value remains in limbo. It seems like his setback is making Mozeliak extremely cautious with all his players and their injuries moving forward. If you have an extra DL spot, continue to stash Penny. The fact he may not make it back to the Cardinals this year obviously hurts his value as it may be time to look elsewhere for second-half help in your Fantasy starting rotation.
News: MLB.com reports that no new damage was found in Cardinals starter Brad Penny's arm a day after he shut down a throwing session after feeling some discomfort. "The results of the clinical exam and the MRI were encouraging, but he's symptomatic," Cardinals assistant general manager John Abbamondi said on Wednesday. "MRIs can be encouraging, but if the player is feeling pain, then the player is feeling pain. So we're going to sit him down, re-evaluate in 7-10 days. I don't have much of a timetable beyond that."
Analysis: Even if Penny resumes throwing in seven days, it's still a virtual certainty that he won't pitch for the Cardinals in July. He could pick up right where he was by facing hitters, and his schedule likely would have him make two minor league rehabilitation starts before he could return to the active roster. And it's likely optimistic to think that in a week, he would return to the exact point where he was. Continue to stash him away in 12-team mixed leagues if you can afford to though, as he could help you down the stretch, even if his return is delayed as expected.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that an MRI on Cardinals SP Brad Penny's injured back showed no additional damage. Penny felt some soreness Tuesday during a sim game.
Analysis: This is encouraging news for Penny's owners, but the big man is still likely three weeks to a month away from getting back on the mound following this setback. Continue to stash him away in 12-team mixed leagues if you can afford to though, as he could help you down the stretch, even if his return is delayed as expected.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny (back) had to shut down his simulated game in Denver on Tuesday after experiencing tightness in his injured right arm. He was sent to St. Louis to be examined. Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said Penny experienced tightness in his triceps and lat muscle when he got on the mound. LaRussa added the setback was "a big negative. It is what it is but you can't belabor it because it's not good for the club." Penny was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a right lat strain May 22.
Analysis: Just when it looked like Penny was on the verge of beginning a rehab assignment, he may now have to go back to square one with this back problem and his absence is clearly going to run past the two-month mark at this point. Continue to stash him away in 12-team mixed leagues if you can afford to, as he could help you down the stretch even if his return is delayed as expected.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: RHP Brad Penny, out since May 21 with a strained muscle in his upper back, is expected to throw a side session Tuesday night in Denver, then go on a rehab assignment, probably to Double-A Springfield or Class A Quad Cities. Penny could be ready to return to the Cardinals during an eight-game homestand against Los Angeles and Philadelphia after the All-Star break.
Analysis: Penny is still a wait-and-see pitcher and likely won't return the brief Fantasy Week 15 (July 15-18) after the All-Star break. Consider him a candidate for Fantasy Week 16 (July 19-25), perhaps even as a two-start returnee. When healthy and pitching well, Penny is useful in any Fantasy league. The Cardinals are a good enough contender to make him a winner for you down the stretch.
News: MLB.com reports that Cardinals SP Brad Penny threw a successful bullpen session Saturday and remains on track to face hitters on Tuesday.
Analysis: Penny is probably at least another couple of weeks away from returning, so just continue to stash him away in all 12-team mixed formats. Hopefully this back injury doesn't hinder him in the second half and he can get back to being a solid starting option in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny (back) is scheduled to throw his second bullpen session on Saturday. Penny, who has been out since May 22 with an upper back injury, threw his first session on Thursday. Penny will throw another simulated game or batting practice on Tuesday in Colorado.
Analysis: Penny is expected back after the All-Star break. He was enjoying a very good year before the injury, posting a 1.70 ERA in seven starts. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his progress over the next few weeks. Penny is a viable SP in mixed leagues and should continued to be stashed away.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny (back) threw a bullpen session on Thursday, for the second time in his recovery, and could begin facing batters within the next week, according to MLB.com. "Maybe here Sunday," Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said, when asked about when Penny might face hitters. "Another option is to throw a [bullpen session] on Saturday, and maybe on Tuesday in Colorado face hitters. Two alternatives. Do that two or three times. But he passed today. It was good." Penny was 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA in nine starts before landing on the DL.
Analysis: Penny will likely not return before the All-Star break but was having a solid year before being shut down with the back injury. His 35-to-9 strikeout-to-walk ratio and the fact that he places for a contender in the NL Central makes Penny a viable starter in most formats and worth stashing away. He could pay great dividends if he could match his good start in the second half.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny, who threw from a mound Monday for the first time since going on the DL with a strained muscle in his lower back, will throw again Thursday, according to MLB.com. The Cardinals still have no timetable for his return.
Analysis: Penny was looking good before the injury, posting a 1.70 ERA in seven starts before he tried pitching through the pain. Even though he isn't a true strikeout artist, he has enough potential for you to stash him in mixed leagues. At this point, though, he's unlikely to return before the All-Star break.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny, who has been sidelined since May 21 with a right lat strain, threw off the mound Monday, reports MLB.com. It was the first time he has thrown from a mound since his injury. The right-hander pitched from the bullpen for about 20 minutes, tossing from both the windup and stretch. I think it went pretty well," manager Tony La Russa said. "Now you take the next step." There is still no set date for his return for his return to the Cardinals' rotation.
Analysis: Penny is probably still a few weeks away from returning and it seems unlikely he would be available to pitch before the All-Star break. He is 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA on the year with a 35-to-9 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Penny is a solid Fantasy option in mixed formats when healthy, so continue to stash him on DL spots or your bench.
News: According to MLB.com, St. Louis SP Brad Penny (strained muscle in his back) doesn't have a date set in stone on when he will attempt to throw off the mound. Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said Penny played catch before Friday's batting practice and experienced no pain. "I think he is still taking steps to get there," La Russa said. Penny has been on the DL since May 21.
Analysis: Penny is 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA this year for the Cardinals in nine starts. With his 35-9 strikeout-to-walk ratio, Penny has all the tools to help out a Fantasy team. When the veteran is healthy, he is a solid option in mixed leagues. If you have a DL spot or two, then keep Penny there and hope he returns sooner rather than later.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny, who is on the DL with a strained muscle in his back, told MLB.com on Monday that he is "80 percent healthy." Penny played catch again on Monday but there is still no set date for his return to the Cardinals' rotation.
Analysis: Penny is just playing catch and it still appears he is a ways away from returning to the pitching mound for the Cardinals. He should probably undergo a rehab assignment as well first. Penny is 3-4 on the season with a decent 3.23 ERA and the Cardinals could really use him in the rotation. A solid Fantasy option in mixed formats when healthy, continue to stash him on DL spots or your bench.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny, on the 15-day disabled list due to a strained muscle in his back, underwent an MRI on Friday, according to MLB.com The results showed the muscle is healing, but no timetable was offered for his return. "He's continuing to progress, but having an end date for when he'll be back, I've been wrong so many times, I'm just going to stay out of the guessing game," general manager John Mozeliak said. "What the MRI showed was significant improvement, and based on that, we're just going to continue down that path."
Analysis: Penny has been on a throwing program, but has not thrown off a mound since his injury. "He threw one day in L.A., but it just didn't sound like we were getting to where he was really getting any closer, so we decided to go back and do a study on him and let it be less subjective," Mozeliak said. Penny has been serviceable this season, posting an ERA of 3.23 over nine starts. A solid Fantasy option in mixed formats when healthy, continue to stash him on DL spots or your bench.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny, who is on the DL with a strained muscle in his upper back, still hasn't pitched off a mound since leaving his May 21 start, and according to MLB.com, the Cardinals have no timetable for his return. "He's doing what he's been doing all along," manager Tony La Russa said. "He has his next step in his program, and if he does well, they'll advance him. And if it doesn't go as good, he'll back off and do some more."
Analysis: Penny had emerged as a viable mixed-league starter under the tutelage of pitching coach Dave Duncan, compiling a 3.23 ERA over nine starts. He's still at least a couple weeks away, though, so if you hope to retain his services, you'll have to keep him stashed in a DL slot or on your bench. Considering his lack of strikeout potential, you shouldn't be thinking of him as an ace-in-waiting.
News: From The Sports Xchange notes: Injured RHP Brad Penny (strained muscle in upper back) is expected to resume a throwing program Tuesday but hasn't pitched off the mound since leaving a May 21 start.
Analysis: Penny is at least a couple of weeks away from returning to the Cardinals and Fantasy lineups. Continue to stash him in all leagues with DL spots and most leagues where you have ample reserve space. He can be a top 30 Fantasy starting pitcher once healthy, although his history of poor health and second halves are a concern.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny's is behind schedule in his recovery from a strained muscle in his back, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. While he's eligible to be activated from the 15-day disabled list on Sunday, he has yet to pitch off a mound, and manager Tony La Russa said Saturday it would be "fortunate" if Penny were able to pitch during a home stand that starts June 14, adding at least a week to his original timetable to return.
Analysis: It seems highly unlikely that Penny will be available for Fantasy Week 11 (June 14-20). But it's not an elbow or a shoulder injury, and is unlikely to bother him going forward. At 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA, he's a solid option in mixed Fantasy formats, so continue to stash him.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny, on the 15-day disabled list due to a strained muscle in his back, is making "good progress," MLB.com quoted manager Tony La Russa as saying. However, while Penny began a throwing program on Tuesday, La Russa said "we'd get lucky if it is next week [to start throwing bullpen sessions]. It'd be a great sign if he did."
Analysis: At appears Penny isn't coming as long as quickly as the Cards would like. But it's not a serious injury and is unlikely to bother him going forward. At 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA, he's a solid option in mixed Fantasy formats, so continue to stash him.
News: Cardinals starter Brad Penny (back) began a throwing program on Tuesday, reports MLB.com. The Cardinals are optimistic that Penny can return to the rotation within two weeks. He has not pitched since May 21, when he suffered a strained right lat muscle. "You wait till it really gets serious and he's actually throwing off the mound and facing hitters, and then you start picking a day," manager Tony La Russa said. "I just know he's making progress." Penny will throw a bullpen in the coming days. "I think we'll have a much better gauge of his situation probably over the weekend," Cardinals GM John Mozeliak said.
Analysis: Penny is progressing nicely, albeit slower than originally projected. If all goes well, he could be back with the club by the middle-to-end of June. Penny has a 3-4 record with a 3.23 ERA this season and has been a decent mid-rotation starter in Fantasy, when healthy. Continue to monitor his progress.
News: According to MLB.com, the initial timetable for starter Brad Penny (back) has been pushed back. When Penny was placed on the disabled list on Saturday with a strained right lat muscle, general manager John Mozeliak said he hoped that Penny could miss only the minimum 15 days. However, manager Tony La Russa said Friday that Penny's return date could be some days after that. "At one time, depending on how quickly he was coming, there was a chance," La Russa said. "There was a chance. But I think there's a good chance he could join us some time in June -- the first half of June."
Analysis: The report added that La Russa emphasized that he believes Penny is progressing nicely. "He's feeling better all the time," the manager said. "We're being very careful with him. We'll see when we get home on Monday and scrutinize it ourselves." Penny has a 3-4 record with a 3.23 ERA this season and has been a decent mid-rotation starter in Fantasy, when healthy. Continue to monitor his progress.
News: Cardinals starter Brad Penny was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Saturday, reports the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. General manager John Mozeliak said Penny will have a "minimal stay" on the DL, however. Penny has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 strain of his right lat in his lower back. Penny will likely be inactive for 7-10 days. “Given where we are, it makes sense to shut him down for 15 days,” Mozeliak said. “It just makes sense to DL him, rather than put him out there for the next start and he makes a pitch and goes backward. It’s a precaution.” The Cardinals activated reliever P.J. Walters for the game in Penny's place. Penny hit a grand slam in the game before leaving with the injury.
Analysis: Penny could have won on Friday but did not pitch deep enough into the game due to the injury. He had lost four straight starts before Friday and had been struggling for the Cardinals. Penny said he felt the injury since his previous start when he gave up seven runs on 13 hits over five innings in a loss at Cincinnati. Penny has become a nice No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy SP in mixed leagues, when healthy. He should be back pretty much as soon as he's eligible.
News: Swinging a bat was just fine for Brad Penny, who hit a grand slam in the third inning. Pitching was another matter. The St. Louis Cardinals right-hander aggravated an upper back injury from the previous start and had to leave the cushion he created with the bullpen after only three innings of a 9-5 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Friday night. The Cardinals were unsure of the severity of the injury and scheduled an MRI exam for Saturday morning. "It was something I was trying to deal with between starts," Penny said. "I couldn't have pitched that last inning, there was no way. The first inning, I felt incredible. The second inning, I felt OK and the third inning, I started feeling a little worse." Skip Schumaker drew an intentional walk to load the bases with two outs in the third before Penny, who had been 2 for 18 with a pair of singles, hit the first pitch from Joel Pineiro well over the left-field wall for an 8-4 lead. Penny threw a few warmup tosses before the top of the fourth before catcher Yadier Molina signaled to the dugout that something was wrong, and the right-hander walked off the mound after a short meeting with manager Tony La Russa and a trainer. Penny thought he might have gotten stiff sitting in the dugout in the third when the Cardinals batted around.
Analysis: Penny said he didn't inform the team after his last start in Cincinnati, in which he allowed seven runs on 13 hits in five innings, that something felt wrong. La Russa said that wasn't unusual, that players are constantly judging whether they're hurt or just sore, but admitted concern. "My mood stinks, so you'll have to suffer with me," he told reporters. "I'm definitely worried. I'd like to find out." We figured Penny might have been dealing with the injury since his last start since it was a definite outlier this season. He was doing so well having a career resurrection under pitching guru Dave Duncan. Now, he might have to make a trip to the DL. Penny has become a nice No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy SP in mixed leagues. His next scheduled start for Thursday at San Diego is in jeopardy. Penny is 0-4 with a 6.48 ERA in six outings (five starts) at Petco Park.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny was pulled from Friday's start against the Angels with a back strain. Penny threw a few warmup tosses before the top of the fourth inning, then catcher Yadier Molina signaled his concern to the dugout. After a brief meeting on the mound with manager Tony La Russa and a trainer, Penny was pulled from the game. Despite allowing five hits and four runs in three innings, Penny would have be in line for the win since St. Louis was up 9-4 at the time of his departure. He struck out one and allowed a home run to Mike Napoli. Penny also had his first home run of the season -- a grand slam off Joel Pineiro in the bottom of the third.
Analysis: It wouldn't be surprising if Penny injured himself while hitting his third career home run. Then again, this could be a lingering injury since Penny has now surrendered seven runs and 18 hits in his last eight innings. He was doing so well having a career resurrection under pitching guru Dave Duncan. Now, he might have to make a trip to the DL. Penny has become a nice No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy SP in mixed leagues. His next scheduled start for Thursday at San Diego is in jeopardy. Penny is 0-4 with a 6.48 ERA in six outings (five starts) at Petco Park.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny suffered the first loss of his career at Great American Ballpark on Sunday against the Reds. Penny was 5-0 in six career starts at Great American Ballpark, allowing only eight earned runs in all. On Sunday, he allowed seven runs on 13 hits in only five innings. The Reds' 13 hits were one shy of Penny's career high for a game. Penny did strike out seven and is now 3-4 with a 2.73 ERA on the year.
Analysis: It looks like Penny's luck might finally be running out. He has now lost four straight starts after starting the year 3-0. He is not a strikeout artist, so when he is not winning he does not do much for your Fantasy team. He is still a viable Fantasy SP in mixed formats because the Cards are contenders. His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Angels. He is 2-3 with a 5.02 ERA in seven career starts against the Halos.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny recorded his seventh straight quality start to begin the season Tuesday against the Astros, allowing four unearned runs on seven hits with no walks and three strikeouts in seven innings. He suffered his third straight defeat, however.
Analysis: Penny has an impressive 1.70 ERA and 1.11 WHIP, but he's only 3-3. Because he's not a strikeout artist, he doesn't do much for your Fantasy team when he's not winning, but just by looking at his numbers, you know his luck has to turn eventually. His next start and second of Fantasy Week 6 (May 10-16) is scheduled for Sunday at Cincinnati.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny gave up three runs and five hits in six innings Wednesday at Philadelphia, striking out six and walking none. It was his sixth straight quality start to open the season, but it was also his second straight loss. "Sometimes you have to credit the other team," Penny said. "A couple of guys hit the ball out of the ballpark, and their pitcher pitched a good game."
Analysis: Penny has a 1.99 ERA through six starts, picking up where he left off with the Giants late last season. He's no strikeout artist, but he's limiting baserunners and pitching deep into games. Plus, he has Dave Duncan, arguably the best pitching coach in the game, at his disposal. He's an excellent No. 3 or 4 Fantasy SP in mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday against the Astros, making him a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 6 (May 10-16).
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny lost his first start of the year on Friday against the Reds. He pitched six innings, allowing three earned runs on eight hits and five walks, striking out three. Penny gave up as many earned runs Friday as he had in his previous four starts combined.
Analysis: Even in losing Penny didn't look bad. He's now 3-1 with a 1.56 ERA, becoming yet another success story for Cardinals' pitching coach Dave Duncan. Penny remains a viable Fantasy SP in mixed formats. His next start comes Wednesday at Philadelphia. He's 9-4 with a 3.48 ERA in his career against the Phillies.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny gave up eight hits over 7 2/3 innings on Sunday against the Giants, striking out two with no walks while outpitching former teammate Matt Cain. The Cardinals' right-hander, who played for San Francisco in 2009, didn't allow a runner past second base while lowering his ERA to 0.94. He held San Francisco in check all afternoon despite pitching with runners on base in every inning except the first. "They were really aggressive, which helped me out and worked in my favor," Penny said. "If you look at the difference in the game our guys were patient and ran Matt's pitch count up and they were swinging first or second pitch." Penny escaped his biggest jam in the seventh when he got pinch-hitter Aubrey Huff to ground out to second with two outs and two runners on. Penny won his third game of the year in the 2-0 victory.
Analysis: The Cardinals did not need much offense on Sunday thanks to Penny. It marked the second time in four starts that Penny did not allow an earned run. He also went his deepest this year, having gone seven innings in his first three starts. Looks like pitching coach Dave Duncan has revived another career. Penny's next start is scheduled for Friday against the Reds. He is a solid start in Fantasy Week 4 (April 26-May 2), as he went 1-0 with a 4.50 ERA in two starts against Cincinnati in 2008.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny left Monday’s game after seven innings and St. Louis gave him the lead in the bottom of the frame as he improved to 2-0 on the season with a win over Arizona. Penny allowed two earned runs in the game on eight hits and a walk. He struck out five and needed 106 pitches. Penny has been pitching well this season and has a 1.29 ERA after three starts.
Analysis: Penny’s offense rewarded his hard work by scoring a run to secure him the victory after he left the ballgame for good Monday. Penny has now won back-to-back starts and allowed just the two earned runs over that span of 14 innings with nine strikeouts. Penny has been sharp so far this season and definitely has value in all mixed Fantasy leagues. He is line for a great Week 3 (April 19-25) as he makes another start on Sunday at San Francisco. He is 6-2 with a 3.05 ERA in 14 career starts in San Fran.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny went seven innings on Wednesday only allowing one run on three hits against the Astros. Astros starter Brett Myers had similar numbers but had an unearned run score on a throwing error as the Cardinals won the game 2-1. Penny, who struck out four, gave up the only run in the top of the first after Michael Bourn scored on a sacrifice fly by Pedro Feliz. Penny's next start is scheduled for Monday against Arizona.
Analysis: Looks like Cards pitching coach Dave Duncan has figured out how to get Penny back to form. "I didn't think my stuff was as sharp as the first time in Cincinnati, but I threw strikes, didn't put anybody on base and we had some great defense," Penny said. "For me, a lot of times I walk someone, man, it seems like they score." He is a two-time 16 game winner and could do that again playing for a contender. After two great starts in a row, Penny should be considered in more mixed leagues as the season goes on.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny allowed just one run on six hits over seven innings Thursday in a no-decision against the Reds. Penny, who has now won his last seven decisions against Cincinnati, struck out four and walked one.
Analysis: Penny struggled in his first few starts last season, so his Fantasy owners will be ecstatic to see him throw like he did on Wednesday. Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan has been known to help pitchers improve their performance, so it wouldn't be too surprising to see Penny's value increase as this season goes on. In Week 2, Penny will get one start on Wednesday against Brett Myers and the Astros. Penny did not face the Astros during 2009 and is 1-2 with a 5.58 ERA against them in his career (five starts). After this great first start, Penny should be considered in more mixed leagues for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny allowed two runs on seven hits over six innings of work Thursday as he took the loss in a 3-1 defeat at the hands of the Marlins. Penny struck out three and walked one.
Analysis: Penny finished his spring season with a 5.40 ERA, 15 strikeouts and four walks. That ERA isn't great, but he'll get to start all over at 0.00 again when he makes his first start of the season on April 9 at Milwaukee. He should be started in deeper mixed leagues for Fantasy Week 1 (April 4-11).
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that SP Chris Carpenter will start on opening day at Cincinnati. Following him next week will be Adam Wainwright, Brad Penny and Kyle Lohse. Carpenter or Jaime Garcia will then start Saturday with the other pitching on Sunday.
Analysis: Carpenter and Wainwright remain elite Fantasy options worth taking among the top 15 SPs in all mixed-league drafts. Carpenter will be the only two-start guy in Fantasy Week 1 (April 4-11). Penny is worth a look late in deeper mixed leagues, while Lohse and Garcia are solid NL-only sleepers.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny had enough of his repertoire working to turn in a solid spring start Saturday. The right-hander threw six strong innings to lead the St. Louis Cardinals to a 3-2 victory over the Florida Marlins. "My breaking ball wasn't as sharp today as I would have liked it, but my splitty was there again. That's huge for me," Penny said. "If I get a guy on third and I have two strikes, I know I can go to that pitch and be really confident." Penny, projected to be the Cardinals' No. 3 starter, allowed one run and five hits while lowering his spring ERA to 6.10.
Analysis: Up until this start, Penny had been pretty poor this spring, so owners in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues will be glad to see him show some sign of life before opening day. Continue to draft him as a low-end starting SP option in mixed leagues with 12 teams or more.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny did not have the greatest outing on Monday against the Boston Red Sox. Boston's lineup included two players with significant major league experience, shortstop Bill Hall and outfielder Jeremy Hermida, and the Red Sox still tagged former teammate Penny for seven runs and 10 hits in five innings. "You come out against a team you really don't know anything about and they're all swinging first pitch," Penny said. "It's kind of hard to work on setting a hitter up. In a regular-season game I'll be moving people's feet a lot more if they're going to be swinging first pitch." Penny has a 7.97 ERA in 14 2/3 innings. "I've had some really bad springs before," the right-hander said. "Once the season comes your adrenaline gets going, it's easier to focus, it's more meaningful."
Analysis: Lots of players use the excuse of spring training and the games not counting as to why they don't perform well. Of course, lots of players carry their poor momentum into the regular season, too. No matter what Penny says, he certainly has been worse this spring than in each of his previous two. Hopefully he does indeed come out strong in the regular season. There is definite reason to be skeptical, however. He's slated to be a No. 4 or 5 starter for the Cardinals. Penny is a solid option in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues but is certainly outside of the top 50 Fantasy SPs to target.
News: St. Louis starter Brad Penny absorbed a line drive off his pitching elbow Monday during New York's 6-5 win over the Cardinals. Penny stuck up his right elbow to block a liner off the bat of Jason Bay in the first inning. After a few practice tosses, Penny stayed in the game. He gave up three runs and six hits in 3 2/3 innings. His spring ERA is 5.59 over 9 2/3 innings.
Analysis: Penny has given up 13 hits and six runs over 9 2/3 in three starts this spring with four strikeouts. He's slated to be a No. 4 or 5 starter for the Cardinals. Penny is a solid option in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues but is certainly outside of the top 50 Fantasy SPs to target.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny threw four scoreless innings in his second start of the spring on Tuesday. "He was nails," St. Louis manager Tony La Russa said. "He had good stuff. His location was outstanding. He was very impressive." Against the Nationals, Penny allowed just one hit while striking out two batters. It was a much better performance than his previous start, in which he allowed three earned runs in two innings. "He did some things today that he didn't do in his first outing," Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan said. "He was more aggressive early in the count, controlled the counts better and was able to use all his pitches. It was a good outing for him."
Analysis: His ERA has been up and his strikeouts down the past two years, but Penny still has the potential for fifteen wins with a good St. Louis team. And don't discount the effect pitching coach Dave Duncan could have on him. He could be a steal after the top 75 starting pitchers are taken on Draft Day.
News: Cardinals SP Brad Penny didn't look sharp in his spring training debut against the Mets on Friday, allowing three earned runs on six hits. In two innings he struck out one batter. Penny wasn't discouraged by his performance, chalking it up to concentration issues. "I'm out there trying to work on so many different things that sometimes I lose focus when I should just work on command," he said. "That's the most important thing but you're thinking, 'OK, I've got to get the right spin on a curveball, I've got to get the splitter down.' You end up making bad pitches."
Analysis: His ERA has been up and his strikeouts down the past two years, but Penny still has the potential for fifteen wins with a good St. Louis team. And don't discount the effect pitching coach Dave Duncan could have on him. He could be a steal after the top 75 starting pitchers are taken on Draft Day.
News: St. Louis manager Tony La Russa will stack up his top four starters against those of any team in the major leagues. And he's not too worried about the Cardinals' fifth spot. Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright finished 2-3 in last year's NL Cy Young voting. Kyle Lohse is one year removed from a 15-win season and healthy again, and Brad Penny apparently is back on his game. For the fifth spot, the Cardinals have three viable candidates. Left-hander Rich J. Hill is coming off shoulder surgery but was an 11-game winner with the Cubs in 2007. Fellow lefty Jaime Garcia is considered one of the franchise's top pitching prospects, although he is also coming off surgery. And right-hander Kyle McClellan has been an effective setup man the past two seasons.
Analysis: Carpenter and Wainwright are both top 10 Fantasy options to target at their position, while Penny and Lohse are sleepers after the top 75. Hill or Garcia are injury-risk sleepers for NL-only leagues, while McClellan is a strong middle reliever with nice upside if he starts for the offensively potent Cardinals.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan likes what he sees out of new acquisition SP Brad Penny. "The way he wants to pitch is the right approach," Duncan said Monday. "He's not going out there to strike everybody out. He's not afraid to let the hitter swing the bat. He may be to the extreme. There may be situations where you want him to pitch a little more carefully. All I know is all the ingredients are there."
Analysis: Penny hasn't had his best stuff for most of the last couple of seasons, but he did go 4-1 with a 2.59 ERA in six starts for San Francisco after being picked up in late August. Back healthy and pitching in the NL for a contender like the Cardinals, Penny could be a bargain in the middle-to-late rounds of all drafts.
News:Brad Penny and the Cardinals completed their deal Tuesday, giving the NL Central champions a pitcher they've coveted for quite some time. A day after the sides reached a tentative agreement, Penny passed a physical. The two-time All-Star got a one-year contract for $7.5 million, with about $1.5 million more available in performance bonuses. "Brad Penny has long been a pitcher of interest to us and we are thrilled to have him," Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak said in a statement. "By teaming Brad with our Cy Young finalists Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright, in addition to Kyle Lohse, we feel that our pitching staff will continue to be a key cornerstone for the ballclub."
Analysis: Penny joined the Giants on Aug. 31 hoping to help them get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2003. He went 4-1 with a 2.59 ERA in six starts for San Francisco. The 31-year-old right-hander found a spot in the Giants' talented rotation after being cut by the Red Sox after going 7-8 with a 5.61 ERA. Clearly, he's still capable of succeeding in the right situation. Pitching in the NL for a contender like the Cardinals, he could be a bargain in the middle-to-late rounds.
