News: According to MASNSports.com, the Orioles signed outfielder Lew Ford to a minor-league deal on Friday. He was starting in center field for Triple-A Norfolk on Friday night.
Analysis: Ford hasn't played in the majors since 2007 with the Twins, so there is a very slim chance he gets called up this year. Ford is nothing more than organizational depth at this point in his career. Continue to ignore him in all formats.
News: The Cincinnati Reds signed outfielder Lew Ford to a minor league contract Tuesday.
Analysis: Ford is nothing more than organizational depth at this point in his career. Ignore him in all Fantasy leagues right now.
News: The Colorado Rockies signed outfielder Lew Ford to a minor league contract Monday.
Analysis: Ford spent last season in Japan and figures to be Triple-A depth at this point. He has speed and pop and could prove to be a viable reserve for the Rockies and deeper NL-only leagues, though.
News: Free-agent outfielder Lew Ford signed to play in Japan with the Hanshin Tigers.
Analysis: Ford was once a potential speed-and-power option for deeper Rotisserie leagues, but now that he will be getting his at-bats in Japan, ignore him in all Fantasy formats on Draft Day.
News: Outfielders Lew Ford and Josh Rabe and DH Matthew LeCroy declined assignments by the Minnesota Twins to Triple-A Rochester on Thursday and will become free agents.
Analysis: Ford has spent the past six years in the Twins organization after being acquired in a trade with Boston in 2000. He batted .233 with three home runs and 14 RBI in 55 games during an injury-filled 2007. He likely won't land a starting gig with another team and likely won't be someone to bother with on Draft Day 2008.
News: Minnesota outrighted OF Lew Ford, OF Josh Rabe and INF Tommy Watkins to Triple-A Rochester Friday.
Analysis: Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve and he likely will have little to no Fantasy value heading into the 2008 season.
News: Twins OF Lew Ford (hand) did not return to the starting lineup Sunday against the Red Sox. He has not started the last seven games, but did make an appearances as a pinch runner Saturday and entered as a defensive replacement Sunday. He was hitless in his lone at-bat Sunday.
Analysis: Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve at this point of the season. He likely will have little to no Fantasy value heading into the 2008 season.
News: Twins OF Lew Ford (hand) did not return to the starting lineup Saturday against the Red Sox. He has not started the last six games, but did make an appearances as a pinch runner Saturday.
Analysis: Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve at this point of the season. He likely will have little to no Fantasy value heading into the 2008 season.
News: Twins OF Lew Ford (hand) did not return to the starting lineup Friday against the Red Sox. He has missed the last five games.
Analysis: Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve at this point of the season. He likely will have little to no Fantasy value heading into the 2008 season.
News: Twins OF Lew Ford (hand) did not return to the starting lineup Thursday against the Red Sox. He has missed the last four games.
Analysis: Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve at this point of the season. He likely will have little to no Fantasy value heading into the 2008 season.
News: Twins OF Lew Ford (hand) did not return to the starting lineup Wednesday against the Tigers. He has missed the last three games.
Analysis: Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve at this point of the season. He likely will have little to no Fantasy value heading into the 2008 season.
News: OF Lew Ford (hand) didn't return to the Twins lineup at Detroit on Monday.
Analysis: Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve at this point of the season.
News: LF Lew Ford (hand) was scratched from the lineup at Detroit Monday.
Analysis: Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve at this point of the season.
News: The Minnesota Twins recalled outfielder Lew Ford from Triple-A Rochester after Monday's game.
Analysis: In 49 games with the Twins before he was sent down, Ford hit .232 with six doubles, three home runs and 14 RBI in 112 at-bats. The team intended to bring him up when rosters could be expanded on Saturday, but he fouled a ball off his foot and sat out the last few days. Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve for now.
News: Manager Ron Gardenhire said OF Lew Ford seemed shocked but didn't say much after being optioned to Triple-A Rochester on Saturday. Gardenhire said the Twins demoted Ford and called up LHP Carmen Cali to provide some relief for the bullpen.
Analysis: Ford has been a disappointment, batting .232 with six doubles, three home runs and 14 RBI in 49 games. "I had to make a move and he can go down there and get some swings," Gardenhire said, adding he had plenty of outfielders and needed to keep his infield intact. Thrust into regular duty in center field when Torii Hunter got hurt in 2005, Ford finished with only seven homers, 53 RBI and a .264 average in 522 at-bats. Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve when in the majors.
News: Minnesota outfielder Lew Ford was optioned to Triple-A Rochester after Saturday's game, and the Twins planned to recall left-hander Carmen Cali to join the team on Sunday. After missing the first five weeks of the season with a knee injury, Ford has been a disappointment for a team lacking production from their left fielders and designated hitters. He batted .232 with six doubles, three home runs and 14 RBI in 49 games.