News: SP Brad Penny's late-season pitch seems to have paid off. Fresh from an impressive showing in the final month, Penny reached a tentative agreement with the Cardinals on a $7.5 million, one-year contract, a person familiar with the talks told The Associated Press on Monday night. The deal is contingent on the Cardinals approving the results of the right-hander's physical, said the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal was not yet final. The 31-year-old Penny recently turned down a one-year offer to stay with San Francisco
Analysis: Penny joined the Giants on Aug. 31 hoping to help them get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2003. He went 4-1 with a 2.59 ERA in six starts for San Francisco. The 31-year-old right-hander found a spot in the Giants' talented rotation after being cut by the Red Sox after going 7-8 with a 5.61 ERA. Clearly, he's still capable of succeeding in the right situation. Pitching in the NL for a contender like the Cardinals, he could be a bargain in the middle-to-late rounds.
News: Right-handed pitcher Brad Penny and infielder Juan Uribe have turned down one-year contract offers to return to the Giants. General manager Brian Sabean said Friday the club made a one-year offer with incentives to Penny and a one-year offer with an option and buyout to Uribe, but both free agents declined. The Giants aren't in further talks with either player right now. "In both cases you always want to put yourself on the other side," Sabean said in a conference call. "I don't know that they have enough information as to what they were hearing in the market to be able to react to our timing needs."
Analysis: Penny joined the Giants on Aug. 31 hoping to help them get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2003. He went 4-1 with a 2.59 ERA in six starts for San Francisco. The 31-year-old right-hander found a spot in the Giants' talented rotation after being cut by the Red Sox after going 7-8 with a 5.61 ERA. Clearly, he's still capable of succeeding in the right situation, so keep an eye on his offseason movement. If he stays in the NL, he could be a bargain in the middle-to-late rounds.
News: Giants SP Brad Penny tossed a complete game and earned his 11th win of the season on Wednesday, beating the Diamondbacks 4-1. Penny gave up six total hits, allowing one unearned run. He struck out five and walked one, needing 109 pitches to finish the job. His ERA on the season dropped to 4.88 on the season with the performance.
Analysis: The Giants aren't heading to the playoffs, but it's not because of Brad Penny's performance since joining the team in early September. He went 4-1 in six starts with the Giants, posting a 2.59 ERA. Seven of the 12 earned runs he allowed while with the Giants came in one start at Los Angeles. Penny recaptured some of his old magic the last month of the season and will have a decent amount of Fantasy appeal as a low-end option on Draft Day 2010.
News: Giants SP Brad Penny (10-9) lasted only 2 2/3 innings Saturday as San Francisco were routed by the Dodgers. Penny allowed seven runs on five hits with a strikeout and three walks.
Analysis: Penny bashed the Dodgers after he left L.A., but it was his former team that was doing the bashing on Saturday. He did beat Los Angeles on Sunday, but this game was a different story. In Fantasy Week 25 (Sept. 21-27), Penny will get one start vs. the Cubs. Only use him in deeper mixed leagues.
News: Giants SP Brad Penny improved to 10-8 on the season as he defeated the Dodgers on Sunday afternoon. Penny gave up just two runs on five hits over seven impressive innings in the victory. He walked and struck out two. His ERA is 5.04 on the year.
Analysis: Penny has won three straight games for the Giants and two of them have come against solid teams in the Dodgers and Phillies. He's given up just four runs in his last three spanning 22 innings. Pitching this well, Penny can be used in most deeper and some regular mixed Fantasy leagues. His next outing comes Saturday at the Dodgers once again.
News: Giants SP Brad Penny, released by the Red Sox after he compiled a 5.61 ERA, continued to make a remarkably different impression on his new team Monday. After pitching eight shutout innings in his first start at Philadelphia, Penny pitched seven innings against the Padres, allowing two runs on three hits with one walk and six strikeouts in seven innings. He upped his record to 2-0 with the Giants and 9-8 overall.
Analysis: Penny has benefited from the move to the lighter-hitting league and deserves a flier in all leagues now. Pitching for a contender down the stretch has seemingly brought out the best in him, so you can count on him for some quality innings even if his strikeout rate isn't as high as usual. His next start and second of Fantasy Week 23 (Sept. 7-13) is scheduled for Sunday against the Dodgers.
News: San Francisco SP Brad Penny made his Giants debut on Wednesday night and dominated the Philadelphia Phillies. Ask the defending World Series champs and they'll tell Boston they shouldn't have gotten rid of Penny. Penny threw eight shutout innings in a 4-0 win over Philly. He allowed just five base hits, walked one and struck out two.
Analysis: Penny went 7-8 with Boston with a 5.61 ERA. Well, with San Francisco he's 1-0 with a 0.00 ERA. Clearly, the change of scenery has worked thus far. Penny can immediately be used in all NL-only Fantasy leagues and many deeper mixed formats as well. His next start comes Monday against the Padres. He will pitch twice during Week 23 (Sept. 7-13) so we suggest getting him active.
News: The Giants purchased SP Brad Penny's contract from Triple-A Fresno Tuesday. Penny, signed on Monday, is expected to start Wednesday night against the Phillies.
Analysis: Penny had a pretty tough run with the Red Sox this season, posting a 7-8 record and 5.61 ERA in 24 starts. He is back in a familiar element -- the NL -- where he pitched the first nine years of his career. Consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues and a must-add in NL-only formats.
News:Brad Penny and the Giants agreed to a minor league contract Monday night, adding another proven arm to San Francisco's strong rotation for the stretch run. Penny cleared waivers after he was released by Boston last week. Because he reached a deal with San Francisco by Aug. 31, he is eligible for postseason play with the Giants. From The Sports Xchange: "He's a veteran," VP of baseball operations Bobby Evans said. "He's been an All-Star. He's got experience. It's certainly an area where we have immediate needs, and he can possibly address those needs." He signed a minor league deal only as a formality, just so the Giants wouldn't need to remove anyone from their 25-man roster Monday. Tuesday, rosters expand (limit 40), so Penny can be added among all the September call-ups.
Analysis: The Giants have an opening in the rotation on Wednesday, and that's where Penny is expected to pitch. He would make his debut in Philly, but his third and fourth start as a Giant would be against his old team and the Giants' biggest rivals, the Dodgers. Penny has a contender to pitch for and is back in the NL, where he was far more successful. Consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues and a must-add in NL-only formats.
News: The Giants are working on a deal to add right-hander Brad Penny to their rotation for the stretch run. A person with knowledge of the discussions told The Associated Press on Monday that details still needed to be finalized. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because negotiations with Penny were ongoing. Penny cleared waivers and would need to sign by Monday to be eligible for postseason play with the Giants. San Francisco, idle Monday, is tied with Colorado for the NL wild-card lead. With Randy Johnson injured, Penny would provide San Francisco with another proven starter to join reigning NL Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, Barry Zito and Jonathan Sanchez. If the deal gets finished, Penny would likely pitch Wednesday because the Giants have an open spot after pushing Lincecum back to Thursday to give him an extra day of rest.
Analysis: Penny was released by Boston on Thursday after going 7-8 with a 5.61 ERA this season -- including 1-6 in his past 11 starts. Consider him a potential sleeper in NL-only leagues immediately. The Giants are a contender and Penny could prove to be effective enough to use in mixed formats when the matchups are right, too.
News: The Boston Herald reports that Brad Penny requested and received his release Wednesday night in a move that clears a roster spot for left-hander reliever Billy Wagner and gives Penny time to join a new team before postseason rosters are set. "I enjoyed playing with all of the guys," Penny said. "I played for a great manager on a great team. I had a great time. I enjoyed it. I wish things had worked out better, but that happens."
Analysis: The report added Penny was placed on release waivers Thursday and will clear them on Monday. He can talk to other teams while on waivers, but he can't formally enter into a contract until he clears. He would like the opportunity to start, which probably wasn't going to happen in Boston. This could save any chance he had of becoming a relevant Fantasy pitcher again this season, though he still has to prove effective before we'd recommend him. Keep tabs on his situation.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Brad Penny, whom the Red Sox announced over the weekend that he would be removed from the rotation for the coming week, will serve as a potential long man in the bullpen on Wednesday and Thursday. If he doesn't pitch in either game, the Red Sox will throw the 31-year-old Penny in a simulated game on Friday afternoon and reevaluate his situation.
Analysis: Penny has been horrid over the last two months of the season, and is 1-5 with a 6.98 ERA in nine starts since July 1. RHP Tim Wakefield will start Wednesday, and RHP Junichi Tazawa will start in Penny's place on Thursday night against the Chicago White Sox. Fantasy owners should keep him away from active lineups for the time being, but he remains worthy of stashing in AL-only formats and deeper mixed leagues.
News:Tim Wakefield will replace struggling Brad Penny in the Boston Red Sox rotation. Manager Terry Francona said Saturday the 43-year-old Wakefield, who made his first All-Star team this season, will start Wednesday night against the Chicago White Sox. He didn't say when Penny would pitch again.
Analysis: Penny (7-8) pitched Friday night, allowing eight runs in four innings of a 20-11 loss to the New York Yankees. He is 1-6 in his last 11 starts and has lost the confidence of his manager. He can remain on Fantasy rosters in the deeper mixed Fantasy leagues in hopes he's able to return to the rotation before the end of the year but is no longer worth using in Fantasy at least for the immediate future.
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny got hit hard for the fourth time in five starts Friday against the Yankees, with this one arguably the worst during that stretch. He allowed eight runs on 10 hits in four innings, issuing one walk and recording three strikeouts.
Analysis: Penny has a 9.11 ERA over his last five starts and a 5.61 ERA on the season. Pitching for the Red Sox isn't even enough to make him a worthwhile Fantasy option. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the White Sox.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny lost his third straight decision on Saturday against the Texas Rangers and his record is now at .500 at 7-7 on the year. Penny gave up four runs on eight hits over 5 2/3 innings in defeat. He struck out six but walked four and his ERA is at 5.22 on the season.
Analysis: Penny has given up 19 earned runs in his last four starts covering 22 2/3 innings. He's walked 11 over that span with 16 strikeouts. Penny has been struggling of late but remains a decent mixed-league starter because pitching for Boston tends to normally boost Fantasy pitchers value. He can turn things around quickly and will attempt to do so in his next outing on Friday. It won't come easy, though, as he faces the New York Yankees.
News: Boston starter Brad Penny settled for a no decision against the Tigers on Monday night. Penny left the game with a lead but the Boston bullpen couldn’t hold it for him. Penny gave up three runs on six hits over six innings. He walked one and struck out two. Penny’s ERA is now at 5.16 on the season.
Analysis: Penny came into Monday’s game having lost his last two starts and three of his last four. In the three losses, he’s allowed 18 earned runs over 16 innings. He didn’t fare much better on Monday and is beginning to worry Fantasy owners as the Red Sox are really struggling at the moment. Normally pitching for Boston makes anyone a solid Fantasy option but the BoSox are struggling to score right now and the way Penny’s pitching, that doesn’t make for too many wins. He should still see use in mixed Fantasy leagues for the time being, however. He’ll get another shot at a win this scoring period and that comes on Saturday at Texas.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny was bested by the Rays and their rookie ace David Price on Wednesday night. Penny drops to 7-6 on the season as he allowed five runs to score on six hits over six innings. He walked two and finished with five strikeouts. Penny allowed three long balls by Tampa Bay hitters and his ERA is now at 5.20. Penny's WHIP is extremely high at 1.48 on the year.
Analysis: Penny has definitely struggled of late. The Boston starter has now allowed 12 runs in his last two starts covering 11 innings. He's given up five homers over that span. He went 6 1/3 shutout against Baltimore for a win on July 24 but gave up six runs in five innings in a loss before that at Toronto. With only one solid outing sandwiched between three porous ones, he's definitely cold right now. Pitching for Boston, however, he remains a decent mixed-league Fantasy option. His next start is scheduled to come Monday against Detroit and ace Edwin Jackson. That will be a tough matchup, too, but he'll get another turn during Week 19 (Aug. 10-16) to end the week at Texas.
News: Boston have tweaked their rotation this week, with Red Sox SP Jon Lester getting two starts on Tuesday and Sunday. Brad Penny moves to Wednesday, and he will now likely get a pair of starts in Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 10-16).
Analysis: Lester couldn't get out of the sixth inning in his last start, but he was on fire in his previous few outings. While he has two starts this week, they're at Tampa Bay and at the Yankees -- two very tough matchups. Still, he remains a must-start option in all Fantasy formats. Penny is also a solid mixed league option.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny gave up seven runs on seven hits over five innings and lost to the A's on Wednesday night. Penny (7-5) walked four and struck out three. He allowed two long balls and threw 100 pitches, 58 for strikes. Penny's ERA is now at 5.07.
Analysis: Penny was coming off a 6 1/3-inning win over the Orioles in which he didn't allow an earned run but wasn't nearly as good on Wednesday. He's given up at least six runs in two of his last three starts and isn't really looking very consistent on the mound right now. Pitching for the Red Sox gives him some Fantasy appeal even though he has less-than-stellar numbers, but he is a candidate to change teams at the trade deadline. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday at Tampa Bay.
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny allowed just one unearned run on five hits in 6 1/3 innings Friday against the Orioles, recording four strikeouts without issuing a walk. The win was his first since June 17 -- a span of six starts.
Analysis: Penny still has yet to pitch seven innings, but he rebounded nicely from a start in which he allowed six earned runs at Toronto. Pitching for the Red Sox gives him some Fantasy appeal even though he has less-than-stellar numbers, but he is a candidate to change teams at the trade deadline. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the Athletics.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny lasted just five innings and did not have his good stuff working on Saturday afternoon against the Blue Jays. Penny was beaten by Toronto rookie Marc Rzepczynski, who earned his first major league win, as he gave up six runs on eight hits and a walk. He struck out three and his record falls to 6-4 on the year with a 5.02 ERA.
Analysis: Penny may still have two more wins than losses but he hasn't been the winning pitcher in a decision since beating Florida on June 17. He hasn't gone seven innings once this entire season and with his 1.50 WHIP that makes him tough to start consistently in Fantasy. The best attribute Penny has going for him is pitching for Boston. That keeps him viable in deeper mixed leagues. His next start comes Friday against Baltimore.
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny, coming off back-to-back quality starts, didn't last long enough for a third straight Thursday against the Royals. He allowed three runs on six hits in five innings, walking one and striking out one in the no-decision.
Analysis: Penny has a 2.67 ERA over his last six starts, but he pitched fewer than six innings in three of them. He has yet to go seven innings in any of his 17 starts, making him by definition a back-of-the-rotation starter. He's clearly no more than that in Fantasy since he gives up too many baserunners and doesn't record enough strikeouts. His potential to win games for the Red Sox gives him some low-end appeal in mixed leagues, though. He doesn't figure to make a start in the shortened Fantasy Week 15 (July 16-19), so keep him reserved.
News: Boston starter Brad Penny gave up two runs, six hits, struck out six and walked one in six innings Saturday against Seattle. He's winless in six of his last seven outings after not factoring in the decision against the Mariners. "You look at the last two games, the two guys pitched pretty well, sometimes you lose. It happens," Penny said.
Analysis: Penny has gone six innings in back-to-back starts, allowing a combined four runs in those outings. He pitches for a top hitting team in Boston and for that reason is a solid play in any AL-only format and most standard mixed leagues. His next start is slated for July 9 against Kansas City, a favorable matchup.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny pitched quite well on Sunday against the Atlanta Braves but suffered the loss at the hands of rookie Tommy Hanson. Penny fell to 6-3 on the season with the loss as he allowed just two earned runs on six hits over six solid frames. Penny walked none and had two K's. His ERA is at 4.79 on the year. Both runs Penny allowed came on solo homers to Chipper Jones and Garret Anderson.
Analysis: Penny had allowed a total of three earned runs in his previous three starts spanning 16 2/3 innings and still has given up just six in 22 2/3. He's been pitching well for Boston but the Red Sox, interestingly enough, have not been backing him with much run support. He has the potential to win any time he takes the mound since he pitches for the Red Sox, but he's not a big bat misser at this stage of his career. Consider him no more than a low-end option for mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Saturday against Seattle and Garrett Olson.
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny again couldn't go six innings Monday at Washington, leaving after allowing three runs in 5 2/3 innings. He allowed six hits and three walks, recording six strikeouts in the no-decision. He has fallen short of six innings in three of his last four starts but has a 3.22 ERA during that stretch.
Analysis: Penny seemed like he might be the odd man out when John Smoltz comes off the DL, but the injury to Daisuke Matsuzaka gives him a chance to stick around for a while. He has the potential to win any time he takes the mound since he pitches for the Red Sox, but he's not a big bat misser at this stage of his career. Consider him no more than a low-end option at this stage of his career. His next start and second of Fantasy Week 12 (June 22-28) is scheduled for Sunday at Atlanta.
News:Brad Penny (6-2) labored through five innings to earn his 100th career victory during the Red Sox's 6-1 win against the Marlins Wednesday. Former Red Sox prospect Hanley Ramirez, who was traded to Florida in a package for Josh Beckett and 2007 World Series MVP Mike Lowell, walked with two outs in the first and scored when Jacoby Ellsbury misplayed a line drive into left-center for a two-base error. Penny got out of the inning when he took Jeremy Hermida's line drive off his body, picked up the carom and threw the runner out at first. Penny, who played for the Marlins from 2000-2004, remained in the game. He allowed one unearned run on three hits and four walks, striking out three.
Analysis: Penny has not allowed an earned run in 11 innings over his last two starts. His ERA might still be a little inflated at 4.94, but the right-hander has settled down. Since his ERA was at 8.66 April 28, he has allowed more than three runs just twice in his last nine starts. It's pretty amazing what Penny can do when he is healthy. Penny is starting to climb up the Fantasy rankings again, but still remains more of a No. 5 or No. 6 option in mixed leagues. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against the Nationals. He is on track for two starts Week 12 (June 22-28) with his second start coming against the Braves. Both starts are on the road where Penny is 2-1 with a 5.29 ERA in six starts.
News:Brad Penny pitched six shutout innings on Thursday but took a no decision in a 4-3 win over the Yankees. He gave up six hits and only one walk in his outing, striking out five and lowering his ERA to 5.32. He left the game with a 1-0 lead but reliever Manny Delcarmen gave up three runs in the seventh, taking Penny out of the decision.
Analysis: This was a great outing for Penny and will make the decision to take him out of the team's rotation when John Smoltz is able to return a bit harder. Smoltz may be back to start on Wednesday, which is when Penny would come up next in the rotation. Smoltz is expected to make a rehab start Friday at Triple-A Pawtucket, so wait until that happens before making a decision on Penny for Fantasy Week 11 (June 15-21).
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny held the visiting Rangers to a bad-hop infield single until a four-run fourth inning Friday. He ended up losing for the second time this season. "His first four innings were as good as we've seen," Boston manager Terry Francona said. "He was throwing the ball really, really well. Then the next two I think he threw 50 pitches." Penny allowed five runs and seven hits, walking two and striking out five in 5 2/3 innings. It was just the second time in his last seven starts he's given up more than three runs.
Analysis: Penny has pitched fairly well of late, but he has yet to last seven innings in a start and has a 5.85 ERA overall. He's worth using as a low-end option in mixed leagues since he pitches for the Red Sox, but he might not have long in the rotation with John Smoltz coming back from the DL. His next start is scheduled for Thursday against the Yankees.
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny gave up three runs, two of them earned, on 10 hits over six innings in a no-decision against the Blue Jays on Saturday. Penny, who struck out five, left with the score tied at 3.
Analysis: Penny has been giving out hits like Christmas presents this season, but he's been getting away with it almost every start. His mistakes will probably start to catch up with him sooner rather than later, which is why he's only starting in 43 percent of leagues right now. In Fantasy Week 9 (June 1-7), Penny will get one start, against the Rangers on Friday. He is worth a shot in deeper mixed leagues, but not much more.
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny improved to 5-1 with a decent, if short, outing in Monday's 6-5 win over the Twins. Penny allowed three runs on six hits over 5 1/3 innings with seven strikeouts and no walks, but was made to sweat for the victory as Minnesota scored twice off closer Jonathan Papelbon in the ninth.
Analysis: Penny has been a little better over his last few starts, but he's still giving up a few too many hits for Fantasy owners' liking. He will get a second Fantasy Week 8 (May 25-31) outing on Saturday against the Blue Jays, and remains more of an option in AL-only option and deeper mixed leagues until he starts to limit his baserunners and extend his outings a little more.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny was given lots of run support on Wednesday against the Blue Jays and he didn't take it for granted. Penny improved to 4-1 on the year as he allowed two runs on nine hits over 6 2/3 innings. He walked one and struck out two. His ERA is 6.07 on the year.
Analysis: Penny's two earned runs allowed on Wednesday tie for the fewest he's given up in any start this season. You'd like him to limit the runs a little more, but pitching for Boston, it rarely matters as he's 4-1. He pitches twice in Week 8 (May 25-31) so use him in all mixed Fantasy leagues. He meets the Twins in Minnesota on Monday and closes the week in a rematch at Toronto.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny was charged with four runs and seven hits over 6 1/3 innings, taking a no decision the team's 5-4 (12) loss. The Red Sox right-hander was replaced by Hideki Okajima with a 3-2 lead after giving up a one-out triple by Erick Aybar, who scored the tying run after Jason Bay made a diving catch of Jeff Mathis' sacrifice fly in left field.
Analysis: Penny has worked six or more innings in each of his last three starts and has put up respectable numbers in each attempt. His 3-1 record is buoyed by tons of run support as his ERA is at 6.69 on the season. He remains a decent AL-only and deeper mixed league option. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against Toronto's Brett Cecil.
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny (3-1) faced Rays SP James Shields for the second time in six days, beating him on Friday 7-3. Penny allowed three runs in his first four innings and left with runners at first and second with one out in the seventh. Penny allowed a total of eight hits in 6 1/3 innings, allowing three earned runs. He struck out two and walked two as well.
Analysis: Penny also pitched well the first time he faces Shields in less than a week, but ended up taking the loss. He is off to a decent start and his 3-1 record is more indicative of how he has pitched than his 6.90 ERA which is mostly a product of a poor first start of the year against Baltimore when he allowed eight earned runs in three innings. Penny remains a viable option in mixed formats for his next start which is scheduled for Thursday at the Angels against Matt Palmer.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny pitched well on Sunday against the Rays but still lost his first decision of the season. Penny (2-1) allowed just three earned runs on six hits over six frames but was out-dueled by Rays starter James Shields. Penny walked two and had eight strikeouts for the Sox. His ERA is still very high at 7.61 on the year, however.
Analysis: It's amazing that Penny picked up his first loss on Sunday in a game in which he allowed just three runs. Penny allowed three runs in each of his two wins and 15 earned runs in his two other starts, both no decisions. He's been awful thus far for Boston but still has a winning record and that will keep him in the rotation with a chance to win every fifth day. This should prove just how valuable pitching in the Red Sox rotation can be for your value. His awful ERA and all still make him viable in very deep mixed Fantasy formats. Penny makes his next start on Friday against Shields and the Rays once again.
News: Boston could not win its 12th straight game on Tuesday night against the Indians as starter Brad Penny was not good. Penny allowed seven runs -- four earned -- on seven hits over just 2 2/3 innings -- and he needed 89 pitches to do so. Penny walked three and had just one strikeout. His day was all but over when he allowed Ben Francisco's three-run home run in the 3rd. His ERA was elevated to 8.66 with the performance. Still, Boston came back to make this one close and Penny did not get the losing decision.
Analysis: Penny (2-0) has two solid starts this season against the Angels and Twins. He also has two really, really bad starts against the Orioles and now the Indians. Care to guess which Penny will show up on Sunday at Tampa Bay? Penny was a two-start pitcher this week and he'll attempt to salvage the week on Sunday against James Shields. Penny is normally a viable option for deeper mixed Fantasy leagues.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny was strong over six innings in the second game of a day-night doubleheader with the Twins on Wednesday. Penny got some nice run support en route to winning his second game of the season. Penny (2-0) allowed three runs -- two earned -- on six hits. He walked one and struck out two. Penny has a 7.80 ERA on the season.
Analysis: Penny won his first start of the year with similar results but was awful in between against the Orioles. He's allowing too many home runs, but pitching for the Red Sox will often get enough run support to win a few games this year. That keeps him a viable option for deeper mixed Fantasy leagues. Penny starts next on Tuesday at Cleveland. He'll pitch twice in Week 4 (April 27-May 3) with his second start coming at Tampa Bay. That makes him a must-start.
News:Brad Penny has his Red Sox teammates to thank for getting him off the hook for the loss during Friday's game against the Orioles. Penny, making his first start at Fenway for the Red Sox, struggled to get the ball over the plate, including a 40-pitch second inning in which he twice walked in a run on four pitches. Oh yeah, he also allowed seven runs in the second, which included a Nick Markakis grand slam. He worked into the third inning, but was replaced by Manny Delcarmen after walking Adam Jones. Penny lasted three innings, walking five, striking out one and giving up eight earned runs. His ERA is 11.00
Analysis: Penny didn't take the loss Friday as Boston rallied for a 10-8 win, but he still should be shamed for getting crushed in three innings. Penny did win his Boston debut Saturday against the Angels, so we can't write him off after one bad outing. But he certainly can't start a downward spiral or else it will be time to bail on him in Fantasy. As long as he is healthy, the Red Sox can help Penny get back to double-digit wins. Consider him a nice low-end Fantasy flier for deeper mixed leagues. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday against the Twins.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny won his first game of the season for the Red Sox on Saturday against the Angels. Penny tossed six strong innings and allowed five hits and three earned runs. He walked two and had two strikeouts. Penny threw only 86 pitches, 54 for strikes. He was hurt by the long ball as he allowed two home runs in the win.
Analysis: Penny made his debut on Saturday and was sold in earning the victory for the Red Sox. Pitching for Boston, he'll regularly get great run support and should prove quite effective this season. Because Penny was originally scheduled to pitch Sunday and was moved up to Saturday, his next scheduled start should come at home against the Orioles on Friday.
News: The Red Sox have postponed their home opener against the Tampa Bay Rays because of the prospect of heavy rain and high winds. The Red Sox announced Monday's game against the defending AL champions is rescheduled for 4:05 p.m. Tuesday, which had been an off day. It is the first time the Red Sox have postponed their home opener since 2003. That game also was called because of rain. The only change to the Probable Pitchers is Brad Penny will now have to make his season debut Saturday, April 11 instead of Sunday. Josh Beckett and James Shields remain two-start pitchers.
Analysis: Beckett and Shields were must-start two-start pitchers in Fantasy Week 1 (April 5-12). They are basically must-starts every week, regardless of the matchups. Penny is an outstanding sleeper at the back end of the Red Sox rotation.
News: Red Sox manager Terry Francona said SP Brad Penny is slated to go back to Florida to pitch in a camp game Tuesday as a tuneup for his first scheduled regular-season start next weekend (April 10-12) at the Los Angeles Angels.
Analysis: Penny, who was competing with Clay Buchholz for the final spot in the Red Sox rotation, finished with a 3.75 ERA in three spring starts. He is expected to make his debut April 12 against the Angels, but it could get pushed up to April 11 in case the Red Sox's opener is rained out. Penny remains an injury-risk sleeper for mixed Fantasy leagues.
News:Brad Penny made his last audition for a spot in Boston' rotation in Thursday's exhibition game against the Twins. Penny gave up three runs and five hits in five innings for the Red Sox in a 7-3 loss. Boston manager Terry Francona said Penny will probably be his fifth starter and pitch April 12 against the Los Angeles Angels. "He did what we wanted him to do," Francona said. "We need to sit down and talk. That's why I want to keep things open. Again, weather could get in the way." Penny was pleased. "The arm strength is there. The velocity is there," said Penny, whose 2008 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers was marred by shoulder trouble. "This whole camp, I've felt pretty good."
Analysis: Penny, who was competing with Clay Buchholz for the job, finished with a 3.75 ERA in three spring starts. Buchholz went 2-0 with a 2.52 ERA in six starts. We think Penny could have some good years left in him. However, he certainly has some risk for future setbacks, but the hard-throwing righty looks like a nice late-round sleeper, particularly since he pitches for one of the best teams in baseball. Expect him to earn the team's fifth starter spot over Buchholz.
News: The Boston Herald reports that Red Sox SP Brad Penny is confident he’ll be healthy enough to make his first scheduled start of the season on April 12.
Analysis: Penny's situation will be looked at by the Dodgers after his next start on Thursday, and then a decision will likely be made about his status. At 29, we don't think Penny is done, and with his 2.57 ERA this spring, he has shown he has some life left. He has some risk for future setbacks, sure, but the hard-throwing righty looks like a nice late-round sleeper, particularly since he pitches for one of the best teams in baseball. Barring injury, we think he opens the year as the team's fifth starter.
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny, still in contention for the fifth spot in the rotation, gave up two runs in four innings Saturday against the Twins. Penny allowed four hits in his second exhibition start, going without a walk or a strikeout. He threw 68 pitches, 46 for strikes. The Red Sox have brought him along slowly this spring after he struggled with arm and shoulder problems last year with the Dodgers. "I think he's getting to the point where he's starting to compete, not think about it," Red Sox manager Terry Francona said. "He's pushing off that rubber and driving the ball toward the plate. I think we're pretty encouraged. He'll pitch again Thursday." Penny said he was focusing more on pitching and not the power aspect of his game. "I went in with a different mind frame," he said. "The first (start), I went out to let it go, test myself. Today I went out to pitch a little bit and mix up my pitches."
Analysis: At 29, we don't think Penny is done, and with his 2.57 ERA this spring, he has shown he has some life left. He has some risk for future setbacks, sure, but the hard-throwing righty looks like a nice late-round sleeper, particularly since he pitches for one of the best teams in baseball. Barring injury, we think he opens the year as the team's fifth starter.
News:Brad Penny pitched three hitless innings in his spring training debut Monday against the Tigers. Coming back from shoulder trouble that limited him to 19 outings and a 6.27 ERA for the Dodgers last year, he recorded three strikeouts and issued one walk. "It was nice. I felt good," he said. "It has been a while since I've gone out there and felt good. Last year I went out, and I was pitching but I didn't really feel like I had a lot behind it. Today was good." Penny was scratched from a scheduled start March 4 against Puerto Rico. "I thought the ball came out of his hand really well," Red Sox manager Terry Francona said. "And just as importantly, he came out in the first inning and really let the ball go, and then he followed it up in his next two innings."
Analysis: Penny seemed to be making a statement with his performance. "Had real good life on his fastball. He was out there grunting and letting it fly. And that's what we're looking for, grip it and go. I think he was excited," Francona added. "I think it was a good step for him, and we all felt good about it. A lot of excitement in the dugout today because of how he threw." At 29, we don't think Penny is done, and he certainly showed he has some life left with this performance. He has some risk for future setbacks, but the hard-throwing righty looks like a nice late-round sleeper, particularly since he pitches for one of the best teams in baseball.
News: Boston RHP Brad Penny, limited to 19 games last season because of an injured shoulder, is to pitch his first "A" game Monday against Detroit. He was expected to throw three innings and approximately 45 pitches.
Analysis: Shoulder ailments last season limited Penny to 19 appearances, 17 starts, with a record of 6-9 and 6.27 ERA. At 29, we don't think Penny is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. He's mostly an AL-only option for the time being.
News: Red Sox SP Brad Penny pitched three scoreless innings in a minor-league game against a Class A Minnesota Twins squad on Wednesday. He threw 41 pitches -- 30 for strikes -- and struck out four of the 11 batters he faced. He gave up one hit. "I think today was significantly improved over his outing five days ago," Red Sox pitching coach John Farrell said. "I thought his arm strength and command of his fastball was improved. His velocity was improved over his previous time, which again is a benchmark, not an end-all. But I thought the definition to his pitches, getting up and down three times for the three innings today was primarily the goal to get him close to 45 pitches." Penny has yet to appear in a Grapefruit League game. He was scratched from his March 4 start against Puerto Rico after shoulder fatigue cut short a bullpen session three days earlier.
Analysis: Shoulder ailments last season limited Penny to 19 appearances, 17 starts, with a record of 6-9 and 6.27 ERA. "I need to I build my pitch count up," he said. "It's repetition, you know, pitching off of a mound to hitters. That's where the mechanics come in, when you're facing hitters, and your arm speed is where you need it to be. Bullpen always helps, but game speed, you can't go out and practice that." Farrell said Penny is on track for his first spring training start March 23. At 29, we don't think Penny is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. This start is certainly encouraging, but he remains more of an AL-only option right now.
News: The Boston Herald reports that Red Sox SP Brad Penny will make his spring training debut March 23 against the Tigers. He will first throw two innings or so in a minor-league intrasquad game on Wednesday.
Analysis: With off-days early in the regular season schedule, manager Terry Francona has said that Penny does not need to be ready for opening day. The team won't need a fifth starter until April 12 at the earliest. He is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think Penny is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but the question marks are many.
News: Boston SP Brad Penny pitched two innings of a minor league intrasquad game Friday at the Red Sox's player development complex, his first spring training outing since shoulder fatigue cut short a bullpen session on March 1. The right-hander allowed one run on one hit - a leadoff home run by David Mailman - with a strikeout and a walk. With Josh Bard catching, Penny threw 33 pitches - 20 for strikes - using his complete repertoire of fastball, curveball and changeup. His fastball reached the low 90s, Red Sox pitching coach John Farrell said. "It felt good," Penny said. "Command wasn't as good as it was in (batting practice), but it was the first time facing hitters so I was kind of just concentrating on putting more effort behind the ball. I felt like it was coming out good." Penny has yet to appear in a spring game with the Red Sox. He was scratched from a scheduled March 4 start against Puerto Rico.
Analysis: Shoulder ailments last season limited him to 19 starts with the Dodgers. He finished with a record of 6-9 and 6.27 ERA. "Very encouraging, again," Farrell said of Penny's outing. "Physically no restrictions. The arm speed was, I thought, improved over the last couple of side sessions." Penny is now on a regular, five-day progression, and scheduled to next pitch in a game on Wednesday. With the big league team off that day, he's expected to throw 45 pitches in a minor league game at the complex against a Minnesota Twins minor league squad. "Everything was healthy, no pain, didn't really get tired," Penny said. "Looking forward to the next one in five days." With off-days early in the regular season schedule, manager Terry Francona said Penny does not need to be ready for opening day. He said the team won't need a fifth starter until April 12 at the earliest. He is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think Penny is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but the question marks are many.
News: MLB.com reports that Red Sox SP Brad Penny will make his spring debut in an intrasquad game Friday. He remains in doubt for opening day.
Analysis: Penny, 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 17 starts and two relief appearances last season, was bothered by shoulder problems for much of 2008 and went on the DL three times: from June 17 to Aug. 8, Aug. 14 to Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 through the end of the season. He is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think he is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but the question marks are many.
News: The Boston Globe reports that Red Sox SP Brad Penny, who tweaked his delivery during a 35-pitch bullpen session Sunday, is still a question mark for the start of the season. Penny focused on throwing with the lower half of his body rather than relying on his arm. He reported no ill effects after throwing a bullpen session Sunday. He might throw a simulated game this week at Boston's minor-league camp.
Analysis: Penny, 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 17 starts and two relief appearances last season, was bothered by shoulder problems for much of 2008 and went on the DL three times: from June 17 to Aug. 8, Aug. 14 to Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 through the end of the season. He is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think he is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but the question marks are many.
News: There's no great concern about Boston SP Brad Penny after he cut short his last bullpen session when he couldn't get loose and missed his scheduled start Thursday against Puerto Rico. He's scheduled to throw a side session Sunday after being examined Friday by team physician Dr. Thomas Gill. "It was nice to hear Tom come in and say he got a good examination," Francona said.
Analysis: Penny, 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 17 starts and two relief appearances, was bothered by shoulder problems for much of last year and went on the DL three times: from June 17 to Aug. 8, Aug. 14 to Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 through the end of the season. He is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think he is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but will he prove to be more of a Bartolo Colon-like contributor in 2009?
News: Red Sox pitcher Brad Penny was scratched from his first scheduled spring training start because of shoulder weakness. Penny was to have started Thursday against Puerto Rico. He stopped a bullpen session Sunday after 25 pitches. "I don't think the shoulder strength was quite where it needed to be yet for the work load I was doing," Penny said. "It's better to take it easy right now than to get out there in the first week of April and have it flare up on me." Penny was limited to 19 games with the Dodgers last year, and just nine innings after June 14, because of the shoulder problems. "He could pitch Thursday. I just don't know it's in everybody's long-term best interests," manager Terry Francona said Tuesday. "I think the best way I can put it is that he's still putting gas in the tank. I don't consider this a setback at all."
Analysis: Penny, 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 17 starts and two relief appearances, was bothered by shoulder problems for much of last year and went on the DL three times: from June 17 to Aug. 8, Aug. 14 to Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 through the end of the season. He is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think he is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but will he prove to be more of a Bartolo Colon-like contributor in 2009? Colon was good in spurts last year, but never really fit in due to shoulder and general health woes. Penny is younger and with more in the tank, perhaps, though.
News: The Providence Journal reports that Red Sox SP Brad Penny's spring debut, which was expected to be Thursday, could be pushed back after his side session on Sunday was cut short due to high winds and cold temperatures. Penny, who had some trouble getting warmed up, threw only 25 pitches.
Analysis: Penny, 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 17 starts and two relief appearances, was bothered by shoulder problems for much of last year and went on the DL three times: from June 17 to Aug. 8, Aug. 14 to Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 through the end of the season. Penny is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think he is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but will he prove to be more of a Bartolo Colon-like contributor in 2009? Colon was good in spurts last year, but never really fit in due to shoulder and general health woes. Penny is younger and with more in the tank, perhaps, though.
News: Red Sox right-hander Brad Penny felt fine after throwing batting practice for the first time in spring training. Penny threw 30 pitches Monday and said the session answered a lot of questions for him, both mentally and physically. His 2008 season with the Dodgers was cut short by shoulder problems, and Boston signed him as a free agent. Red Sox pitching coach John Farrell said Penny would have two days off between batting practice sessions instead of the one day off for most pitchers. But Farrell said that barring a setback, Penny will be ready for the start of the regular season. He's scheduled for his first spring training start March 5.
Analysis: Penny, 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 17 starts and two relief appearances, was bothered by shoulder problems for much of last year and went on the DL three times: from June 17 to Aug. 8, Aug. 14 to Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 through the end of the season. Penny is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think he is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but will he prove to be more of a Bartolo Colon-like contributor in 2009? Colon was good in spurts last year, but never really fit in due to shoulder and general health woes. Penny is younger and with more in the tank, perhaps, though.
News: On Wednesday, Red Sox SP Brad Penny, who battled soreness in his right shoulder all of last season, threw about 30 pitches in the bullpen without pain. He expects to be ready for the start of the regular season. "The hope is that we got him at the exact right time," manager Terry Francona said. "He seems like he's in a position where he wants to kind of show baseball what he can do. Last year didn't work out the way he wanted it to, but he seems hungry to do that and maybe we'll be the recipients of a guy that can win 16, 18 games, that type of pitcher."
Analysis: Penny doesn't see any reason why he won't be ready for opening day. "The way I feel now, I shouldn't have any setbacks," Penny said. "I just have to stay after my shoulder work." At 29, we don't think he is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but he deserves no more than a late-round look even in AL-only leagues.
News: The Red Sox have finalized a one-year contract with pitcher Brad Penny, a deal worth about $5 million. The big right-hander joins a rotation that includes Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Jon Lester and knuckleballer Tim Wakefield. Penny was teammates with Beckett and Red Sox third baseman Mike Lowell in Florida, helping the Marlins win the 2003 World Series.
Analysis: Penny, 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 17 starts and two relief appearances, was bothered by shoulder problems for much of last year and went on the DL three times: from June 17 to Aug. 8, Aug. 14 to Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 through the end of the season. Since the Dodgers turned down a reasonable market-value option on him shows us they are not confident in the health of his shoulder, so you shouldn't be either at this point. Right now, Penny is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think he is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but he prove to be more of a Bartolo Colon-like contributor in 2009? Colon was good in spurts last year, but never really fit in due to shoulder and general health woes. Penny is younger and with more in the tank, perhaps, though.
News: The Boston Red Sox signed pitcher Brad Penny to a one-year contract.
Analysis: Penny, 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 17 starts and two relief appearances, was bothered by shoulder problems for much of last year and went on the DL three times: from June 17 to Aug. 8, Aug. 14 to Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 through the end of the season. Since the Dodgers turned down a reasonable market-value option on him shows us they are not confident in the health of his shoulder, so you shouldn't be either at this point. Right now, Penny is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues. At 29, we don't think he is done, but you won't know what you're getting unless you draft late in March and he proves healthy and effective before you pick. The Red Sox certainly are a top contender that can make him a winner, but he prove to be more of a Bartolo Colon-like contributor in 2009? Colon was good in spurts last year, but never really fit in due to shoulder and general health woes. Penny is younger and with more in the tank, perhaps, though.
News:Brad Penny's $9.25 million option was declined Wednesday by the Dodgers, making the 30-year-old right-hander eligible to become a free agent. Penny receives a $2 million buyout. He was acquired by the Dodgers from Florida in July 2004 and won 16 games in both 2006 and 2007.
Analysis: Penny was 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 17 starts and two relief appearances last season. He was bothered by shoulder problems for much of the year and went on the disabled list three times: from June 17 to Aug. 8, Aug. 14 to Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 through the end of the season. Turning down a reasonable market-value deal on him shows us that the Dodgers are not confident in the health of his shoulder, so you shouldn't be either. Right now, Penny is an injury-risk sleeper best left for deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: The Dodgers activated infielder Tony Abreu, OF Andruw Jones, RHPs Brad Penny, Jason Schmidt, Mario Alvarez and Yhency Brazoban from the 60-day DL.
Analysis: Abreu and Jones have a shot at starting next season, but more likely will be slotted as reserves, making them mere NL-only Fantasy options. Penny and Schmidt are injury risk sleepers coming off shoulder woes, while Alvarez and Brazoban are nothing more than low-end middle relievers for the deepest of NL-only leagues that use true middle men if they get time on the roster.
News: Injured pitcher Brad Penny, a 16-game winner each of the last two seasons and the Dodgers' opening-day starter last spring, wasn't with the team Wednesday night as it was knocked out of the NLCS by Philadelphia. Los Angeles has a club option on the right-hander's contract next year. "I've spoken to Brad, told him I want to have lunch one of these days after everything settles down," manager Joe Torre said. "He was just torn with a lot of stuff, plus he never felt very good. I'm curious to have a conversation with him. I think it's going to be two ways." Torre did make it clear last month, before Penny went on the shelf for good, that he would be used in the bullpen during the postseason if he was healthy enough to pitch. "It just didn't look like he had the conviction (to relieve)," Torre said. When asked if Penny would return next year, Torre replied: "I haven't even thought about that."
Analysis: The 30-year-old Penny, who went 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 19 games, was hampered by shoulder problems most of the season and went on the 60-day DL in the final week. He appeared in relief twice late in the year and wasn't comfortable in that role. He is an injury-risk sleeper to consider after the top 50 starting pitchers are off the board on Draft Day. He could be an ace or a bust for all we know about the health of his shoulder.
News: Injured Dodgers SP Brad Penny, a 16-game winner each of the last two seasons and the Dodgers' opening-day starter last spring, isn't with the team. Los Angeles has a club option on the right-hander's contract next year. "I've spoken to Brad, told him I want to have lunch one of these days after everything settles down," manager Joe Torre said. "I think he was just torn with a lot of stuff, plus he never felt very good. I'm curious to have a conversation with him. I think it's going to be two ways."
Analysis: The 30-year-old Penny, who went 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 19 games, was hampered by shoulder problems most of the season and went on the 60-day disabled list in the final week. He appeared in relief twice late in the year and wasn't comfortable in that role. "He's a young man, he has a bright future with us or somebody else," Torre said. "He was frustrated being here and not being able to do something. It's tough, not being able to contribute. He hadn't pitched. Physically, I don't think it was possible. He might not feel that way. He's a starter, and we all acknowledge the fact that he's a starter." Penny has some rebound potential next season no matter where he signs, but keep in mind pitchers often have trouble coming back from shoulder injuries. Don't draft him until the late rounds.
News: The Dodgers activated shortstop Rafael Furcal from the 60-day disabled list Wednesday night, making room on their 40-man roster by placing right-hander Brad Penny on the 60-day DL. The move means the team's opening-day starter won't be eligible for the postseason should Los Angeles qualify.
Analysis: Penny, a 16-game winner each of the past two seasons, was 6-9 with a 6.27 ERA in 19 games - 17 of them starts. He's been bothered by shoulder problems most of the season. He will try to rehab shoulder this winter and will be an injury-risk sleeper for spring 2009 at this point.
News: According to The Sports Xchange notes: RHP Brad Penny's season apparently is over. Penny, who has made two relief appearances since his most recent activation from the disabled list on Sept. 10, received a cortisone injection in the AC joint above his right shoulder Friday to relieve discomfort. Penny then tried to throw Saturday but experienced more discomfort.
Analysis: Don't use Penny in any format in the final Fantasy Week 26 (Sept. 22-28) at this point. He will try to rehab shoulder this winter and will be an injury-risk sleeper for spring 2009 at this point.
News:Brad Penny, recovering from a shoulder injury, pitched the ninth Monday in his second appearance since Aug. 13 and allowed Adam LaRoche's two-run, two-out homer, his 20th.
Analysis: Penny's sore shoulder is such that he cannot start down the stretch. Consider him nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men in the final weeks.
News: Dodgers right-hander Brad Penny, who was activated off the 15-day disabled list (right shoulder inflammation) earlier Wednesday came on to start the seventh. He didn't get an out as he walked the leadoff batter Max Venable and gave up singles to Josh Bard and Matt Antonelli.
Analysis: Penny's sore shoulder is such that he cannot start down the stretch. Consider him nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men in the final weeks.
News: The NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers activated pitcher Brad Penny from the 15-day disabled list Wednesday and plan to use their former ace as a reliever. Penny went on the disabled list Aug. 14 because of inflammation in his right shoulder. It was his second stint on the DL this year. Dodgers manager Joe Torre said that Penny would be used initially out of the bullpen, pitching one or two innings. Penny has made two career regular-season relief appearances, and has done it four times in the postseason.
Analysis: Penny is 6-9 with a 6.05 ERA. The righty was a combined 32-13 in the previous two seasons, making the All-Star team both years. Torre said he would have to see how Penny pitches before deciding when to put him back into the rotation. Consider him nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle for the time being, but he could end up being a sleeper Fantasy SP down the stretch.
News: Dodgers RHP Brad Penny (shoulder) could be activated from the DL as early as Wednesday.
Analysis: Penny's shoulder is such that he cannot start down the stretch. Consider him nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of leagues that use true middle men in the final weeks.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny threw 40 pitches in the bullpen and 30 more in a simulated game on Monday. He could be activated Friday and would pitch out of the bullpen, manager Joe Torre said.
Analysis: If Penny returns as a reliever, he won't do you much good in Fantasy. This is probably the last bit of information you need to wash your hands of him once and for all. He has done nothing but disappoint this year.
News: Dodgers manager Joe Torre said Saturday that SP Brad Penny has a good chance to return this season.
Analysis: Penny was originally thought done for the year so this is great news for Fantasy owners. Still, what Torre thinks and what actually happens are two different things. Keep him reserved if you want, but the smart move would be to consider him an injury-risk sleeper in deeper leagues on Draft Day 2009, if he proves healthy in spring training.
News: The Dodgers are not expecting Jason Schmidt (shoulder) or Brad Penny (shoulder) to return this season.
Analysis: Penny has had continued shoulder soreness and can be cut and ignored in all Fantasy leagues now. He will be an injury-risk sleeper in deeper leagues on Draft Day 2009, if he proves healthy in spring training.
News: Opening-day starter Brad Penny was placed on the 15-day disabled list by the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday - a day after being pounded for six runs and six hits in three innings by the Philadelphia Phillies. The 30-year-old right-hander had been sidelined from June 14 until last Friday night because of tendinitis in his right shoulder. He gave up one run in five innings at San Francisco in his first start after coming off the disabled list, but his second outing was a different story. "Brad got a shot and I believe won't try and throw again for five days," manager Joe Torre said. "He had an MRI. I have no idea when he will be able to come back. We've been trying to get this thing well. He's had some rest. He's still got some shoulder strength. It's something that's been nagging him. It's more frustrating for him than anybody else."
Analysis: Penny, 16-4 with a 3.03 ERA in 33 starts last season, is 6-9 with a 6.05 ERA in 17 starts this year. "Our first concern is the bullpen, that's the first priority," Torre said. "We'll take the this next day or so to try and make a plan. We'll probably skip Penny's spot with the off day (Monday). It's not a certainty. You like to give guys the extra day when possible this time of year. Whoever is ready and rested the next time we need a start would get the call." Penny won't be back until September at this point and it might finally be time to start cutting ties with the man.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny had trouble keeping the ball in the park Wednesday against the Phillies and only lasted three innings during a no decision. The Phillies scored six runs in the first two innings against Penny and he left trailing 6-3. Penny was off the hook for the loss as L.A. rallied for a 7-6 win. The right-hander was hurt by first inning homers to Ryan Howard and Greg Dobbs. Jayson Werth added a homer in the second. Penny walked two, allowed six hits and struck out four before his nighr ended.
Analysis: Penny returned from nearly a two-month stint on the DL with a shoulder problem to win Friday against the Giants. He allowed one run in five innings. He had much different results Wednesday. It was noted that Penny's velocity dropped when he came off the DL and that was quite evident Wednesday as Philadelphia had basically batting practice against Penny. The veteran remains a bit of a risky Fantasy SP until he returns to his former dominating self. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against the Rockies. He is on track to be a two-start pitcher Fantasy Week 21 (Aug. 18-24) with his second start coming against the Phillies.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny (shoulder), who was activated from the DL before the game, ended a personal seven-game losing streak. On a strict pitch count, he gave up one hit and one run in five innings to win for the first time since May 2. Penny, who said his problematic right shoulder felt fine, walked three and did not strike out a batter for the second straight start. "Penny wasn't throwing as hard as he normally does," Giants manager Bruce Bochy said. "It looked like he regrouped and made pitches when he had to. His velocity looked like it was down, but he can still pitch." Dodgers manager Joe Torre agreed: "He wasn't as sharp as he could be but he's a little rusty. It seemed like he was having an easy time throwing the ball. His velocity varied somewhat, but he knows it's there."
Analysis: Penny had been out nearly two months because of a right shoulder injury. It was his first start since allowing seven runs and seven hits in 3 2/3 innings at Detroit on June 14. He has had an awful season so far, which you can partially credit to the shoulder injury, but he has enough upside that you should take a flier on him now in all leagues. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the Phillies.
News:Brad Penny is expected to come off the 15-day disabled list to start the Los Angeles Dodgers' game at San Francisco on Friday night. Manager Joe Torre said the right-hander likely would be limited to around 90 pitches. "We're certainly going to look at it early in the game," Torre said after the Dodgers' 4-1 win at St. Louis on Thursday. "I think we'll know early how good he feels about himself. With his ability and his experience, he could certainly give us a little lift."
Analysis: Penny has been on the DL since June 17, retroactive to June 15, with right shoulder tendinitis and bursitis. The 30-year-old made his lone rehabilitation start on Sunday, allowing two runs and six hits in four innings for Triple-A Las Vegas. Penny won 16 games each of the previous two seasons and was third in the NL Cy Young Award balloting in 2007. This year he's struggled with a 5-9 record and 5.88 ERA in 15 starts. Track his progress through his first return start before considering him for Fantasy Week 20 (Aug. 11-17). His start in that period is a tough one against the Phillies, albeit at home.
News: The Dodgers anticipate reinstating right-hander Brad Penny from the 15-day disabled list Friday to start at San Francisco. Penny has been on the DL since June 17, retroactive to June 15, with right shoulder tendinitis and bursitis. He made his lone rehabilitation start Sunday for Triple-A Las Vegas, allowing two runs on six hits in four innings.
Analysis: Penny, 30, won 16 games each of the previous two seasons and was third in the NL Cy Young Award balloting in 2007. This year he has struggled with a 5-9 record and 5.88 ERA in 15 starts. Track his progress through his first return start before considering him for Fantasy Week 20 (Aug. 11-17). His start in that period is a tough one against the Phillies, albeit at home.
News: Los Angeles Dodgers ace Brad Penny allowed two runs and six hits during a four-inning rehab start Saturday night for the Triple-A Las Vegas 51s. Pitching against the Oklahoma RedHawks in his home state, Penny threw 67 pitches, 50 of those for strikes, and struck out four batters while walking one. He threw as hard as 97 mph and left with Las Vegas trailing 2-1. The 30-year-old right-hander is set to rejoin the Dodgers on Monday in St. Louis, and is tentatively scheduled to start for Los Angeles on Friday against the San Francisco Giants. In 102-degree heat, Penny started quickly, retiring the first five Oklahoma batters he faced before allowing a second-inning single to John Mayberry. Through three innings, Penny had thrown 37 pitches, less than half of the planned 75. Penny ran into trouble in the fourth, giving up a double to Nate Gold, a run-scoring single to Ryan Roberts and an RBI double to Mayberry to start the inning. Penny reached 96 mph on the radar gun close to the end of his stint.
Analysis: After recording 16 wins in each of the past two years and finishing third in the voting for last year's National League Cy Young Award, Penny has struggled this season. He was 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA in 15 starts for the Dodgers before going on the disabled list, retroactive to June 15, with shoulder tendinitis and bursitis. An MRI exam revealed no structural damage. Last Saturday, he threw 52 pitches to teammates in a three-inning simulated game. The Dodgers opted to follow that with a bullpen session Monday, followed by a single minor league rehab start with Las Vegas in the Pacific Coast League. Don't start Penny in Fantasy leagues until you see how well he pitches in his return Friday. If Penny is healthy down the stretch, he can be a big-time Fantasy sleeper.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Brad Penny, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 17 with inflammation and mild tendinitis in his right shoulder, will make a rehabilitation start Saturday for Triple-A Las Vegas at Oklahoma City.
Analysis: That would put Penny in line to start for the Dodgers on Aug. 8 at San Francisco. That would result in struggling RHP Hiroki Kuroda being pushed back to Aug. 9, giving him one extra day of rest after his next scheduled start, Saturday night against Arizona. If Penny is healthy down the stretch, he can be a big-time Fantasy sleeper. He is on track to return during Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 4-10), so now might be the time to take a flier on the veteran right-hander.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny, who hasn't pitched since June 14 because of shoulder tendinitis and bursitis, will pitch for Triple-A Las Vegas on Saturday in Oklahoma City. If all goes well, he'll start six days later against the Giants in San Francisco (Aug. 8). Penny was expected to make two rehab starts with his first one coming Wednesday. However, the Dodgers altered their plans because they wanted to give slumping Hiroki Kuroda extra rest before returning to the hill. Penny will now pitch a bullpen session Wednesday before heading out to Las Vegas.
Analysis: Penny opened the season at 5-2 with a 3.19 ERA. His season quickly went downhill after allowing 10 runs to the Mets May 7, and Penny's ERA ballooned to 5.88 before going on the DL. He also lost five straight starts. The shoulder injury likely was the culprit. If Penny is healthy down the stretch, he can be a big-time Fantasy sleeper. He is on track to return during Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 4-10), so now might be the time to take a flier on the veteran right-hander.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny, who hasn't pitched since June 14 because of shoulder tendinitis and bursitis, threw a bullpen session Monday and will have a rehab outing of 45 pitches on Wednesday with Class A Inland Empire. He'll get one more minor league rehab start with Triple-A Las Vegas, after which he hopes to return to the rotation on Aug. 9 at San Francisco.