Analysis: Ford, who turns 31 next week, has not given Minnesota much over the last three years, actually. He batted .299 with 15 homers, 72 RBI, 20 stolen bases and a .381 on-base percentage as the primary designated hitter in 2004. Thrust into regular duty in center field when Torii Hunter got hurt in 2005, Ford finished with only seven homers, 53 RBI and a .264 average in 522 at-bats. Ford is nothing more than an AL-only Fantasy reserve when in the majors.
News: Twins OF Lew Ford hit a two-out homer in the ninth inning off Indians RP Rafael Betancourt to make it 4-1 during Sunday's win. Ford came into the at-bat without a hit in his previous 13 plate appearances.
Analysis: Ford has made just a handful of starts in July and that should say plenty about his Fantasy value. Despite the long ball Sunday, Ford remains just an AL-only Fantasy reserve.
News: Michael Cuddyer and Lew Ford homered and drove in three runs apiece to help the Twins beat the Detroit Tigers 8-5 Saturday. "Guys are walking, guys are getting in hitters' counts," said Cuddyer, whose team has scored 27 runs in its last three games. "We're getting in counts where we can afford to be aggressive."
Analysis: Ford hit a two-run drive and a run-scoring double. He gets a start or two a week, but that only makes him an AL-only viable Fantasy player.
News: One phrase kept coming out of Lew Ford's mouth as he watched Justin Morneau's home run ball slam off the folded seats over the big baggie in right field. "Thank you, Justin," Ford said. "Thank you, thank you, thank you. You're the man. ... I think I was happiest guy in the building." Morneau capped a wild game with his third walk-off homer of the season to lift the Minnesota Twins to a 10-9 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday. The blast by the reigning AL MVP bailed out Ford, whose two fielding miscues in the top of the inning allowed Milwaukee to tie the game off closer Joe Nathan (3-1).
Analysis: Filling in for the injured Torii Hunter, who was hit by a pitch on the left hand in the first inning, Ford had a career-high four RBI but nearly cost the Twins the game in the ninth. Ford lost a sky-high popup from Prince Fielder in the Metrodome's white roof, and the 262-pound Fielder rumbled around the bases for an inside-the-park homer to make the score 9-8. Later in the inning, Ford double-clutched on a sacrifice fly from Craig Counsell and Bill Hall scored easily to tie the game and give Nathan his second blown save of the season. Hunter said after the game he intends to play on Monday. Ford still might get a few starts if Hunter is not ready to play, but is nothing more than an AL-only reserve.
News: Lew Ford hit a sharp grounder through second base on Friday at Oakland, ending an 0-for-11 skid.
Analysis: Ford, hitting .186 after a 1-for-5 night, was playing because manager Ron Gardenhire wanted as many right-handed hitters in the lineup as possible against Oakland starter Joe Kennedy. Ford is only worth a look in the deepest of AL-only Fantasy leagues.
News: Two weeks after challenging Jason Kubel to take over the left-field job, manager Ron Gardenhire has reversed course, settling upon the left-handed hitter as his everyday designated hitter. Lew Ford's strong return from knee surgery has convinced Gardenhire to put him in the outfield instead.
Analysis: Ford is only worth a look in the deepest of AL-only Fantasy leagues. He'll get a decent amount of starts with Rondell White (calf) on the mend.
News: The Minnesota Twins placed Josh Rabe on the 15-day disabled list on Friday due to shoulder inflammation and the team activated Lew Ford (knee) from the DL. The move on Rabe is retroactive to May 10.
Analysis: Ford is only worth a look in the deepest of AL-only Fantasy leagues. He'll get a decent amount of starts with Rondell White (calf) on the mend.
News: OF Lew Ford (right knee) went 1-for-5 with an RBI in his fourth game with Triple-A Rochester. Overall he is hitting .211 (4-for-19) with four RBI. Manager Ron Gardenhire said it will be after 10 games when Ford's status will be reviewed. "He's a little behind, but that's expected," Gardenhire said. "It's his spring training."
Analysis: Ford will see decent amount of at-bats when he returns to Minnesota now that Rondell White (calf) is out indefinitely. He is only worth a look in the deepest of AL-only Fantasy leagues when healthy. Keep him reserved for Fantasy Week 5 (April 30-May 6).
News: According to MLB.com, injured Twins OF Lew Ford (knee) is expected to join Triple-A Rochester on Sunday to begin his rehab assignment after undergoing arthroscopic surgery in mid-March to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee.
Analysis: Ford has been playing in some extended spring training games while rehabbing. Ford will see decent amount of at-bats when he returns to Minnesota now that Rondell White (calf) is out indefinitely. He is only worth a look in the deepest of AL-only Fantasy leagues when healthy. Keep him reserved for Fantasy Week 5 (April 30-May 6).
News: According to MLB.com, injured Twins OF Lew Ford (knee) could return to the team a lot sooner than expected. Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said he doesn't expect Ford to return for another month, but said he could be back sooner with all the injuries the team is facing. "Things change down there pretty quick," Gardenhire said. "Especially when things change like they have up here."