Analysis: Penny opened the season at 5-2 with a 3.19 ERA. His season quickly went downhill after allowing 10 runs to the Mets May 7, and Penny's ERA ballooned to 5.88 before going on the DL. He also lost five straight starts. The shoulder injury likely was the culprit. If Penny is healthy down the stretch, he can be a big-time Fantasy sleeper. He is on track to return during Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 4-10), so now might be the time to take a flier on the veteran right-hander.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Brad Penny, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 17 with inflammation and mild tendinitis in his right shoulder, will throw a simulated game on Saturday. If that goes well, he will make a minor-league rehabilitation appearance, possibly with Class A Inland Empire, sometime next week.
Analysis: That would put Penny on track to return possibly by the start of the next road trip on Aug. 5 at St. Louis. He is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA this season, but has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your deeper mixed-league Fantasy team.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Dodgers OF Juan Pierre and SP Brad Penny could be sent on rehab assignments this week. Pierre (sprained knee) could start a one-to-three game stint with Triple-A Las Vegas before Friday. Penny (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session Tuesday and could pitch in a minor league game this weekend. Manager Joe Torre anticipated that Penny would probably have to pitch twice in the minors and could be back in the rotation in early August.
Analysis: Pierre, who is on the DL for the first time in his career, is a solid rotisserie option when healthy, but he's not getting any younger and we'll have to see if he loses a step after this injury. Penny, meanwhile, is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA this season, but has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your deeper mixed-league Fantasy team.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Brad Penny probably won't be activated until the end of the month. Penny received a cortisone injection Monday night, but manager Joe Torre said he remained uncertain when Penny would be able to start throwing again. Penny was scheduled to play catch Thursday but had the session scrapped.
Analysis: Torre said he guessed Penny would have to face live hitting once or twice, either in a minor league game or a simulated situation, before being activated from the disabled list. He is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA, but has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your Fantasy team.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Dodgers SP Brad Penny won't be ready to come off the 15-day disabled list in time for the second-half opener on July 18 at Arizona. Penny received a cortisone shot Tuesday, and manager Joe Torre said the right-hander will need either another simulated game or a rehabilitation start before being activated. "If his shoulder starts feeling better from the shot, my guess is he will catch up in a hurry," Torre said. "I think he possibly could rehab shortly after the break." Torre was quick to point out that his use of the word "rehab" didn't necessarily mean Penny would go on a minor league rehabilitation assignment. He meant it as a catch-all term for whatever Penny does do before he is activated, so Penny could simply throw another simulated game sometime during the Arizona series and possibly be ready to return during a three-game series at Colorado July 21-23.
Analysis: Penny, who has been on the DL since June 17 with shoulder inflammation and tendinitis, pitched two simulated games on the Dodgers' most recent trip to Houston and San Francisco. But Penny felt more discomfort in the fourth "inning" of the second of those games, on Saturday at AT&T Park, at which point it became clear he wouldn't return before the All-Star break. If not for his injury, Penny, who will be eligible for free agency in the fall if the Dodgers don't exercise his $9.25 million club option for next season, would be potential trade bait between now and the July 31 deadline. Still, there is no urgency to get him back at a time when the rotation has been superb for the past two weeks. He is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA, but has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your Fantasy team.
News: Dodgers right-hander Brad Penny is expected to be out through the All-Star break after shutting down a simulated game Saturday with more pain in his shoulder. Penny (5-9), who's on a seven-game losing streak, has been on the disabled list since June 15 with tendinitis and other shoulder problems. He pitched well through the first three innings of his simulated game but stopped in the fourth inning when he felt a growing discomfort. "He didn't do anything on that particular pitch, but all of a sudden, something was weird," Dodgers manager Joe Torre said. "He used all of his pitches, and about three or four (pitches) into the last (inning), he felt it, and that's it." Torre doesn't expect to get Penny back in the rotation for at least two weeks. He'll be re-examined by a team doctor on Monday.
Analysis: He is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA, but has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your Fantasy team. That said, we won't see him back until after the All-Star break so you should consider either stashing him on the DL in deeper leagues or dropping him until further notice.
News: Manager Joe Torre said Thursday that Chan Ho Park (4-2) will start Saturday's game instead of Brad Penny (5-9), who's been on the DL since June 15 with a sore right shoulder. Torre said Penny would throw a simulated game in either Las Vegas or San Francisco and then make his return start some time next week.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in NL-only play can think about taking a risk and activating him for the upcoming scoring period, but it's best to aim for Fantasy Week 16. He is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA, but has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your Fantasy team.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny threw another bullpen session Saturday. He is scheduled to face hitters in his next one, possible Tuesday or Wednesday.
Analysis: Penny is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA. Stash him in any league with reserve of DL spots because he has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your Fantasy team.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny (shoulder) had his simulated game Saturday scrapped because he is still feeling something in his shoulder. He'll instead throw a bullpen session.
Analysis: Penny is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA. Stash him in any league with reserve of DL spots because he has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your Fantasy team.
News: The Dodgers put right-hander Brad Penny on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday with a sore shoulder that has bothered him for much of the season. According to the Sports Xchange, here's what Penny had to say about pitching with pain: "I feel it on every pitch, so that makes it tough. It affects everything. The big thing is location. When you know it's going to hurt, you don't really want to throw it. It's not going to get any better, so I need to find out what's going on. I'm not doing the team any good. I'm not doing myself any good."
Analysis: That quote doesn't sound good, but the good news is Penny is taking the necessary steps towards alleviating the problem. Penny is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA. It appears he could be back by early July. Stash him in any league with reserve of DL spots, because he has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your Fantasy team.
News: The Dodgers put right-hander Brad Penny on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday with a sore shoulder that has bothered him for much of the season. Penny went 0-7 in his past eight starts and lasted only 3 2/3 innings in a 12-7 loss in Detroit on Saturday. He said after the game his shoulder has been bothering him for much of the season. He has been taking pain medication before starts because of the shoulder. Penny flew from Detroit to Los Angeles for a medical test Monday that indicated tendinitis. Manager Joe Torre said Penny could resume throwing later this week and might be able to return in two weeks. "It's structurally fine," Torre said of Penny's shoulder. "The think what's tricked us all is when you look up there and see his velocity numbers seem to be pretty consistent, and at times he looked really good. But again, inconsistency probably matches up with the fact that he's had this discomfort. Some days have been better than others."
Analysis: Penny is a disappointing 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA. It appears he could be back by early July. Stash him in any league with reserve of DL spots, because he has the potential to be a winning pitcher down the stretch for the Dodgers and your Fantasy team.
News: The Tigers used a six-run fourth inning against Dodgers SP Brad Penny Saturday to pace themselves in a 12-7 win. Penny (5-9) allowed one hit before being knocked out of the game in the fourth. He gave up seven runs and seven hits in 3 2/3 innings with two walks and didn't strike out a batter. With Detroit down 4-1, Magglio Ordonez singled with one out in the fourth and Miguel Cabrera followed with his 10th home run into the left-field stands. Edgar Renteria singled one out later and Marcus Thames followed with his ninth homer. Ivan Rodriguez followed with a single, while Curtis Granderson and Placido Polanco hit successive triples.
Analysis: Penny has lost five straight starts and has not won since May 2. Penny said he felt discomfort while warming up in the bullpen Saturday. He's been bothered by a sore shoulder for most of the season and has been taking pain medication before every start since early in the year. "I knew I probably shouldn't have went out there," Penny said. "But that would have put the team in a horrible position." He's scheduled to fly back to Los Angeles on Sunday for a MRI on Monday. Penny had made some progress in his first two June starts (3.75 ERA) after getting lit up for a 8.82 ERA in May. But now we know why Penny has struggled this season. Penny has high-end Fantasy potential, but is a risky low-end option until he is healthy. Consider him an injury-risk start for Fantasy Week 12 (June 16-22) until further notice.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny lost again Sunday against the Cubs, extending his winless streak to seven starts. He threw 110 pitches over six innings, giving up three runs and six hits. He also had three walks and five strikeouts. The two-time All-Star hasn't won since beating Colorado on May 2 for his fourth straight victory, and his teammates have totaled five runs in his last four starts.
Analysis: Penny can't totally blame his teammates for his winless streak. He has a 7.71 ERA over that stretch. The mark looks a little better -- 3.75 -- over his last two starts, so you should probably think about getting him active in mixed leagues again. He can dominate when pitching up to his standards. His next start is scheduled for Saturday at Detroit.
News:Jeff Francis outpitched longtime Rockies nemesis Brad Penny and Colorado snapped an eight-game losing streak Tuesday night against the Los Angeles Dodgers with a 3-0 victory. Penny (5-7) lost his fifth consecutive decision over six starts, allowing two runs, six hits and four walks over six innings with five strikeouts. Penny was 9-0 with a 3.28 ERA in his previous 13 starts versus the Rockies, and 14-2 with a 3.06 ERA in his 23 career starts against them prior to Tuesday.
Analysis: The right-hander, who won 13 of his first 14 decisions last season en route to a 16-4 record and finished third in the Cy Young voting, is 0-5 with a 8.28 ERA in his last six outings. However, the good news is that Penny allowed fewer than four runs for the first time in six starts. Perhaps he is ready to get back on track and start winning games again. We still like Penny in Fantasy leagues in the long run because he has a proven track record. His next scheduled start is for Sunday against the Cubs.
News:David Wright hit two home runs off Brad Penny and the newly inspired New York Mets dampened Joe Torre's return home, defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-4 Thursday night. A rare catcher's interference call helped the Mets win their third in a row and send the Dodgers to their fourth straight loss. The Mets had two outs and none on in the fourth when pitcher Claudio Vargas apparently grounded out -- it looked so routine, Vargas basically stopped running halfway down the line .But Russell Martin was called for catcher's interference and Vargas was awarded first base. The Mets took full advantage as Jose Reyes followed with a single, Luis Castillo hit an RBI double and Wright connected for his 11th homer and a 6-0 lead. Penny allowed eight hits, six runs and three walks in four innings. He struck out two.
Analysis: Martin was charged with an error for the catcher's interference that let Vargas reach, yet the runs that scored after the two-out play were officially earned. According to scoring rules, it couldn't be assumed that Vargas would've made the third out. Penny's problems at Shea continued as he fell to 1-10 lifetime at the ballpark that's in its final year. The two-time All-Star didn't fare any better against the Mets three weeks ago at home when they tagged him for a career-high 10 runs in 4 2/3 innings. Ever since then, he has been struggling on the hill. He has allowed a total of 30 earned runs over his last five starts. Ouch. Penny is better than his 5.79 ERA suggests, but something has to give. Penny is a risky Fantasy SP at the moment. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against Colorado, who Penny is 2-0 with a 4.50 ERA against in 2008. He is on track to be a two-start pitcher Fantasy Week 10 (June 2-8) with his second start coming against the Cubs.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny gave up four runs and four hits over seven innings on his 30th birthday Saturday against the Cardinals, striking out five and walking two. He ended up losing, though, falling to 5-5. He has a 7.63 ERA over his last five starts.
Analysis: Penny certainly hasn't looked up to form lately, which isn't a good sign if you own him in Fantasy because he normally performs much better in the first half. He pitched decently Saturday, though, so maybe he's getting back on the right track. He still has great stuff and is worth activating in all Fantasy leagues for his next start, which is scheduled for Thursday at the Mets.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny took the hill Monday against the Reds after missing his scheduled start Sunday because of a stiff arm. Penny didn't appear to be any better Monday as Cincinnati tagged him for four runs in the first three innings, which included an Adam Dunn two-run homer in the third. However, Penny settled down to allow just one run over his last three innings. He left in a 5-all tie and took the no decision. Penny was charged with nine hits, five runs and four walks. He struck out two in six innings while tossing 100 pitches.
Analysis: Penny actually saw his ERA rise from 5.09 to 5.34 Monday. He hasn't recorded a win in his last three starts (0-2) and has allowed 20 earned runs in 16 2/3 innings. Perhaps this arm injury is worse than Penny or the Dodgers are leading on because the right-hander isn't this bad when at 100 percent. Right now, Penny is somewhat of a risky Fantasy option. His next scheduled start is for Saturday against the Cardinals. He took a no decision against the Cardinals in his lone start last season despite throwing seven scoreless innings.
News:Brad Penny (stiff arm) was held out of his start Sunday, but MLB.com reports he wanted to make the start. The Dodgers already decided to hold him back until Monday and use Derek Lowe on three-day's rest, though.
Analysis: Penny should be a two-start pitcher for Fantasy Week 8 (May 19-25), albeit a risky one because of his shaky starts of late and his stiff arm. Consider him an option if you want to take a chance on your ace.
News: MLB.com reports that Brad Penny has been scratched due to stiffness in his right arm, and Derek Lowe will move up a spot in the Dodgers' rotation and take his place for Sunday's series finale against the Angels.
Analysis: Penny, who is 5-4 with a 5.09 ERA in nine starts for Los Angeles this season, has allowed 15 runs over his last two outings while allowing 19 hits and walking four. He has averaged 190 innings and 32 starts over his three seasons with the Dodgers, but he also has made four trips to the disabled list in his career. For now, Penny should be considered a risky start for Fantasy Week 8 (May 19-25). Follow up on his progress before making a decision.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny was dealt a second consecutive loss after Tuesday's 5-3 defeat at the hands of the Brewers. Coming off one of the worst outings of his career last week against the Mets, Penny (5-4) gave up two runs in the first four innings, then got in trouble in the fifth after issuing a leadoff, four-pitch walk to Brewers pitcher Carlos Villanueva (2-4). Penny came back to get two quick outs and had Milwaukee's Mike Cameron down 0-2 before giving up a single that brought up Ryan J. Braun, who was coming off back-to-back two-home run games Sunday and Monday. This time, the 2007 NL Rookie of the Year bashed a two-out, two-run double off the left field wall to give the Brewers the lead. Prince Fielder followed up with a single to score Braun and put Milwaukee ahead 5-3.
Analysis: Penny gave up five runs and nine hits in six innings Tuesday. Penny gave up 10 runs in his most recent start, a 12-1 loss to the Mets last Wednesday. He walked one and struck out six Tuesday while also surrendering a solo home run to Bill Hall. To say Penny has been flat out awful in his last two starts would be an understatement. His ERA is now at 5.09 and we just hope he is not fighting off some sort of injury. Penny still remains a high-end Fantasy SP despite his recent shortcomings. Hopefully, he can right the ship Sunday against the Angels, a team he was 0-1 against with a 14.40 ERA last season.
News:John Maine became the first New York Mets starter this year to reach the eighth inning, taking a shutout into the ninth Wednesday during a 12-1 rout of Brad Penny and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Penny (5-3) allowed 10 runs in 4 2/3 innings, the most off him in 236 career big league starts. He gave up 10 hits for the third time in eight starts this season. Penny fell behind 4-0 in the second when former-Dodger Marlon Anderson hit an RBI single, Raul Casanova followed with a two-run single and Luis Castillo added a two-out RBI single. Carlos Beltran led off the third with a single and scored New York's fifth run on Angel Pagan's groundout. The Mets blew it open with a six-run fifth that equaled a season high for runs in an inning. Penny walked three and struck out two.
Analysis: Penny's ERA jumped from 3.19 to 4.79 after Wednesday's debacle. It also ended a four-game winning streak for the right-hander. Penny had allowed a total of seven earned runs during that span. Chalk up Wednesday's outing as an abberration for Penny. He doesn't have many awful games, and wins more often than not. Penny is still a high-end Fantasy SP as the Dodgers' ace. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against the Brewers. He is on track to be a two-start pitcher Fantasy Week 7 (May 12-18) with his second start coming against the Angels. Both starts are on the road where Penny is 2-1 with a 4.24 ERA in three starts this season.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny allowed a run in each of the first three innings Friday against the Rockies, including a solo home run by Todd Helton, but still managed to pull out his fifth win as Los Angeles scored seven times in the sixth inning during a 11-6 victory. Penny allowed three hits and four walks while striking out one in five innings. Penny continues to dominate the Rockies, improving 14-2 in 23 career starts.
Analysis: Penny has now won four straight starts and hasn't allowed more than three earned runs in any of the wins. He has had some rough moments in 2008, but for the most part, they have been pretty good. Penny remains the ace on one of the top teams in the NL and is a must-start Fantasy SP. His next scheduled outing is for Wednesday against the Mets.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny one of his fastballs hit umpire Kerwin Danley's mask on the first pitch of the fourth inning, which catcher Russell Martin completely missed because of a botched sign. Danley was taken to the hospital, and Penny was shaken up. "I felt horrible when it happened," Penny said. "I hope he's all right. They gave us an update that he was, so I wish him my best." Somehow, Penny held his emotions in check despite the circumstances. He allowed three runs and four hits over seven innings, walking two and striking out two to record his fourth win. "You've still got to go back out there and do your job," Penny said. "It's part of the game, and it happens -- but it probably shouldn't."
Analysis: Penny has strung together three great starts and allowed only four earned runs over his last 18 2/3 innings, lowering his ERA to 2.89. He's looking like the same pitcher who went 16-4 with a 3.03 ERA last year, so get him active as a No. 2 Fantasy SP. He'll make his next start Friday at Colorado.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny improved to 3-2 with an impressive performance at Cincinnati on Monday. He allowed a run and six hits while improving to 5-0 in five career starts at Great American, as the Dodgers won 9-3. He is 7-2 with a 3.00 ERA in 11 career starts against the Reds. "It was nice to get some runs," said Penny, who struck out four and walked two in six innings. "We jumped out and got an early lead. That allowed me to throw more fastballs."
Analysis: Penny had two bad starts against the Padres sandwiched in-between wins against the Giants and the Pirates. But now he has a win against a good-hitting team in the Reds. Penny is still a high-end Fantasy SP capable of helping in all categories. He remains on track to make his second start of Fantasy Week 4 on Saturday against the Rockies.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny didn't need to be spectacular Wednesday against the Pirates as he was staked a 6-0 lead after two innings, but he still was in a 8-1 win. Penny allowed just an unearned run in 5 2/3 innings. He yielded five hits and no walks while striking out four. He snapped a two-game losing streak.
Analysis: Penny had two bad starts against the Padres sandwiched in-between wins against the Giants and now Pirates. It stinks he couldn't beat contenders, but Fantasy owners will take wins when they can get them. Penny still remains a high-end Fantasy SP. His next start will come either Monday or Tuesday against the Reds. He is on track for two starts Fantasy Week 4 (April 21-27) with his second start coming against the Rockies. Penny was 1-0 with a 1.42 ERA in one start against Cincinnati last season, and 2-0 with a 3.49 ERA in five starts against Colorado.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny took his second straight loss to the Padres on Friday -- this one at home -- after giving up four runs over six innings and allowing 10 hits -- all singles. The right-hander surrendered four runs in the fourth inning of the rematch with Jake Peavy, after giving up four in the first inning of their previous matchup. "I don't care. I beat myself tonight," said Penny, who finished with three walks and three strikeouts. "All night, they hit a lot of singles and played base-to-base. It's not easy to win playing base-to-base, but they did. They didn't try to do too much, they just put the ball in play and it worked out for them."
Analysis: Penny has historically performed much better in the first half than the second half, so you can't like him allowing 10 hits in two consecutive April starts. Still, he's an advisable Fantasy option for his next start, which will likely come Wednesday against the Pirates.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny, making his second start of the season Saturday at San Diego, allowed four runs in the first inning on the way to his first loss of the season. He didn't allow any runs the rest of the way, going six innings. He surrendered 10 hits and one walk, striking out three.
Analysis: Penny has historically performed much better in the first half than the second half, so you want him to put his best foot forward in April. He'll likely make his next start Friday against San Diego, and he's still advisable for Fantasy purposes.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny allowed four hits in 6 2/3 scoreless innings in his first opening day start Monday against the Giants. He walked two and struck out three, earning the win. "It's an honor to get that first start," Penny said. "I didn't have command early, I was all over the place. Later, I settled down, started throwing strikes. The walks will kill you."
Analysis: Penny has historically performed much better in the first half than the second half, so his quick start to the 2008 season isn't really a surprise. Keep him active for his second start of Fantasy Week 1, which will likely come Sunday at San Diego.
News: MLB.com reports Dodgers manager Joe Torre said Tuesday that Brad Penny has been chosen as the opening day starter. Penny will oppose the Giants on Monday. "I'll take it just like another game," Penny said. "I won't get too emotional for a start like this. It's not like a World Series or playoff game, but I'm excited about it." Penny has taken the opening day job away from Derek Lowe, who has started the last three opening day games for the Dodgers. Penny made his final spring start Tuesday against the Brewers. He allowed one run and one hit in three innings, but walked five. He also struck out three.
Analysis: Penny is 2-0 this spring with a 0.95 ERA. "I'm mixing it up and getting smarter," Penny said. "I've got command of my pitches better than I did before. Usually my springs are horrible, but maybe that's because I didn't have a splitter and a curveball. I'm moving it in and out, up and down. I'm locating the four-seamer and I've got the split, so if I got behind in the count in the past, hitters knew they were getting a fastball. Now, they're not so sure. I'm just smarter." He has looked every bit the role of an ace and the Dodgers would be foolish not to treat him as one in 2008. Consider Penny one of the unsung aces of Fantasy and one of the top 20 Fantasy starting pitchers to open the season. Penny is lining up to be a two-start pitcher for Fantasy Week 1 (March 25-April 6) with his second start coming against the Padres.
News: Just a few days after bidding an emotional farewell to their longtime spring home, the Los Angeles Dodgers looked comfortable in their new neighborhood. Particularly Rafael Furcal and Brad Penny. Furcal had four hits, including a solo homer, while Penny pitched six strong innings to lead the Dodgers to an 8-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox in their Cactus League debut on Thursday. Penny continued to dominate this spring, after allowing one run in 10 innings through his first three starts. He kept the White Sox off balance and outpitched Mark Buehrle. He allowed three hits and one unearned run while striking out three.
Analysis: Penny is 2-0 this spring with a 0.56 ERA. He has looked every bit the role of an ace and the Dodgers would be foolish not to treat him as one in 2008. Consider him one of the unsung aces of Fantasy and one of the top 20 Fantasy starting pitchers to open the season.
News:Brad Penny pitched five shutout innings Saturday in his latest spring outing against the Nationals. He allowed just one hit, a second-inning double, while walking two and striking out one. "My command was off a little bit," he said. "I'm still not throwing real hard yet, but I'm locating and mixing it up."
Analysis: For the first time in his career, Penny put together back-to-back strong seasons, becoming one of Fantasy's most reliable aces. He set a new career high for innings pitched with 208, tying a career high in wins and also setting new bests in ERA (3.03) and fewest loses (key for Head-to-Head points leagues). He's a top-15 Fantasy starter.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny matched Mets SP Johan Santana for three innings during Wednesday's spring game. Penny allowed three hits, two walks and one run. Penny has now pitched five innings against the Mets this spring and has allowed just one run.
Analysis: Penny continues to wait on the decision from manager Joe Torre on whether or not he will be the opening day starter. He definitely earned it after last season and has done well thus far in the spring. Penny is under contract for $8.5 million this season, and the Dodgers have an option for $8.75 million next season with a $2 million buyout. Penny won't quite be a free-agent-to-be, but he will be pitching motivated. Consider him one of the unsung aces of Fantasy and one of the top 20 who should go off the board on Draft Day.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny threw 38 pitches in two scoreless innings Saturday at the Mets, allowing one hit and a walk while striking out two. "He's not where he's going to be later in the spring, but I thought he threw the ball pretty good," Dodgers manager Joe Torre said. "I thought he turned it up a bit when he had men on base." Penny did not address the media after the outing because he jumped in a limousine and headed to the airport. He was set to meet his father for a flight to Ohio to watch a friend compete in an Ultimate Fighting Championship bout.
Analysis: Dodgers manager Joe Torre liked the idea of starting Penny opening day, but said nothing has been decided. "That could work," he said. "But we haven't declared that yet. We want to get into spring a little bit and make sure they get what they need and they feel good." Penny is under contract for $8.5 million this season, and the Dodgers have an option for $8.75 million next season with a $2 million buyout. Penny won't quite be a free-agent-to-be, but he will be pitching motivated. Consider him one of the unsung aces of Fantasy and one of the top 20 who should go off the board on Draft Day.
News:Derek Lowe endorsed Brad Penny as the Dodgers' opening-day starter Thursday. Lowe has earned that nod every year since being acquired in 2005. "We're 0-3 when I've pitched opening day," Lowe said. "That's not a very good start. They haven't said anything, but if I were a guessing man, I'd say Brad would do it." Penny was 16-4 with a 3.03 ERA in 33 starts last season. He finished third in voting for the Cy Young Award and was the NL starter in the 2006 All-Star game. "He's well deserving," Lowe said. "He's been our best pitcher for two years, made the All-Star team twice, started it once and could've started it a second time. I'd vote for him if I had a vote."
Analysis: Dodgers manager Joe Torre liked the idea of starting Penny opening day, but said nothing has been decided. "That could work," he said. "But we haven't declared that yet. We want to get into spring a little bit and make sure they get what they need and they feel good." Penny is under contract for $8.5 million this season, and the Dodgers have an option for $8.75 million next season with a $2 million buyout. Penny won't quite be a free-agent-to-be, but he will be pitching motivated. Consider him one of the unsung aces of Fantasy and one of the top 20 who should go off the board on Draft Day.
News:Brad Penny is under contract for $8.5 million this season, and the Dodgers have an option for $8.75 million next season with a $2 million buyout. He said he has no desire to leave. "I don't need $100 million. You couldn't spend $100 million in Oklahoma," he said with a smile, referring to where he was raised. "They know me. I'm not a guy who needs to break the bank. My dad grew up a Dodgers fan. He's one of the reasons I want to stay here. It would mean the world to him if we could win a championship."
Analysis: Penny won't quite be a free-agent-to-be, but he will be pitching motivated. Consider him one of the unsung aces of Fantasy and one of the top 20 who should go off the board on Draft Day.
News:Jake Peavy was a unanimous winner of the NL Cy Young Award on Thursday after leading the league in wins, ERA and strikeouts -- pitching's version of a Triple Crown. The Padres ace received all 32 first-place votes and finished with 160 points in balloting by the Baseball Writers' Association of America. Arizona sinkerballer Brandon Webb, last year's winner, was a distant runner-up with 94 points. He was listed second on 31 ballots and third on one. Brad Penny of the Dodgers finished third, Cincinnati's Aaron Harang was fourth and Chicago's Carlos Zambrano came in fifth.
Analysis: For the first time in his career, Penny put together back-to-back strong seasons, becoming one of Fantasy's most reliable aces. He set a new career high for innings pitched with 208, tying a career high in wins and also setting new bests in ERA (3.03) and fewest loses (key for Head-to-Head points leagues). The difference in Penny last year might be attributed to the fact he didn't slow down as much in the second half -- although he did somewhat. After entering the break at 10-1 with a 2.39 ERA and .244 batting-average against, the notorious slow finisher posted (6-3)-3.84-.281 marks in the second half. Expect another fast start for the hard-throwing right-hander and consider dealing him for a big-time bat in early July. It will have to be a good one to get on of Fantasy's top 15 starters.
News: Manager Grady Little said Dodgers ace Brad Penny (16-4) won't pitch again this season. Instead, the manager said, either LHP Mark Hendrickson, LHP Eric Stults or RHP B.J. Houlton will start Sunday's season-finale against San Francisco.
Analysis: Penny set a new career high for innings pitched with 208. The eight-year veteran had 205 with the Florida Marlins in 2001. Consider him among the aces of Fantasy and a top 15 option for Draft Day 2008.
News: Mark Hendrickson (4-8) relieved Brad Penny after five innings Tuesday, taking the loss.
Analysis: Penny set a new career high for innings pitched with 208. The eight-year veteran had 205 with the Florida Marlins in 2001. Consider him among the aces of Fantasy and a top 15 option for Draft Day 2008.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny was in line for his 17th win of the season Wednesday against the Rockies before the bullpen blew the game in the eighth inning. Penny went six innings, giving up four runs -- three earned -- and nine hits. He also allowed a season-high three homers after giving up only six all season before Wednesday night. He walked one and struck out two.
Analysis: Penny has not allowed more than three earned runs in his last four starts and should be 3-0 in that span after Wednesday's outing. But as luck has it, the bullpen blew the late lead. That doesn't take away from Penny's Fantasy value. He still remains a must-start option. He will face the Rockies in a rematch Tuesday, this time in L.A. He is also on track to be a two-start pitcher during Fantasy Week 26 (Sept. 24-30).
News: Brad Penny matched a career high with his 16th win, thanks to Nomar Garciaparra and timely rallies. The Dodgers fell behind Arizona three times and came back each time to take a 7-4 victory over the Diamondbacks on Friday night. "That was great," said Penny (16-4). "They supported me and they bailed me out." Penny, who also won 16 last year, certainly wasn't at his best this time out. He allowed four runs, three earned, in five innings, but Garciaparra hit a solo homer to highlight a four-run fifth inning.
Analysis: Despite a somewhat rocky outing, Penny has been one of the elite pitchers in the National League and remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats down the stretch. He'll look to bounce back in his next outing.
News: A bruised hand forced SP Derek Lowe out of Wednesday night's start against the San Diego Padres, and will keep him on the sidelines until this weekend at the earliest. Right-hander Chad Billingsley replaced Lowe, and left-hander David Wells will be moved up to pitch Thursday night in the finale of a crucial three-game series. Manager Grady Little said he hoped Lowe would be ready to go Saturday in the second game of a three-game series against the NL West-leading Arizona Diamondbacks, with Brad Penny moving up from Saturday to Friday night to pitch the opener.
Analysis: Penny has been a must-start pitcher in all Fantasy leagues on a regular basis this season. Billingsley has made a lot of solid starts as well and can be starting regularly in all Fantasy formats. Wells is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy option at this point in his career.
News: Brad Penny was trying to match his career-best victory total of 16 accomplished last season. He allowed two earned runs on eight hits and a walk in seven innings at San Francisco Sunday.
Analysis: Penny has been a must-start pitcher in all Fantasy leagues on a regular basis this season. He has been a little more hittable in the second half, but the contending Dodgers will run their ace out there every fifth day down the stretch. That's more than you can say for a lot of other pitchers this time of year. Keep him active in all formats.
News: Brad Penny earned his 15th victory with seven steady innings Tuesday. "I wasn't great tonight, really. I was a little erratic, you know," Penny said. "I wasn't locating like I know I can. I just competed and had some huge double plays for me and everything worked out." Rebounding from a rough outing in his previous start against the Nationals when he gave up eight hits and six runs in five innings (a no-decision), Penny (15-4) got his first win since Aug. 15. He allowed seven hits and two runs -- one earned -- in seven innings. "When innings haven't gone exactly right, he's done a good job minimizing the damage. That's been the key for him all year," Dodgers manager Grady Little said.
Analysis: Penny has been a must-start pitcher in all Fantasy leagues on a regular basis this season. He had been a little more hittable in the second half, but the contending Dodgers will run their ace out there every fifth day down the stretch. That's more than you can say for a lot of other pitchers this time of year.
News: Brad Penny allowed six earned runs and eight hits in just five innings of work on Wednesday afternoon against the Nationals. He also walked two batters and struck out just one, laboring in an 83-pitch effort against the last place Nats. He did not figure into the decision, as his offense rebounded and tied the game late to get him off the hook.
Analysis: After allowing less than three earned runs in 14 of his first 17 starts, Penny has allowed three or more earned runs in eight of his past 11 starts since July 1. Penny will look to bounce back in his next scheduled start on Sept. 3 against probable Carlos Zambrano and the Chicago Cubs in Wrigley Field. He will also be a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 23 (Sept. 3-9). Despite the rough start against the lowly Nationals, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Oliver Perez outpitched Los Angeles Dodgers ace Brad Penny, and the New York Mets got a dazzling all-around performance from David Wright in a 5-2 victory Friday night. Penny (14-4) lasted six innings against a familiar nemesis. The big right-hander fell to 5-11 against the Mets in his career, and 1-9 in 11 starts at Shea Stadium. He allowed six hits and three runs. He walked three and struck out two.
Analysis: Penny has not allowed more than three earned runs in his last nine starts. He does have three of his four losses since July 31, but that has more to do with the Dodgers offensive struggles than Penny. Continue to start him in all Fantasy leagues. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday against the Nationals.
News: Dodgers starter Brad Penny, going on three days' rest between starts for the first time in his eight-year career, threw 111 pitches over five innings in Sunday's game against the Rockies. The Rockies made life difficult on Penny, who threw 111 pitches. Cory Sullivan had a 17-pitch at-bat in the third inning, fouling off 12 in a row before flying out to left field. His next time up, Penny got him to fly out to left on the first pitch. "My stuff was pretty good (Sunday) and my curveball was better," Penny said. "Usually, that's when they foul stuff off -- when I'm making a good pitch that they can't put in play."
Analysis: Penny will look to get back on the winning track in his next start at N.Y. Mets on Friday against probable starter Oliver Perez. He remains a must-start in all leagues heading into Fantasy Week 21 (Aug. 20-26) despite Sunday's shaky effort.
News: RHP Brad Penny is being moved up a day in the Dodgers' rotation and will start on three days rest in Sunday's series finale instead of Brett Tomko. Penny is 12-2 with a 2.69 ERA in career 18 starts against Colorado.
Analysis: Penny is 4-2 with a 3.18 ERA in the second half. He has posted seven consecutive quality starts since the break. Consider him a must-start in all Fantasy leagues through thick and thin. Unfortunately, you lose his two-start Fantasy Week 21 (Aug. 20-26) but you get a serendipitous second start this week.
News: Brad Penny (14-3) allowed three runs and 10 hits in six innings Wednesday, striking out six and walking one. The victory was the first by a Dodgers starting pitcher in 17 games since Penny went six innings to beat Colorado 5-4 at Coors Field and improve to 13-1. No Dodgers starter other than Penny has gotten a W at home since July 8, when Mark Hendrickson beat Florida 9-3 in the final game before the All-Star break.
Analysis: Penny is 4-2 with a 3.18 ERA in the second half. He has posted seven consecutive quality starts since the break. Consider him a must-start in all Fantasy leagues through thick and thin.
News: Brad Penny worked seven innings of five-hit ball for the Dodgers during Friday's game against the Cardinals. Penny struck out six and walked three in an outing that lowered his ERA to 2.54. The Cardinals were 0-for-5 with runners in scoring position against Penny, with Jim Edmonds and Albert Pujols grounding into double plays with two on to end the first and fifth. Adam Wainwright matched him for seven scoreless innings and Penny did not factor into Friday's decision.
Analysis: Penny is 0-2 in his last three starts despite allowing a total of six earned runs. He is just facing some tough pitching matchups. No need to worry. You can't be upset with Penny's 2.54 ERA. He still remains a solid Fantasy option. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday against the Astros.
News: Brandon Webb outpitched two-time All-Star Brad Penny in one of the best marquee matchups of the season, throwing his fifth career shutout on Sunday and leading the NL West-leading Diamondbacks to a 3-0 victory that polished off a three-game sweep of the Dodgers. "Anytime you go against that guy, he's a tough pitcher," Penny said. "He didn't win the Cy Young last year for no reason. He's got a great sinker and he's tough to score off of."
Analysis: Penny three earned runs and six innings over seven innings, taking the loss despite another quality start. He'll look to get back into the win column in Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 6-12) when he is scheduled to make his next start on Friday in St. Louis opposite probable pitcher Adam Wainwright.
News: Brad Penny (13-2) lost Tuesday for the first time in 13 starts since a defeat against the Angels in Anaheim on May 18. He had won eight consecutive decisions to tie his career high and had victories in his past three starts.
Analysis: Penny was a must-start two-start pitcher, despite his abdominal problems. Keep him active in all leagues through thick and thin for as long as he stays healthy. He had a bad second half last year, but he has shown no signs of slowing down this year.
News:The Sports Xchange notes: RHP Brad Penny convinced himself and manager Grady Little that the lower-abdominal strain that took him out of Thursday's game should not be a factor in determining when he should pitch again. The Dodgers immediately slotted him into Tuesday's start against the Giants. "He's got concerns, as we all do, when anyone is not 100 percent physically fit," manager Grady Little said. "It doesn't seem to bother him a lot when he's pitching but anytime he's got to do any running is when he said he feels it the most. His pitching delivery and his command are as good as ever."
Analysis: Penny left Thursday's game in Colorado after reaching base on an infield single. That in itself turned out to be a clue on how best to approach his future starts. Penny is still an injury-risk option for Fantasy Week 18 (July 30-Aug. 5). When healthy, the NL Cy Young candidate is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny (abdominal cramp) will throw a bullpen session Sunday. "It will be short," manager Grady Little said. "We want to test the abdomen."
Analysis: The Dodgers' pitchers seem to be dropping like flies at this time. Consider Penny an injury-risk option for Fantasy Week 18 (July 30-Aug. 5) since his status is still unknown. When healthy, the NL Cy Young candidate is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: RHP Brad Penny, injured Thursday while beating out an infield single, had a cramp and still felt sore.
Analysis: The Dodgers certainly don't need another injured starter, as Derek Lowe hurt his groin the day before against Houston. Reserve Penny in all Fantasy leagues until his status becomes more certain.
News: Brad Penny (13-1) was taken out of the game Thursday night at Colorado after hurting himself beating out an infield single in the seventh inning. Penny hunched over after he reached first base. The trainers came out to examine him and he was led off the field. The Dodgers said it was an abdominal cramp. Penny went six innings, giving up three runs on five hits to pick up his league-leading 13th win, pulling into a tie with Boston's Josh Beckett, Cleveland's Fausto Carmona and C.C. Sabathia and Chicago Cubs' Carlos Zambrano. He also struck out three and walked three.
Analysis: Penny will be re-evaluated on Friday. The Dodgers certainly don't need another injured starter, as Derek Lowe hurt his groin the day before against Houston. He had an MRI exam on Thursday afternoon, but the results weren't known at game time. Reserve Penny in all Fantasy leagues until his status becomes more certain.
News: Brad Penny became the first starting pitcher to open a season 12-1 for the Dodgers since the franchise moved to Los Angeles in 1958, and Matt Kemp's three-run homer keyed a comeback from a four-run deficit in an 8-6 victory over the New York Mets on Saturday. Penny, whose only loss was a 9-1 drubbing by the Angels down the freeway in Anaheim on May 18, allowed four runs -- three earned -- and six hits in 6 1/3 innings while winning his seventh straight decision. It was only the third time in his last 11 starts that the two-time All-Star allowed more than one run. Penny started the Dodgers' comeback with a double in the third inning and scored their first run on a two-out single by Juan Pierre that extended his hitting streak to 14 games, two shy of his career best.
Analysis: Penny is batting .263 with a 2.42 ERA. The last Dodgers pitcher to have a higher batting average than ERA at the end of a season was Fernando Valenzuela, who hit .250 with a 2.48 ERA as a rookie during the strike-interrupted 1981 campaign. Penny is the first Dodgers starter to win seven consecutive decisions since Kevin Brown won nine straight from April 29 to June 17, 2003. Penny is making a strong case for the NL Cy Young award and Fantasy owners should continue to cash in. His next scheduled start is for Thursday against the Rockies.
News: Penny (11-1) became the first Dodger to begin a season 11-1 since Doug Rau in 1977. The right-hander, coming off his second straight appearance in the All-Star Game, allowed a run and four hits over seven innings on Monday against Philadelphia. He worked against an offense that came in leading the National League in runs, on-base percentage and extra-base hits.
Analysis: Penny won his sixth straight decision over a span of 10 starts and lowered his ERA to 2.33 while striking out eight and walking three. He also tied Philadelphia's Cole Hamels and Carlos Zambrano of the Cubs for the NL lead in wins. He'll get a second start in Fantasy Week 16 (July 16-22) when he faces probable starter Jorge Sosa and the Mets on Saturday.
News: Los Angeles changed its pitching rotation for the weekend, swapping right-hander Derek Lowe on Saturday for All-Star Brad Penny, who is nursing a blister and is set to start Monday instead.
Analysis: Penny got beat up in his last start on July 5, but before that, he has allowed just one earned run in five consecutive starts. Penny has clearly been one of the league's best pitchers. And that makes him a must-start Fantasy option when he's healthy. He should see two starts in Week 16 (July 16-22), with the second game going against the Mets on Saturday.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny entered Thursday's start against the Braves with a 2.00 ERA. By the time he was done after four innings it rose to 2.39. Luckily for Penny his teammates bailed him out with run support and got him off the hook for the loss. Penny, making his last start before the All-Star break, allowed nine hits, four walks and six runs. He struck out five.
Analysis: Penny ended an impressive streak Thursday. He came into the game having allowed just one earned run in each of his previous five starts. Despite Thursday's poor start, Penny has clearly been one of the league's best pitchers. And that makes him a must-start Fantasy option. The Dodgers return from the All-Star break with a three-game series against the Giants. If Penny doesn't pitch all that much in the All-Star game, he might make a start during Fantasy Week 15 (July 9-15).
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny lowered his ERA to 2.00 during Saturday's start against the Padres despite not factoring into the decision. Penny pitched five-hit ball for seven innings, allowing two walks and one earned run. It was the fifth straight start that Penny allowed just one earned run. He has three wins and two no-decisions in that span. Penny, who struck out seven Saturday, has gone at least seven innings in each of those starts as well.
Analysis: Penny is making a strong push for the NL Cy Young award. He stands at 10-1 on the season and the only other NL pitcher comparable to Penny was his counterpart Saturday -- the Padres' Jake Peavy, who is 9-2 with a 2.09 ERA. It should be a great race to the finish. Penny remains a must-start Fantasy option. His next scheduled start is for Thursday against the Braves.
News: Dodgers manager Grady Little gave ace Brad Penny an extra day off so he could face NL West leader Arizona in the opener of a four-game series. Penny made his manager look smart. Extending his dominance of the Diamondbacks, Penny earned his 10th victory to help Los Angeles beat Arizona 8-1 on Monday night. "I wasn't feeling too good about it yesterday," said Little, referring to Sunday's 9-4 loss at Tampa Bay. "But it turned out good today. He was outstanding." Penny (10-1) has been outstanding against the Diamondbacks and the rest of the NL. He allowed one run and four hits in eight innings, lowering his NL-leading ERA to 2.04. His only loss this season came against the Los Angeles Angels on May 18.
Analysis: Penny said he was "absolutely" motivated to beat the Diamondbacks. "Any time you get traded from a team, you want to show them that they traded the wrong guy," Penny said. Penny said he approached pitching coach Rick Honeycutt last week about taking an extra day off so he could face the Diamondbacks. "Any time you can pitch against your division, it counts as two games instead of one sometimes," Penny said. The extra rest made a difference. Penny said he felt strong all night, and he turned in his longest outing. Penny has developed in a must-start Fantasy ace in all leagues. We will continue to warn, though, he was great in the first half last year only to tail off.
News: RHP Brad Penny (9-1), who was pushed back one day, will face RHP Micah Owings (5-1) in Monday's opener of a four-game series at Arizona.
Analysis: Penny is 6-2 with a 1.88 ERA in 13 career starts against the Diamondbacks. He should make two starts during Fantasy Week 13 (June 25-July 1), including a start at home against San Diego on Saturday. Penny is 9-1 with a 2.12 ERA in 2007. He remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny will get an extra day of rest before his next start and will pitch Monday at Arizona as the Dodgers open a three-game set against their division rivals. "It's good to get him six days right now," manager Grady Little said. Hong-Chih Kuo, who worked just 1 2/3 innings against Toronto on Wednesday, will start in Penny's place at Tampa Bay on Sunday.
Analysis: Penny is not injured. There is nothing for Fantasy owners to worry about here. The team just wants to reward him with an extra day of rest. He is no longer a two-start pitcher during Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24), but should now make two starts during Fantasy Week 13 (June 25-July 1). Penny is 9-1 with a 2.12 ERA in 2007. He remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Brad Penny (9-1) allowed one run on six hits over seven innings to win his fourth straight decision on Tuesday at Toronto. He walked one, struck out five and lowered his ERA to 2.12, second best in the National League. "I got away with a lot of mistakes, to be honest with you," Penny said. "That was probably my worst location this year. I got away with a lot of stuff (Tuesday)."
Analysis: Penny, who has not lost in six starts, joined Philadelphia's Cole Hamels as the only nine-game winners in the National League. His last defeat came May 18 at the Los Angeles Angels. Penny will make a second start in Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24) against the Devil Rays and former Dodgers pitcher Edwin Jackson (0-8).
News: Brad Penny pitched seven sharp innings and the Los Angeles Dodgers broke open a tight game with consecutive three-run innings against Jorge Sosa, beating the slumping New York Mets 9-1 on Wednesday night. It was his first win since May 29. Penny (8-1) gave up seven hits, struck out seven and walked none for the second consecutive start. The right-hander lowered his ERA to 2.18, second-best in the NL behind Jake Peavy's 1.82 mark for San Diego.
Analysis: Penny finally got some run support again on Wednesday and was able to lock up win No. 8. He is having a Cy Young-type year and has re-emerged as a solid Fantasy option in all formats. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against the Blue Jays. He is also on track to be a two-start pitcher during Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24).
News: Manager Grady Little said he wants to split left-handers Randy Wolf and Hong-Chih Kuo, who are currently pitching back-to-back in the rotation. That will mean RHP Brad Penny will take Kuo's normal turn next Tuesday night in Toronto.
Analysis: Wolf gets a second start this week and will be a one-start pitcher for Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24). Penny is a must-start in all leagues anyway, but he gets a two-start week next week now. Kuo loses his two-start week and could be skipped entirely in Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24).
News: Dodgers starter Brad Penny gave up one run in 7 2/3 innings against Toronto Friday. He allowed five hits, struck out seven and walked none.
Analysis: Penny's ERA is at a stellar 2.26 and he remains a must-start pitcher in all formats. He will go against the Mets on Wednesday, a tough match.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny and Pirates SP Tom Gorzelanny entered Sunday's game with the NL's second- and third-best ERAs respectively, but neither figured in the decision. Penny, who yielded nine hits and four runs in six innings, allowed more than three runs for only the second time in 12 starts. Penny also saw an impressive streak come to an end. Before Adam LaRoche homered in the second inning, Penny hadn't permitted a homer in 71 innings. Penny, who allowed two homers in the game, hadn't allowed a homer since Matt Holliday's drive for Colorado on Sept. 28.
Analysis: Penny failied to match the Phillies' Cole Hamels for the NL lead in wins with eight. The homers did not help his cause and he was outpitched by Gorzelanny, who didn't record a win when the bullpen blew the game. Penny will look to get back in the win column on Friday against the Blue Jays. Make sure to keep him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Brad Penny shrugged off a dominating effort as if it were nothing special. He scattered four singles over 6 1/3 innings. "I just threw strikes with all three of my pitches," he said. "I guessed right (at the plate). ... I pitched great last year in the first half, too. I'm not doing a whole lot different." Penny (7-1) struck out four and walked one, combining with two relievers on the Dodgers' third shutout. He has yet to surrender a home run in 70 innings, making him the only pitcher in the majors who has pitched at least 40 innings without allowing one. "Too much for us today -- dominant," Nationals manager Manny Acta said of Penny. "Command of every one of his pitches and they are above average pitches, every one of them. ... We had no chance."
Analysis: Dodgers manager Grady Little said Penny flourished because he's no longer concerned with overpowering opponents. "He's worried about getting people out," Little said. "He's proud when he gets them out on one or two pitches. That's all a part of maturation." Consider the burgeoning Fantasy star a must-start in all leagues right now. You have yourself a serious breakout candidate if he can sustain this over the second half.
News: Brad Penny (6-1) rebounded nicely against Milwaukee Wednesday from his worst outing of the season, scattering six hits in five scoreless innings after giving up eight runs over five innings in a 9-1 loss against the Angels last Friday at Anaheim.
Analysis: The right-hander struck out four, walked two and lowered his ERA to 2.26. He's among the league leaders in wins and ERA and he deserves to be starting in all Fantasy formats.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny suffered his first loss of the 2007 season Friday against the Angels and made it count. Penny went five innings, allowing eight hits, two walks and eight earned runs. He did have two strikeouts. Penny allowed the same amount of earned runs through his first eight starts that he did on Friday.
Analysis: Penny was on cruise control heading into Friday's start. Hopefully one start won't derail his progress. He remains a great Fantasy option. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday against the Brewers.
News: The Dodgers, who have won five of their last six games, will send baseball's ERA leader Brad Penny (5-0, 1.39 ERA) to the mound at the Angels in the interleague series opener Friday. Penny is off to the best start of his career after he limited Cincinnati to one run and four hits over 6 1-3 innings in a 7-3 victory on Saturday. "Everything's working out for me right now, but it's a humbling game and it can change in five days, so you've just got to do the best you can to keep the team in the game," said Penny, who retired 17 straight batters at one point.
Analysis: The right-hander is 1-2 with a 3.16 ERA in four career starts against the Angels. Penny has had his share of trouble against Angels right fielder Vladimir Guerrero, who's hitting .389 (14-for-36) against him with one homer, not including Guerrero's solo homer against him in last year's All-Star game. Continue to start him in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Brad Penny looks just as he did last season. He's even getting similar results that earned him a spot as the National League's starting pitcher in the 2006 All-Star Game. But he isn't the same. He's not trying to throw every pitch as hard as he can. He can still overpower opposing hitters but now he picks his spots -- and his situations. When Penny mowed down 14 batters at Florida last week, it was one of the only times he relied on his fastball in a game this season. "My fastball was the best it's been all year so it was nice," Penny recalled. "I had command of it. It was moving in and out. I don't think I threw 10 off-speed pitches."
Analysis: Penny confessed that the location of that game -- Dolphin Stadium -- had something to do with his approach that day. Penny used to pitch for the Marlins. He knows the mound at Dolphin Stadium, so it was not surprising that he reverted to his old ways that day. Since Penny won't be pitching in the Miami area again this season, he has since gone back to being the new Brad Penny. The one who throws off-speed pitches and curveballs and changes things. The results are there. Penny is 5-0 this season and leads the majors with a 1.39 ERA through eight games. Penny struggled down the stretch last year, so now that he has a complete arsenal at his disposal, it will be interesting how the new Penny finishes this chapter. Continue to start him in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Brad Penny allowed four hits over 6 1/3 innings to remain unbeaten, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 7-3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Saturday night. He had four strikeouts and a walk in the outing.
Analysis: Penny's major league-leading ERA remained at 1.39. Penny, the starting pitcher for the NL in last year's All-Star Game, has given up just one run in 19 1/3 innings over his last three starts. Obviously, he should be starting in all leagues.
News: When Brad Penny threw his 110th and final pitch for one last strikeout, he pumped his fist, retrieved the ball from his catcher and stuck it in his hip pocket as he walked off the field. Penny wanted a souvenir after striking out a career-high 14 Monday. He allowed only five baserunners in seven shutout innings to help the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 6-1 victory over his former team, the Florida Marlins. "I love pitching here," Penny said. "The mound is huge, and it's perfect for a guy like me who likes to throw hard. My fastball was the best it has been all year."
Analysis: Penny (4-0) walked none and gave up five hits, including two infield singles, and lowered his ERA to 1.39. Following no-decisions in his past three games, he became the first Dodgers starter to begin a season 4-0 since Kazuhisa Ishii in 2002. Penny's strikeout total was the highest by a Dodgers pitcher since Chan Ho Park had 14 at Milwaukee on Aug. 29, 2000. He'll get a second start in Fantasy Week 6 (May 7-13) over the weekend against Cincinnati. It might be a big week for his Fantasy owners.
News: Penny outpitched Livan Hernandez with six innings of three-hit ball in their first head-to-head matchup on Tuesday against Arizona and lowered his ERA to 1.64. Neither pitcher figured into the decision, however. "I knew that when you pitch against him, you've got to be at the top of your game -- and you still might not win," Penny said. "He always pitches deep into the game and he's not scared to throw 130-something pitches. He's smart and he never gives in -- even with me up there. Bases loaded, 1-0 count, he throws me a slider. He's probably the only guy who would do that."
Analysis: Penny struck out four and did not allow a hit after Byrnes singled with two outs in the third. All four of the right-hander's walks came with two outs. Penny and Hernandez each won a World Series ring with the Florida Marlins -- Penny in 2003 and Hernandez in 1997 when he was Series MVP.
News: Brad Penny allowed three earned runs, seven hits and a walk in six innings on Thursday against the Giants. He also struck out two batters, but did not figure into the decision in the quality start.
Analysis: Penny has a 3-0 record with a 1.95 ERA on the season in five starts. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite his second straight no-decision. He'll be a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 5 (April 30-May 6), working against Livan Hernandez and Arizona on Tuesday and at Atlanta next weekend.
News: Dodgers starter Brad Penny allowed three runs -- two earned -- over six innings of work Saturday night vs. Pittsburgh. He scattered six hits and four walks while striking out three and did not factor in the final decision in an extra-inning loss.
Analysis: Penny remains 3-0 on the season and has a 1.37 ERA throughhis first four starts. One alarming statistic, though, is that he's walked 12 hitters while striking out only nine. So far, that hasn't cost him. Consider him a great start in leagues of 10-plus teams.
News: An All-Star a year ago, Brad Penny may be pitching even better this season. The Los Angeles Dodgers' right-hander was masterful in a 5-1 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday night, allowing one run and five hits in seven innings. Penny, who improved to 3-0, didn't earn his third victory last year until May 12. "I think what you're seeing this year from Brad Penny is that he's not out there grunting on every pitch, trying to throw 110 (mph)," manager Grady Little said. "What he's doing right now, he's pitching, he's not throwing. And he's getting good results."
Analysis: Penny said he's been more efficient than he was a year ago. On Monday night, he threw 101 pitches. "Last year, I was at 100 pitches in the fifth inning," Penny said. Penny is usually good against the Diamondbacks. He's 6-2 with a 2.03 ERA in 12 starts against Arizona. Penny remains a candidate for 15 wins with the potentially contending Dodgers. He throws hard and will get his fair share of strikeouts, too, assuming he can make it over 200 innings. He has been plagued by injuries in the past, but when he is on, he is nearly unhittable.
News: Brad Penny continued his dominance over the Colorado Rockies because he was able to maintain his concentration -- something that couldn't be said about his mound opponent. Penny allowed two hits over 6 1/3 innings, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 3-0 victory on Wednesday night. The burly right-hander, energized by a game-time temperature of 63 degrees, a slight breeze and an airtight defense, struck out three, walked four and retired 11 consecutive batters before hitting Chris Iannetta with his 108th and final pitch. "I think the pitcher's at an advantage when it's colder," said Penny, who walked three consecutive batters in the first inning. "The hitter's getting one at-bat every nine hitters, so they're a little more stiff than I was because I'm out there moving around."
Analysis: Penny (2-0) beat the Rockies for the sixth straight time after going 5-0 with a 2.67 ERA against them last season. He is 11-2 with a 2.59 ERA in 17 career starts against Colorado, and 4-0 with a 2.19 ERA in four starts at Dodger Stadium. Penny remains a candidate for 15 wins with the potentially contending Dodgers. He throws hard and will get his fair share of strikeouts, too, assuming he can make it over 200 innings. He has been plagued by injuries in the past, but when he is on, he is nearly unhittable.
News: Brad Penny pitched shutout ball into the eighth inning for his first win of the season Friday against the Giants. He allowed 10 hits and a run, struck out one and walked one in seven-plus innings. "That's as good as I've ever seen Penny mix in his off-speed stuff," Dodgers manager Grady Little said. "He worked on it in spring training, and he utilized it to the best of his ability. We couldn't have asked for anything more. He came through tonight, but there was some outstanding defensive work tonight."