Analysis: Ford has been playing in some extended spring training games while he is rehabbing a torn meniscus in his right knee. He is expected to go on a rehab assignment on either Monday or Tuesday. Ford will see decent at-bats when he returns to Minnesota now that Rondell White (calf) is out indefinitely. He is only worth a look in the deepest of AL-only Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: MLB.com reports Lew Ford (knee) might begin a minor-league rehab assignment either Monday or Tuesday. He has been slow to recover from a quadriceps injury and knee surgery.
Analysis: Ford will see decent at-bats when he returns to Minnesota now that Rondell White (calf) is out indefinitely. He is only worth a look in the deepest of AL-only Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: The Twins placed OF Lew Ford (knee) and INF Alejandro Machado (shoulder) on the 15-day disabled list and LH Francisco Liriano (elbow) on the 60-day disabled list Saturday. Ford is expected to miss at least another month. Machado is out indefinitely. Liriano will miss the season following ligament transplant surgery.
Analysis: We knew that Liriano was expected to miss the entire season and Saturday's move was just a formality. He should not be drafted in any seasonal leagues, but could be worth holding onto in long-term keeper leagues, if you can afford to stash him for an entire season. Ford underwent knee surgery in mid-March and will likely be a reserve OF upon his return. Consider him for that same role in AL-only leagues when he is back on the diamond. Finally, Machado will either return to the Twins as a reserve middle infielder or open the season in the minors when he is healthy. There is no need to bother with him in Fantasy leagues at this time.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports Twins OF Lew Ford underwent successful surgery to remove scar tissue from his right knee. Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said Ford will be close to returning in four weeks.
Analysis: Even if healthy, Ford is nothing more than a reserve outfielder for the Twins and deeper AL-only leagues. He has some steals potential, but not on a bum knee. Avoid him at this point.
News: MLB.com reports that Lew Ford (sore right knee) is making progress. He was able to swing and do some running on Tuesday, but he's still experiencing stiffness.
Analysis: Ford will probably be running the bases on Wednesday. Even if healthy, Ford is nothing more than a reserve outfielder for the Twins and deeper AL-only leagues. He has some steals potential, but not on a bum knee. Avoid him at this point.
News: According to the team's official Web site, it is still uncertain as to when Twins OF Lew Ford will return to action after missing the last few days with soreness in his right knee. An MRI showed some inflammation in the IT band in his right knee, as well as an oversized meniscus with a slight tear. Manager Ron Gardenhire said the team did not know if it was a new or old injury, but Ford did receiver a cortisone shot to reduce the inflammation. Ford was told that he would know in the next few days whether the inflammation is the cause of the problem. "They said it would be completely cleared up or it's still going to hurt," Ford said. "And if it still hurts, then they likely will have to do a scope on it."
Analysis: Even if healthy, Ford is nothing more than a reserve outfielder for the Twins and deeper AL-only leagues. He has some steals potential, but not on a bum knee. Avoid him at this point.
News: OF Lew Ford will miss the next few days of spring training while he rests his ailing right knee. Ford was diagnosed with a slightly torn meniscus and could need arthroscopic surgery to correct it.
Analysis: Even if healthy, Ford is nothing more than a reserve outfielder for the Twins and deeper AL-only leagues. He has some steals potential, but not on a bum knee. Avoid him at this point.
News: MLB.com notes that OF Lew Ford will have an MRI on his right knee Tuesday. Manager Ron Gardenhire wasn't sure how serious the injury was, and Ford didn't make any comments.
Analysis: The Twins were generous enough to offer Ford a contract seeing how the utility outfielder has been nursing a knee injury. Ford will likely split time at DH and backing up all three outfield positions this season. He should be considered an AL-only reserve on Draft Day.
News: AL MVP Justin Morneau agreed Friday to a $4.5 million, one-year contract with the Minnesota Twins, who also settled their salary arbitration cases with third baseman Nick Punto, reliever Juan Rincon and outfielder Lew Ford. Ford reached a $985,000, one-year agreement.
Analysis: Ford was a backup last year who hit .226 with 18 RBIs in 234 at-bats. In addition to his base salary, he could earn $65,000 in performance bonuses: $15,000 for 300 plate appearances, and $25,000 each for 400 and 450 plate appearances. Ford had asked for $1.3 million and had been offered $800,000. The Twins were generous enough to offer Ford a contract seeing how the utility outfielder is currently nursing a knee injury. Ford will likely split time at DH and backing up all three outfield positions this season. He should be considered an AL-only reserve on Draft Day.
News: According to MinnesotaTwins.com, Twins OF Lew Ford has not been able to workout as much as he would like due to a knee injury. Ford injured the meniscus in his left knee while working out this offseason and later had surgery. He said that he has taken it easy since the surgery and just recently began the rehab process. "I was doing some plyometric jumps and when I landed, I felt my knee kind of snap," Ford said. "I've had to stay off my feet, but I'm now starting to get back into things and I expect to be ready to go soon."