Analysis: Penny remains a candidate for 15 wins with the potentially contending Dodgers. He throws hard and will get his fair share of strikeouts, too, assuming he can make it over 200 innings. He has been plagued by injuries in the past, but when he is on, he is nearly unhittable.
News: Brad Penny was thrilled with his outing, no matter how many hitters he walked. All he cared about was feeling healthy. Penny tossed four pain-free innings Monday night, allowing three runs and walking five in the Los Angeles Dodgers ' 6-5 loss to the New York Mets. The right-hander missed his last scheduled start with a stiff shoulder and hadn't pitched in a game for 10 days. "Unbelievable. That is the best I've felt," Penny said. "I can't remember ever feeling better, and that's the honest-to-God truth. I mean, minus the walks, I threw a lot of good pitches that were called balls and I was around the plate. I am not going to have better stuff than that." Penny struck out three and allowed four hits. "It's a relief. After throwing and feeling (pain) and going out there and not feeling one thing, that's huge for me right now, especially going into the season," he said.
Analysis: Penny said the discomfort wouldn't have caused him to miss a regular-season start, but he wanted to make sure his shoulder was fine in spring training. "That's 100 percent right there," Penny said. "Today I went out there and told myself I wasn't going to let it go, and apparently I was throwing pretty hard. I was probably throwing about as hard as I've thrown, but I felt like I was at 80 percent. I felt pretty effortless." Penny remains a candidate for 15 wins with the potentially contending Dodgers. He throws hard and will get his fair share of strikeouts, too, assuming he can make it over 200 innings. He has been plagued by injuries in the past, but when he is on, he is nearly unhittable. Take a chance on the injury-risk starter.
News: Dodgers SP Brad Penny was 10-2 before the All-Star break in 2006 and 6-7 afterward. A 12.86 ERA and stiff shoulder after three spring appearances might make some wonder if his best days are behind him?
Analysis: Penny remains a candidate for 15 wins with the potentially contending Dodgers. He throws hard and will get his fair share of strikeouts, too, assuming he can make it over 200 innings. He has been plagued by injuries in the past, but when he is on, he is nearly unhittable. Take a chance on the injury-risk starter.
News: Brad Penny was scratched from Wednesday's lineup against the Mets because of irritation in his right shoulder. Los Angeles manager Grady Little said the 28-year-old Penny had undergone an MRI on Monday after throwing a bullpen session. The scan revealed irritation in the front part of Penny's right shoulder. Little said the team would be careful with the pitcher, who is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Friday. "We're just giving him a couple more days. He's got two more starts left in spring training. We're probably being overly cautious because we're afforded the time," Little said.
Analysis: Penny will remain on schedule and work as if he pitched in the game. "It's been off and on. If this were a regular-season game, I would've pitched, but I don't want it to progress and get any worse," said Penny, who is scheduled to pitch against the Mets next Monday and against the Angels in Anaheim a week from Saturday. He's 0-1 with a 12.86 ERA this spring. Penny remains a candidate for 15 wins with the potentially contending Dodgers. He throws hard and will get his fair share of strikeouts, too, assuming he can make it over 200 innings.
News: Brad Penny struggled through three innings Sunday. He gave up four runs, nine hits and two walks without striking out a batter. "Results I don't care about right now, I just want to make sure I am healthy and getting work on some of my pitches," he said.
Analysis: Penny remains a candidate for 15 wins with the potentially contending Dodgers. He throws hard and will get his fair share of strikeouts, too, assuming he can make it over 200 innings.
News: Los Angeles Dodgers starter Brad Penny gave up four runs, four singles and a walk in the first inning. Penny threw 59 pitches in the two innings. "He was out there working on some things today, and he accomplished what he was working on. But the results weren't really that good," Dodgers manager Grady Little said.
Analysis: Penny is a solid sleeper in Fantasy leagues this season. He has 100 MPH stuff when healthy, which might even make him a candidate to be a closer if the Dodgers so choose down the road. As a starter, he's a potential 15-game winner for that contender in Los Angeles.
News: Dodgers starter Brad Penny walked three in two shutout innings Saturday vs. the Mets but allowed only one hit.
Analysis: Penny is a lock for the Dodgers' rotation, but there is still a chance that he could be used in a closers role at some point if needed. Consider him a solid NL-only pitcher and someone to target in the middle rounds in mixed formats as well on Draft Day.
News: Although Grady Little was quick to select his opening day starter, Derek Lowe, he said he's still working on filling out the rest of the rotation, looking at who matches up best against particular opponents. Brad Penny and newcomers Jason Schmidt and Randy Wolf are locks to be in the rotation. The fifth spot is still up for grabs, with Chad Billingsley, Brett Tomko, Mark Hendrickson and Hong-Chih Kuo among the candidates. "Whoever we throw out there, every day we feel like we have a good chance to win," Little said, adding he plans to use only four starters during the season's first two weeks.
Analysis: Billingsley has to be considered the favorite at this point and is a sophomore sleeper for mixed leagues on Draft Day. Hendrickson likely needs a trade, injury or a radical move of Brad Penny to relief (unlikely). Tomko and Kuo look like middle relievers, while Schmidt, Penny and Wolf will all be solid options in any Fantasy league and likely will be usable in the season's first two weeks as members of the four-man rotation to start the season. Schmidt obviously has the potential to dominate, especially in that home pitcher's park.
News: The Dodgers appear to have one of baseball's better rotations, led by Jason Schmidt, 16-game winners Derek Lowe and Brad Penny and newcomer Randy Wolf. Chad Billingsley is the leading candidate to be the fifth starter. "(Schmidt) is a guy we are going to be glad is pitching for us, rather than us having to face him five or six times on the other side of the field," Little said. "We know he is going to be a big asset to our ballclub. As far as being our ace, we will let you know in September who our ace is, but right now we will talk about the starters the same way we talk about them every day. Each one will be a starter."
Analysis: Schmidt is a solid front-line Fantasy starter, while Lowe, Penny and Wolf can be mid-round sleepers. Billingsley has more talent than all of them, but he's raw and frankly a little wild at this point, so consider him a sophomore sleeper worthy of a mid-to-late pick.
News: Takashi Saito (calf) told MLB.com he will be fine for spring training. He is expected to be the Dodgers' closer with Jonathan Broxton his setup man and potential successor. If the Dodgers need another option there is talk Derek Lowe or Brad Penny could be used in the closer's spot.
Analysis: Saito is a top 15-20 closer on Draft Day in all leagues. He's 37, though, and has never gone through a full big league season as a closer. Consider taking the flier on Broxton as insurance in deeper leagues. Lowe has little chance of moving to relief, but Penny was throwing 100 MPH peas in the All-Star Game last year, leading scouts to believe he could become a dominant closer. That should increase Penny's Fantasy intrigue a touch in the middle rounds on Draft Day.
News: Dodgers starter Brad Penny left Thursday's game after one inning when he was unable to loosen up his stiff lower back. The Dodgers said he's day to day. Penny (16-9), who has struggled since the All-Star break, allowed four hits, including a three-run home run to Matt Holliday, as the Rockies batted around in the first inning. He walked two and struck out three.
Analysis: It looks as though Penny's Fantasy 2006 season has come to an end. The Dodgers mentioned he could be available if they go to a one-game playoff, but it is unlikely he will make another start before then. He didn't have a great second half, but he put together one of his better seasons and for the most part was healthy. That has been the issue with Penny throughout his career. We all knew that the talent was there, but he never stayed healthy long enough to be consistent. His injury concerns will stick with him as we move forward, but he should be a decent mid-round pick in 2007.
News: Brad Penny allowed four earned runs on seven hits in five innings against San Diego Monday. He walked three and struck out six batters.
Analysis: Penny made four starts against the Padres this season, going 0-2 with two no-decisions and allowing 19 earned runs in 20 innings. Penny is 3-1 in his past five starts, but he has not received a decision in his past two. Keep him active in all Fantasy leagues down the stretch.
News: Brad Penny became the first 16-game winner in the National League to help the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Chicago Cubs 6-0 on Wednesday night. Penny (16-8) cruised for the easy victory. He pitched seven scoreless inning, scattering seven hits. He struck out six without allowing a walk.
Analysis: He rebounded from a 7-0 loss to the Mets on Thursday. In that start, Penny gave up a season-high seven runs and 10 hits, including two homers, in 5 2/3 innings. Keep him active in any Fantasy league down the stretch.
News: The big ballpark in Queens is Brad Penny's personal house of horrors: He fell to 1-8 at Shea and saw his ERA there rise to 6.75 in 10 career starts on Thursday night. Penny (15-8) gave up seven runs and 10 hits -- including a home run to Jose Valentin and a pair of doubles to Shawn Green -- in 5 2/3 innings.
Analysis: He dropped to 3-10 against the Mets. Keep him active in any Fantasy league down the stretch despite the loss.
News: The Dodgers open a series against the Mets in New York Thursday night. RHP Brad Penny (15-7) will pitch the first game for the Los Angeles. He won his last start to set a career high in victories.
Analysis: Despite his flagrant attitude toward umpires and the Dodger coaching staff, Penny has been a solid Fantasy pitcher this year picking up 15 wins and 122 strikeouts. The Dodgers are going to need a strong outing from Penny to start a crucial series against the Mets, and despite facing a dynamite lineup, it is a safe bet to start Penny.
News: RHP Brad Penny, who has an NL-leading 15 wins, is expected to get six more starts during the regular season. The Dodgers haven't had a 20-game winner since Ramon Martinez went 20-6 in 1990. "You always want to win every game you pitch, but I'm not really thinking about 20," Penny said. "My main goal was just to stay healthy all year. I'd much rather pitch in the postseason."
Analysis: Penny has received considerable criticism this season for allowing his volatile temper to get him into embarrassing confrontations with teammates -- particularly manager Grady Little and CF Kenny Lofton. Who cares if he angers teammates? Penny can throw the pill. Keep him active in any Fantasy league down the stretch as he picks up wins for the contending Dodgers.
News: Brad Penny became the NL's first 15-game winner Saturday. Penny (15-7) eclipsed his previous career high for wins after being staked to a 7-0 lead. The right-hander allowed five runs and nine hits in 5 1/3 innings. He struck out two and did not walk a batter, after giving up nine walks over his previous two outings. Penny was 5-0 against the Rockies this season with a 1.93 ERA -- becoming the first pitcher ever to beat them five times in one year. The last Dodgers pitcher to beat any team five times in a season was Orel Hershiser, who was 5-0 against Atlanta during his 1988 Cy Young campaign.
Analysis: Penny has received considerable criticism this season for allowing his volatile temper to get him into embarrassing confrontations with teammates -- particularly manager Grady Little and CF Kenny Lofton. Who cares if he angers teammates? Penny can throw the pill. Keep him active in any Fantasy league down the stretch as he picks up wins for the contending Dodgers.
News: RHP Brad Penny has received considerable criticism this season for allowing his volatile temper to get him into embarrassing confrontations with teammates -- particularly manager Grady Little and CF Kenny Lofton. But 2B Jeff Kent, no stranger to dugout confrontations -- as former Giants teammate Barry Bonds will attest -- would like Penny to display his emotion more often. "Some people show anger in different ways, and some use that anger to benefit their game. And I think that's what his anger translates into," Kent said. "I mean, it might rub a guy the wrong way every now and then, but we all understand where it's coming from. It's not meant to be selfish or degrading to another player. It's meant to be a motivator and a push. It's not so good in a clubhouse, but it is good out on the field. So I don't know if I want him to harness it. Maybe I want him to show a little more of it, so he'll stop going to 3-2 counts and get ticked off enough to throw a strike past the guy."
Analysis: Who cares if he angers teammates. Penny can throw the pill. Keep him active in any Fantasy league down the stretch as he picks up wins for the contending Dodgers.
News: Brad Penny (14-7) tied a career-high for victories after overcoming early control problems in Monday's start against the Reds. He allowed a run and four hits over five innings.
Analysis: Penny pulled even with Chicago's Carlos Zambrano and Arizona's Brandon Webb for the NL lead in wins. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Brad Penny (13-7, 3.95 ERA) will try to end his recent struggles and match career high for wins when he starts for Los Angeles. The right-hander has lost his last two starts, recording a 10.80 ERA in losses at San Francisco and San Diego. Penny lasted just four innings in Wednesday's 7-2 loss to the Padres before being ejected after an argument with plate umpire Rick Reed. Reed determined Little had made two trips to the mound during the fifth inning and Penny would have to leave the game after pitching to the next batter.
Analysis: Penny began yelling at Reed and was immediately ejected. "To give up six runs makes me sick more than anything," said Penny, who disagreed with many of Reed's calls. "Six runs scored and every one of them was controversial." Penny is 4-2 with a 3.48 ERA in eight career starts versus the Reds, holding them to a .191 batting average. He also limited them to two runs, three hits and two walks while striking out six over six innings in a 5-3 victory on Aug. 2. Penny still has must-start status in his career year right now.
News: Brad Penny slides up to Monday for a certain two-start week, while Mark Hendrickson will go Tuesday. It appears Penny will be kept on his regular fifth day, which could mean Billingsley gets moved back out of next weekend's series.
Analysis: Consider reserving Billingsley for the possibility of being moved back, while Hendrickson could pick up a second start this week. He's viable for deeper leagues because of the contender he pitches for. Penny has must-start status in his career year right now.
News: Manager Grady Little says he doesn't believe any suspensions are warranted after a flare-up Wednesday night against San Diego. Little and RHP Brad Penny were ejected by plate umpire Rick Reed. Little was tossed after he went to the mound to talk to an irritated Penny, then walked off to talk to Reed. When he went back to the mound, San Diego manager Bruce Bochy came out to argue it was his second trip to the mound and Penny had to leave.
Analysis: The umpires eventually agreed, and in the ensuing argument, Penny was ejected. Little acknowledged that technically he had violated the rule but, "sometimes you need a little common sense." Penny had been having an excellent season until coming apart in his past two outings. Keep him active though, as he tries to shake out of this slump.
News: Los Angeles manager Grady Little still had his sense of humor intact after a rough night in which tempers flared, he and starting pitcher Brad Penny were ejected and the Dodgers were swept again by the San Diego Padres. Little and Penny were ejected during a lengthy argument with plate umpire Rick Reed in the fifth inning. With the Padres leading 4-2 in the fifth, Adrian Gonzalez walked on a 3-2 pitch to give San Diego runners on first and second with none out. Little came out to the mound to confer with Penny. Penny said Dodgers second baseman Jeff Kent told catcher Russell Martin that the pitch was a strike. "The umpire said something derogatory to Kent," Penny said. "If he never would have said anything to Kent, it wouldn't have happened." Reed confirmed that he responded to Kent. Little turned and walked off the mound to talk to Reed. "I'm trying to defuse the situation that could have gotten out of hand earlier than it did," Little said. "But it got out of hand anyway, so what are you going to do?" Little returned to the mound, then went back to the dugout. San Diego manager Bruce Bochy came out to argue with Reed that Little had made two mound visits. "He's got to come out of that game. That was my argument," Bochy said. "If he doesn't come out, I have to protest the game." Reed, however, said afterward that Penny would have to leave after pitching to the next batter. The four umpires huddled for a few minutes before Reed walked toward the Dodgers' dugout to tell Little he had indeed made two mound visits. "He understood but he wasn't real happy. He was ejected over that play," Reed said. Reed went to the mound and handed the ball to Penny.
Analysis: Mixing in some expletives, the big right-hander told Reed: "If you called that a strike, that never would have happened." Penny was tossed, and had to be pulled away by first base coach Mariano Duncan and bench coach Dave Jauss. The entire sequence lasted about 15 minutes. Penny (13-7) walked the bases loaded with two outs in the first and allowed three runs, the first two on Blum's single to right field on a hanging curveball. When the inning ended, Penny said he told Reed: "You called a pitch a ball and you cost me three runs." "That was the best my fastball has been all year," Penny said. "To give up six runs like that and for it to be controversial makes you more sick than anything."
News: Brad Penny allowed six runs on six hits over six innings on with three walks to drop his sixth game on Friday at San Francisco.
Analysis: Penny, who beat the Giants last Saturday, had his three-game winning streak snapped on a night he was trying to match his career high with a 14th victory. He remains a must-start in all leagues.
News: Brad Penny became the NL's first 13-game winner Saturday. Penny (13-5) won his third consecutive start, allowing four runs -- three earned -- and seven hits over six innings Saturday. The right-hander struck out seven and did not walk a batter for the second consecutive outing.
Analysis: Penny has been healthy and is putting together the best season of his career. Consider the hard-throwing horse a must-start in all leagues at this point. The contending Dodgers have a nice offense to support him, too, in the event he does struggle some.
News: Brad Penny (12-5) pitched eight strong innings in Monday's game against the Rockies. He allowed five hits, including homers by Garrett Atkins and Brad Hawpe. The All-Star right-hander struck out four, walked none and helped himself with an RBI double.
Analysis: Penny is 4-0 with a 0.99 ERA in four starts against the Rockies this season, and 9-2 in 14 career starts with a 2.16 ERA -- the lowest by any pitcher against Colorado, according to STATS Inc.
News: All five Dodgers starters will go in turn for a seven-game week, including solid two-start options Brad Penny and Greg Maddux. Maddux is coming off six no-hit innings in his Dodgers debut.
Analysis: Penny is a must-start two-start option for Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 7-13). Keep him active everywhere.
News: Brad Penny has had a rough time since he started the All-Star Game for the National League. He took a big step toward turning it around on Wednesday night. Penny pitched six sharp innings and drove in a run to help the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Cincinnati Reds 5-3 for their fifth straight victory. Penny (11-5) snapped his three-game losing streak and won for the first time since July 5 against Arizona. He allowed two runs and three hits, walked two and struck out six. It was his first win since he allowed one run in two innings in the All-Star Game. "I threw the ball well the last couple of times, but the ball fell in," Penny said. "It was at people tonight."
Analysis: Penny remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: With off days Thursday and Monday, the Dodgers will push fifth starter RHP Aaron Sele back in the rotation until next Wednesday. Chad Billingsley, Derek Lowe and Mark Hendrickson will start the three-game series against the Nationals this weekend. Brad Penny will open the road trip in Cincinnati on Tuesday.
Analysis: Although he has lost three straight decisions, he remains a great option in all Fantasy formats. The fact he'll see two starts makes it pretty much a no-brainer.
News: For the second time this season, RHP Brad Penny lost his temper in the dugout. After giving up four runs on six consecutive hits in the third inning, he got into it with CF Kenny Lofton -- barking at the 16-year veteran and pointing his finger at him as coaches and teammates got in between them.
Analysis: Penny eventually patched things up with Lofton, the same way he did with manager Grady Little after throwing that cooler-bashing tantrum in the dugout on May 29 in Atlanta when Little pulled him with a lead just two outs from the required five innings needed for a win. "I overreacted," said Penny, who has lost all three outings since starting for the NL in the All-Star game. "I was really mad. I was frustrated. People who know me know that I wear my emotions on my sleeve when I'm out there. That's the only way I can pitch - to be emotional. If I'm not, I'm not going to be the pitcher I am." Penny remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite his rough outing and temper tantrum. Although, he has lost three straight decisions.
News: Brad Penny (10-5) allowed six runs and nine hits in five innings before he was lifted for a pinch hitter in a loss on Wednesday against the Padres. It might have been worse for the right-hander had it not been for three double-play grounders.
Analysis: Penny remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite a recent rough patch.
News: Brad Penny allowed two earned runs, three walks and six hits in 6 2/3 innings against the Cardinals on Friday night. He also struck out two batters in the loss, as he fell to 10-4.
Analysis: Penny took a pair of losses against the Cardinals in his past two starts. Penny remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite a recent rough patch.
News: Brad Penny, who worked two innings for the National League in Tuesday's All-Star Game and struck out the side in the first, but gave up six runs and 10 hits in five innings against the Cardinals on Sunday. Penny (10-3) was starting for the first time in 11 days, although he got one out last Sunday in the final game before the break.
Analysis: One rough start should not cause Fantasy owners to panic. Penny could be a Cy Young candidate by the end of the season and he remains a must-start in all formats.
News: Brad Penny, who started Tuesday's All-Star game at Pittsburgh for the National League, allowed one earned run and a second-inning solo home run to L.A. Angels' Vladimir Guerrero.
Analysis: Penny did enter the record books, joining Pedro Martinez as the only other pitcher to ever strike out the side in the first inning. Dodgers right-hander Brad Penny set the tone for the NL pitchers by striking out Ichiro Suzuki, Derek Jeter and David Ortiz in the first inning on nothing but 96-98 mph fastballs.
News: Kenny Rogers will be on the mound for the AL All-Stars on Tuesday night against Brad Penny of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Rogers will be trying to extend a nine-game AL unbeaten streak.
Analysis: Penny made his last start Wednesday, allowing two runs in seven innings against Arizona, but also pitched one-third of an inning in relief Sunday in the Dodgers' 3-1 win over San Francisco. Penny will then turn around and start for the Dodgers on Sunday at St. Louis.
News: Manager Grady Little said he plans to go with Chad Billingsley on Thursday night when the Dodgers resume play after the All-Star break at St. Louis. Derek Lowe is scheduled to pitch Friday night, followed by Mark Hendrickson Saturday and Brad Penny on Sunday.
Analysis: Penny was likely pushed back as far as possible in the event he works in Tuesday's All-Star game in Pittsburgh. Keep the burgeoing ace who is finally staying healthy active in all leagues.
News: Manager Grady Little said RHP Brad Penny might be used out of the bullpen Sunday. Penny, an NL All-Star, hasn't pitched since Wednesday, when he allowed two runs and seven hits in seven innings. He has a 10-2 record and a 2.92 ERA.
Analysis: Penny could pitch in the All-Star Game and still start in the short week post-break. Keep the burgeoing ace who is finally staying healthy active in all leagues.
News: RHP Brad Penny had a third-row seat across from the Los Angeles Lakers' bench on the night Kobe Bryant scored 81 points against the Toronto Raptors at Staples Center. Perhaps Penny was inspired by that performance. He is headed to his first All-Star game Tuesday. "The equivalent of Kobe's game for me would probably be like striking out 21. I mean, it's unheard of," Penny said. "You might not see that ever again - and if you do, it might be from Kobe. When I go to stuff like that, I'm not thinking about my own career -- but of course you always want to be at the top of your game. Some athletes are just so much better than the others, and the real great ones have more nights like that than the others do."
Analysis: Penny is off to the best start of his career with a 10-2 record and a 2.92 ERA. Start him in all Fantasy formats while he's healthy.
News: Brad Penny pitched seven strong innings and the Los Angeles Dodgers completed a three-game sweep of the Arizona Diamondbacks with a 5-4 victory Wednesday night. Penny (10-2) won for the third straight time, allowing two runs and seven hits while striking out six. He lowered his ERA to 2.92. The right-hander, who is off to the best start of his seven-year career, is 5-1 with a 1.71 ERA in 10 career starts against Arizona.
Analysis: Healthy for the first time since South Florida, consider Penny a sleeper Fantasy ace -- especially if he builds up arm strength for the pennant race.
News: Manager Grady Little said RHP Brad Penny, headed to his first All-Star game next Tuesday, might see some action this weekend after his scheduled start Wednesday so he isn't idle for nearly a week.
Analysis: Ordinarily a starter working in relief is bad news. For Penny, it's a sign the Dodgers see him as a pitcher that must cater to. Healthy for the first time since South Florida, consider Penny a sleeper Fantasy ace -- especially if he builds up arm strength for the pennant race.
News: Brad Penny was the only Dodger to be picked for the All-Star game, to be played July 11 in Pittsburgh. "I'm really excited," said Penny, who has a 9-2 record and a 2.94 ERA. "It's an honor, it's something I've never done before and definitely something I've wanted to experience."
Analysis: He remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Penny allowed one earned run and seven hits in Friday's start against the Angels while not allowing any walks and recording six strikeouts in the win (9-2). He lowered his ERA back under three (2.94) with yet another quality start.
Analysis: Penny bounced back from a couple of shaky starts to finish up the month of June with a 4-1 record and 3.05 ERA in six starts. He also walked just nine while striking out 30 batters in 38 1/3 innings. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Dodgers skipper Grady Little sets weekend's rotation: Brad Penny will start Friday against Anaheim, followed by Hendrickson on Saturday and Chad Billingsley on Sunday. Aaron Sele, who was originally slated to start Friday, will be pushed back a few days, Little said. Odalis Perez, who is starting Wednesday against the Twins, will likely return to the bullpen following his spot start.
Analysis: He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Dodgers right-hander Brad Penny (8-2) pitched five-plus innings for the win, allowing four runs and six hits on Sunday vs. the Pirates. He walked two and had five Ks.
Analysis: He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Brad Penny allowed five earned runs and 10 hits in six innings on Tuesday against the Mariners, as he took a rare loss to fall to 7-2. On a positive note, he did not walk a batter and he struck out two.
Analysis: Penny's ERA jumped from 2.49 to 2.83 after the tough outing. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues until this type of outing becomes the rule rather than the exception.
News: Brad Penny allowed three earned runs and just five hits in six innings on Wednesday at San Diego. He posted another quality start, but he did not factor into the decision.
Analysis: Penny has a sparkling 2.49 ERA so far this season. He has allowed three or fewer runs in 13 of his 14 starts this season. Needless to say, he remains an outstanding option in all Fantasy formats despite his occasional lack of run support.
News: Brad Penny allowed only five hits in 8 1/3 scoreless innings at Colorado Friday for his seventh win of the year. In 12 career starts against Colorado, Penny has an 8-2 record with a 2.25 ERA. It's the third-best of any pitcher with a minimum of five starts against Colorado. He trails Mark Prior (1.69) and Roy Oswalt (1.73). He's also 3-0 with a 0.45 ERA this season against the Rockies.
Analysis: "When you're successful against a team, you know that in the back of your mind," Penny said. "You go out there and you know the park's playing pretty big this year. That's a huge outfield." Penny is a hard-throwing Oklahoman that is having a career season in Los Angeles. Start him in all formats while he tries to improve on his 7-1 record.
News: Brad Penny allowed one hit over six scoreless innings in his first start since his blowup with manager Grady Little and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Philadelphia Phillies 8-2 on Saturday. Penny (6-1) won his fourth straight decision, throwing 112 pitches in hot and muggy conditions and leaving with a 6-0 lead. The right-hander struck out seven and walked four while allowing only one runner past second base. The Phillies got their only hit against Penny when Aaron Rowand doubled to right-center with two outs in the fourth after a one-out walk to Pat Burrell. Little and his pitcher had a brief discussion on the mound before Penny retired David Bell on a popup.
Analysis: In Penny's previous outing last Monday in Atlanta, he was staked to a 7-0 lead in the first two innings. But Little pulled him two outs shy of the required five innings for a victory after the Braves narrowed the gap to 7-4 with six straight hits. Penny threw a tantrum in the dugout, taking a bat to the water cooler and voicing his displeasure in full view of TV cameras. Penny patched things up with Little about 48 hours later. This is great news for his owners, as he looked healthy and should be starting in all leagues.
News: Manager Grady Little said Tuesday he hasn't spoken with RHP Brad Penny about Penny's animated complaints about being removed from Monday's game before he qualified for the win. Penny was pulled with an 8-5 lead after giving up six consecutive hits and four runs in the fifth inning. Little said he doesn't expect any disciplinary action. "I don't think so," Little said. "We'll see. I'm not going to talk about it with you (reporters) anymore." Penny said he complained of a sore shoulder following his previous start. "We're not going to put anybody out there to pitch if they tell us they can't go," Little said.
Analysis: Penny has been a solid starter for any Fantasy league this season. Be warned, though, he has a history of shoulder problems and has complained of soreness of late, which was a part of his blowup. He said he was gutting it out with the bum shoulder and didn't deserve to be yanked when he got into trouble. It's counterintuitive, a sore shoulder should get yanked, Brad, but you cannot argue with his competitiveness.
News: After Brad Penny was battered by six straight hits and four runs in the inning fifth inning Monday at Atlanta, the Dodgers pulled away late for a 12-5 victory over the Atlanta Braves. Penny was given an 8-1 lead but was pulled before qualifying for the win after the Braves closed to 8-5. Penny complained about the decision on the mound, in the dugout and after the game. "It was the first jam I get in all year and I don't get a chance to get out of it," said Penny, who voiced his displeasure with Grady Little on the mound before taking a swing at a water cooler with a bat in the dugout and yelling in anger.
Analysis: Little said Penny's objections "will be addressed, but not today." Little said Penny is a competitor and didn't fault him for wanting to stay in the game, but defended his decision to pull him. Maybe he still has flashbacks of that Game 7 loss to the Yankees that cost him his job. There's no question that Fantasy owners are a bit ticked about Little's decision as well.
News: Brad Penny (5-1, 2.31) will try to help the Dodgers avoid consecutive losses for the first time since early May as he looks for his fourth straight win Monday at Atlanta. The right-hander allowed four hits over five scoreless innings to beat Colorado 8-1 on Tuesday.
Analysis: "It's nice to have the good numbers, but I'd like to have more innings," said Penny, who threw 104 pitches. "Guys have been fouling off a lot of pitches right now and I've been getting into deep pitch counts, but I'm pleased with the way things are going." He will also start against the Phillies on Saturday, making him a decent two-start option.
News: Although he reported no pain during his start Tuesday, Dodgers RHP Brad Penny underwent a second MRI in the past two weeks to check on the source of lower back discomfort. According to Dodgers trainer Stan Johnston, the MRI showed only normal wear and tear and Penny will begin a strengthening program but not miss a start. Penny has lasted a total of 21 1/3 innings in his past four starts.
Analysis: Penny has been throwing a lot of pitches, which also contributes to shorter appearances (and normal wear and tear on the body). He's headed for a two-start week in Fantasy Week 9 (May 29-June 4).
News: Brad Penny worked five scoreless innings in Tuesday's game against the Rockies, allowing four hits and a walk while striking out five. He has knocked off the Rockies in consecutive starts and is 5-1 overall with a stellar 2.31 ERA.
Analysis: There was no injury problem for Penny causing him to leave after five scoreless innings. He simply struggled through the first five frames, making 104 pitches, so he was lifted.
News: Brad Penny worked six strong innings, allowing just one earned run and six hits while striking out seven batters in Tuesday's game at Colorado to improve to 4-1. He also lowered his ERA to 2.53 in the pitcher's duel against Colorado ace Jason Jennings.
Analysis: Penny is a solid Fantasy starter in all formats, but like Derek Lowe and some of the other Los Angeles starters, the run support is very low. He will get a rematch against Jason Jennings in Dodger Stadium Tuesday.
News: Brad Penny underwent an MRI exam Saturday on his lower back that was negative. He left Friday's outing after five innings but is expected to make his next start.
Analysis: Penny is a solid Fantasy starter in any league, but the Dodgers need to start getting him some run support. Don't expect him to miss his May 17 start at Colorado, but the matchup against Jason Jennings is a bit worrying thanks to the Rockies' hot start.
News: Brad Penny pitched five scoreless innings Friday as the Dodgers won for the sixth time in seven games since a season-long five-game skid. Penny came out because of stiffness in his back. "I don't care who hits a home run, Bonds or whoever," said Penny, who doesn't expect to miss a start because of his back. "I don't think about that at all. It's his personal stats."
Analysis: Penny is a solid Fantasy starter in any league, but the Dodgers need to start getting him some run support. Don't expect him to miss his May 17 start at Colorado, but the matchup against Jason Jennings is a bit worrying thanks to the Rockies' hot start.
News: Brad Penny allowed three runs and eight hits in losing to the Diamondbacks on Monday, the team that drafted him in 1996, for the first time in five decisions. "I just didn't locate pitches," Penny said. "All night I wasn't locating pitches. It's days like that you try to get through innings."
Analysis: Penny is a solid Fantasy starter in any league, but the Dodgers need to start getting him some run support.
News: Brad Penny, who compiled a 1.88 ERA in his first four starts, had a rocky first inning and then retired 15 of the next 17 Astros.
Analysis: Penny is a solid Fantasy starter in any league, but the Dodgers need to start getting him some run support.
News: RHP Brad Penny has been bothered by a case of the flu the past few days but is still scheduled to make his start Tuesday against the Astros. Penny is 0-2 with a 6.62 ERA in three career starts against the Astros (none with the Dodgers). In his first four starts this season, Penny is 2-0 with a 1.88 ERA (sixth in the NL) and a 25-2 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Analysis: Penny has had three impressive starts to begin the season. When healthy, he's proven he can be relied on as a No. 2 Fantasy starter, but health has been an issue with him over the last few seasons, so keep tabs on him.
News: A solid outing by Dodgers starter Brad Penny was dashed when he left after six innings Friday vs. San Francisco because of a bruise on his right arm caused by a comebacker from Steve Finley in the fourth. "It was pretty stiff and it was getting worse," said Penny, who doesn't expect to miss his next start. Penny retired 18 of the 20 batters he faced, including the first nine in a row. He struck out four and walked none.
Analysis: "Penny was outstanding," Dodgers manager Grady Little said. "Had he not gotten hit on the arm, I think you would've seen both of them go very deep into that game and not a whole lot of offense." Penny has had three impressive starts to begin the season. When healthy, he's proven he can be relied on as a No. 2 Fantasy starter, but health has been an issue with him over the last few seasons.
News: Brad Penny threw four-hit ball over seven innings, drove in a run and helped the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Philadelphia Phillies 6-2 Sunday in the second game of a doubleheader. Penny (2-0) was in command throughout, striking out six and allowing only one runner to reach second base after the first inning. He also put the Dodgers ahead 2-1 in the fourth with a broken-bat bloop single off Jon Lieber.
Analysis: Penny had a nice start Tuesday against Atlanta as well. When he's healthy, which he is, he can post solid mixed-league Fantasy numbers.
News: Rain forced postponement Saturday of the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies and a pitching matchup of Derek Lowe and Ryan Madson. The game was rescheduled as part of a doubleheader on Sunday. The rainout pushed Lowe (0-1) and Madson back a day and they will pitch on Sunday. Brad Penny (1-0) will follow Lowe for the Dodgers and Jon Lieber (0-1) goes for the Phillies.
Analysis: Penny had a nice start Tuesday against Atlanta, but it'll be interesting to see if he can follow it up with another good one. When he's healthy, which he is, he can post solid mixed-league Fantasy numbers.
News: Brad Penny allowed five hits and one run while walking none and striking out eight before being relieved by Jae Seo to start the sixth. Penny, who threw 92 pitches, didn't allow a hit after the second, retiring 10 of his last 11 batters to earn the win. "I had good defense behind me and my off-speed pitch was working OK," Penny said. "I was throwing strikes."
Analysis: Penny is a great pitcher in spurts and Tuesday night is not out of character. The question is can he do it over 30-plus starts and 200-plus innings. We don't have a reason why not at this point, so consider him an undervalued player in the injury risk category. He could really come through with great Fantasy numbers.
News: Brad Penny pitched five strong innings and Los Angeles beat the Atlanta Braves 5-4 on a rainy Tuesday night for Grady Little's first victory as the Dodgers' manager. Penny allowed five hits and one run while walking none and striking out eight before being relieved by Jae Seo to start the sixth. Penny, who threw 92 pitches, didn't allow a hit after the second, retiring 10 of his last 11 batters to earn the win.
Analysis: Coming off of shoulder surgery, Penny continues to be an injury risk. But he's a power pitcher in a friendly park with an improved offense, so he's worth owning in any league.
News: Brad Penny allowed seven hits and three runs, while walking two and striking out two in four innings Thursday for the Dodgers.
Analysis: Coming off of shoulder surgery, Penny continues to be an injury risk. But he's a power pitcher in a friendly park with an improved offense, so taking a flier on him in mixed leagues isn't a bad idea.
News: The Dodgers' Brad Penny lasted four innings and gave up five runs on seven hits Saturday vs. St. Louis. He also had a bit of a run-in with home plate umpire Casey Moser. Penny took exception to a request to have the ball checked during a Jim Edmonds at-bat, rolling the ball into the dugout instead, and the two jawed in front of the plate after Edmonds struck out for the last out in the fourth. "I looked down and saw the ball was scuffed, so I do what I always do and threw it out of play," Penny said. "Then after the inning I went to explain what I did and the umpire started cursing at me."
Analysis: In CBS SportsLine.com's NL-only experts 5x5 Rotisserie draft, Dodgers SP Brad Penny was selected with the second pick in the 11th round (122nd overall). Coming off of shoulder surgery, Penny continues to be an injury risk. But he's a power pitcher in a friendly park with an improved offense, so taking a flier on him in mixed leagues isn't a bad idea.
News: RHP Brad Penny allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits and three walks in 2 2/3 innings against the Atlanta Braves. He threw 68 pitches, just 39 strikes. "I was working on some things," Penny said. "Making some pitches in situations I wouldn't during the season, working on my breaking ball." After being removed from the game, Penny went to the Dodgers' bullpen to work on his curveball. "I threw another five or six to try and find my release point," he said. Penny is scheduled to start the second game of the season for the Dodgers.
Analysis: In CBS SportsLine.com's NL-only experts 5x5 Rotisserie draft, Dodgers SP Brad Penny was selected with the second pick in the 11th round (122nd overall). Coming off of shoulder surgery, Penny continues to be an injury risk. But he's a power pitcher in a friendly park with an improved offense, so taking a flier on him in mixed leagues isn't a bad idea.
News: Brad Penny threw three hitless innings Monday as the Los Angeles Dodgers played to a 0-0 tie Monday in a nine-inning split-squad game against the Washington Nationals. "I felt pretty good. I'm coming along," the Dodgers' right-hander said. "Being able to pitch makes (spring training) more fun. The main thing for me is to throw strikes, get ahead (in the count) and locate my pitches." Last year, his first with the Dodgers, Penny was struggling to recover from a mystery ailment that caused numbness in his right arm. He went through training camp without appearing in a game, just throwing in the bullpen whenever his injury allowed. When camp broke, he made two rehab starts before joining the Dodgers and logging 175 innings in 29 starts. So far this spring, there has been no sign of the injury and he's pitched twice, allowing just one run in five innings. He struck out two Monday.
Analysis: In CBS SportsLine.com's NL-only experts 5x5 Rotisserie draft, Dodgers SP Brad Penny was selected with the second pick in the 11th round (122nd overall). Coming off of shoulder surgery, Penny continues to be an injury risk. But he's a power pitcher in a friendly park with an improved offense, so taking a flier on him in mixed leagues isn't a bad idea.
News: Against the Braves in spring training action, Dodgers SP Brad Penny allowed one run and three in two innings, striking out zero.
Analysis: In CBS SportsLine.com's NL-only experts 5x5 Rotisserie draft, Dodgers SP Brad Penny was selected with the second pick in the 11th round (122nd overall). Coming off of shoulder surgery, Penny continues to be an injury risk. But he's a power pitcher in a friendly park with an improved offense, so taking a flier on him in mixed leagues isn't a bad idea.
News: Brad Penny threw batting practice and manager Grady Little said he probably would pitch in the exhibition opener against Atlanta.
Analysis: In CBS SportsLine.com's NL-only experts 5x5 Rotisserie draft, Dodgers SP Brad Penny was selected with the second pick in the 11th round (122nd overall). Coming off of shoulder surgery, Penny continues to be an injury risk. But he's a power pitcher in a friendly park with an improved offense, so taking a flier on him in mixed leagues isn't a bad idea.
News: In CBS SportsLine.com's NL-only experts 5x5 Rotisserie draft, Dodgers SP Brad Penny was selected with the second pick in the 11th round (122nd overall).
Analysis: Penny is coming off of surgery. If not for frequent shoulder troubles, he could be a Fantasy ace. His mid-90s stuff is worth taking a chance on at this stage in an NL-only draft (later in a mixed-league draft). It doesn't hurt his value that he's dating Alyssa Milano.
News: RHP Brad Penny will skip his scheduled start Saturday in San Diego because of tightness in his forearm. He was 7-9 with a 3.90 ERA in 29 starts this season after missing most of the final 1½ months last year because of an injured nerve in his right biceps.
Analysis: Geez, if the Dodgers could only make up their mind. Penny is now out for the season and should be considered a risky pick in most mixed leagues in 2006. If he could only finally stay healthy, he could be a Fantasy sleeper.
News: RHP Brad Penny, who lasted only 10 pitches in two-thirds of an inning Sept. 21 in Arizona because of tightness in his forearm, said he felt fine following a bullpen session.
Analysis: Manager Jim Tracy said Penny will start Saturday night in San Diego. Penny can be a solid mixed-league starting pitcher when healthy, but that is the rub. He cannot stay healthy. Consider him a solid sleeper for 2006, but understand the inherent injury risk involved.
News: The Los Angeles Times notes that Brad Penny's forearm tightness is unrelated to the biceps nerve injury he suffered last season. He was forced to leave Wednesday's game after facing only four batters.
Analysis: Penny's next start remains a question mark, but he is likely to get at least one more go at it. Edwin Jackson will also probably see a start possibly Monday.
News: Brad Penny lasted only 10 pitches in two-thirds of an inning Wednesday for the Dodgers. He wasn't sharp after experiencing what the club said was tightness in his right forearm. Dodgers manager Jim Tracy didn't believe the forearm problem had anything to do with the nerve injury in Penny's right bicep Aug. 8, 2004, that sidelined him for the rest of last season. "Tightness in the forearm is what I was told," Tracy said. "He didn't respond in any way, shape or form in the manner he did when he had that situation come up a year ago."
Analysis: Penny is a risky start for Fantasy Week 26 (Sept. 26-Oct. 2) at this point. He could be a two-start pitcher, but the injury might sideline him for the season. Track his progress through the weekend before making a roster decision on him.
News: Brad Penny said Friday after allowing Bonds' homer off a curveball the slugger hasn't yet shown he can hit a fastball -- and again the Dodgers went after him. Penny called the home-run pitch he threw "stupid." "I think I've hit a couple off him. He's thrown more than one stupid pitch to me," Bonds said.
Analysis: Penny will likely be a two-start pitcher for the final week of the regular season. His start Sept. 21 at Arizona (Brandon Webb) isn't a bad one either. He could win a couple games before the year is out to get his 7-9 season record back to .500.
News: RHP Brad Penny (7-9), coming off a sore back, overcame a shaky start to pitch six solid innings, giving up three runs on four hits and a walk in the first before settling down Sunday. He blanked the Padres on one hit after that, retiring his last 11 batters before being relieved by Giovanni Carrara to begin the seventh. He threw 117 pitches, walked three and struck out seven.
Analysis: Penny is a solid start for Fantasy Week 24 (Sept. 12-18) on Friday at San Francisco vs. Brett Tomko.
News: RHP Brad Penny, who left Tuesday's start because of stiffness in his lower back, is expected to make his next start Sunday against San Diego.
Analysis: Penny is a viable starting pitcher in any Fantasy league when the matchups are right. Track his progress Sunday before making a Week 24 (Sept. 12-18) decision on him.
News: After a telephone consultation with Players Association assistant general counsel Bob Lenaghan on Tuesday night, Dodgers pitcher Brad Penny accepted his five-game suspension Wednesday.
Analysis: Penny will began serving the suspension immediately and will miss his scheduled start Sunday in Colorado, with Edwin Jackson picking up the assignment. Penny will next start Tuesday at home against the Giants and will be a two-start pitcher for Fantasy Week 23 (Sept. 5-11).
News: Miguel Cabrera hit a three-run homer off former teammate Brad Penny, making his first start in Miami since being traded to Los Angeles on July 31, 2004. Penny pitched five innings and gave up six earned runs, matching a season high. "I was just wild," Penny said. "Everything was middle of the plate. It happens. But my teammates supported me. They came through today."
Analysis: Penny is a solid Fantasy pitcher who has been plagued by a lack of run support. Saturday was just the opposite. Penny, who was coming off a complete game, should be fine to start for Fantasy Week 21 (Aug. 22-28). he gave up two homers after allowing only nine previously this season. Carlos Delgado's homer was just the second by a left-handed hitter off Penny this year.
News: Brad Penny allowed one earned run while scattering 10 hits in a complete game win against Pedro Martinez and the Mets on Sunday. He also struck out nine batters and did not walk anyone.
Analysis: Penny is 1-1 in three starts in August, despite a 1.96 ERA. He has allowed three or fewer earned runs in 10 of his past 11 outings and remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite his lack of run support.
News: Manager Jim Tracy has set his pitching rotation for the next two series, with Brad Penny, Derek Lowe and Odalis Perez going in the Phillies series that begins Tuesday at Dodger Stadium, and Jeff Weaver, D.J. Houlton and Penny going against the Mets next weekend. Lowe and Perez, who started in this weekend's series in Pittsburgh, are staying on a five-day rotation.
Analysis: Penny is a recommended two-start pitcher option for Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 8-14) in any league. Keep him active. Now all he needs is the Dodgers to give him some run support.
News: Brad Penny was suspended by MLB for five games for "inappropriate and aggressive actions" after an incident on July 14 against San Francisco.
Analysis: Penny was ejected by the home plate umpire for throwing his helmet after being called on at firsat base on a baserunning mistake. He also made a comment about the first-base umpire. After being ejected, he had to be restrained by a coach and manager Jim Tracy for continuing to argue with the umpire. This penalty will likely be appealed, although he might just elect to serve it and have his start pushed back one day.
News: Brad Penny allowed two earned runs and nine hits in 6 2/3 innings at Colorado on Wednesday to improve to 5-5.
Analysis: Penny has now posted five straight quality starts and has re-emerged as a must-start in NL-only leagues.
News: Brad Penny pitched three-hit ball over eight innings to beat Arizona Friday. He tied a season high with seven strikeouts, walked one and retired his final 14 batters after former Dodger Shawn Green singled with one out in the fourth. "After the first two innings he started throwing his curveball for strikes and basically getting ahead of everybody. And when you can do that on a consistent basis, it makes you that much harder to hit," Arizona's Luis Gonzalez said.
Analysis: Penny improved to 4-0 with a 1.27 ERA against Arizona, the team that picked him in the fifth round of the 1996 draft. He had lost his last three starts, with the Dodgers totaling only two runs. Keep him active in all leagues.
News: Brad Penny allowed one earned run and six hits in six innings in Monday's game at San Diego, but he took a tough loss as Jake Peavy was just a little bit better.
Analysis: Penny has only one win over his past nine starts dating back to May 6 at Cincinnati despite five quality starts during the stretch.
News: Right-hander Brad Penny has agreed to a three-year contract extension with the Dodgers. Penny, 3-2 with a 4.04 ERA this season, came to the Dodgers last July in a trade with the Florida Marlins. He made just three starts for Los Angeles because of a nerve injury in his pitching arm. He began this season on the DL but has had no problems since making his first start April 24. Penny was 8-8 with a 3.15 ERA with the Marlins last season and 1-2 with a 3.09 ERA with the Dodgers following the trade. Penny won two starts over the New York Yankees in the 2003 World Series.
Analysis: The Fantasy pertinence here is: 1. Penny will not be a trade candidate -- so he won't be dealt out of the NL. 2. The Dodgers apparently have confidence in his health and status as their ace. So, consider Penny one of Fantasy Baseball's most undervalued potential studs going forward. Put some trade offers in for him, if he is not currently on your roster.
News: Brad Penny, who gave up five runs in the first three innings, then retired the next 12 batters in a row against Minnesota Friday. Penny allowed five runs on nine hits in six innings.
Analysis: Penny remains a solid Fantasy start in all formats.
News: The Dodgers and RHP Brad Penny still haven't come to terms on a multiyear contract extension. He was undergoing the second phase of his physical when GM Paul DePodesta told reporters, "This is just part of the checklist, but this isn't the final box for us to check. I believe it's going to happen, We're all optimistic, but we have to go through the process to make sure everything is right."
Analysis: The Fantasy pertinence here is: 1. Penny will not be a trade candidate -- so he won't be dealt out of the NL. 2. The Dodgers apparently have confidence in his health and status as their ace. So, consider Penny one of Fantasy Baseball's most undervalued potential studs going forward. Put some trade offers in for him, if he is not currently on your roster.
News: GM Paul DePodesta said the Dodgers are close to an agreement on a contract extension with RHP Brad Penny, who could become a free agent after this season. "I don't think we're quite there, but we're very close. Brad certainly wants to get it done and we certainly want to get it done," DePodesta said. Penny's agent, Greg Genske said, "I'm optimistic that we'll get a deal done, but we'll know one way or another over the next couple of days, I think." Penny, 27, is 3-2 with a 3.67 ERA.
Analysis: The Fantasy pertinence here is: 1. Penny will not be a trade deadline candidate -- so he won't be dealt out of the NL. 2. The Dodgers apparently have confidence in his health and status as their ace. So, consider Penny one of Fantasy Baseball's most undervalued potential studs going forward. Put some trade offers in for him, if he is not currently on your roster.
News: Brad Penny allowed one run on six hits with three strikeouts over eight innings in Tuesday's 2-1 loss to the Chicago Cubs.
Analysis: Penny, who received a no decision in the contest, lowered his ERA to a stellar 3.18 for the season.
News: Brad Penny allowed one run on five hits in seven innings against the Angels Saturday.
Analysis: Penny did not get the decision but he has proven that he is healthy and worth starting in all formats.
News: Brad Penny allowed just one hit in seven scoreless innings Friday against the Reds. After given a 10-0 lead after an inning, Penny blanked Cincinnati with four strikeouts.
Analysis: Penny has not allowed a run in his past two starts, spanning 13 innings. He'll start against the Cardinals on the road in Week 6.
News: Brad Penny (biceps), fresh off the 15-day disabled list, got the start on Sunday at Colorado. He allowed four earned runs and six hits in five innings. He also struck out four batters but did not figure into the decision.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Penny back into the active lineup in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The L.A. Daily News reports that Penny's (biceps) debut might be pushed back because Sunday's weather forecast for Denver does not look good.
Analysis: With an 80-percent chance of rain, Penny might be asked to start Monday or Tuesday against Arizona, setting him up for a possible two-start week. D.J. Houlton might start Sunday in his place as a precaution.
News: Brad Penny (biceps) allowed two runs in six innings of Monday's rehab start for Triple-A Las Vegas. He also struck out seven batters. "I felt really good," he said. "I felt fine. I could have gone deeper. I didn't feel any fatigue."
Analysis: Penny is expected to come off of the 15-day disabled list to start Sunday's game at Colorado. Keep him reserved for that unfavorable matchup, but get him back into your Fantasy lineup for the upcoming week.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Penny (biceps) is expected to throw about 80 pitches in his start for Triple-A Las Vegas Monday. "I had more adrenaline throwing in the bullpen (Friday) than any time since September," he said of his bullpen session last week.
Analysis: Penny is slowly coming around and he can't wait to get back to the majors since the club is hitting so well recently.
News: Brad Penny (biceps) allowed one run and two hits in five innings in a rehab start for Class A Vero Beach on Wednesday. He tossed 58 pitches and hit 96 mph on the radar gun according to manager Jim Tracy.
Analysis: Penny is expected to pitch in another rehab game on Sunday. He might be able to return on April 24, but that would be in Colorado. So keep him reserved until he officially returns and faces a favorable matchup.
News: Brad Penny (biceps) allowed one run and two hits in five innings in a rehab start for Class A Vero Beach on Wednesday. He tossed 58 pitches and hit 96 mph on the radar gun according to manager Jim Tracy.
Analysis: n his first rehab start, Brad Penny allowed one run and two hits in five innings for Single-A Vero Beach today.Manager Jim Tracy said Penny threw 58 pitches and topped out at 96 mph. Penny, recovering from a nerve injury in his right biceps, is expected to pitch in another minor league game Sunday. Apr. 13 - 10:18 pm et
News: The Dodgers are now eyeing April 24 as a possible return date for Brad Penny (ulnar nerve). "My thought right now is (that) isn't a viable possibility," manager Jim Tracy told the Los Angeles Times. "The 24th would seem like a much more viable possibility right now due to the fact we would like to see him pitch in two (minor-league) games before entertaining the thought of something (in the majors)." Penny might pitch next for Class A Vero on Wednesday, then make one more minor-league start before returning.
Analysis: This pushes Penny's Fantasy return back to late Week 3 at the earliest(He could pitch Sunday of Week 3). Track his progress in his next two minor-league starts, though, because it might make the most sense to consider him a Fantasy reserve until Week 4, which would give you leeway on his first start and you could catch him for start No. 2.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Brad Penny (biceps) is scheduled to throw 70 pitches against minor leaguers Wednesday, possibly in a real game rather than a simulated game.
Analysis: Penny could return to the Dodgers April 24 at Colorado, but the following nine-game homestand makes more sense.
News: Manager Jim Tracy said RHP Brad Penny came out of a 70-pitch simulated game Friday in good shape and next will throw a bullpen session Monday before the Dodgers decide where Penny, who has a biceps strain, goes from there.
Analysis: Penny is still on track for an April 19 return, which would make him usable for Fantasy purposes in Week 3. Reserve him for Week 2 and track his bullpen session Monday.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports Brad Penny is on pace to make his first start April 19 at Milwaukee, but his recovery from a biceps nerve injury has been so deliberate that nobody is making any promises. "We'd love for that to be the case," Dodgers general manager Paul DePodesta said. "It's still a possibility."
Analysis: The Dodgers don't need their fifth starter until the second or third week of the season. They are currently using a four-man rotation of Derek Lowe, Odalis Perez, Jeff Weaver and Scott Erickson. Elmer Dessens might be called upon to make a spot start though.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Brad Penny (nerve injury in right arm) threw four innings in a minor league intrasquad game Sunday. He might start for Class A Vero Beach on Friday, which would be his first competitive appearance in seven months.
Analysis: If Penny starts Friday in the minors, his minor league rehab assignment would start also. That means the team can keep him there for 30 days before having to make a move.
News: Brad Penny, on the 15-day DL as he is recovering from a nerve injury in his right biceps, pitched four innings against Dodger minor-leaguers in Vero Beach, Fla., on Sunday without any discomfort. He will pitch again next Friday, possibly in a Florida State League game. His first turn in the rotation will be taken by Elmer Dessens. The Dodgers won't need a fifth starter again until Apr. 19.
Analysis: Penny should be a nice Head-to-Head option once he returns to health and action. Track his progress.
News: The L.A. Daily News reports that the Dodgers placed Penny (biceps) on the 15-day disabled list Friday.
Analysis: Penny expects to return later in April.
News: Brad Penny (biceps) threw 48 pitches in a simulated game on Tuesday morning and reported feeling good after the session.
Analysis: Penny is still not expected to appear in a spring game before the club pulls up stakes in Vero Beach and heads west on March 31.
News: Brad Penny (biceps) will work in a three inning simulated game on Tuesday.
Analysis: Penny is not expected to appear in a spring game before the team leaves Vero Beach.
News: Penny (right biceps) threw batting practice Friday and he might be able to see action in a minor league or exhibition game as early as next week.
Analysis: Penny hasn't pitched in a game since last September. While he's a risky pick because of his injury, he could provide nice reward as a pitcher in Dodger Stadium.
News: Brad Penny (biceps) threw 46 pitches in a simulated game on Tuesday. "His velocity is right there. The power in his arm, perfect," Jose Valentin said after standing in against him.
Analysis: Penny is slated for another simulated game on Friday before he gets into his first spring game some time next week. Penny is expected to open the season on the 15-day disabled list, returning in mid-April.
News: Dodgers right-hander Brad Penny threw an impressive 65-pitch bullpen session Monday at Dodgertown. He threw 14 breaking balls -- the first he has thrown this spring as he continues his recovery from a nerve injury in his right biceps last season. "I felt really good," he said. "Even the changeups were good, which surprised me because it was the first time I'd thrown them. The ones that dove in the dirt were good. Those would be good two-strike pitches. But I still need an 0-0 curve. But that was the first time. It was really good for the first time. The fastballs were almost all at full strength." Penny will throw another bullpen session in the next couple of days -- probably Wednesday. He plans to use that session to simulate a game situation, with half-inning breaks. "I'd like to throw 18-20 pitches, then sit down for a while, then throw some warmup pitches and go after it again," Penny said.