Analysis: Ford hit a career-low .226 in 2006 with just four homers and 18 RBIs in 104 games. "It's frustrating because this is usually the time when you want to get ready for spring training, and hitting and throwing, but I can't do any of that," Ford said. "It won't be long now until I can start doing that stuff. I'm just anxious to get going." Ford will likely split time at DH and backing up all three outfield positions this season. He should be considered an AL-only reserve on Draft Day.
News: Lew Ford, a reserve outfielder who struggled with injuries last season, was the final Twins player to exchange numbers Tuesday, asking for $1.3 million and being offered $800,000.
Analysis: Ford doesn't figure to get a whole lot of at-bats again this season, so consider him merely an AL-only outfielder on Draft Day. There was a day when Ford's speed made him a Rotisserie option, but injuries have watered down his value.
News: The Twins activated OF Lew Ford (oblique) from the 15-day DL.
Analysis: Because of his limited productivity and sometimes limited playing time, Ford is nothing more than reserve outfield option for deeper AL-only leagues.
News: The Minnesota Twins placed outfielder Rondell White on the 15-day disabled list after Thursday night's game because of a strained left hamstring. The Twins plan to activate outfielder Lew Ford from the disabled list on Friday to take his place.
Analysis: Ford has been on a rehabilitation assignment with Triple-A Rochester. He was put on the DL July 14 after straining a muscle on his right side. Ford could be viable for deeper AL-only leagues -- but track his progress through the weekend before using him in the upcoming scoring period.
News: Lew Ford (oblique) began his Triple-A rehab assignment Thursday, going 0-for-1 with two walks.
Analysis: Ford could be brought back for Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 7-13) -- and viable for deeper AL-only leagues -- but track his progress through the weekend.
News: OF Lew Ford (right oblique) was set to begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Rochester this week.
Analysis: Ford could be brought back for Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 7-13), but track his progress through the weekend.
News: Outfielder Lew Ford should start a minor league rehabilitation assignment Thursday.
Analysis: Ford could be brought back for Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 7-13), but track his progress through the weekend.
News: Lew Ford (strained oblique muscle) was not activated from the 15-day disabled list on Monday. He continues to recover, but he remains on the shelf despite being ready to return.
Analysis: Ford should be kept reserved in all AL-only leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Lew Ford, who has a strained muscle on his right side, is feeling better, manager Ron Gardenhire said, but still not ready for batting practice. He'll need a minor league rehabilitation assignment before returning to the active roster.
Analysis: Ford won't be available for Fantasy Week 18 (July 31-Aug. 6). Keep him reserved until you hear better news on him.
News: OF Lew Ford, on the DL with a strained oblique muscle, will likely begin batting practice Friday. "If everything goes well for a few days of BP, I think probably the situation that will come is we will end up sending him down to few days in rehab to make sure he is ready for game situations," Gardenhire said.
Analysis: Ford likely won't be available for Fantasy Week 18 (July 31-Aug. 6) at this point, at least most of it. Keep him reserved until you hear better news on him.
News: Lew Ford (oblique), on the 15-day disabled list, will likely take batting practice on Friday before the game against the Tigers.
Analysis: Ford is nearing a return, but it is likely he will be sent out for a handful of minor-league rehab games before being activated. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues.
News: MLB.com reports the Minnesota Twins have placed Lew Ford on the 15-day disabled list due to a strained oblique muscle. "I kind of tweaked it on an earlier swing," Ford said of the ailment. "On the last one, it was painful."
Analysis: The Twins recalled Jason Tyner from Triple-A Rochester to replace Ford on the active roster. Fantasy Baseballers should be sure to reserve Ford across the board.
News: Lew Ford had to leave last Thursday's game early after straining an oblique muscle.
Analysis: Ford is listed as day to day, but could wind up on the disabled list. Consider him questionable for the rest of the Cleveland series.
News: Lew Ford is hitting .221 with three homers and 13 RBI through 181 at-bats this season. He has eight steals and 31 runs.
Analysis: The emergence of Jason Kubel is costing Ford playing time, so only consider him in larger AL-only leagues at this point.
News: Lew Ford has only 17 at-bats in his past seven games, dating back to June 9, but he has only one hit in that span.
Analysis: The emergence of Jason Kubel is costing Ford playing time, so only consider him in larger AL-only leagues at this point.
News: Minnesota's Lew Ford started in right field against the Angels Wednesday in place of Michael Cuddyer, who was scratched a day after fouling a pitch off his left foot. Ford went 2-for-5 with a run scored.
Analysis: Ford has also been sharing starts with Jason Kubel, but he remains a low-end outfielder for AL-only leagues at this point.
News: LF Jason Kubel started Tuesday night against the Angels, with Lew Ford on the bench. Manager Ron Gardenhire has said he doesn't want to call it a platoon, and he's just mixing and matching the best he can.
Analysis: Ford (.227) doesn't have the potential of Kubel, so he stands to lose playing time as long as Kubel is on the big league roster. Consider Ford a low-end outfielder for AL-only leagues at this point.
News: Minnesota's Lew Ford led off the 10th with a game-winning homer off former teammate Eddie Guardado.
Analysis: The homer was Ford's second of the season and first since April 21. It came on a 1-2 pitch from Guardado (0-3), who played for the Twins for 11 seasons before signing with the Mariners in 2003. Ford has been playing regularly once again, so consider starting him in AL-only play.
News: Lew Ford, who appears to have replaced the injured Shannon Stewart atop Minnesota's order, went 1-for-4 in Wednesday's 11-0 blowout loss to the Cleveland Indians.
Analysis: Ford (.224 BA) should see more action in the absence of Stewart, which makes him a viable starter in most AL formats. The Twins and Tribe finish their series on Thursday at the Metrodome.
News: Michael Cuddyer will remain the Twins' starting right fielder for the foreseeable future, manager Ron Gardenhire said. Cuddyer, who replaced Lew Ford last week, has an eight-game hitting streak.
Analysis: Ford (.211 BA) has just one hit in his past 11 at-bats. He should be reserved in most cases while Cuddyer is hot at the plate and is seeing most of the work in right field.
News: Lew Ford had two hits and an RBI vs. Seattle Monday, and Justin Morneau homered for Minnesota, which is batting .251 as a team. "I don't know what to say about it," Ford said in a silent clubhouse. "It's just difficult right now."
Analysis: Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said Ford isn't a lock to remain the starter all season, but anyone who can produce offensively is a welcomed sight for the Twins. At this point, use Ford exclusively in AL formats or as a short-term replacement option in larger mixed leagues.
News: Lew Ford made his sixth straight start in right field in Thursday's win over Kansas City, ending any outside assumptions that he is in a platoon situation with Michael Cuddyer, who was considered the starter throughout much of spring training.
Analysis: Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said Ford isn't a lock to remain the starter all season, however. "Lew's on a little roll right here. Let's ride it out," he said. "He's been one of our better hitters on this road trip." Ford has hit safely in all six games on the trip but has no multi-hit games in that stretch.
News: Lew Ford singled against Luke Hudson (0-2) leading off the eighth Tuesday, advanced on John Buck's passed ball and scored on a pinch-hit by Ruben Sierra.
Analysis: Ford has been seeing a lot of at-bats since Jason Kubel was sent to Triple-A. Consider him a decent starter in deeper AL-only leagues.
News: MLB.com reports Ruben Sierra will see time at DH and in right field for the Minnesota Twins. Manager Ron Gardenhire might also allow Rondell White some time in the outfield as well. "I might play Rondell in right field or left field and start Ruben at DH," Gardenhire said.
Analysis: Right field could become a platoon situation for the Twinkies with Sierra, White and Michael Cuddyer all in the mix. Lew Ford, who started Tuesday and is hitting .333, should also receive time in the field. All four have far more value in AL formats at this point.
News: Manager Ron Gardenhire said OF Lew Ford (hamstring) was feeling better and is available. "He told me he's ready to be used and can play," Gardenhire said.
Analysis: It appears safe to activate him in deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: Ford was unavailable for Tuesday's game against the Athletics due to some lingering tightness in both of his hamstrings. "We'll give him another day here and see if he can help us tomorrow," Twins manager Ron Gardenhire told MLB.com.
Analysis: Ford is considered day to day. Manager Ron Gardenhire said Ford might be ready for Wednesday's game against the A's.
News: MLB.com reports Lew Ford (hamstring) did his usual activities during the Twins' workout on Monday and said that he was going to do some extra running following the workout.
Analysis: Ford said that his leg was feeling better and believed that he could be ready for action in the home opener against the Oakland A's. He is hitless in four at-bats this season.
News: Lew Ford (hamstring) looked good enough over the weekend that the Minnesota Twins expect him to return in time for Tuesday's home opener against Oakland.
Analysis: Ford doesn't have a hit in four at-bats this season. Consider him a low-end starter in AL formats this week.
News: Lew Ford (hamstring) was out of the lineup Sunday. Manager Ron Gardenhire said Saturday that team trainers told him the injury isn't serious. With cold weather in Cleveland and the Twins off Monday, it's possible Ford will be given three days to rest.
Analysis: Ford is a low-end option for AL-only leagues for Fantasy Week 2 (April 10-16). Even if he plays, his time will be limited. And his one salvageable part of his game -- steals for Rotisserie leagues -- will be limited.
News: OF Lew Ford was out of the lineup Saturday with a tight left hamstring. Manager Ron Gardenhire said team trainers told him the injury isn't serious. With cold weather in Cleveland and the Twins off Monday, it's possible Ford will be given three days to rest.
Analysis: Ford is a low-end option for AL-only leagues for Fantasy Week 2 (April 10-16). Even if he plays, his time will be limited. And his one salvageable part of his game -- steals for Rotisserie leagues -- will be limited.
News: Twins OF Lew Ford (hamstring) and 2B Luis Castillo (sore leg) didn't play at Cleveland Saturday because of the cold.
Analysis: Ford should not be starting in AL-only leagues until he can string together some solid outings anyway.
News: Minnesota's Lew Ford left Friday´s game at Cleveland after his at-bat in the top of the fourth inning after tweaking his left hamstring. He was replaced in right field by Michael Cuddyer to start the bottom of the fourth inning.
Analysis: Ford should not be starting in AL-only leagues until he can string together some solid outings anyway.
News: Minnesota manager Ron Gardenhire has said DH-OF Ruben Sierra, in camp on a minor league contract, will stay behind in Florida until his strained quadriceps is fully healed. Luis Rodriguez will be the team's utility infielder. And until Sierra is ready, all three of the players who were competing for the open job in right field -- Michael Cuddyer, Lew Ford and Jason Kubel -- will be on the roster. Gardenhire has said he's comfortable using any of them, but Kubel is expected to be the starter on opening day.
Analysis: Ford should not be starting in AL-only leagues for Fantasy Week 1 (April 2-9) at this point. Kubel is the way to go in deeper mixed leagues or AL-only formats.
News: Manager Ron Gardenhire said he would feel comfortable starting either Michael Cuddyer, Jason Kubel or Lew Ford in right field on Tuesday in Toronto. Ford could be traded out of Minnesota sooner than later, the St. Paul Pioneer Press had reported.
Analysis: Ford is a risky start in AL-only leagues for Fantasy Week 1 (April 2-9) at this point. Track his status over the weekend.
News: Lew Ford could be traded out of Minnesota sooner than later, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. Should a deal come to fruition, Jason Tyner and Terry Tiffee would both make the team.
Analysis: Jason Kubel is expected to start in right field in the absence of Michael Cuddyer (oblique), so Ford will be no more than a reserve with the Twins. He's also worth no more than a reserve spot in AL formats.
News: Barring a miraculous turn of events, Michael Cuddyer (strained oblique) is headed to the disabled list to open the regular season.
Analysis: Look for Lew Ford to see time in the outfield if Cuddyer is unavailable to start the season. Ford is worth a roster spot in AL formats.
News: The Twins agreed to one-year contracts with RHPs Scott Baker, Jesse Crain, Matt Guerrier, LHP Francisco Liriano, C Joe Mauer, 1B Justin Morneau and OF Lew Ford. All 40 players on the roster are signed for 2006.
Analysis: Lew Ford was expected to be a breakout player last season, but he didn't do much when he finally earned a starting job. Ford was the 174th overall selection (15th round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He should rebound somewhat this year, as the whole Twins offense should be a little better, but don't risk a mixed-league pick on him just yet.
News: The Twins came to terms with LHP Dave Gassner, C Chris Heintz, INF Jason Bartlett and OF Lew Ford on one-year contracts Tuesday.
Analysis: Lew Ford was expected to be a breakout player last season, but he didn't do much when he finally earned a starting job. Ford was the 174th overall selection (fifteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He should rebound somewhat this year, as the whole Twins offense should be a little better, but don't risk a mixed-league pick on him just yet.
News: Lew Ford was the 174th overall selection (fifteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a .265 BA with seven home runs, 53 RBI and 13 steals in 522 AB in 2005.
Analysis: Ford is a versatile athlete and has some value because of his skills as a base stealer. He's worth a fifteenth- to sixteenth-round selection in AL leagues.
News: Lew Ford was benched Sunday against the White Sox after hitting into a double play caused by his failure to run out a bunt he thought went foul.
Analysis: But Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said Ford would return to the lineup Monday in Oakland. "I kind of froze," Ford said.
News: Lew Ford, who struggled this season until Torii Hunter got hurt and he replaced him as the everyday player in CF, was named the AL Player of the Week recently. "He's just getting better pitches to hit," manager Ron Gardenhire said.
Analysis: Ford hit .364 with three homers, 10 RBI and he made several nice catches in the field. If he's available in any leagues, grab him as he continues to pace the Twins offense.
News: Ford was 1-for-5 with a run scored, stolen base and two strikeouts in Sunday's game at Boston.
Analysis: Ford will see an increase in playing time with Torii Hunter (ankle) on the 15-day disabled list. He started in center field on Sunday. He is mired in a 5-for-48 (.104) slump over the past 14 games, but he should straighten himself out with regular at-bats again.
News: Lew Ford went 0-for-4 in the first game of a doubleheader Sunday, extending the hitless skid by Minnesota's leadoff hitters to eight games and 33 at-bats.
Analysis: Ford is not an advisable play in Fantasy leagues right now. He is hitless in his past seven games, dropping his average to .253 going into Sunday, when he did not start for the second consecutive game.
News: Ford batted leadoff and was the designated hitter in Thursday's game against the Tigers, but he was hitless in five at-bats.
Analysis: Ford is battling through a terrible slump, going hitless in 15 at-bats over his past five games. He has no home runs and only three RBI over his past 20 games.
News: With his Justin Morneau's status (elbow) still uncertain, the Twins are concerned enough about their defense at first base, they're giving right fielder Jacque Jones some work there. Jones could play first when Minnesota is without a DH during visits to a pair of NL clubs, Arizona and Los Angeles. It would allow the Twins to keep DH Lew Ford's bat in the lineup. Ford would play right if Jones was at first. Matt LeCroy made an error at first Sunday and should be considered a last-resort option at first right now.
Analysis: Ford might not be a must-sit DH after all. He had figured to sit unless the Twins do not slot their regular outfield of Shannon Stewart, Torii Hunter and Jones. We see Ford getting about three starts this week, though, so only keep him active in AL leagues.
News: Lew Ford homered, tripled and drove in three runs to lead the undermanned Minnesota Twins to a 6-3 victory over the slumping New York Yankees on Friday night.
Analysis: Ford has been a consistent Fantasy player for the entire season. Start him in all formats.
News: Lew Ford, hitting .333 over his previous 10 games, was moved to third in the batting order Tuesday between Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau. "Lew's swinging good, so let's try something different. Why not?" mananger Ron Gardenhire said. "It mixes it up, lefty, righty, on down the lineup. I'll let you know after the game if I like it."
Analysis: Ford is batting .429 (9-for-21) in a current six-game hitting streak. He hasn't been hitting for a lot of power, but is still a solid Fantasy option.
News: Lew Ford was 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles, a triple, three runs scored and an RBI in Sunday's game against Milwaukee. He also drew a walk, propelling the Twins to an extra-inning victory.
Analysis: Ford entered Sunday's game without a home run or RBI in each of his past eight games, but he does have six extra-base hits over the past three starts.
News: Ford (swollen finger on his left hand) was back in the starting lineup for Tuesday's game at Baltimore.
Analysis: Ford batted seventh and started in right field. It appears safe to get him back into the active Fantasy lineup in all AL-only leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: Ford was unable to start Monday's game at Baltimore due to a swollen finger on his left hand.
Analysis: Ford was available off of the bench. He is considered day to day. Terry Tiffee got a start as the team's designated hitter in his absence.
News: Ford was 4-for-6 with a pair of RBI in Thursday's game against the Royals.
Analysis: Ford is 7-for-12 (.583) over his past three games to raise his average from .214 to .296.
News: Ford went 2-for-3 against the White Sox Tuesday. He raised his average to .244.
Analysis: Ford entered the game 1-for-12 in his past four games. He's got 20/20 talent, and is worth starting in most formats.
News: Ford was hitless in four at-bats in Monday's regular season opener at Seattle. He struck out twice in the game.
Analysis: Ford will look to rebound in Tuesday's game against starter Gil Meche.
News: Lew Ford went 2-for-4 with a home run Monday against Detroit.
Analysis: Ford entered the game in a 3-for-21 slump in his previous seven games. He remains a fine option in all Fantasy leagues and will compete to win the American League Rookie of the Year as well.
News: Lew Ford (knee) was back in the starting lineup Friday against Cleveland. He bruised his knee in Thursday's game.
Analysis: Ford's batting average has not been below .295 since April 12. He remains a very solid option in all Fantasy formats when healthy.
News: Lew Ford was forced to leave Thursday's game against Seattle after he bruised his knee.
Analysis: Early reports suggest he will not miss any playing time with the injury, but he might be limited to designated hitter duties on Friday.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that the Twins plan on rotating seven players among five positions to give them all equal playing time. Torii Hunter, Lew ford, Jacque Jones and Shannon Stewart, along with first basemen Justin Morneau and Doug Mientkiewicz and catcher Matthew LeCroy, will be rotated among three outfield spots, one first base spot and one designated hitter job. Two of them will have to sit each day.
Analysis: Ford has certainly made a name for himself, forcing management to find at-bats for him now that everyone is almost healthy. Keep him activated in all leagues.
News: Lew Ford went 2-for-4 with his 12th home run Wednesday against Tampa Bay. He scored three runs in the victory.
Analysis: Ford has gone 2-for-4 in each of his last four games. The rookie has been remarkably consistent this season and warrants starting consideration in all Fantasy formats.
News: Ford went 1-for-3 with one home run and two RBI at Kansas City Saturday.
Analysis: Ford is hitting in the third spot and should be starting in all leagues.
News: Lew Ford went 3-for-4 with two doubles, two runs and an RBI on Monday against the Royals.
Analysis: Ford had a hit in 23 of 26 games in June and has 22 multi-hit games this year.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune notes that Ford will bat second in the Twins' lineup with Joe Mauer batting behind him. Doug Mientkiewicz will be moved down to seventh.
Analysis: Ford has hit safely in 30 of his past 33 games. He should be starting in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Lew Ford went 3-for-4 with his ninth stolen base in Friday's win against Milwaukee. He has swiped four bases in his last 11 games.
Analysis: Ford has a hit in 29 of his last 34 games. He has been remarkable consistent and deserves to start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lew Ford was 1-for-5 with a stolen base in Saturday's game at Milwaukee.
Analysis: Ford has a 12-game hitting streak. He is 14-for-52 (.269) during the span.
News: Lew Ford has a hit in 13 of his past 14 games. He currently ranks ninth in the American League in both batting average (.325) and on-base-percentage (.401).
Analysis: Ford is worth starting in all Fantasy formats. He is one of the leading cadidates for Rookie of the Year.
News: Lew Ford is in the midst of a seven-game hitting streak in which he's batting .346 (9-for-26) with a double, a home run and two RBI. He has also hit safely in 11 of his last 12 games.
Analysis: Ford should continue to see regular playing time until Shannon Stewart returns sometime in the next month.
News: Lew Ford will remain as the everyday left fielder while Shannon Stewart (foot) is on the 15-day disabled list.
Analysis: Ford is worth adding to a Fantasy roster in AL-only leagues. He might be a decent source of stolen bases, especially if you need a replacement for Stewart.
News: Lew Ford has hit in 10 of his previous 12 games. His average has not gone below .300 since April 15th.
Analysis: Ford is making a serious case to stay in the everyday lineup when Joe Mauer returns. Ford will compete with Matt LeCroy for DH duties. Ford's average is 155 points higher than LeCroy.
News: Lew Ford has hit safely in seven of his last eight games, batting .357 (10-for-28) with four doubles and three RBI.
Analysis: Ford hasn't had much trouble staying in the lineup regularly despite Torii Hunter's return. Once Matt LeCroy and Joe Mauer are healthy, however, Ford's at-bats might quickly decline.
News: Lew Ford has hit safely in six of eight games since being recalled from the minors on April 10. He is batting .407 (11-for-27) with two home runs, eight RBI and six runs scored.
Analysis: Unfortunately for Ford, he's likely to return to the bench once Torii Hunter is activated from the disabled list later this week. Ford might only help AL-only teams for a few more games.
News: Ford got the start in center field on Saturday and was 3-for-5 with a home run.
Analysis: Ford might start again on Sunday after the solid performance. He and Michael Cuddyer will see at-bats replacing Torii Hunter (hamstring), who is on the 15-day disabled list.
News: Ford will likely be called up by the Twins from Triple-A Rochester to replace Torii Hunter (hamstring) on the Twins' active roster.
Analysis: Ford is worth picking up as a reserve outfielder in mixed leagues.
News: The Twins sent Ford to Triple-A Rochester on Tuesday, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Analysis: Michael Ryan has made the Twins as a reserve outfielder and the final man on their opening day roster.
News: Ford (thumb) was in the lineup for the Twins on Saturday. He was 0-for-2.
Analysis: Ford appears recovered from a dislocated thumb he suffered while playing in Venezuela. He has minimal Fantasy value.
News: Ford dislocated a thumb while playing in Venezuela, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. He will return to the U.S.
Analysis: Ford's immediate status is unknown. He warrants minimal Fantasy attention.
News: Ford (broken forearm) was cleared by doctors to resume baseball activities, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.
Analysis: Ford might return at the beginning of September. He has no Fantasy appeal.
News: The Twins placed Ford on the 15-day disabled list due to a cracked bone in his right forearm.
Analysis: Ford's return date is unclear. When healthy, he has no Fantasy value.
News: Ford (bruised forearm) appeared as a pinch-runner in Sunday's game at Anaheim.
Analysis: Ford will likely be returned to the minors once Jacque Jones (groin) is ready to be activated. Ford has no Fantasy value.
News: Lew Ford suffered a bruised right forearm during batting practice on Wednesday and was not available to play at Texas.
Analysis: Ford is considered day to day. He has no Fantasy appeal.
News: Ford led off for the Minnesota Twins on Thursday and finished 4-for-5 with two runs scored, a double and an RBI.
Analysis: Despite the impressive performance, Ford is still considered a reserve outfielder and will have no Fantasy appeal unless he can secure a starting job.
News: The Twins recalled Ford from Triple-A Rochester following Wednesday's game against Oakland. The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that the Twins wanted someone with center field experience to help out while Jacque Jones and Torii Hunter battle minor injuries.
Analysis: Ford, the Twins' minor-league player of the year in 2002, will serve as a fourth outfielder and pinch runner. He won't play enough to warrant adding to a Fantasy roster.