Analysis: If the next session goes well, it is possible Penny could pitch in an exhibition game by this weekend or early next week. Track his progress this spring. His injury questions make him an interesting sleeper if he can prove healthy.
News: Brad Penny (right biceps) will probably not be ready for opening day according to Dodgers general manager Paul DePodesta. "Yes, time is running short," said DePodesta. "I think he will pitch here in spring training, but will he be up to throwing 100 pitches in a start by the first week in April? I think that's where time is running out."
Analysis: Penny threw a bullpen session Thursday at only 75 percent and he did not throw any breaking balls, although he did accelerate his speed from the mound. When healthy, and in that park, Penny could post fantastic numbers with the Dodgers, but his health should drop him down your rankings.
News: Brad Penny (biceps) threw fastballs off a bullpen mound on Thursday. "It took a step up from where it was. There was a little bit more velocity," manager Jim Tracy said. "We are still very optimistic."
Analysis: Penny is trying to recover from a rare nerve injury to his right biceps. His return date is still uncertain, but he continues to make solid progress.
News: The Dodgers were forced to work out indoors Sunday because of heavy rain, but Brad Penny got in his third bullpen session of the spring. "I felt fine," Penny said. "A little more intensity, a few more pitches -- maybe 50-something." He threw about 40 pitches Friday. "He finished up good, he felt pretty good," manager Jim Tracy said. "He doesn't have any pain. If he had pain, he wouldn't be doing what he's doing. He wouldn't be able to do what he's doing."
Analysis: So far so good. Continue to track his progress this spring. Penny has ace-like stuff and could be an outstanding sleeper candidate because owners are skeptical of his health.
News: Brad Penny says he will "be ready for the season by April." "We are shooting for a bullpen session for Brad sometime early to mid-week," Dodgers manager Jim Tracy told the AP. "The gist of the conversation stemmed around a program to have this guy ready to participate (in the rotation) sometime during the week of April 5."
Analysis: Penny has some strong potential and would become a solid sleeper option on Draft Day because owners could be scared off by the injury. Take the risk, the Dodgers did. You could have a steal on your hands.
News: The Dodgers say Penny is healthy entering spring training, according to the AP, but that's what they thought before a comeback attempt late last year failed. "My understanding is he comes in with no restrictions," manager Jim Tracy told the AP.
Analysis: Penny has some strong potential and would become a solid sleeper option on Draft Day because owners could be scared off my the injury. Take the risk, the Dodgers did. You could have a steal on your hands.
News: Right-hander Brad Penny avoided arbitration by agreeing Monday to a $5.1 million, one-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Penny was 1-2 with a 3.09 ERA in 11 2/3 innings before he was sidelined Aug. 9 due to a nerve problem in his pitching arm. "We believe Brad can be one of the top young pitchers in the National League," Dodgers general manager Paul DePodesta told AP. "Dodger fans have only begun to see his ability."
Analysis: Apparently the Dodgers are confident in the right-hander's health, which is great news for Fantasy-leaguers. Penny has some strong potential and would become a solid sleeper option on Draft Day because owners could be scared off my the injury. Take the risk, the Dodgers did. You could have a steal on your hands.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Dodgers team doctor Frank Jobe has never in his 41 years in baseball seen an injury like Brad Penny's (biceps). "If the bruise is on the outside of the nerve, it could take three to four weeks to recover," Jobe said. "If the bruise is on the inside, it could be a matter of months. But either way, he needs rest and must stretch out the arm with exercise. Not only have I never seen something like this, but it is so rare that there isn't even any [research] literature on it."
Analysis: There remains no timetable for Penny. The Dodgers hope to have him back for the postseason.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that tests confirmed that Brad Penny's aggravated nerve injury will sideline him for the season.
Analysis: Penny turned in an excellent season before coming over to L.A. in a trade. Hopefully, he will be able to return next season at full strength.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Brad Penny aggravated a nerve injury that sidelined him for more than six weeks during Wednesday's game. He is expected to be out the remainder of the season. "I don't anticipate seeing Brad Penny take another shot at this," manager Jim Tracy said. "I really can't foresee that happening."
Analysis: Penny is scheduled to return to Los Angeles today to meet with team physician Ralph Gambardella and undergo tests, including an MRI exam. The Dodgers are not optimistic about Penny returning even if they qualify for the playoffs.
News: Brad Penny (arm) was able to make his scheduled start on Wednesday at San Diego, but he allowed three earned runs, three hits and five walks in three innings.
Analysis: Penny's uninspiring outing makes it difficult to determine his health and Fantasy appeal for the season's final week. Consider reserving him if you have more certain options.
News: Brad Penny (arm) will be activated and start on Wednesday against the Padres. He will take Hideo Nomo's spot in the starting rotation.
Analysis: Penny will be given an 80-pitch pitch count.
News: Brad Penny (strained right biceps) threw 55 pitches Tuesday in live batting practice, according to the Los Angeles Times. It was the first time he faced hitters since originally leaving his Aug. 8 start with the injury.
Analysis: Penny's return date remains unclear, but the Dodgers are hopeful he'll be able to pitch in relief in the near future and perhaps even make a spot start or two before the regular season ends. He'll only be in the mix for a postseason roster spot if he can be used in a starting role.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Brad Penny (arm) is scheduled to face hitters Tuesday for the first time since going on the 15-day disabled list on Aug. 8.
Analysis: Penny might get to start a game or two at the end of the season as the team tries to set their playoff roster.
News: Brad Penny (strained right biceps) will not be used as a reliever in the playoffs, meaning he has three weeks to convince the Dodgers that he is capable of starting for them, according to the Los Angeles Times. He will throw batting practice on Tuesday, and the Dodgers hope he will be able to pitch out of the bullpen in lopsided games soon. Penny would then work on building arm strength to where he could start a game or two after the team clinches a playoff spot. "If he has any kind of setback, that's when the plug is pulled," manager Jim Tracy said.
Analysis: Penny seems unlikely to be useful from a Fantasy perspective based upon this timetable. Even if he does make a start or two in the season's final week-plus, he's probably not going to be able to last deep into those games.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times Brad Penny (strained right biceps) threw 56 pitches in a bullpen session on Saturday.
Analysis: Penny remains hopeful of a mid-September return. Most likely he'll return in time for one or two starts before the postseason.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Brad Penny threw off a mound on Tuesday for the first time since he strained his right biceps on Aug. 8 against Philadelphia.
Analysis: Manager Jim Tracy hinted Penny might initially work out of the bullpen when he is activated. "It's a very difficult thing to take a guy that you would send out there to start a game with the understanding that he would only be able to go two or three innings," Tracy said.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Manager Jim Tracy said he was encouraged that Brad Penny (strained right biceps) had increased the intensity of his throwing program
Analysis: There remains no timetable for Penny's return. The Dodgers are hoping he can return in the middle of September and be healthy for the postseason.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Brad Penny resumed his throwing program after resting Saturday. He tossed 50 times from about 115 feet. "It was an improved effort," physical therapist Pat Screnar said. "He felt better, and there was less tightness. It was probably his best day so far."
Analysis: The Dodgers said Penny probably is still weeks away from being activated from the disabled list. He will be a huge piece for the Dodgers if they are going to do anything in the postseason. There is no point rushing the veteran starter back too early.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Brad Penny played catch for a second consecutive day on Thursday, but his possible return remains weeks away.
Analysis: Penny will likely be out until the middle of September at the earliest. Jose Lima and Kaz Ishii have been getting the majority of the starts with him sidelined.
News: The Los Angeles Times notes that Penny (strained biceps) played catch for five minutes Wednesday. He said he experienced no pain, but felt "a slight amount" of restriction in his arm movement and lingering numbness in the forearm.
Analysis: Penny hopes to pitch in September, but the team is no closer to knowing if that can happen. "I've never seen this kind of injury before," said physical therapist Pat Screnar.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Brad Penny (strained biceps) is not expected to rejoin the rotation until well into September. The team hopes he can play catch this week. "It will take him several weeks just to get his arm in shape where he could compete," said physical therapist Pat Screnar.
Analysis: Penny is out for at least a month and should be reserved on teams with deep reserves.
News: Dodgers trainer Stan Johnston told the Los Angeles Times that Brad Penny continues to experience numbness in his forearm and will not resume throwing until the sensation subsides. Penny has not ruled out returning Aug. 24 at Montreal. "It's realistic," he said. "The way I feel (Sunday), I'm pretty close."
Analysis: Kazuhisa Ishii will make at least one more start in Penny's place on Thursday against Atlanta. Keep Penny reserved for this week.
News: Brad Penny (strained biceps) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Sunday. "He is better and he's making improvements but he still has some stiffness in that area from moving up into the lower part of the bicep," Dodgers manager Jim Tracy. "So as far as actually going out and doing any kind of tossing or throwing on the flat ground, as of this morning we do not have any specific timetable in mind as far as that is concerned."
Analysis: The move is retroactive to Aug 9. Los Angeles purchased the contract of Mike Venafro from Triple-A Las Vegas to replace him on the roster.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that there is no timetable set for Penny's (arm) return, although the team is hopeful he will only miss one start. "I'll be able to throw whenever the nerve calms down," he said.
Analysis: Penny will be replaced for Thursday's start at Cincinnati by Wilson Alvarez, and Kazuhisa Ishii will go Saturday at the Cubs.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that the MRI results on his right arm revealed no significant injury within his strained biceps. He is expected to pitch again this season. "He may have stretched something in there to cause the pain, but there isn't any kind of tear," said general manager Paul DePodesta.
Analysis: The former Marlin will not go on the disabled list unless he encounters discomfort when he resumes throwing. Kazuhisa Ishii will likely start in Penny's place at the Cubs Saturday.
News: Brad Penny, who was diagnosed with a strained biceps after leaving his scheduled start on Sunday, will undergo an MRI exam on Monday, according to the Los Angeles Times. He will miss at least one start. "I don't think he's going to need surgery," said Dodgers team physician Frank Jobe. "It doesn't look like it now."
Analysis: Kazuhisa Ishii will return to the Los Angeles rotation until Penny comes back. If Penny is out for more than a few weeks, it might make it harder for him to come back as a starter, since he won't be able to pitch on a minor-league rehabilitation assignment after the first week of September, when those seasons end.
News: Brad Penny was forced to leave Sunday's start against the Phillies after throwing just 14 pitches. Early indications are he has a strained right biceps.
Analysis: Penny will undergo an MRI later Sunday. At this point, Penny is a bit of a gamble to start next week. He might miss some time with this injury. Consider other alternatives until the severity of the injury is known.
News: Brad Penny tossed eight scoreless innings in his debut for the Dodgers on Tuesday night against the Pirates to improve to 9-8.
Analysis: Penny's performance might quiet the criticism of general manager Paul DePodesta just slightly.
News: Brad Penny is expected to make his Los Angeles debut on Wednesday against the Pirates.
Analysis: Wilson Alvarez has been shifted back to the bullpen to accomodate the acquisition of Penny from the Marlins.
News: According to published reports, The Dodgers have dealt Paul Lo Duca, Juan Encarnacion and Guillermo Mota to the Marlins in exchange for Brad Penny, Hee Seop Choi and Bill Murphy on Friday.
Analysis: Penny will join Los Angeles' rotation immedietly. His Fantasy value should increase a little bit because the Dodgers offense has been more productive than Florida all year. Also, Los Angeles has a much more reliable bullpen than the Marlins.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that the Dodgers are reportedly interested in trading for Brad Penny. The Marlins might move him because he could earn as much as $8 million in arbitration next year. The Marlins are interested in Paul Lo Duca.
Analysis: Penny is worth starting in all Fantasy leagues. If he goes to the Dodgers, it can only increase his value in an even better pitcher's park.
News: Brad Penny limited Montreal to five hits and two runs in six innings Friday. He walked four and struck out one in the loss.
Analysis: The loss evened Penny's record to 8-8, but he is much better than a .500 pitcher. Keep the hard-throwing strikeout artist active in all Fantasy leagues against Philadelphia next week.
News: Brad Penny allowed only one earned run and six hits in five innings on Sunday at Pittsburgh, but his outing was cut short by a rain delay.
Analysis: Over his past two starts, Penny has allowed three earned runs in 11 innings. He remains a must-start in all NL-only leagues.
News: Brad Penny allowed seven hits and two runs in six innings on Saturday against the Mets. He notched his first win in three starts and eighth of the season.
Analysis: Penny had been 1-5 in his last six starts. He is a solid start against Pittsburgh after the All-Star break.
News: Brad Penny will go to the hospital on Wednesday to receive treatment on an infection below his right knee, according to the Miami Herald. He is still expected to make his next scheduled start Saturday against the N.Y. Mets.
Analysis: Penny will be facing a below-average offense, and his injury shouldn't affect his performance. Keep him active.
News: Brad Penny suffered his fifth loss in his last six starts Saturday against the Devil Rays. He allowed seven hits and five runs through six innings. He had a season-low one strikeout also.
Analysis: Penny is 1-5 with a 5.01 ERA in his last seven starts. Consider reserving him while he continues to struggle. He faces off against the Mets next week. He allowed five runs in five innings in his only start against them this year.
News: Brad Penny gave up eight hits and four runs in 6 1/3 innings on Friday against Texas. He struck out 10 for the second consecutive start.
Analysis: Penny is 0-3 in his last three starts despite 25 strikeouts and a 4.42 ERA. Continue starting Penny in all Fantasy formats. He'll look to get back on track against rival Atlanta next period.
News: Brad Penny struck out 10 batters and allowed just two earned runs on Saturday against the Tigers. He suffered his second straight loss though.
Analysis: Penny is having a breakout season. He ranks in the National League's top-10 in ERA (2.62), innings (86), strikeouts (74), and opponent's batting average (.228).
News: Brad Penny held the Reds to two runs in eight innings of work Thursday at Cincinnati, improving his record to 6-2. He has allowed only six earned runs in his last five starts, a span of 34 1/3 innings.
Analysis: Penny has been one of the most effective Fantasy starters all season. He might have a few cold streaks, but he seems in line for a big breakout year.
News: Brad Penny allowed one earned run on five hits in six innings against Arizona Saturday.
Analysis: Penny has allowed three runs or less in all nine starts this season. He has emerged as a Fantasy stud, especially in leagues that reward strikeouts heavily.
News: Penny allowed one earned run and five hits in six innings with two walks and six strikeouts in Sunday's game at St. Louis to move to 4-2.
Analysis: Penny has seven quality starts in eight games this season. His 2.17 ERA makes his a top Fantasy pitcher in NL-only leagues.
News: Brad Penny tossed eight scoreless innings, allowing only two hits in Tuesday's game against the Expos in San Juan. He struck out 10 batters and only walked one.
Analysis: Penny has gone at least seven innings in both of his starts this season. He is a nice Fantasy starter when he can avoid the injury bug.
News: Brad Penny allowed only one run and three hits in six innings in Tuesday's spring start against Los Angeles.
Analysis: Penny is expected to be used as the team's No. 2 starter. He has posted a 3.57 ERA during the spring.
News: Brad Penny will start Saturday's World Series Game 1 in New York. "He had a tough outing in Chicago, but that's to be expected once in a while," Marlins manager Jack McKeon said. "I think he did a marvelous job the other day in relief. I really think he's up for the task."
Analysis: Dontrelle Willis was also considered for the starting assignment. Penny will square off against David Wells.
News: Brad Penny (elbow) allowed only one run on five hits in seven innings, but did not factor into the decision at Atlanta on Saturday.
Analysis: Penny should get one more start this week. The team is fighting for a playoff spot and Penny will surely be leaned on for help. He is safe to start in mixed leagues.
News: Brad Penny threw long toss on Tuesday, and is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Wednesday, according to the Palm Beach Post.
Analysis: Penny will start on Saturday in Atlanta, barring any setbacks.
News: The Miami Herald reports that Brad Penny's MRI on his elbow was normal. He will have a long-toss session Tuesday and might throw off the mound Wednesday.
Analysis: Penny will skip his Thursday start at Philadelphia. He is hoping to pitch Saturday at Atlanta.
News: Penny (hyperextended elbow) told the Palm Beach Post that he expects to make his next scheduled start on Saturday at Atlanta. He is awaiting MRI results.
Analysis: Even if Penny is able to make his start, keep him reserved for this difficult matchup.
News: Brad Penny will get an MRI on his hyperextended elbow on Sunday. He said the elbow improved since being pulled from Friday's start against Atlanta. "When I woke up, it wasn't stiff or anything," said Penny. The MRI that was scheduled for Saturday was cancelled because Penny was too large for the examination tube.
Analysis: Rick Helling is expected to replace Penny for any starts he might miss. The first start would be on Saturday against Atlanta again.
News: Brad Penny left Friday's game against Atlanta with a hyperextended elbow. He will receive an MRI examination on Saturday. X-rays were taken Friday.
Analysis: Rick Helling replaced Penny on the mound.
News: Penny left the first inning of Friday's game against Atlanta with an arm injury.
Analysis: Penny had allowed three runs on two hits in only two-thirds of an inning to that point.
News: Penny allowed one unearned run in eight innings on Saturday against the Chicago Cubs.
Analysis: In his past three starts, Penny has allowed only six runs and 14 hits in 23 innings. He faces Atlanta in his next start, but should be kept active in NL-only leagues while on a hot streak.
News: Brad Penny allowed no runs and five hits with seven strikeouts at Texas on Friday. He also notched six strikeouts.
Analysis: Penny brings his record up to 5-4. In his last five games, he's gone 3-1 with 27 strikeouts in 30 2/3 innings. Penny should be activated in all leagues.
News: After allowing 10 runs in 10 innings in his first two starts, Brad Penny has a 1-1 record and 2.41 ERA in his last five starts. He has allowed a .236 batting average during that span.
Analysis: What makes this hot streak even more impressive is that outside of a home game against the Brewers on April 22, the other four starts weren't exactly favorable matchups. Penny is pitching well enough right now to warrant an active roster spot in any Fantasy league, especially facing San Diego on Tuesday.
News: Brad Penny pitched seven scoreless innings on Wednesday, allowing two hits and three walks. He also struck out eight batters to improve his record to 2-1. "He's as strong as I've ever seen him, he's in great shape," said manager Jeff Torborg.
Analysis: Penny has the ability to be a top Fantasy closer in NL-only leagues, but he is often erratic or cannot stay healthy for lenghty stretches. If he can keep his focus and stay off the disabled list, he might have a special year.
News: Penny allowed six earned runs and eight hits in only five innings on Sunday at Atlanta. He also walked five batters, but did strike out six. "I should never have given up six runs with the stuff I had today," Penny said. "I was a little off in the first inning. After that I settled down, came back and did pretty well. I've just got to get that first inning out of the way."
Analysis: Penny was making his first start after serving a suspension due to a spring brawl. All things considered, Penny did not pitch too badly on Sunday. He will be an above-average starter in NL-only leagues.
News: Brad Penny's appeal was denied, and he will serve a five-game suspension at the beginning of the season.
Analysis: Michael Tejera will make a fill-in start in the first four games with both Penny and A.J. Burnett out, according to the Miami Herald.
News: Penny has not been too effective this season. Battling injuries along the way, he has only made nine starts since the end of April, and is 2-3 with a 6.14 ERA since the first month of the season. He has also been bothered by blisters recently. Penny was able to make his last start, but allowed four earned runs in six innings after having his scheduled date pushed back a day. Consider reserving him until he shows signs of improvement.
Analysis:
News: The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports that Penny had his scheduled start pushed back to August 2 to allow a blister on his pitching hand more time to heal. He was forced out of his last start because of the injury.
Analysis:
News: Penny looked a bit rusty on Tuesday night against the Cubs. He pitched 4 1/3 innings, allowing eight hits and four earned runs, while walking two and striking two out. Penny is a bit of a streaky pitcher, but his average performance Tuesday should be attributed to the layoff. Expect a better showing on Sunday versus the Mets.
Analysis:
News: Marlins manager Jeff Torborg said Penny will start Tuesday against the Cubs. He has been on the 15-day disabled list since May 19 with inflammation in his right biceps. Get him in your active lineup, as he may be in line for two starts in the upcoming week, both at home.
Analysis:
News: The blister on Penny's right index finger was not as severe as the Marlins originally feared, according to The Miami Herald. He will make a second rehabilitation start Thursday, and will be activated in time to start July 2.
Analysis:
News: Penny suffered a minor setback during his rehab start on Sunday. He pitched very well, but developed a blister on his pitching hand and is now expected to be make his return on July 2.
Analysis:
News: Penny's scheduled rehabilitation start Saturday in Tampa was rained out, so he will pitch there Sunday instead. He will likely still return to the Marlins' rotation on three days' rest Thursday against Philadelphia. Pitching coach Brad Arnsberg said the team will limit Penny's pitches to between 55 and 60 in his return, so he is not a recommended pitcher for the upcoming week.
Analysis:
News: According to The Miami Herald, Penny remains on track to return from the disabled list on June 27. He pitched in a simulated game Tuesday and will make a rehab start before rejoining the team. He is on the DL with right biceps tendinitis.
Analysis:
News: Penny threw 35 pitches in batting practice on Tuesday and The Miami Herald reports that he will be sent to the Marlins' spring training complex Friday to begin a rehabilitation assignment. Penny is on the disabled list with biceps inflammation, but he might be activated on June 28. Monitor his progress in the next few days.
Analysis:
News: Penny (elbow), who is on the DL, will throw in a bullpen session on Wednesday, according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. He threw on Sunday with no reported pain and he might be able to return in July.
Analysis:
News: Penny, who is on the DL with an inflammation in his right elbow, told The Miami Herald it will probably be "a month" before he returns from the DL. Right now, Kevin Olsen is filling Penny's spot in the Florida rotation.
Analysis:
News: Penny was placed on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday, retroactive to Sunday, with right biceps inflammation. Penny started at San Francisco on Saturday and left after allowing six runs and seven hits in three innings of a 10-5 loss. He was examined by the team doctor in Florida on Monday. The 23-year-old Penny is 3-3 with a 4.75 ERA in eight starts. Hansel Izquierdo or Kevin Olsen will replace him in the rotation.
Analysis:
News:The Miami Herald says Penny will be placed on the disabled list with an inflamed nerve in his right arm. The South Florida Sun-Sentinel says Julian Tavarez will now pitch on Thursday instead of skipping his next start as planned, and either Hansel Izquierdo or Kevin Olsen will start on Saturday.
Analysis:
News: Penny, who pitched just three innings in Saturday's game against San Francisco, will be sent back to Miami to undergo another evaluation after admitting that his right arm didn't feel right. "I felt it the whole time," said Penny. "I just tried to pitch through it." While nothing definitive has been decided, Penny feels as though he might be headed for the disabled list. "I don't know if I gave it enough rest," Penny said. "I need some time off. I'm looking at some DL time." Be sure to reserve Penny for at least the upcoming week.
Analysis:
News: Penny returned to the Florida rotation on Monday night, allowing five hits in five innings pitched. He struck out five, walked two and allowed two unearned runs and was saddled with the loss. Penny looked sharp at times and only left after five innings because he was on a pitch count.
Analysis:
News: Penny (elbow) threw on Thursday and confirmed he will start on May 13. He will be pitching in Colorado, however, so it will be a good idea to sit him until your next lineup change after May 13.
Analysis:
News: Manager Jeff Torborg said Penny was examined Monday and there was no major trouble with his injured elbow. Penny is slated to start May 13 at Colorado. He should get two starts in the next scoring period. However, you should consider reserving Penny until he shows he is fully returned to health, considering that his next two starts will be at Colorado and San Francisco.
Analysis:
News: Penny, who left Thursday's game against St. Louis after two innings with an elbow injury, will miss his next scheduled start. However, The Miami Herald reports that Penny will not be placed on the DL. The team plans on calling up Nate Teut this weekend, but he won't help Fantasy owners.
Analysis:
News: Penny told The Miami Herald that he will visit a doctor and undergo tests to determine what is ailing him. Penny has missed a start because of sickness and felt ill in two others, including his last outing on Monday.
Analysis:
News: Penny is not expected to miss his next scheduled start on Tuesday, according to the Miami Herald. A swollen right index finger is apparently healing well.
Analysis:
News: The Texas Rangers have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring Penny, according to the Miami Herald. They are also interested in Matt Clement and Luis Castillo. Penny's value may decrease if he is dealt away from the Marlins and is asked to assume a prime role on a team with a weaker pitching staff.
Analysis:
News: Penny's strained rib cage muscle has responded well enough to treatment that he should be able to start Saturday's game against Cincinnati, according to the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel. If he does return over the weekend, activate him for the upcoming week.
Analysis:
News: The Marlins scratched Penny from his scheduled start Monday against Baltimore due to lingering soreness in his strained intercostal (rib cage) muscle, according to the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel. He will be replaced by Jesus Sanchez, and is tentatively scheduled to start Saturday against Cincinnati. Keep Penny reserved for this week as a precaution.
Analysis:
News: Penny has shown enough improvement in his strained rib cage muscle that he may not miss a start, according to the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel. He is tentatively scheduled to pitch Monday against Baltimore after throwing in the bullpen on Thursday. Penny will throw again on Saturday, and if all goes well, he looks safe to activate for the upcoming week.
Analysis:
News: Penny strained the intercostal muscle on his left side throwing a pitch on Saturday, according to the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel. The initial prognosis had him expected out two to three weeks, but he reported less soreness Sunday and now could be able to pitch July 16 against Baltimore. Penny might still be placed on the disabled list, and you should consider reserving him as a result.
Analysis:
News: Penny suffered a bruised left foot in the second inning of Saturday's 1-0 victory against the Colorado Rockies after being hit by a hard grounder off the bat of Ron Gant. However, the team doesn't believe the injury is serious and expect Penny to make his next start on Thursday against the New York Mets.
Analysis:
News: Penny won his sixth straight decision dating to last July, allowing three runs and six hits while sending the Dodgers to their fourth loss in five games. Penny has given up fewer than three earned runs in five of seven starts this season. A low-profile starter, Penny has still been pitching better than some marquee hurlers this season.
Analysis:
News: Penny contracted mononucleosis last month, but the illness didn't set him back any this spring. He should be fine and could be in for a big season with the Marlins. Penny is a fine Fantasy prospect and could be undervalued in your draft.
Analysis:
News: Was scheduled to start Friday in Miami against the Diamondbacks. Penny hasn't pitched since July 19th. Assuming he stays healthy, he should remain in the Marlins rotation for the year, getting him ready for an important role with the 2001 team. If healthy, Penny is one of the best pitching prospects in baseball.
Analysis:
News: Had his worst outing of the season Tuesday, giving up 6 ER in 2 1/3 IP. He walked 7 and has now walked 17 batters in his last 15 1/3 IP. Penny will work through this if the Marlins are patient with him.
Analysis:
News: Will swap rotation spots with #4 starter LHP Jesus Sanchez. Sanchez has a blister on his pitching hand, so he can use an extra day of rest. Penny will start on his usual four days' rest on Friday, with Sanchez getting six days' rest and pitching on Saturday. Penny is off to an excellent start in his rookie season (3-1, 3.42 ERA, 1.10 WHIP), but do remember that he's not even 22 years old yet, and thus there will be downs to go along with the ups that are prevalent now.
Analysis:
News: Penny, fighting for the No. 5 spot in Florida's rotation, allowed one hit in four scoreless innings as the Marlins beat the Detroit Tigers 10-5 on Sunday. The right-hander, who was acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks in the Matt Mantei trade last July, has allowed only three hits and has not given up a run in nine innings this spring.
Analysis:
News: Penny, recently acquired by Florida, threw six innings of no-hit ball on August 9 as the Sea Dogs, an affilate of the Marlins, posted a combined no-hitter against Trenton.
Analysis:
