News: Cardinals starter Jake Westbrook had his worst start of the season on Thursday, as he was unable to get out of the fourth inning against the Phillies. Westbrook gave up six runs over the first two innings and ultimately needed 92 pitches just to get through 3 2/3 innings before being pulled. He finished with eight hits and three walks allowed, while striking out four, however he did not pick up the loss, as the Cardinals’ offense was able to get him off the hook before falling, 10-9.
Analysis: Westbrook had a 2.41 ERA before Thursday, with seven quality starts in eight outings, however that ERA now stands at 3.21. He has now failed to pick up a win in each of his last three starts, though his record is still pretty solid at 4-3. He is enjoying a nice resurgence at the age of 34, as he is currently posting what would be his best strikeout rate per nine innings (6.11) since his rookie season. Combined with still solid control and his extreme groundball tendencies, and it seems like he should be able to continue to pitch well. However he will face a tough test the next time he takes the mound, as he is scheduled to face Atlanta, the second-best offense in the National League. He should probably only be used in deeper Fantasy leagues for Week 9 (May 28-June 3).
News: St. Louis starting pitcher Jake Westbrook (4-3) surrendered four runs -- three earned -- and six hits in 6 1/3 innings during the Cardinals' 6-0 loss to the Dodgers on Saturday night. Westbrook tried to match his pitching counterpart Clayton Kershaw (complete game) and did not permit a run over the first three innings before running into trouble in the fourth. In eight starts this season, Westbrook has yielded just one run over the first three innings. He had five strikeouts and one walk during Saturday's game as his ERA swelled to 2.58.
Analysis: After starting the season with a 3-1 record and 1.30 ERA over his first four starts, Westbrook has reverted back to his old inconsistent form. The veteran right-hander has been charged with at least three runs in three of his past four outings as he's found trouble keeping the ball in the park. In each of those three games, Westbrook has been taken deep -- his only homers allowed this season. Fantasy owners should look to him as a low-end option in deeper formats for his next scheduled start Thursday against Philadelphia. He is 2-1 with a 3.55 ERA in four starts at home this year.
News: Cardinals pitcher Jake Westbrook endured his shortest outing of the season on Monday night against the Cubs. He allowed four runs on 11 hits over five innings of work. The right-hander made it through his first four frames unscathed before running into trouble in the fifth. In that inning, he gave up all of his damage, including a two-run homer to Bryan LaHair. He was done after throwing 107 pitches, 64 for strikes, and left in line for the loss but luckily his teammates were able to battle back to tie the game. Westbrook also struck out two and walked two in the no-decision.
Analysis: Westbrook allowed more than two earned runs in a start for just the second time on Monday and saw his ERA rise from 1.76 to 2.35 as a result. Still, he has gotten off to a solid start this season and appears in line for a bounce-back campaign after posting an ERA over 4.00 each of the last two years. The 34-year-old has a potent lineup backing him up in St. Louis so continue to view Westbrook as a viable option in deeper mixed leagues. His next start -- and second of Week 7 (May 14-20) -- is scheduled for Saturday against the Dodgers in Los Angeles. In three starts on the road thus far, Westbrook has gone 2-1 with a 0.87 ERA.
News: After giving up a season-high four runs his last time out, Cardinals pitcher Jake Westbrook got back on track on Tuesday night against the Diamondbacks. He worked seven scoreless innings, giving up four hits in the 6-1 win. The right-hander threw 72 of his 115 pitches for strikes and lowered his ERA to 1.76 on the outing. Westbrook also struck out eight and walked two while earning his fourth win of the season.
Analysis: Westbrook has looked like a new pitcher so far this season as the weight he lost in the offseason has really paid off. He has allowed more than two earned runs in just one of his six starts and has struck out 27 in 41 innings. The 34-year-old has proven in the past to be a viable option in Fantasy and should continue to see decent run support in St. Louis so consider adding Westbrook in mixed leagues, especially since he lines up as a two-start option for Week 7 (May 14-20). He is scheduled to pitch next on Monday against the Cubs. When Westbrook faced Chicago earlier in the year, he allowed one run over seven innings in the win.
News: Cardinals starting pitcher Jake Westbrook lasted longer than opposing pitcher Erik Bedard on Thursday against the Pirates, but he wasn't as efficient in a 6-3 loss. Bedard struck out 11 in five innings, while Westbrook served up four runs on nine hits and one walk in 6 1/3 innings. Westbrook (3-2) was leading 2-1 before serving up a two-run homer to Pedro Alvarez in the sixth inning. The veteran right-hander struck out four and saw his ERA rise to 2.12.
Analysis: Thursday was the first time Westbrook really struggled this season. He had allowed a total of four runs in his first four starts. Westbrook had a pretty spectacular April, but you had to figure he would come back down to earth at some point. That's not to say that Westbrook can't be an effective arm, but since he isn't a great strikeout pitcher, then he will continue to have low-end Fantasy appeal. Westbrook will be back on the hill Tuesday at Arizona.
News: Cardinals pitcher Jake Westbrook improved to 3-1 on the year on Friday as St. Louis destroyed Milwaukee. Westbrook allowed one earned runs off seven hits over his seven innings of work. He struck out five batters and did not issue a free pass. Westbrook threw 101 pitches in the game before turning the ball over to the bullpen. The Cards went on to win the game, 13-1. "He's on a roll," Milwaukee manager Ron Roenicke said of Westbrook. "He's throwing the ball down in the zone real well. He gets ground balls when he needs to."
Analysis: Westbrook takes the mound next on Thursday in Week 5 (April 30-May 6) against the Pirates. His lone loss of the season came against Pittsburgh. Westbrook allowed two earned runs over 6 2/3 innings in the contest. Westbrook is pitching extremely well this season and owns a dazzling 1.30 ERA for the Cardinals. Fantasy owners should view Westbrook as a low-end starting pitcher in deeper mixed leagues as his stock continues to rise.
News: St. Louis starting pitcher Jake Westbrook (2-1) yielded two runs and seven hits in 6 2/3 innings during the Cardinals' 2-0 loss to Pittsburgh on Saturday night. Westbrook's run total represented the most he's allowed this season as he was saddled with his first loss. He tallied six strikeouts -- more than his combined total from his previous two starts (four) -- and two walks while his ERA grew slightly to 1.31. "I felt like I made some decent pitches," Westbrook said. "I think they hit a couple balls hard. I still feel good about the way I performed."
Analysis: Westbrook has unexpectedly shined at the start of the year and displayed improved command since his season opener at Cincinnati (four walks). However, his strikeout total is a mirage for the veteran right-hander as he exceeded five strikeouts only three times last season so Fantasy owners should not rely on him in that category. Westbrook's next start is projected for Friday against Milwaukee. He finished 1-3 with a 4.13 ERA last year against the Brewers, but no longer has to contend with Prince Fielder. Consider him a low-end NL-only Fantasy option.
News: Cardinals pitcher Jake Westbrook was sharp once again in his outing against the Cubs on Sunday. He allowed two runs (one earned) on four hits over seven innings of work in the 10-3 win. The right-hander gave up a run in the fourth before an error led to another one in the fifth. Westbrook pounded his sinker for 12 ground ball outs, and threw first-pitch strikes to nine of his first 11 batters. "That's how I'm able to be successful, when I get ahead and control some counts," he said. "Just keeping the hitters on their toes." Westbrook also struck out two and walked one while earning his second win of the season.
Analysis: Westbrook has allowed one earned run over 14 innings in his first two starts and has received some solid run support thus far. He has not been that impressive since coming to the Cardinals in 2010 but it looks as though the 34-year-old could be in line for a bounce-back campaign. Westbrook does not post a ton of strikeouts but can rack up some wins for owners so keep him active in deeper Fantasy formats. His next start is scheduled for Saturday against the Pirates. In two starts against Pittsburgh a year ago, Westbrook went 0-1 with a 6.17 ERA.
News: Cardinals starting pitcher Jake Westbrook picked up his first win of the season during Monday night's contest against the Reds. Westbrook allowed just one unearned run on three hits in the 7-1 win, which came in the fifth inning when Brandon Phillips was able to score from second base on a throwing error. The right-hander did not allow another run over his final two innings of work and finished with four walks and two strikeouts, while picking up his first win of the season. "It took me a little while to get going," he said. "Once I figured it out, I pitched the way I'm capable of throwing. I just zoned it in."
Analysis: Westbrook looked a little shaky early on against the Reds, but quickly was able to settle down. The right-hander came into spring training with a chip on his shoulder after a very disappointing season in St. Louis last year and was able to get off to a good start Monday night. However, Fantasy owners should take more of a wait-and-see approach with the veteran right now. Until he proves he can be effective, Westbrook should be considered merely an NL-only option heading into his next start, which is scheduled for Saturday against the Cubs. Westbrook went 1-2 with a 6.46 ERA in six starts against the Chicago last season.
News: Cardinals starter Jake Westbrook made a Grapefruit League start on Saturday against the Nationals. Westbrook earned the win against Stephen Strasburg and the Nationals to improve to 2-1 on the spring season with a 1.50 ERA. Westbrook allowed one run on two hits and three walks over 5 2/3 innings. He struck out four.
Analysis: Westbrook bounced back nicely from his first spring loss in his previous outing. Westbrook has looked like a totally different pitcher this spring. He came to camp 20 pounds lighter and determined to have a better season. His productive spring gives us hope. However, we still aren't expecting Westbrook to have a huge season. He still doesn't have a ton of strikeout potential, so Westbrook remains more of an NL-only Fantasy option.
News: Cardinals hurler Jake Westbrook suffered his first spring defeat during Monday's 6-3 loss to the Mets. Westbrook (1-1) came into the game having tossed 12 scoreless innings this spring. The Mets tagged Westbrook for three runs on four hits and one walk in 6 1/3 innings. He struck out two. Westbrook now has a 1.47 ERA. "That's kind of where you want to get to. You want to get [deep in the game] and see how you handle it," Westbrook said. "I felt strong."
Analysis: Westbrook has looked like a totally different pitcher this spring. He came to camp 20 pounds lighter and determined to have a better season. His productive spring gives us hope. However, we still aren't expecting Westbrook to contend for the NL Cy Young award. He still doesn't have a ton of strikeout potential, so Westbrook remains more of an NL-only Fantasy option.
News: St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Jake Westbrook was dominant in his Wednesday start against the Mets, giving up no runs on three hits over six innings. He struck out three and walked none (although he hit Mets OF Lucas Duda with a pitch in the fourth inning). He has yet to give up an earned run this spring.
Analysis: Westbrook's now gone 12 innings without giving up a run this spring. He came to camp weighing 20 pounds less than he did at the end of 2011, and the trimming down seems to have worked thus far. Westbrook has been exceptionally sharp right out of the gate and his stock is rising, from a possible late consideration in NL-only drafts to a very late pick in deeper mixed leagues.
News: St. Louis starting pitcher Jake Westbrook worked four scoreless innings and permitted only two hits during the Cardinals' 5-0 victory over Miami in a Grapefruit League matchup on Friday. Westbrook posted four strikeouts and one walk as he maintained his spotless 0.00 ERA after his second official start of the spring. The veteran right-hander has now amassed six strikeouts and three walks in Grapefruit League action.
Analysis: So far, the early results following Westbrook's weight loss have been exceptional. The 34-year-old slimmed down during the offseason and it is showing with his presence on the mound as he did not allow a runner past first base on Friday. He is not a consistent starter, but could be a useful innings-eater worthy of a late-round selection in deeper NL-only Fantasy drafts.
News: Cardinals starting pitcher Jake Westbrook held the Nationals to one run on three hits in three innings during his second spring start Sunday. Westbrook didn't issue a walk and struck out two. He now has a 1.80 ERA on the spring. “I’m just trying to build off today and try to be as consistent as I can be from start to start,” Westbrook told MLB.com. “I’m going to use what I did today and duplicate it.”
Analysis: Westbrook was much more effective with his control Sunday after walking two batters in two innings during his spring debut. It's a step in the right direction, but Westbrook still has a few more starts to go before opening day. Westbrook has come to camp in better shape and looking for better results in 2012. Westbrook won 12 games last season, but he posted a 4.66 ERA and 1.53 WHIP. Westbrook can chew up innings and win games, but leave him for NL-only Fantasy formats on Draft Day.
News: Cardinals starting pitcher Jake Westbrook escaped his spring debut unscathed despite yielding two walks in two scoreless innings Tuesday against the Mets. Westbrook countered his walks with two strikeouts. He allowed just one hit. "For the first one, I'm really looking for how I feel, and I feel strong," Westbrook said. "It felt really good. Obviously, the walks aren't something that I want to continue to be a pattern. It's a good starting point. I'll take what I got out of the day and learn from it and try to get back to be more consistent in the zone."
Analysis: Westbrook showed up to camp 20 pounds lighter and hopes his new physique will allow him to be more effective. Although, we aren't sure dropping weight will turn Westbrook into a Cy Young pitcher. Westbrook can chew up innings, but he likely won't post impressive ERA, WHIP or strikeout total. Leave him for NL-only Fantasy formats.
News: After being virtually unused during St. Louis postseason run last season, starting pitcher Jake Westbrook shed 20 pounds at the team's urging and wants to show he can be counted upon. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed,” the 34-year-old Westbrook said. “If that opportunity comes about again, I want to have the year where they have confidence to throw me out there. I have a lot of motivation, especially as I’m getting older, to get back to where I’m capable of pitching.” Westbrook, who is entering the final year of his contract, said he’s down to 210 pounds for the first time in perhaps 12 years and feeling a lot lighter on his feet.
Analysis: Westbrook’s 12-9 record last season was accompanied by a 4.66 ERA and 1.51 WHIP as he was bothered by plantar fasciitis on both feet. He was left off the roster for the NLDS and NLCS before he was the unlikely World Series Game 6 winner after working an inning of relief in the Cardinals’ wild comeback victory over Texas. “He looks good," St. Louis manager Mike Matheny said. "Obviously, he’s lost some weight but he’s also put on some muscle mass, so that’s a great combination." Westbrook has proven to be a workhorse with the Cardinals, but remains a Fantasy option only in deeper NL-only drafts.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook has shown up for spring training 25 pounds lighter than he was last season.
Analysis: This is the time of year where everyone seems to come to camp in better shape than they left last season. Hopefully for Westbrook it makes a difference in his game. He did go 12-9 in 2011, but he posted a 4.66 ERA and 1.53 WHIP in 33 starts. Westbrook can chew up innings, but he won't post impressive ERA, WHIP or strikeout total. Leave him for NL-only Fantasy formats.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook told MLB.com on Tuesday that he will be on the roster for the World Series against the Rangers. He was left off the NLCS roster after not pitching in the NLDS.
Analysis: Westbrook went 12-9 with a 4.66 ERA over 33 starts during the regular season but the Cardinals have not trusted him for the playoffs yet. He will likely pitch out of the bullpen against the Rangers so keep an eye on his progress going forward. Fantasy owners should look to Westbrook as more of an option for NL-only formats for 2012 drafts.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook was dropped from the team's NLCS roster against Milwaukee, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. The Cardinals also left off 2B Skip Schumaker (oblique) and replaced them with pitchers Kyle McClellan and Lance Lynn.
Analysis: Westbrook did not pitch in the team's NLDS victory over Philadelphia after completing an inconsistent regular season. The veteran right-hander made 33 starts and compiled a 12-9 record with a 4.66 ERA -- the first time he finished with a winning mark since 2006 with Cleveland. Westbrook also ranked ninth in the National League with 73 walks in 183 1/3 innings pitches. Fantasy owners should look to him as a low-end option in NL-only formats for 2012 drafts.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook did not factor in the decision during Tuesday night's contest against the Astros. Westbrook, who was making his final start of the regular season, allowed five runs on seven hits over 2 1/3 innings in the contest. Most of the damage the right-hander surrendered came in the third inning, including a two-run triple off the bat of Jimmy Paredes, which chased Westbrook from the game. He threw just 45 pitches during his outing and finished with two strikeouts and one walk while earning the no-decision.
Analysis: Westbrook made what would be his final start of the season on Tuesday night, but wasn't very good. The right-hander has earned mixed reviews during his first season in St. Louis, finishing at 12-9 with a 4.66 ERA. He did make 33 starts for the consecutive year and was also able to record over 100 strikeouts, but was very inconsistent at times on the mound. Fantasy owners can consider the 33-year-old a low-end option heading into the 2012 season.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook did not factor in the decision during Thursday's contest against the Mets. Westbrook, who was making 32nd save of the season, allowed just one run on three hits over six innings in the 8-6 defeat. The only run the right-hander surrendered came in the fifth inning on a base-loaded walk to Rubin Tejada. Westbrook threw 84 pitches during his outing and turned a 4-1 lead over to the bullpen. However, he could only watch helplessly from the dugout as the Mets would score six times in the ninth inning, erasing the Cardinals lead and Westbrook's chances for a win. He finished with four walks and four strikeouts while earning the no-decision.
Analysis: Westbrook was a bit wild on Thursday, but still pitched well enough to win. However, the bullpen was unable to hold the lead for him,. which forced him to have to settle for the no-decision. Westbrook has earned mixed reviews during his first season in St. Louis and is scheduled to make his final start of the year on Tuesday at Houston. Continue to view the 33-year-old as a viable option in deeper mixed formats heading into his final outing.
News: St. Louis SP Jake Westbrook (12-9) allowed two runs -- one earned -- and five hits in 3 1/3 innings during the Cardinals' 9-2 loss to Philadelphia on Saturday night. Westbrook struggled mightily with his control and matched a season-high five walks while recording just one strikeout. It was the third time he has walked five batters since the beginning of August, a span of eight starts. Westbrook fell into an early hole when he gave up a run in the first inning. He surrendered his second run in the fourth inning when he walked Shane Victorino with the bases loaded.
Analysis: Westbrook hurled 71 pitches, including 34 for balls, as he labored through his shortest outing since May 11 against the Cubs. He's given up two earned runs or less in 11 of his 16 road starts this season, but fell to 8-4 away from home. The right-hander has been limited by the Cardinals' inconsistent offense and is in danger of losing 10 games for the second straight season. Fantasy owners should view him as a decent option in NL-only formats for Week 25 (Sept. 19-28) when he's scheduled to face the Mets (home) and Houston (road).
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook wasn't able to go six innings Sunday against the Braves, but he still managed to pick up his 12th victory, allowing two runs on five hits with one walk and four strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings. Westbrook has won three of his last five starts, posting a 3.68 ERA during that stretch.
Analysis: Westbrook has been decent of late, but it's not like he's dominating. As a non-strikeout pitcher, he needs to consistently pitch seven-plus innings and allow three earned runs or less to make a big impact in Fantasy. He's usable right now, but he's still just a lower-end option for his next start, which is scheduled for Saturday at Philadelphia.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook took his eighth loss of the season during Monday's contest against the Brewers. Westbrook, who was making his 29th start of the season, allowed three runs (two earned) on nine hits over six innings during the 4-1 defeat. The right-hander allowed a run in each of the first two innings, including a solo shot off the bat of Ryan Bruan. Westbrook allowed just one more run over his final three innings of work and was pulled after throwing 107 pitches. He finished with a season-high nine strikeouts and one walk while falling to 11-8 on the season.
Analysis: Westbrook actually pitched pretty well on Monday, but unfortunately didn't get much run support from his teammates. Still, the right-hander has shown much better control of the strike zone over his last two outings, which could be an encouraging sign for owners as we head into the final four weeks of the season. Westbrook will now look to get back on the winning side of things when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Sunday against the Braves. He has yet to face Atlanta this season but will do so at home, where is now 3-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 14 starts at Busch Stadium. Fantasy owners should consider Westbrook a low-end option heading into Week 23 (Sept. 5-11).
News: St. Louis SP Jake Westbrook (11-7) yielded three runs -- two earned -- and eight hits in five innings during the Cardinals' 8-3 victory at Milwaukee on Wednesday. Westbrook, who won for the second time in his last three games, tallied just one strikeout and no walks. He allowed a home run to the first batter he faced in the game (Corey Hart) and a run in the third and fourth innings before being lifted in the sixth -- his shortest outing since Aug. 15 at Pittsburgh. Westbrook helped himself by clubbing his first career homer -- a grand slam in the fourth to give St. Louis a 6-2 lead.
Analysis: After issuing a season-high five walks in his last start, Westbrook settled down against the Brewers and did not register a free pass for the first time since July 15 at Cincinnati. The veteran right-hander has been sporadic with his command and finished with a lowly 18:16 strikeout-to-walk ratio in August. But Wednesday's outing is an encouraging sign for possible improvement heading into the final month of the season. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end option in NL-only formats for his next projected start Monday against Milwaukee. He is 3-4 with a 5.96 ERA at home this year.
News: Cardinals manager Tony La Russa told reporters Sunday morning that minor-league SP Brandon Dickson will be recalled from Triple-A Memphis on Thursday to start against the Brewers. La Russa added that Jaime Garcia, who was expected to start Tuesday against the Brewers, will be used out of the bullpen until the team returns for a nine-game homestand, which starts Friday against the Reds. The rotation for the three-game Brewers series will be Edwin Jackson, Jake Westbrook and Dickson. La Russa did this to give Chris Carpenter an extra day of rest. Carpenter will go Friday against the Reds.
Analysis: All that changes for Westbrook is that he moves up a day to face the same opponent. Westbrook is 0-2 with a 4.85 ERA in two starts against Milwaukee this season. Consider him a low-end Fantasy SP for Week 22 (Aug. 29-Sept. 4).
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook gave up three runs in the first inning of Friday's game against the Pirates, but would settle down after that. He was tagged for seven hits and struck out three in his six innings on the mound before handing the ball over to the bullpen. "When you have a slow start like that, it's one of those things where you have to tell yourself you can't give up anymore and that's all they get," Westbrook said. "Yaddy had a big homer and Lance an even bigger homer and that's the reason why you have to hang in there and put up zeroes." Westbrook also matched his season-high with five walks in the contest and left the game losing. His teammates would rally to win the game, 5-4, taking Westbrook off the hook and giving him a no-decision.
Analysis: Westbrook has collected 10 wins for a second straight year. The most he's ever won in a season was 15, twice in 2005 and 2006 with the Indians. While he has plenty of offensive around him, Westbrook hurts himself with his walks -- 61 on the year. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a low-end SP option, best left for NL-only formats. Westbrook will take on Milwaukee on Thursday in his next outing. In his two outings versus the Brewers this season Westbrook has gone 0-2 with a 4.85 ERA.
News: St. Louis SP Jake Westbrook (10-7) held the Cubs to seven hits and two runs in seven innings during the Cardinals' 6-2 victory Sunday night. Westbrook had three strikeouts and two walks as he beat Chicago for the first time in three starts this season. He also snapped a personal three-game losing streak to claim his first win since July 26 against the Mets. Westbrook was charged with a run in the third and fifth innings as he yielded his fewest earned runs over his last three starts. His ERA now stands at 4.70 this year after hurling 100 pitches for the fourth straight game.
Analysis: Westbrook has been riddled with inconsistency this season and posted his first win during the month of August in four starts. The veteran right-hander has also decreased his walk rate recently and has issued just three free passes in his last two games -- two less than his total in his start against the Brewers on Aug. 10 (five). Westbrook continues to retire most of his batters via groundouts, which has led to him surrendering just 14 homers this year. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end option in NL-only formats for his next scheduled start Friday against Pittsburgh. He is 0-1 with a 6.35 ERA in his lone start against the Pirates this season.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook got off to a solid start Monday against the Pirates, but he faltered in the middle innings via the long ball. Xavier Paul took him deep in the first frame, but it was Ryan Doumit's three-run shot in the fourth frame that blew the gem open. Westbrook and the St. Louis offense never recovered on the way to a 6-2 loss. The right-hander gave up five runs -- four earned -- on the night in 5 2/3 innings of work. Westbrook struck out four batters and walked a pair in the loss.
Analysis: Westbrook has not won in four straight starts now, his longest winless streak of the season. He has two quality starts in the process, but the lack of wins are always a concern with a pitcher who doesn't notch many strikeouts. Westbrook will get a second chance to get back in the win column in the scoring period (Aug. 15-21) on Sunday against the Cubs. He has been on the losing end in both games against Chicago this season, giving up nine earned runs in less than nine combined innings of work. Fantasy owners should view Westbrook as a low-end SP option fit for deeper formats until he turns the trend around.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook pitched pretty well on Wednesday night against the Brewers. Unfortunately, Randy Wolf was even better. Wolf allowed just one run over eight innings while Westbrook gave up three over that same stretch. Westbrook came away the loser as he fell to 9-6 on the year. Westbrook allowed the three earned runs on six hits and five walks over eight innings as he struggled with his command but still managed to go deep into the game. He needed 118 pitches to go eight innings and struck out four. His ERA is now at 4.74 on the year.
Analysis: Westbrook has been very good since the beginning of July. On July 1 at Tampa Bay, Westbrook picked up a win as he pitched seven shutout innings of two-hit ball. He's 3-2 since the beginning of July, but he's only allowed more than four runs twice over that span. He had one hiccup -- seven runs against the Reds -- but has otherwise been stout for St. Louis. Westbrook has gone at least six innings in five straight starts and can be used in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues for his two-start scoring period coming up in Week 20 (Aug. 15-21). His next outing is scheduled for Monday at Pittsburgh.
News: The Cardinals rearranged their starting rotation on Tuesday to allow SP Chris Carpenter to start against the division-leading Brewers, moving Jake Westbrook up from Thursday to Wednesday. Westbrook would have been pitching against the Brewers either way.
Analysis: Westbrook hasn't been as effective this year as he was after coming over from the Indians in a trade last year, but he has stepped it up lately with a 3.19 ERA over his last five starts, allowing two earned runs or fewer in four of them. His lack of strikeout potential always keeps him on the low end of Fantasy relevance, but with the Cardinals offense backing him, he could make an impact down the stretch if he stays hot. His last start against the Brewers wasn't such a good one, though. He allowed four earned runs on eight hits over five innings on June 12.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook did not factor into the decision during Friday night's contest against the Marlins. Westbrook, who was making his 23rd start of the season, allowed two runs on six hits over six innings in the 3-2 victory, including a RBI triple to Mike Stanton in the fourth inning. John Buck also drove in a run against the right-hander, who was pulled after throwing 106 pitches. He finished with four strikeouts and three walks while earning the no-decision.
Analysis: Westbrook wasn't overpowering or anything against the Marlins but once again delivered another solid outing. He has now allowed three runs or fewer in four of his last five outings and has posted a 3.19 ERA over that stretch. Westbrook will be looking for his 10th win of the season when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Thursday against the Brewers. The right-hander lost his lone outing of the season against Milwaukee, allowing four runs over five innings. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Westbrook as a low-end SP in deeper mixed formats heading into Week 19 (Aug. 8-14).
News: St. Louis SP Jake Westbrook (9-5) surrendered four runs and three hits in six innings during the Cardinals' 6-3 loss to the Cubs on Sunday night. Westbrook finished with three strikeouts for the third straight game and three walks. The walk total matched his highest in a start since he walked four batters at San Francisco during his second outing of the season on April 9. Westbrook carried a perfect game into the sixth inning before Chicago plated four runs en route to snapping the right-hander's three-game winning streak.
Analysis: Westbrook was cruising through the early part of the game, but seemed to become fatigued during a toasty night in St. Louis as he faced all nine batters in the Cubs lineup during the sixth. He had not permitted more than two runs in any of his last three starts before Sunday's game as he lowered his ERA under five. Westbrook has shown tremendous improvement with his control thanks to Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan, and is considered a low-end option in NL-only Fantasy formats. His next scheduled start is Friday at Florida; he allowed three runs and had eight strikeouts in his lone start against the Marlins this year.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook turned in another solid effort on the mound during Tuesday night's contest against the Astros. Westbrook, who was making his 21st start of the season, allowed just one run on seven hits over six innings in the contest. The only run the right-hander surrendered came in the sixth inning on a RBI single by Carlos Lee. Westbrook was pulled after throwing 97 pitches and finished with three strikeouts and a walk while improving to 9-4 on the season.
Analysis: Westbrook has now turned in three straight solid outings for St. Louis and has looked very sharp thus far in the second half of the season. He has pitched into the sixth inning in two of those contests while posting a 11-to-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio over that stretch. Westbrook will looking for his second straight win when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Sunday against the Cubs. He lost his lone start against Chicago this season, allowing five runs over just 2 1/3 innings. Still, he has pitching much better of late and can be considered a viable option in deeper mixed formats moving forward.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook had a two run lead at his back before he even took the hill against the Mets on Thursday, and he cruised into the fifth frame, when it became a 5-1 advantage. He was good to go from that point, giving up just one hit until the eighth inning, when New York was able to manufacture a run. Westbrook rebounded and struck out Scott Hairston to end the inning on what would be his 90th and final pith of the afternoon. The bullpen secured the 6-3 win, helping the right-hander to a second straight winning decision. Westbrook gave up two runs on just four hits in eight innings of work, striking out three batters and walking one on the day. "My stuff was the same. My command was better," Westbrook said. "I was able to harness it."
Analysis: Westbrook's efficient outing -- 90 pitches over eight frames -- breaks the recent norm for him. He hadn't lasted deeper than five innings in three of his previous four outings despite the pitch-count climbing relentlessly. Westbrook may be back on track after his latest win, upping his record to 8-4 in 2011 to go along with a declining 5.04 ERA. He has been the victim of gaudy slugfests at times that have spiked his numbers, but he has rebounded to the tune of limiting the opposing offense to two runs or less in three of his last four appearances. Fantasy owners should think about taking a low-end flier on him soon, especially after taking a glance at his road ahead. Westbrook is lined up for two starts in Week 17 (July 25-31) -- against the Astros and Cubs -- two bottom-half teams in run production. The 33-year-old defeated Houston, who he lines up against on Tuesday, in June.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook only pitched five innings during Friday night's contest against the Reds. Westbrook, who was making his 19th start of the season, allowed two runs on five hits over just five innings in the 6-5 defeat. Both runs he allowed came on a pair of solo home runs off the bat of Chris Heisey. With his team trialing 2-0 in the top of the sixth Wesstbrook was removed for pinch hitter Jon Jay after throwing just 82 pitches. However, St. Louis was able to take the lead back in the later innings, which took the right-hander off the hook for the loss. Westbrook finished with five strikeouts without issuing a walk while earning the no-decision.
Analysis: Westbrook was somewhat able to bounce back after getting shelled during his last start before the All-Star Game. While he only lasted five innings against the Reds, he showed much better of the strike zone and easily could have gone another inning or two if manager Tony La Russa would have let him. However, circumstances dictated his short outing but at least he escaped with a no-decision. Westbrook will look to get back into the win column when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Thursday against the Mets. The right-hander lost his lone career start against New York, allowing five runs over seven innings. Fantasy owners should continue to view Westbrook as a NL-only option heading into Week 16 (July 18-24).
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Sunday that the Cardinals have tweaked the rotation following the All-Star break. The Cardinals open the second half of the season on Friday in Cincinnati with Jake Westbrook taking the ball. Westbrook will be followed by Chris Carpenter on Saturday and Jaime Garcia in the series finale on Sunday. Kyle Lohse will then open the following series on Tuesday in New York against the Mets with Kyle McClellan going on Wednesday in that series.
Analysis: Westbrook is coming off an ugly outing in which he allowed seven earned runs on eight hits -- including three homers -- in a no-decision against the Reds. Now he'll be asked to face them again to start the second half. Westbrook has a 7-4 record this season, but his ERA is poor at 5.34. With a high WHIP and not a ton of strikeouts, Westbrook is just an NL-only Fantasy option for Week 15 (July 11-17).
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook was lit-up from the outset of Wednesday's start against the Reds, allowing the team to fall into a seemingly insurmountable hole early on. He gave up five runs before recording his first out to open the game, offering up homers to two of the first five batters he faced. Westbrook settled a bit until he gave up another homer in the fourth inning, and another run was charged to him in the fifth after he exited. The right-hander gave up seven runs in all via eight hits over just 4 1/3 innings of work, and he didn't strikeout a single batter in the process of allowing the season-high three homers. Westbrook walked one hitter, but he miraculously was left out of the decision as the St. Louis offense rallied late to send the game into extra innings.
Analysis: Westbrook didn't earn the loss in the dreadful outing, but it was still one of his worst efforts of 2011. He has yielded seven or more runs three times already this season, though the first two instances came in April. Westbrook continues his inconsistent play on the hill despite one of the best offenses in baseball behind him. He limps into the All-Star break coming off of another tough outing, allowing four or more runs for the fourth time over his last five outings. Still, he will likely take on the Reds again in the teams' first series after the break. Fantasy owners shouldn't expect much better from the 33-year-old Westbrook going forward, so consider him to be just a marginal value at best. His ERA -- 5.34 -- is the highest it's been since May 16.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook picked up his seventh win of the season during Friday night's 5-3 win over the Rays. Westbrook, who was making his 17th start of the season, limited Tampa Bay to just three two hits over seven scoreless innings in the contest and was able to retire the final 12 batters he faced. The right-hander was finally pulled after throwing 112 pitches and finished with seven strikeouts and three walks. Westbrook is now 7-4 on the season. "It took me a little while to get into a groove," Westbrook said. "Once I did, I made some pitches early on when I needed to."
Analysis: After three straight lackluster performances, Westbrook was finally able to get back on track Friday night. The veteran had the Rays all mixed up at the plate and was able to start off July on the right foot after posting a 5.60 ERA over five starts last month. Westbrook will now look to build off his latest effort when he makes his next start, which is scheduled for Wednesday against the Reds. The right-hander already beat Cincinnati earlier in the season, allowing just three hits over six scoreless innings back on April 24. However, until he starts winning a bit more consistently, Fantasy owners should continue to view Westbrook as a NL-only option heading into Week 14 (July 4-10).
News: The Cardinals have juggled the rotation slightly with Jaime Garcia now starting Thursday's game against the Orioles in Baltimore, reports MASNsports.com. The Cardinals originally had Jake Westbrook scheduled to start Thursday, but he'll likely move back a day to Friday against the Rays in Tampa Bay. Westbrook is coming off a start on Friday against Toronto in which he took the loss and allowed four runs on 10 hits over 4 1/3 innings.
Analysis: Westbrook, who is 6-4 on the season with a 5.32 ERA, has allowed four earned runs in three consecutive outings with at least eight hits allowed in each. He's struggling right now and the Cardinals likely just felt he needed an extra day of rest. Westbrook, at this point, should be considered mostly an NL-only Fantasy option for the Cardinals.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook did not last long in his outing against the Blue Jays on Friday night. He allowed four runs on 10 hits over 4 1/3 innings. He gave up a pair of runs in the first before making it through his next three frames unscathed. Then in the fifth, he surrendered back-to-back RBI singles and was pulled for Mitchell Boggs after throwing 100 pitches, 61 for strikes. The right-hander left in line for the loss but luckily Matt Holliday tied the game at 4-4 with a two-run homer in the sixth. Westbrook also struck out three and walked one in the no-decision. "A lot of times early on I can get into a rhythm and find it, but tonight I was just kind of all over the place from the get-go," Westbrook said. "I know I'm a better pitcher than that."
Analysis: Westbrook has allowed four earned runs in each of his last three starts but has just one win to show for it. The 33-year-old has seen his ERA balloon from 5.01 to 5.32 over that span and is having a rough month after making some strides in May. With the way he has been pitching of late, only have Westbrook active in deeper Fantasy formats for Week 13 (June 27-July 3). His next start is scheduled for Thursday against the Orioles in Baltimore. Westbrook is 4-2 with a 4.43 ERA in eight starts on the road this season.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook had a hard time keep the ball in the park on Saturday night against the Royals. He allowed four runs on eight hits, including two homers, over seven innings of work. The right-hander gave up a two-run triple in the second before surrendering a solo homer to Matt Treanor in the fourth. Then after making it through his next two frames unscathed, he gave up another solo shot, this time to Alex Gordon. He left in line for the loss but luckily his teammates rallied back for the 5-4 win. Westbrook also struck out four and walked one in the no-decision.
Analysis: Westbrook was able to pitch past the sixth inning for the first time since May 21 on Saturday and kept his ERA at 5.16 on the year. He has been pitching better of late but his two gopher balls give him four in his last three starts. He hadn't given up a home run since April before that so hopefully he can get things straightened out going forward. Heading into Week 12 (June 20-26), continue to view the 33-year-old as a low-end Fantasy SP. His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Blue Jays at home. Westbrook is 2-2 with a 5.95 ERA in seven starts at Busch Stadium this season.
News: St. Louis SP Jake Westbrook looked to be on track for a win after five innings of work Sunday against the Brewers, but he couldn't keep the pace up after that point. After allowing four hits without a single run coming home in five frames, Westbrook gave up four straight hits including a two-run homer to Prince Fielder to give up the lead. Four runs came home in all, chasing the right-hander after just his 78th pitch of the day. The 4-3 score held up and Westbrook was charged with the loss after five innings of work. He was responsible for four runs on eight hits and he failed to strike a batter for the first time this season while walking one on the afternoon.
Analysis: Westbrook had won four consecutive decisions before Sunday, as his record fell to 6-4 on the year. His ERA jumped up to 5.16 through 14 starts. Westbrook seemed to be in control of the game with a 3-0 lead at his back, but the meat of the Brewers order got to him and it cost him a win late. He will get a second chance at win No. 7 on Saturday against the Royals, who he defeated via eight shutout innings on May 21. Fantasy owners should look passed his late letdown outing on Sunday, and continue to utilize Westbrook as a low-end option across the board with a top-notch offense at his back.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook backed himself as he cleared the bases with a three-run double in the fourth inning on Tuesday against Houston starter Brett Myers. That, plus Lance Berkman's first-inning homer, was all Westbrook would need to win the game and improve to 6-3 on the year. Westbrook wasn't exactly sharp, allowing three earned runs on eight hits and three walks over 5 1/3 innings for the win. He struck out three and gave up a two-run homer to Carlos Lee in the first. Westbrook's ERA is now at 5.14 on the season.
Analysis: Westbrook wasn't sharp on Tuesday but still got the job done. The win Tuesday was his fourth straight and fourth win in his last five starts overall with one no-decision mixed in. Westbrook hasn't been dominant, but he's been solid more often than not. For that, he can be utilized in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues. He gets another start in the Week 10 (June 6-12) scoring period and that comes on Sunday at Milwaukee.
News: St. Louis SP Jake Westbrook (5-3) yielded three runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings during the Cardinals' 7-5 loss to the Giants in 11 innings on Wednesday night. It was the second consecutive outing Westbrook allowed three runs and failed to complete six innings of work. He finished with four strikeouts and two walks -- also for the second start in a row -- as his three-game winning streak was ended with the no-decision. Westbrook has now allowed seven-plus hits in a game five times this season, but was able to shave his ERA to 5.15 after Wednesday's contest.
Analysis: Westbrook had a good run in May and went 3-1 with a 3.77 ERA in five starts as he rebounded from early-season struggles. However, the veteran right-hander could not carry that over into a new month and was tagged for his most hits since April 13 at Arizona. His only clean inning was the fifth, but the Giants opened the sixth with three straight hits and a sacrifice fly and chased him on Andres Torres' two-out RBI double. Westbrook is projected for two starts in Week 10 (June 6-12) -- both on the road -- against Houston and Milwaukee. Consider him a viable SP option in NL-only formats as he is 3-1 with a 4.18 ERA on the road this year.
News: St. Louis SP Jake Westbrook (5-3) surrendered three runs and five hits in five innings during the Cardinals' 10-3 victory over Colorado on Friday night. Westbrook registered a game-high four strikeouts and two walks as he claimed his third straight win. The veteran right-hander allowed more than one run for the first time in his last three starts as his ERA rose slightly to 5.19 this season. Westbrook certainly kept the Rockies off balance and posted 11 ground ball outs while recording no outs via fly ball for the first time this season.
Analysis: Westbrook wasn't particularly sharp but still improved to 3-0 all-time against Colorado in his first appearance at Coors Field since 2003. He spent most of his career with Cleveland before coming to St. Louis last season at the MLB trading deadline. After lasting only 2 1/3 innings against the Cubs on May 11, Westbrook has allowed just four runs three starts -- a span of 20 innings -- and has has shaved his ERA by nearly two full runs. Fantasy owners should consider him a decent SP option in NL-only formats for his next projected start Wednesday against San Francisco He was charged with three runs in 5 2/3 innings during his first start against the Giants this year.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook pitched a gem on Saturday in Kansas City. Westbrook showed young opposing starter Nate Adcock what pitching is all about as he threw eight shutout innings to earn the win. Westbrook (4-3) allowed just four hits and three walks over eight innings as he struck out three. His ERA is at 5.17 on the year after the excellent performance.
Analysis: Westbrook has been pretty dominant over his last two starts. He's 2-0 in those outings against the Phillies and Royals and has allowed just one run on seven hits over 15 innings. He's not a strikeout pitcher, but as long as he's throwing that well, he can see action in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues. Westbrook gets one start in Week 8 (May 23-29) and it comes on Friday in Colorado. You might limit him to just use in NL-only leagues for that one.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook had his best start in weeks on Monday night against the Phillies. He pitched seven solid innings, allowing just one run on four hits in the 3-1 win. A Ben Francisco RBI single in the second was his only damage on the outing. He entered the contest with a 6.92 ERA but was able to lower that mark to 6.04. Westbrook also walked three and struck out one while picking up his third win of the season.
Analysis: Westbrook bounced back nicely after giving up five earned run in his previous outing and has allowed three runs or fewer in four of his last five starts. The right-hander appears to be getting on track after some early struggles and should be able to get his ERA down in the coming weeks. His 24-to-23 strikeout-to-walk ratio isn't very impressive, though, but that should start to even itself out, based on his career numbers. Heading into his second start of Fantasy Week 7 (May 16-22), continue to view Westbrook as a low-end Fantasy SP. He is scheduled to pitch again on Saturday against the Royals. Westbrook is 6-3 with a 2.59 ERA in 21 appearances (15 starts) in his career against Kansas City.
News: Cardinals starter Jake Westbrook sat through a 53-minute rain delay in the third inning while taking on the Cubs, and he was not the same after the tarp came off of Wrigley Field. He allowed five straight batters to get on base in the bottom of the frame, and they all came home to score even though he was pulled after the first three runs came home. Westbrook struck out opposing starter Matt Garza before allowing consecutive singles and a walk to load the bases. Aramis Ramirez singled a run home and Carlos Pena smacked a 2-run double on the very next play to pad the lead before the right-hander got the hook. Two more runs came home that were charged to him after he was out of there. Westbrook's shortest outing of the season by far ended after 2 1/3 innings of work, as he allowed five earned runs on six hits. He struck out just one batter and walked one on 57 total pitches on the way to his third loss of the year. "It definitely wasn't the delay," Westbrook said. "I felt great. Zero excuse. Same pattern as the start of the game. I was getting behind guys, kind of one of those where you can't continue to pitch that way."
Analysis: Westbrook now stands 2-3 on the season, and his ERA climbed up to 6.92 after the lackluster outing. He struck out a season-low one batter for the third time already this year, with a season-low 57 pitches to go along with the shortest outing we've seen from him. Westbrook will try to right the ship on Monday against the Phillies, who got the better of him for four runs in five innings of work last season. The 33-year-old hasn't given Fantasy owners much reason to trust him moving forward, but he has the best offense statistically (runs and batting average) in baseball at his side. He was .500 before Wednesday's sub-par effort, and he's never given up more than three runs in consecutive starts in 2011. Consider Westbrook just a low-end guy at best for now.
News: Cardinals starter Jake Westbrook battled Marlins SP Josh Johnson on Thursday and held his own before falling apart in the fifth. Westbrook was perfect for 4 2/3 innings and the Marlins didn't get the ball out of the infield until Mike Stanton flied out to right for the second out in the fifth. The next hitter, Greg Dobbs, was the first Florida batter to have a 1-0 count and then delivered the first hit. Suddenly, Westbrook seemed vulnerable and the Marlins had four singles in a row, including RBI by Omar Infante and Johnson, for a 2-1 lead. After needing 54 pitches to get 14 outs, Westbrook required 20 pitches to get the final out of the fifth. He eventually took a no-decision as St. Louis rallied for the win. Westbrook allowed three runs on seven hits in 6 1/3 innings. He struck out eight.
Analysis: Westbrook might have faltered late Thursday, but he still had a pretty good outing. He has now allowed three or fewer earned runs in his last three starts, putting behind him an ugly start to the season. Westbrook might have had eight strikeouts Thursday, but he still doesn't produce those kinds of numbers on a regular basis. He remains a low-end Fantasy option. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday at Chicago.
News: St. Louis SP Jake Westbrook would not factor into his team's 3-2 win on Saturday against Atlanta. Westbrook settled for a no-decision, but he pitched a solid outing for the Cardinals. He allowed two earned runs on five hits over six innings of work. He issued three walks and struck out one batter. Both the Braves' runs came in the fifth inning, but both could have been unearned. Alex Gonzalez's chopper to shortstop Tyler Greene was bobbled and rolled into the outfield, although it was ruled a hit. Westbrook walked Nate McLouth, and a sacrifice bunt moved the runners over to set up Martin Prado's two-run double. "I was a little more erratic today," Westbrook said. "I wasn't quite as sharp. It's a good feeling as a starting pitcher if you put up a quality start your odds are pretty good with our bats." Westbrook left in line for the loss but his teammates bailed him out in the eighth and ninth innings.
Analysis: Westbrook has had two nice outings in a row, but he's been rocked a few times this year. One of his biggest problems is that he's walking more batters (19) than striking them out (14) over his six starts. With his 2-2 record and 6.53 ERA, Westbrook doesn't have much Fantasy value. Owners should continue viewing him as a low-end option in deeper leagues. Westbrook takes the mound next on Thursday against Florida. In two career starts versus the Marlins, Westbrook is 1-0 with a 2.40 ERA.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook had his finest start of the season during a 3-0 win against the Reds on Sunday. Amid overcast conditions, Westbrook (2-2) was able to outduel Edinson Volquez by tossing six shutout innings. He allowed three hits and walked three. He struck out four. Westbrook, who lowered his ERA to 7.40, was yanked after 87 pitches (48 strikes). "Everybody's got to have some success to get some confidence," manager Tony La Russa said. "I think he's a confident guy. He's got a track record and he feels healthy. But it's a really big first step, especially in a rubber game."
Analysis: It's not like Westbrook had his best stuff on Sunday. It's just that Cincinnati had an off night offensively. Westbrook has had two really bad starts this season that has elevated his ERA, but he still isn't pitching like we would have hoped. Westbrook is a low-end Fantasy SP until he pitches more like he did Sunday. His next scheduled start is for Saturday at Atlanta.
News: MLB.com reports that Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook has been named the starter for Sunday's game agianst the Padres. The right-hander will work on three days' rest after a rainout earlier in the week caused a double header. Westbrook has never started four days after a previous start.
Analysis: Looks like Westbrook will receive a second start in Fantasy Week 3 (April 18-24), and provide him with a chance to redeem his week in Fantasy. He gave up seven runs on seven hits in just three innings of work in his previous outing. However, he could get two starts in Week 4 (April 25-May 1) if the Cardinals have to do any more mix and matching with their rotation so Fantasy owners should stay tuned. Even in better times, Westbrook is a low-end option for owners in deeper mixed leagues. He has been miserable so far this year, so he should be reserved for use in NL-only formats.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Cardinals have named Jake Westbrook as the starting pitcher for Sunday's game against the Reds, though the team has not made the move official. Westbrook started the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader with the Nationals, but he only lasted three innings, allowing seven earned runs on seven hits and two walks. He would be making Sunday's start on just three days' rest.
Analysis: If the Cardinals' decision holds, this will give Westbrook a second start in Fantasy Week 3 (April 18-24), and provide him with a chance to redeem his week in Fantasy. However, he will not get two starts in Week 4 (April 25-May 1), as he is slated to make a single start on April 30 at Atlanta. Even in better times, Westbrook is a low-end option for owners in deeper mixed leagues. He has been miserable so far this year, so he should be reserved for use in NL-only formats.
News: St. Louis SP Jake Westbrook (1-2) gave up seven runs on seven hits in just three innings during the Cardinals' 8-6 loss to Washington in the first game of a doubleheader on Wednesday. Westbrook also yielded two walks and recorded a season-low one strikeout during his shortest outing since May 2, 2007, when he left a start with Cleveland after 1 1/3 innings with an abdominal injury that landed him on the disabled list. His ERA now stands at 9.82 after four starts this season. "It just wasn't a good day to get behind the hitters, or anytime for that matter, but today was especially bad," Westbrook said. "It just kind of snowballed in that one inning."
Analysis: Westbrook, a slow starter throughout his career, continues to get hit hard during his second season with St. Louis. The right-hander has not held an ERA lower than 7.63 this year while allowing 30 hits in only 18 1/3 innings. He is 7-18 for his career in the first month of the season. Westbrook also threw just 67 pitches against the Nationals as he was tagged for seven-plus runs for the second time this year. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end option in NL-only formats, including during his projected two-start appearance for Week 4 (April 25-May 1). He is slated to pitch against Houston and Atlanta -- both on the road -- and Westbrook is 1-0 with a 4.09 ERA this year.
News: The Washington Nationals at St. Louis Cardinals game scheduled for Tuesday night was postponed by a severe storm that set off a tornado siren. A day-night doubleheader is set for Wednesday. Nationals SP John Lannan and Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook, who were scheduled to pitch Tuesday, will now start Game 1 of the doubleheader. Nationals SP Jordan Zimmermann and Cardinals SP Jaime Garcia, who were Wednesday's scheduled starters, will throw in Game 2.
Analysis: The unfortunate ordeal of Tuesday's rainout likely means Westbrook won't be a two-start pitcher in Week 3 (April 18-24), unless St. Louis wants to start him on short rest Sunday against the Reds, which seems unlikely. Westbrook has bounced back after getting lit up in his first start, but he still isn't pitching very well overall. Westbrook remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News:Jake Westbrook got plenty of run support during a 15-5 rout of the Diamondbacks on Wednesday. St. Louis scored in each of the first five innings to give Westbrook plenty of breathing room. In fact, he held a 12-0 lead before giving up his first two runs in the fourth. Westbrook yielded five runs (two earned) on nine hits and two walks in 5 1/3 innings. He struck out three as he improved to 1-1. “I felt like I made pitches. I didn’t get through six (innings), but a good win for us,” Westbrook told reporters. “It is a progression. To me, I felt better about tonight. Overall, I felt like I was near the zone and controlling counts.”
Analysis: Westbrook is slowly getting his ERA back down after getting tagged for eight earned runs in his first start. Still, the nine hits on Wednesday weren't good and Westbrook isn't throwing lights out on the hill. He is not having the start to the season we would like for someone pitching under coach Dave Duncan's guidance. Westbrook is still just a low-end Fantasy option. Westbrook is on track to be a two-start pitcher in Week 3 (April 18-24), with his first start coming Tuesday against Washington.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook had some problems with his control in his season debut and that trend continued in his outing against the Giants on Friday. He allowed three runs on eight hits with four walks in 5 2/3 innings of work. He also struck out two while surrendering two gopher balls. Westbrook left in line for the loss but luckily his teammates rallied to send the game into extra innings.
Analysis: Westbrook has issued nine walks in 10 innings pitched so far this season after walking just 68 in 33 starts a year ago. While he fared a little better in his outing on Friday, he has not looked like the viable Fantasy option owners are used to seeing. Keep an eye on the 33-year-old in his next start to see if he will be able to bounce back. As of now, consider Westbrook in NL-only formats or the deepest of mixed leagues for Fantasy Week 2 (April 11-17). His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the Diamondbacks. Westbrook is 1-0 with a 1.93 ERA in two appearances (one start) in his career against Arizona.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook did not look too sharp in his first start of the season on Saturday against the Padres. He allowed eight runs on six hits and five walks in the 11-3 loss. He gave up two in the second, one in the fourth, and three in the fifth before being chased from the game. Reliever Jason Motte allowed two inherited runners to score, charging Westbrook with eight total runs. The right-hander also struck out three while taking his first loss of the year. "I guess there's some comfort in knowing I wasn't getting hit around a whole lot," Westbrook said. "But it's still not the pitcher I am."
Analysis: Westbrook was uncharacteristically wild in his first outing of the season as he usually does not issue many walks. The extra baserunners ended up burning him and stick him with his first loss of the campaign. The 33-year-old should be able to iron out some of his problems with guru Dave Duncan as his pitching coach so Fantasy owners should continue to view Westbrook as a viable option in deeper mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Giants. Westbrook is 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA in one career start against San Francisco.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook didn't have the best spring finale on Monday against the Marlins. Westbrook took the loss on Monday as he allowed four earned runs on 11 hits over just 4 1/3 innings. He walked two and did not have a strikeout in the game. "It was ugly, kind of along the lines of good start, bad start," said Westbrook, who finished the spring at 1-2 with a 4.44 ERA. "I need to rectify that and get more consistent."
Analysis: Westbrook had some good spring starts and some poor ones and finished with the latter. Still, after winning 10 games last season with a 4.22 ERA, the 33-year-old stands as the No. 2 hurler in the rotation for the Red Birds and should be a fine option on deeper mixed-league Fantasy teams. Westbrook is scheduled to take the hill for the first time on Saturday against the Padres.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook produced his best spring outing Wednesday against the Mets. Westbrook allowed just one unearned run on three hits over 5 1/3 innings, striking out two. "Once I get that rhythm down and figure that out I should be fine," he said. "I moved toward that direction today." Manager Tony La Russa is pleased with Westbrook, who was elevated to the No. 2 starter after Adam Wainwright underwent elbow reconstruction surgery. "I think his stuff was good," La Russa said. "Everything was improved today. The more starts the sharper he gets."
Analysis: Westbrook didn't look great in his previous outing, but clearly had his game going on Wednesday, even if it was against the Mets. Westbrook pitched very well in the second half of 2010, and Fantasy owners in deeper mixed leagues will be hoping he can continue that form into 2011. Draft Westbrook late in 12-team leagues.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook allowed four runs on nine hits over five innings against the Marlins on Thursday. Westbrook struck out two. Westbrook struggled in the third when Florida had four singles with RBI by Hanley Ramirez and Gaby Sanchez. Ramirez doubled and Sanchez drove him in on consecutive two-out at-bats in the fifth. "I felt good. I didn't make any pitches when I needed to," Westbrook said. "A lot of two out hits for RBI, that was the difference in the game."
Analysis: Westbrook has a 4.91 ERA this spring as he heads into his first full season with St. Louis, where he has extra responsibility now that ace Adam Wainwright is done for the year. Westbrook had a 3.61 ERA in the second half last season, so hopefully he can keep that form going in 2011. Continue to draft him in deeper mixed leagues as a late-round option.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook was very solid on Saturday against the Minnesota Twins in Grapefruit competition. St. Louis' projected No. 3 starter gave up only one run over four solid innings. He allowed six hits, walked one and struck out two. His ERA on the spring stands at 3.72. "[Westbrook] really works it. He competes," manager Tony La Russa told MLB.com. "Don't underestimate when you go out there to compete. Even when things aren't perfect, you find a way to get through it. He did."
Analysis: Westbrook has allowed four earned runs over 9 2/3 innings this spring and has improved a little each time he's taken the hill. The Cardinals are counting on Westbrook even more after losing Adam Wainwright for the season due to an elbow injury. Westbrook is not a dominant strikeout pitcher, but if he is healthy, then he can chew up innings and potentially win 10-plus games this season. He is a viable NL-only option and potential late-round Fantasy flier in larger mixed leagues.
News:Jake Westbrook allowed one run and four hits in 3 2/3 innings for the Cardinals during Monday's 10-4 spring win against the Twins. He didn't issue a walk and struck out one as he lowered his spring ERA to 4.76. The 33-year-old right-hander made 33 starts last season for Cleveland and St. Louis after being sidelined for much of the previous two years due to reconstructive elbow surgery. "Last year I was coming off not having pitched a big league ballgame, as it were, in 18 months," Westbrook said. "Now I'm going out there and concentrating on getting ready for the year and not worrying about my arm. I'm out there concentrating on putting the ball where I want to. After what I've gone through in '08 and '09 to not have to worry about your arm, that's a huge weight off your mind. You can concentrate on other aspects of being a good pitcher."
Analysis: The Cardinals are counting on Westbrook even more after losing Adam Wainwright for the season due to an elbow injury. Pitching coach Dave Duncan has worked miracles in the past and turning Westbrook into a reliable pitcher is doable. Westbrook is not a dominant strikeout pitcher, but if he is healthy, then he can chew up innings and potentially win 10-plus games this season. He is a viable NL-only option and potential late-round Fantasy flier in larger mixed leagues.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook allowed two runs on five hits over two innings Wednesday as he got roughed up a little in his 2011 spring debut against the Mets. Westbrook walked one and struck out one. Westbrook threw 50 pitches. "I gave up a lot of foul balls which kind of hurt my pitch count," he said. "I got ahead and then ended up getting deep into some counts. I've got to do a better job of getting some quicker outs. I felt great, which is the most important part."
Analysis: Westbrook had surgery on his non-throwing shoulder in October, but the Cardinals seem to be pretty high on the 33-year-old veteran heading into 2011. With the loss of Adam Wainwright (elbow) for the season, Westbrook will needed to be relied upon a little more than anyone expected, and hopefully elite pitching coach Dave Duncan can help him out. Westbrook is not a dominant strikeout pitcher, but if he is healthy, then he can chew up innings and potentially win 10-plus games this season. He is a viable NL-only option and potential late-round Fantasy flier in larger mixed leagues.
News: SP Jake Westbrook went 4-4 with a 3.48 ERA in 12 starts for the Cardinals after being acquired in a trade in July last season. However, Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that Westbrook "will even be better. He'll feel much more a part of what we're doing." Westbrook had surgery on his non-throwing shoulder in October, but his rehab is not bothering his throwing program. "I'm pretty strong right now," he said. "It's going to be more of an endurance-type thing now, building up innings, getting that pitch count up there. I know what it takes to get ready. Now it's getting to know how things work here with the Cardinals."
Analysis: Pitching for the Cardinals, as opposed to the Indians, has tremendous benefits for Westbrook. First, he will receive better run support. Second, he won't have to take on the pressure of being the team's ace, surrounded by the likes of Adam Wainwright, Chris Carpenter and Jaime Garcia. Lastly, he will benefit from the tutelage of Duncan, who is one of the best pitching coaches in the game. Westbrook held batters in the NL to a .242 average, as opposed to a .273 mark in his first 21 starts with the Indians last year. If Duncan says he can only get better, then we can't wait to see what he does in 2011. Westbrook is not a dominant strikeout pitcher, but if he is healthy, then he can chew up innings and potentially win 10-plus games. He is a viable NL-only option and potential late-round Fantasy flier in larger mixed leagues.
News: While Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook told reporters Saturday that his recovery from surgery on his left, non-throwing shoulder is going well, he likely will be restricted early on in spring training at the plate. "I think initially, yeah," Westbrook said. "My left shoulder feels great, though. I think they just don't want to push it too much. I think it's one of the last things they want me to do. Hopefully, I'll just kind of master the art of bunting, or at least get better at it. Hitting is probably down on the list of what they want me to do. It's go out and pitch. I've been throwing. My left shoulder feels great. Right arm feels good."
Analysis: The 2011 season will be Westbrook's first full campaign in the NL, so learning how to hit is something he will have to add to his arsenal of skills. However, it's not the most important thing. Many folks, including Fantasy owners, want to see how Westbrook will do with a full year of guidance from pitching coach Dave Duncan. Westbrook went 4-4 with a 3.48 ERA in 12 starts with the Cardinals last season after a trade from Cleveland. He also held batters in the NL to a .242 average, as opposed to a .273 mark in his first 21 starts with the Indians. Westbrook is not a dominant strikeout pitcher, but if he is healthy, then he can chew up innings and potentially win 10-plus games. He is a viable NL-only option and potential late-round Fantasy flier in larger mixed leagues.
News: The Cardinals signed SP Jake Westbrook to a two-year deal with a mutual option for a third year on Tuesday. The contract, according to FOXSports.com, is for $16.5 million. Westbrook was acquired from the Indians in July, and he went 4-4 with a 3.48 ERA in 12 starts after coming to St. Louis. Overall, he was 10-11 with a 4.22 ERA for the Cardinals and Indians.
Analysis: The Cardinals love sinkerballers, so it is not surprising to see Westbrook stick with the club. He took his game up a notch after joining the team, but even at his established level, he has been good enough to warrant interest in mixed Fantasy leagues. He is should be considered as a No. 5 or 6 starter in those formats.
News: SP Jake Westbrook is working with the Cardinals' organization towards a new deal that would keep him with the team. St. Louis acquired Westbrook via a three-team deal just prior to the July 31 trade deadline, and his three-year deal expires at the end of the 2010 season. FOXSports.com reports that the Cardinals have a "high level of interest" in retaining Westbrook with a new contract. He went 4-4 with a 3.48 ERA in 12 starts after joining the team in midseason.
Analysis: Westbrook relies on his sinker to be successful, so he and Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan are a perfect match. Duncan has had success in increasing the ground ball rates of pitchers like Joel Pineiro and Brad Penny, and in the two months he was with the team, Westbrook experienced the same trend. While he doesn't strike many batters out, Westbrook could have some appeal in standard mixed leagues, as a poor man's Tim Hudson, especially if he can finalize a deal with the Cardinals.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook had surgery to repair a small tear in his left shoulder sometime within the last 10 days. The procedure was performed by Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala. The Cardinals acquired the right-handed Westbrook from the Indians in a three-team deal just prior to the July 31 trade deadline, and he went 4-4 with a 3.48 ERA in 12 starts after coming to St. Louis. He will become a free agent upon the conclusion of the postseason.
Analysis: The Cards love sinkerball pitchers, and Westbrook fit right in, posting an outstanding 58 percent ground ball rate on the season. He did well in his comeback from Tommy John surgery in 2008, and despite a lack of strikeouts, he can help Fantasy owners in deeper mixed leagues in 2011, regardless of where he may sign his next contract.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook matched his career high with nine strikeouts and got his first RBI of the season in the St. Louis Cardinals' 3-0 victory over the out-of-gas Colorado Rockies on Friday night. Westbrook allowed four hits and walked one batter. Two of those hits came in the eighth inning, forcing him out with the bases loaded and two outs. "A while back I used to throw it (cutter) a lot and it was effective for me, and I kind of lost it after being hurt for so long," Westbrook said. "I just told myself I'm going to just throw it and it worked out. It's one more pitch they have to worry about, and I think it makes me a better pitcher."
Analysis: Westbrook was 3-1 with a 1.87 ERA in five starts at Busch Stadium this year. He went 10-11 on the year (4-4 with the Cardinals) and owns a 4.22 ERA. Westbrook reached 10 victories for the fourth time and first time since 2006. With his season done, Westbrook can head into the offseason happy with the way it ended. On Draft Day 2011 Westbrook should be viewed as a low-end Fantasy SP option.
News: Cardinals starter Jake Westbrook had a 4-0 lead before he even took the mound on Sunday against the Cubs. He almost gave it all back. Almost. Westbrook allowed two runs in the fifth and three in the sixth but St. Louis scored four more runs in the top of the fifth and Westbrook earned the win to improve to 3-4 on the year for the Cardinals. He allowed five runs -- three earned -- on five hits over 5 1/3 innings. Westbrook walked four and struck out two. His ERA is at 3.88.
Analysis: Westbrook struggled in his previous outing allowing five runs in a loss at Pittsburgh. He bounced back nicely on Sunday and is 2-1 over his last three starts. Westbrook is going to start once more this season in Week 26 (Sept. 27-Oct. 3) on Saturday against Colorado. He's definitely worth using in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues for that outing.
News: Cardinals starter Jake Westbrook, who needed 41 pitches to get through the first inning Tuesday against the Cardinals, was lifted after yielding five hits and five runs after four innings -- one start after he shut out San Diego for eight innings. "We're trying to win ballgames, and that's the disappointing part about not pitching well," said Westbrook, who fell behind 3-0 in the first. "You want to go out there and pitch well and get as many Ws as we can and see what happens. To not pitch well and be one of the main reasons that we lose, it's disappointing."
Analysis: Two of Westbrook's four losses since being dealt by Cleveland to St. Louis have been in Pittsburgh, which remains on pace to lose more than 100 games. Clearly, Westbrook should be avoided right now in most standard formats even for favorable matchups due to his inconsistency. He'll face the Cubs on Sunday at Wrigley Field.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook pitched eight scoreless innings on Thursday night against the Padres, allowing just six hits and earning his first win since Aug. 13 in the 4-0 victory. "When I get ground balls, I feel like I'm doing my job," said Westbrook, who has eight quality starts with the Cardinals. "This was the first zero I put up in a long time. It feels good." It was Westbrook's longest scoreless outing since he threw eight shutout innings on August 23, 2007, for Cleveland against Detroit. "Eight hard-earned innings," St. Louis manager Tony La Russa said. "They're on fire over there and they're working every at-bat. It was quite a piece of work." Westbrook struck out three and walked three in his longest outing since he was acquired from Cleveland in a three-team deal July 31. The right-hander is 2-3 with a 3.26 ERA in nine starts with St. Louis.
Analysis: Westbrook has not won too many games since coming over to St. Louis but finally got some run support on Thursday to pick up his eighth win of the year. He has a solid chance of reaching double-digit wins for the first time since 2006 but cannot do it by himself. If the Cardinals plan on making the playoffs, they need to keep hitting. Fantasy owners in mixed leagues might want to get Westbrook active for the upcoming scoring period as he will be a two-start option for Fantasy Week 25 (Sept. 20-26). The first start is scheduled for Tuesday at the Pirates, with the second coming on Sept. 26 at the Cubs.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook tied a season-high on Saturday against the Braves as he walked five batters. The right-hander hasn't won since Aug. 13 and that didn't change on Saturday as he would not factor into the decision of the game. He gave up two earned runs on seven hits in six innings of work. He left the game trailing 3-2, but his teammates would get him off the hook for the loss as they forced extra innings. Braves SS Alex Gonzalez h would hit a three-run homer in the 12th inning, giving Atlanta the 6-3 win.
Analysis: Westbrook remains 7-10 on the year and owns a 4.41 ERA. Since joining the Cardinals, he's gone 1-3 over eight starts for an ERA of 3.71. He has pitched through the sixth inning in each start, but just hasn't been able to buy a win. You'd think with a good offensive team, Westbrook would have a better record with St. Louis, but unfortunately for Fantasy owners that isn't the case. He's worth using in deeper mixed leagues at this stage of the season. He's scheduled to face San Diego on Thursday in Week 24 (Sept. 13-19). In two games -- one start -- versus the Padres, Westbrook is 1-1 with a 1.08 ERA.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook pitched six innings on Monday, allowing two runs off five hits against the Brewers. The right-hander surrendered a solo homer to Rickie Weeks in the third inning and as victimized by Corey Hart for another solo shot in the fifth. He left after throwing 98 pitches and with the game tied at two. Westbrook struck out two and walked two in the no-decision. He has not won since Aug. 13.
Analysis: Westbrook has only won one game since coming over from the Indians with a 3.88 ERA and three loses. He has pitched decently with his new team but has been the victim of poor run support and bad luck. Westbrook should finish strong as the Cardinals chase down a playoff spot so Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the righty in deeper mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Saturday at the Braves. In one career start against Atlanta, Westbrook gave up four runs over five innings and was tagged with the loss.
News: At Houston on Monday, Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook put together his fifth quality start in six appearances since coming over from the Indians, but he ended up with another loss, allowing three runs on nine hits with one walk and three strikeouts in seven innings. "I'm sure he's not very happy here," manager Tony La Russa said. "Early on, we didn't support him very well defensively and then we don't score well. He's done a good job. We're really impressed with him."
Analysis: Westbrook is 1-3 with the Cardinals despite compiling a respectable 4.03 ERA. The veteran right-hander has looked better in the NL after battling inconsistency with the Indians earlier this season, but his lack of knockout stuff gives him a limited ceiling. Treat him as a matchups type in mixed leagues. His next start is scheduled for Sept. 6 at Milwaukee, making him a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 23 (Sept. 6-12).
News: According to MLB.com, the Cardinals announced on Saturday that they would rearrange their rotation for the upcoming week, pushing SP Jake Westbrook's next start to Sept. 6 at the Brewers. Jeff Suppan is expected to be activated off the DL to toe the rubber Wednesday with Jaime Garcia, Adam Wainwright and Chris Carpenter expected to bolster the rotation during a three-game series against Cincinnati, which begins on Friday. Westbrook, who is scheduled to start Monday at Houston, is 1-2 with a 4.06 ERA in five starts since being acquired from the Indians at the trade deadline.
Analysis: Westbrook has lost his last two outings and now loses his two-start status for Fantasy Week 22 (Aug. 30-Sept. 5). He has pitched well since coming over from Cleveland and should only get better with pitching coach Dave Duncan's tutelage. Fantasy owners have to be disappointed with this announcement but continue to view Westbrook as a viable option in deeper mixed leagues as he is now in line for two starts during Fantasy Week 23 (Sept. 6-12).
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook, who threw quality starts in each of his first four chances after coming over from the Indians, striking out 26 batters in 25 innings with a 3.60 ERA during that stretch, finally fell short Wednesday -- and against the Pirates, of all teams. He allowed four runs on six hits with one walk and five strikeouts over six innings in the road loss.
Analysis: Westbrook has been a significantly better pitcher since joining the Cardinals, increasing his strikeouts and decreasing his walks. Of course, that's not saying much considering he was a below-average starter with the Indians. He's at least worth a look now in mixed leagues, especially since the contending Cardinals could make him a winner more often than not. His next is scheduled for Monday at Houston, making him a two-start pitcher and a worthwhile sleeper in Fantasy Week 22 (Aug. 30-Sept. 5).
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook allowed three earned runs on seven hits on Friday against the Giants. He struck out seven and walked two over six innings of work, but wasn't able to get back-to-back wins. Instead he was tagged with his first loss since joining St. Louis in four starts. The right-hander was in trouble in four innings, stranding two runners in the first and fifth, giving up two runs on four hits in the second, and surrendering Pablo Sandoval's 10th homer in the third.
Analysis: Since joining the Cardinals, Westbrook is 1-1 with a 3.60 ERA. The righty's stock rose dramatically in Fantasy leagues once he joined St. Louis, as he's now owned in 53 percent of leagues, compared to just 15 percent when he was in Cleveland. Now that he's on a contender and pitching better, Westbrook should be considered a good play in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues. His Week 21 (Aug. 23-29) start is scheduled for Wednesday at Pittsburgh. In four appearances against the Pirates -- no starts -- Westbrook has a 1.13 ERA.
News: Cardinals starter Jake Westbrook allowed two earned runs over six innings on Friday night against the Cubs. He earned his first win since being acquired by the Cardinals via trade in his third start for the team. Westbrook struck out three batters and walked one while giving up six hits in the outing.
Analysis: Westbrook had pitched well over his first two starts for the Cardinals, but did not factor in the decision in either game. He has posted a solid 3.32 ERA in three starts with 19 strikeouts in 19 innings and should continue to enjoy good run support pitching for a good Cardinals team. He is a good play in any league for his next start against the Brewers on Aug. 18.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook struck out a season-high nine batters on Saturday against the Marlins. It was the most he's fanned in a game since 2007. "I can't explain [the strikeouts]," Westbrook said. "Probably, for a lot of these guys, it's the first time facing me." He allowed three earned runs on six hits -- two of them home runs -- in his seven innings of work. In his second start with St. Louis, Westbrook did not factor into the decision. The Marlins won the game, 5-4, in 10 innings.
Analysis: Westbrook hasn't won since July 16 when he was still with Cleveland. In his two starts with St. Louis he's allowed five earned runs and struck out 16 in 13 innings of work. It seems like the change of scenery and being on a contender has been good for Westbrook. He is a low-end Fantasy SP at this time, but will garner more attention as the season wraps up, if he continues to pitch well. His Week 19 (Aug. 9-15) start is scheduled for Friday against the Cubs, a team he has never faced.
News: Cardinals SP Jake Westbrook wasn't able to record a victory in his first start since coming over from the Indians, but he did impress in a no-decision against the Astros on Monday, allowing two runs on four hits and one walk in six innings. He also recorded seven strikeouts, one off his season best, and kept the ball down to limit Houston to one flyball out. "A little nervous, a little excited," Westbrook said. "But I felt like I was able to harness those feelings and settle in."
Analysis: Westbrook, who is in his first season back from Tommy John surgery, wasn't all that impressive in 21 starts for the Indians, compiling a 4.65 ERA, but he has been a serviceable Fantasy option in the past and should benefit by pitching for a contender. The tutelage of pitching coach Dave Duncan couldn't hurt either. Westbrook is worth a flier if you need cheap wins in a deeper league, but you shouldn't expect him to strike out a batter per inning every time out. His next start and second of Fantasy Week 18 (Aug. 2-8) is scheduled for Sunday at Florida.
News:Jake Westbrook, acquired from Cleveland in a three-team deal on Saturday, will start for the Cardinals on Monday against Houston. Infielder Tyler Greene (hand) was placed on the 15-day disabled list to make room on the roster. A 2004 All-Star, the 32-year-old Westbrook is 6-7 with a 4.65 ERA in 21 starts this year.
Analysis: With a Monday start, Westbrook projects to be a two start pitcher in Fantasy Week 18 (Aug. 2-8), facing the Marlins in Florida as well as the Astros at home. He did not pitch badly for Cleveland, and now with more run support from the Cardinals' lineup, Westbrook is poised to pick up a few more wins. With a pair of favorable starts, Westbrook should be active in all NL-only leagues and could be a worthy rotation candidate in some deeper mixed leagues for the coming scoring period.
News: The NL Central-leading St. Louis Cardinals made a three-team trade Saturday, getting pitcher Jake Westbrook from Cleveland and sending outfielder Ryan Ludwick to NL West-leading San Diego. The deal was announced about three hours before the non-waiver trading deadline. The Cardinals got cash along with Westbrook from the Indians. St. Louis also acquired left-hander Nick Greenwood from San Diego. "I'm excited to go to a club contending for a playoff spot and pitch in some meaningful ballgames," Westbrook told MLB.com. "That's why you play the game, for a chance to get into the playoffs, and I'm looking forward to doing that." The Indians got Double-A pitcher Corey Kluber from San Diego.
Analysis: Westbrook was scratched from his start for the Indians at Toronto. A 2004 All-Star, the 32-year-old righty was 6-7 with a 4.65 ERA in 21 starts this year. He is 69-71 overall in 10 major league seasons. The Cardinals had been looking to boost their rotation. Kyle Lohse and Brad Penny have been out with injuries and Jeff Suppan, signed in midseason, has not been able to regain his form. "We've been looking for a quality starting pitcher to add to our rotation for some time," Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak said in a statement. "Westbrook is someone we've had our eyes on for a good period of time." Westbrook will add some depth to the St. Louis rotation and will go from being an AL-only type pitcher to being an NL-only option.
News: The Indians have scratched Saturday's scheduled starter, Jake Westbrook, for the team's afternoon game against the Blue Jays. He was replaced by Josh Tomlin. Westbrook is said to be part of a trade that would send him to the St. Louis Cardinals, according to various reports.
Analysis: The deal is not official, but Fantasy owners that may have him in their active lineup in daily leagues will need to reserve him immediately. We'll have more on this situation as it develops. Going to the St. Louis Cardinals should boost Westbrook's Fantasy value as he'll be pitching for a contender that will offer good run support. He'll be a nice addition off the waiver wire in NL-only formats.
News: Indians starter Jake Westbrook, who is scheduled to start Saturday's afternoon game at Toronto, is said to be part of a trade that would send him to the St. Louis Cardinals, according to various reports.
Analysis: The deal is not official, but it puts Westbrook in serious doubt to make Saturday's afternoon start. Fantasy owners that may have him in their active lineup in daily leagues should look to alternatives. We'll have more on this situation as it develops.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (6-7) allowed three earned runs on four hits -- two of which were homers -- in Monday's 3-2 loss to the Yankees. He walked two and struck out five over his eight innings of work. Nick Swisher and Curtis Granderson supplied all of New York's offense. "That was the ballgame," Westbrook said. "A two-run home run when you're up a run in the eighth, that's what I'm upset about." He did hold Alex Rodriguez hitless in three at-bats, keeping him at 599 career homer runs.
Analysis: Westbrook's name has been tossed around in trade talk this week and could be moved before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. Westbrook has pitched well in his three starts since the All-Star break, but has a 1-2 record from those outings. His second start comes on the road at Toronto on Saturday. In 10 games -- eight starts -- versus the Blue Jays, Westbrook is 3-2 with a 4.54 ERA. If he isn't traded Westbrook is an AL-only Fantasy pitcher, but a trade to a contender could up his value, so owners should watch how the week unfolds.
News: After Aaron Laffey was placed on the 15-day DL on Friday with a shoulder injury, the Indians tweaked their rotation. They moved Justin Masterson from Monday to Sunday to take Laffey's start. Jake Westbrook, who was originally scheduled to pitch the second game of the Yankees series on Tuesday, will start on Monday.
Analysis: Not much changes for Westbrook, who is still a two-start pitcher for Fantasy Week 17 (July 26-Aug. 1). His second start comes on the road at Toronto. That's if, however, the Indians don't trade him before the July 31 deadline. Even with the two-start status, Westbrook remains an AL-only Fantasy start since he is a .500 pitcher that doesn't strike out a lot of batters. A trade to a contender might change his Fantasy value, but by how much remains a huge question mark.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (6-6) allowed four runs on six hits over six innings Wednesday afternoon in a 6-0 loss to the Twins. Westbrook tied his season high with five walks and struck out just one. "Have to do a little better job there minimizing the damage," Westbrook said, adding: "I felt great today. That was the frustrating part."
Analysis: Westbrook has now won just two of his last seven starts as he continues to put up very mediocre numbers this season. In Fantasy Week 17 (July 26-Aug. 1), Westbrook will get starts against the Yankees and at the Blue Jays. Those are very tough matchups for any pitcher, so Westbrook should only be used in deeper AL-only formats for the scoring period, unless you want to risk possibly having negative points from him.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on eight hits in Friday's 8-2 win over the Tigers. The right-hander threw 104 pitches and was pulled with two outs and a runner on third base in the top of the sixth inning. "I would have liked to go longer, but making 32 pitches in the first inning makes that tough," Westbrook said. "But this was a big win. We want to have a good second half and this is the way to start it." Westbrook walked one and struck out five while improving to 6-5 on the season.
Analysis: This was Westbrook's first home win against the Tigers since Sept. 18, 2007 and he is now 6-8 in his career against Detroit. Westbrook has been better over his last four starts, allowing a total 10 runs in his last 23 2/3 innings pitched. While he has been pitching better of late, the fact that he plays for a bad team and has a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 67-to-37 makes him a low-end option in deeper mixed leagues. He is scheduled to make his next start on Wednesday at Minnesota. Westbrook is 7-9 with a 3.62 ERA in his career against the Twins.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook will get the first start for the Tribe in the second half of the season against Detroit on Friday. Westbrook is 1-0 with a 2.70 ERA in two starts against Detroit this season. In his last outing, Westbrook allowed five runs on eight hits in a 5-2 loss to the Rays. He struck out seven, but suffered his fifth loss of the year. "I felt that our starting rotation exceeded expectations that a lot of people had on them," manager Manny Acta told MLB.com. "There was still a question mark with Jake [Westbrook] because of his health issues, and also there was still a lot of skepticism about how Fausto [Carmona] would pitch. I think they have both exceeded expectations that the outside world probably had on them." The rest of the rotation will be Fausto Carmona going on Saturday, Mitch Talbot will pitch the second leg of a doubleheader on Saturday, followed by Justin Masterson on July 18 and Aaron Laffey will round out the group as he pitches at Minnesota on July 19.
Analysis: Westbrook is 5-5 with a 4.75 ERA in his 18 starts this year. Westbrook's sub-par 62-to-36 strikeout-to-walk ratio combined with a 1-2 record over his last five starts make him just a low-end SP option in deeper mixed Fantasy leagues at this time. With rumors of teams eyeing him, his value could go up a little if he's traded to a contender.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook pitched six innings on Thursday night, allowing five runs off eight hits in a 5-2 loss to the Rays. The right-hander struck out seven and did not issue a walk but took his fifth loss of the year. He gave up a two-run homer to Carl Crawford in the first inning and was victimized by Crawford again in the third. "Pitching set the tone as usual," Cleveland manager Manny Acta said. "Davis threw the ball very well. Jake made a couple mistakes on Crawford." Carlos Pena also hit a solo shot off Westbrook in the third. The right-hander, who had gone 5-0 in his six previous outings against the Rays, watched LeBron James' announcement on a clubhouse television. "Because I didn't pitch very well I got in early to see him," Westbrook said. "Guys leave in free agency all the time. It's the nature of sports. He made that decision and I guess he feels like it's best for him and his family." He is 1-2 in his last five starts.
Analysis: Westbrook raised his ERA from 4.59 to 4.75 on Thursday and is now 5-5 on the year. He has pitched pretty decent this season but plays on a bad team. His strikeout-to-walk ratio of 62-to-36 makes him a low-end option in deeper mixed leagues. His next start won't be until after the All-Star break. He will likely pitch during the three-game series against the Tigers that starts July 16. Westbrook is 1-0 with a 2.70 ERA in two starts against Detroit this season.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook allowed three runs -- two earned -- on four hits in his outing Saturday against Oakland. He walked three and struck out one, as he did not factor in Cleveland's 5-4 win.
Analysis: Westbrook didn't pitch poorly on Saturday, but he didn't do enough to get the win, which would have been his second consecutive win. With a 5-4 record and 4.59 ERA, Westbrook is a low-end Fantasy SP. Consider using him when he makes two starts in a week and limit him the rest of the time. Unfortunately he doesn't start twice in Week 14 (July 5-11). Westbrook is scheduled to pitch at Tampa Bay on Thursday. In 12 starts versus the Rays, Westbrook is 6-2 with a 3.66 ERA.
News: Cleveland SP Jake Westbrook had himself a pitchers' duel against Toronto's Ricky Romero on Monday night and Westbrook came away the victor. The Indians' hurler threw 105 pitches through six innings but got the job done for one run allowed on six hits and a walk. The win improves his record to 5-4 on the season and his ERA is at 4.69. Westbrook struck out four in the performance.
Analysis: Westbrook has been hard to predict of late as he allowed nine earned runs on 18 hits over his last 12 innings (two starts) and went 0-1 over those two starts against the Mets and Phillies. He was pretty sharp against Washington over 7 1/3 innings in his start prior to those two and he was sharp on Monday against the Blue Jays. His up-and-down nature has plagued him for most of the season, making him advisable in Fantasy play mainly when he starts twice or has a really good matchup. He will make another start during Week 13 (June 28-July 4) on Saturday against the A's. He faced Oakland earlier this season and lost to them with four runs allowed on eight hits over five innings.
News: Cleveland SP Jake Westbrook picked up a no-decision on Wednesday in a start against the Phillies. Westbrook was actually clinging to a one-run lead when he left the ballgame after five innings but this game wasn't won until late by the Phillies. Westbrook allowed four earned runs on seven hits and a walk. He struck out two and his ERA is at 4.90 on the year. Westbrook has allowed nine earned runs and 18 hits in his last two starts spanning 12 innings.
Analysis: Westbrook has allowed four or more runs in three of his last four starts and that is definitely a cold streak. His ERA is high at 4.90 but Westbrook has also mixed in some solid performances. Still, because he plays for a poor team and occasionally pitches poorly, Westbrook is mainly an option for AL-only Fantasy leagues. His next start is scheduled for Monday of Week 13 (June 28-July 4) against Toronto. He will pitch twice in the upcoming scoring period and that makes him someone to consider in deeper mixed leagues.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook pitched seven innings on Thursday night, allowing five runs off 11 hits in a 6-4 loss to the Mets. The right-hander gave up three runs in the first before settling down over the next couple innings. The Mets scored two more in the fourth but were not able to get anything else going against Westbrook after that. He also struck out five and walked two while running his record to 4-4 on the year.
Analysis: Westbrook had won his last two decisions before taking the loss on Thursday. He gave up a season-high in hits but was able to limit the Mets to just two big innings. His 4.76 ERA and the fact that he plays for a bad team makes Westbrook an AL-only Fantasy option. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday at the Phillies. He has never faced Philadelphia in his career but is 3-2 with a 4.50 ERA on the road this season.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook gave up two runs over 7 2/3 innings in a 7-2 win over the Nationals on Friday. Westbrook allowed seven hits and struck out five while walking two. It was the most strikeouts he has recorded since he fanned eight on May 16. Westbrook improved to 4-3 with a 4.62 ERA on the season.
Analysis: Westbrook has now improved to 4-1 in seven starts since May 11. He has been a little erratic this year, but that is to expected after missing most of 2008 and all of 2009 after having Tommy John surgery. Because he doesn't strike out many batters (43 through 78 innings) he should considered an AL-only option at this point. He scheduled to make his next start on Wednesday against the Mets. He has never faced the Metropolitans in his career.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook looked poised to pick up his first decision in nine starts against the White Sox on Sunday, but he couldn't hold the lead. Westbrook was staked to a 6-2 lead heading into the fourth inning when the wheels fell off. He allowed four runs over the next 1 2/3 innings to earn a no-decision and was pulled in the bottom of the fifth inning with the score tied at six. "I lost this ball game today," Westbrook said. "Six runs is a lot. I need to do a better job shutting it down, keeping the score what it was. I didn't do my job today. I'm the reason we lost this game today. I don't care what anybody else tells you. That's how I feel and that's the way it is." Westbrook allowed six runs and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings. He walked two and struck out one.
Analysis: Westbrook was coming off his best start of the year heading into Sunday. He has been very erratic this year putting together a couple of good starts mixed with some bad ones. He doesn't strike a lot of hitters out and for that he should considered an AL-only option at this point. He scheduled to make his next start on Friday against the Nationals. He is 0-1 with a 3.86 ERA in one career start against Washington.
News: Cleveland SP Jake Westbrook was quite sharp over 7 2/3 innings on Tuesday and he earned a victory over the Detroit Tigers, 3-2. Westbrook improved to 3-3 on the season as he allowed just one earned run on five hits and a walk. He struck out one and threw 106 pitches. Westbrook lowered his ERA to 4.36 in the process and made up for a losing decision in his previous start against the White Sox. "That's the best game he's pitched this year," Cleveland manager Manny Acta said. "That's only the third game we've won this season when we've scored three or less runs, so you see how important it was for him to go deep for us."
Analysis: Westbrook had allowed nine earned runs over 12 innings in his previous two starts but was pitching well before that. It seems apparent that Westbrook is going to have his off days but he's also proven a nice commodity for deeper mixed Fantasy leagues after missing all of last season. He has low-end appeal in mixed Fantasy leagues but doesn't strike out a ton of hitters and that limits him. His next start comes in Week 9 (May 31-June 6) on Sunday at the White Sox. He lost at home to Chicago on May 26 as he allowed five runs on six hits over seven innings.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (2-3) allowed five runs on six hits over seven innings Wednesday afternoon as Cleveland fell 5-4 to the White Sox, handing Westbrook his first loss since April 23. He struck out two and walked a pair.
Analysis: After two straight quality outings and four in a six-game stretch, Westbrook has now allowed nine runs over his last 12 innings of work against the Reds and White Sox. He will try to get back on track with two starts in Fantasy Week 9 (May 31-June 6). The first will come against the Tigers, who Westbrook gave up three runs on nine hits to over 5 2/3 innings in a start against earlier this season. The second start will be against the White Sox again. While Westbrook has pitched well at times this season, he remains pretty much an AL-only option pitching for the lowly Indians.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook pitched five innings on Friday night, allowing four runs off seven hits against the Reds. The right-hander gave up a solo home run in the third and allowed three more runs in the fourth, raising his ERA to 4.56 on the year. He also struck out three and walked two while earning the no-decision.
Analysis: Westbrook had won his last two starts but did not earn a decision on Friday night. He has allowed six earned runs over his last 20 innings pitched, including 12 strikeouts over that period. He is viable in mixed leagues, based on his past, but playing for the lowly Indians won't help his case. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the White Sox. Westbrook is 8-12 in 29 career appearances (23 starts) against Chicago with a 5.00 ERA.
News: Now that Jake Westbrook has put concern about his troublesome elbow behind him, he can start thinking about things that cross the minds of other major league pitchers. Things such as getting a shutout, throwing a complete game and earning wins for his team. Westbrook worked around nine hits for his 13th career complete game, and the Cleveland Indians beat the Baltimore Orioles 5-1 Sunday. Westbrook (2-2) didn't pitch at all last season while recovering from reconstructive right elbow surgery. He was 0-2 in his first six starts this year before defeating the Royals on Tuesday. Against Baltimore, Westbrook missed his fourth career shutout when Luke Scott hit a two-out homer in the ninth. "It's disappointing because it's the last hitter almost - would have been if I got him out," Westbrook said. "Once it's happened, it happened. Go get the next guy. I still had a chance to throw a complete game." And, although he didn't get his first shutout since 2006, the right-hander went the distance for the first time since April 8, 2008, against the Los Angeles Angels. Westbrook lowered his ERA to 4.27 on the year with the win.
Analysis: Westbrook struck out eight, one short of his career high, and walked none. "I feel great right now, and that's encouraging for me," Westbrook said. "Even a year or so before my surgery I still was kind of fighting stuff, so it was like I feel better now than then. For me right now it's a matter of staying in my routine, getting ready for each ball game." Westbrook has both of his season's wins in his last two starts now with two runs allowed in those two victories in Baltimore and Kansas City. He plays at a disadvantage pitching for the lowly Indians, but Westbrook has proven viable in mixed Fantasy leagues once again. His next start comes in Week 7 (May 17-23) on Friday against the Reds. Westbrook is 1-1 for his career against Cincinnati with a 3.05 ERA over three starts.
News: In a battle of two struggling starting pitchers on Tuesday, it was Cleveland's Jake Westbrook who got the better of Kansas City's Brian Bannister. Westbrook earned his first win of the season and first since 2008 after missing all of last year. "It's nice to get that first win and pitch well doing it," said Westbrook, who had Tommy John surgery in June 2008. "It wasn't real pretty, but I put up some zeros and only gave up that one run. I had baserunners all night, but made pitches when I had to." Westbrook (1-2) allowed one earned runs on five hits and lasted six innings for the win. He walked two and struck out two and his ERA is at 5.06 on the year.
Analysis: Westbrook has allowed four runs or fewer in his last six straight starts, so he hasn't been too far away from giving the Indians a chance to win. Still, he's been walking way too many batters and has not been able to go deep in games. He was facing a poor hitting team on Tuesday and obviously fared well. Still, we can't call him a mixed-league viable option just yet. He'll get another chance to prove himself in Week 6 (May 10-16) on Sunday in Baltimore. He is 1-2 with an 8.20 ERA over three career starts against the Orioles in Baltimore.
News: Cleveland SP Jake Westbrook, who was questionable to start Tuesday's game against the Blue Jays but ultimately decided to give it a go, did not pitch very well. Westbrook avoided the loss as he earned a no-decision but he walked five and allowed five hits over 3 2/3 innings. He gave up three earned runs and struck out three. His ERA is at 5.74 on the year. Westbrook did not blame his back for his rough outing, reports MLB.com. He said his elbow, subjected to Tommy John surgery two years ago, hasn't been giving him problems, either. It's a lack of command that has done Westbrook in. "I'm definitely searching for something, and command is one of those things," Westbrook said. "It's frustrating that it's not there, especially with how my arm feels. It would be one thing if it was hurting, but I feel great. I feel I should be making progress [in terms of performance], and I just haven't done that."
Analysis: Westbrook had his shortest outing of the season on Tuesday and it could have been due to his back issues suffered prior to the game despite his stance that it had nothing to do with his poor outing. He is 0-2 on the season, his ERA is high and he pitches for a terrible ball club. Sound like a winning combination to you? He's just an AL-only Fantasy option. Westbrook is going to make his next start in Week 6 (May 10-16) on Tuesday at Kansas City. That puts him on pace to start twice in Week 6 and that boosts his value just a bit.
News: MLB.com reports that Jake Westbrook will make his start on Tuesday night against the Blue Jays from Progressive Field. Westbrook's start was in doubt due to back tightness. The team even recalled top pitching prospect Carlos Carrasco as insurance in case Westbrook couldn't go. That said, Westbrook reported early Tuesday, worked in the cages and decided he was a go for the start.
Analysis: Winless on the season, Westbrook (0-2) seems to give Cleveland an opportunity to win, at least, every time he steps on the mound. Cleveland just isn't very good at scoring runs for him. Westbrook is pitching in a tough situation and that keeps him mainly an AL-only Fantasy option. Westbrook is 2-2 with a 4.78 ERA in six starts against the Blue Jays.
News: Cleveland SP Jake Westbrook struck out seven on Wednesday in a no-decision against the Angels. Westbrook pitched six innings and allowed three runs to score on four hits. When he left the game, it was tied at three. Westbrook walked one in the start and threw 100 pitches exactly. His ERA is 5.53 on the season.
Analysis: Westbrook has yet to win a game this year at 0-2 for the Indians. He's giving the Tribe a chance as he's allowing around 2-4 runs per game of late, Cleveland just isn't very good at scoring runs for him. Westbrook is pitching in a tough situation and that keeps him mainly an AL-only Fantasy option in Week 5 (May 3-9). His next start comes Tuesday against Toronto in a one-start week. Westbrook is 2-2 with a 4.78 ERA in six starts against the Blue Jays.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook allowed four runs and eight hits in five-plus innings during a 10-0 loss to the A's on Friday. The game was pretty close until Oakland broke it open in the sixth with three runs. Westbrook was gone after not retiring one of the first three hitters in the sixth. Kurt Suzuki's two-run homer signaled the end to his night. Westbrook (0-2) walked one and struck out one.
Analysis: Westbrook pitched well early and was backed by a pair of double plays from Cleveland's defense but took the loss after running into trouble in the sixth. The right-hander, who was limited to three minor league starts last season after undergoing reconstructive right elbow surgery in June 2008, hasn't won since April 8, 2008. The good news is that he has pitched well after an awful first start. The bad news is that we aren't expecting steady wins in 2010. Westbrook is best left for AL-only Fantasy formats. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday against the Angels.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook had a solid outing against the White Sox on Saturday, but finished with a no-decision. He pitched seven innings, allowing two earned runs on five hits, walking three and striking out a pair of batters. He recorded 13 groundball outs. "He pitched the way he is, like a veteran," Indians manager Manny Acta said. "He didn't have his best stuff, but he battled and gave us a great outing." Westbrook is 0-1 on the season.
Analysis: Westbrook has brought his ERA down to 5.40 after being pummeled in his season debut, allowing five earned runs in only four innings. His Fantasy value lies in AL-only formats. His next start comes Friday at Oakland. He's 2-3 with a 2.55 ERA in his career against the A's.
News:Jake Westbrook left Sunday's contest against Detroit with a 7-3 lead in the sixth inning, but the bullpen couldn't protect it, as the Tigers won 9-8. Westbrook struck out seven batters, but he scattered nine hits and three walks and made 105 pitches.
Analysis: Westbrook might be the Indians' "ace" but he is a risky option best left for AL-only leagues. He has a tough assignment facing Jake Peavy and the White Sox in Fantasy Week 2 (April 12-18), so if you have other options on reserves, this would be a good week to sit Westbrook.
News:Jake Westbrook -- back from reconstructive elbow surgery -- tied a club record with four wild pitches, hit Carlos Quentin twice, walked four and allowed five runs and five hits Monday in his first start since May 28, 2008. He left trailing the White Sox 4-0. "Chalk it up to I just didn't pitch well," he said. "I'm done with the excuses of you haven't pitched in a year and a half. Now it's just a matter of getting better."
Analysis: Westbrook might be the Indians' "ace" but he is a risky option best left for AL-only leagues. He faces a tough matchup at the end of Fantasy Week 1 (April 4-11) at Detroit and against ace Justin Verlander. Westbrook is 4-8 with a 6.05 ERA in 20 career outings against the Tigers. Track his progress through the weekend before considering him even in AL formats for Fantasy Week 2 (April 12-18).
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook gave up five hits and four runs over six innings against Triple-A Nashville in his final spring tuneup on Wednesday. He will be Cleveland's opening day starter against the White Sox. Westbrook posted a 4.86 ERA in five Cactus League starts.
Analysis: Opening day will be Westbrook's first regular season appearance since May 28, 2008. He had major-league stuff prior to undergoing Tommy John surgery, but needs to prove he can pitch like his former self before we trust him outside of AL-only Fantasy formats. He does look like a good start for Fantasy Week 1 (April 4-11), as he's scheduled to make a pair of starts during that period.
News:Jake Westbrook, slated to start for Cleveland on opening day, walked five over four-plus innings during Friday's spring start against the Rockies. Westbrook was charged with two runs and seven hits while striking out three. He left with a 3-1 lead and the bases loaded. Saul Rivera got out of the jam, allowing one run. Westbrook, who has a 4.86 ERA in five spring starts, will use his remaining spring start Wednesday to try to refine his control. "I was a little all over the place today and I don't like that," he said. "I've got to throw strikes."
Analysis: Westbrook is eager to make his opening-day assignment -- which will be his first game for Cleveland since May 28, 2008. The right-hander spent all of 2009 recovering from Tommy John surgery. "When they told me I needed surgery, I knew it would be a long time -- but not this long," Westbrook said. "I felt strong. I feel real close to where I want to be." Westbrook definitely had major-league stuff before his setback with his elbow. He needs to prove to use he can pitch like his former self before we start trusting him heavily outside of AL-only Fantasy formats.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook pitched well Sunday at the Dodgers, giving up one run on six hits in 4 2/3 innings to lower his ERA to 4.97. He did not walk a batter and had three strikeouts. Westbrook has not pitched in a big-league game since May 2008 because of elbow problems.
Analysis: Westbrook has allowed only two earned runs in his last 8 2/3 innings, so he appears to have rediscovered his form. He was never an overpowering pitcher, but his sinker made him a consistent winner for the Indians. Unfortunately, this Indians team doesn't offer the same run support as the one he used to pitch for, so he's more of a sleeper for AL-only leagues than mixed leagues.
News: Penciled in by new manager Manny Acta to be the team's opening-day starter, Indians SP Jake Westbrook allowed one run and two hits with one strikeout in four innings Tuesday against the Giants. It was his best outing this spring and a huge confidence builder for the right-hander, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2008. "I was just throwing strikes with all my pitches, getting ahead and pounding the zone," the 32-year-old said. "I was able to do that. I was being very aggressive, and when I'm aggressive and throwing strikes, it makes all of my pitches that much better. For me right now, it's just fine tuning my command."
Analysis: Westbrook hasn't pitched in a major-league game since May 28, 2008, but that didn't stop Acta from picking him to open the season on April 5 in Chicago. "I can't take it back anyways," Acta said with a laugh. "I made my decision based on his track record and how good he was in the past when he was healthy. If he was healthy, there was no hesitation in doing that. He's gotten better each outing. The ball is coming out of his hand really good. He's feeling great. He's going to have his ups and downs, but right now he's throwing well." Westbrook was never an ace for Fantasy purposes, lacking the strikeout potential to become one, but he could eat innings and win 12-plus games if he returns to form. Take a flier on him in AL-only leagues.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook yielded three runs before getting an out during Friday's spring start against the Angels, but said he felt better than he did in his spring debut Monday against the Diamondbacks, when he allowed one run and three walks in 1 2/3 innings. "I felt 100 times better as far as mechanics and rhythm," he said. The game got off to an inauspicious start for Westbrook, who allowed a leadoff double to Reggie Willits. Two batters later, Mike Napoli parked a three-run homer. Westbrook then settled down to allow just one run over his next nine outs. Westbrook also allowed one hit and one walk while striking out four.
Analysis: Westbrook missed all of last season recovering from Tommy John surgery in June 2008. The right-hander also had right hip surgery in 2008 and said he gets some soreness in that area after pitching, but his arm feels completely healthy. "If anything, I'm a little too strong," Westbrook said. "I've got to back off and not overthrow." Westbrook is lining up to possibly be the ace of a young rotation in Cleveland. He was a quite effective pitcher before getting injured, so if he can regain his form, Westbrook might return to being a viable Fantasy option. He remains a late-round sleeper in larger Fantasy formats.
News: P Jake Westbrook allowed a run and three walks in 1 2-3 innings in his first game against major-league hitters since May 2008, and the Cleveland Indians beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-2 on Monday. Westbrook said he felt strong and was encouraged by his first outing since undergoing Tommy John surgery. He allowed a single, hit a batter and struck out one. "I felt great," he said. "I didn't throw as well as I would've liked, but I felt strong and that might have one of the reasons for that. It's just a matter of remembering how to pitch and getting better." Westbrook did admit he had some nerves prior to the game. "I was excited and anxious and nervous to get back into throwing against big-league guys again, so that played a little part in it as well. Kind of all over the place," he said. In the first inning, he hit Ryan Roberts with a pitch with one out and walked Justin Upton, but he got out of the inning by striking out Adam LaRoche and getting Chris Young to fly out. "I definitely have a lot of work to get back into and most of it is trying to figure out my mechanics again and getting that muscle memory down where I don't have to think about it anymore," Westbrook said. "With bullpens and more outings, that'll come and get better with every outing." In the second, Westbrook walked Gerardo Parra and Brandon Allen, and Tony Abreu drove in a run with a single. "Watching him come back from that is good," Arizona manager A.J. Hinch said about Westbrook. "He lives on the edge. He can sink it and cut it and he throws a lot of groundballs."
Analysis: Westbrook is expected to be the Indians' Opening Day starter. Last season, he was expected to return around the All-Star break, but suffered setbacks and threw in three minor-league games. Now that Tommy John procedures a fairly common, Westbrook is expected to return to form in 2010. Unfortunately, that form didn't make him a standout Fantasy option. He'll eat innings and potentially win a dozen games, but his hittability and lack of strikeouts make him at best a late-round pick.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook will have to wait at least another day to make his much-anticipated spring debut. The right-hander's scheduled start against the Rangers was canceled by rain on Sunday. "I was ready to go," said Westbrook, now scheduled to start Monday in Tucson against the Diamondbacks. "I've waited 23 months, so what's another day?" Westbrook missed the entire 2009 season because of Tommy John surgery after making only five starts in 2008. "I expect Jake to be as good as he was before he got hurt," manager Manny Acta said. "Tommy John surgery is as common as an everyday dentist visit these days. "Jake is throwing pain free. I can't read the future, but I expect him to be good."
Analysis: Acta has a point. Tommy John surgery has a high rate of success, virtually guaranteeing Westbrook can regain his form. Unfortunately, that form didn't make him a standout Fantasy option. He'll eat innings and potentially win a dozen games, but his hittability and lack of strikeouts make him at best a late-round pick.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Indians SP Jake Westbrook, who has missed most of the last two years following Tommy John surgery, will be the Indians' opening-day starter, if healthy.
Analysis: Westbrook is in camp and looking forward to his first spring start, but don't be surprised if he is on strict pitch counts early on. He is in line to become the opening-day starter since the Indians' rotation is weak. Westbrook will no longer be pitching for a contending Indians club. Consider him a late-round option in AL-only leagues on Draft Day. He could be a sleeper for deeper mixed leagues, if he proves healthy and effective early.
News: Indians players Luis Valbuena, Asdrubal Cabrera, Jhonny Peralta, Jake Westbrook, Lou Marson, Rafael Perez, Nick Weglarz, Jeremy Sowers and Anthony Reyes are already in Goodyear, Ariz according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Analysis: Westbrook, who won 44 games from 2004-2006, has a clean bill of health and might be Cleveland's opening-day starter if he can make it through a full spring's worth of work. There are plenty of survivors of Tommy John surgery to come out fine, but Westbrook will no longer be pitching for a contending Indians club. Consider him a late-round option in AL-only leagues on Draft Day at this point. He could be a sleeper for deeper mixed leagues if he proves healthy and effective early.
News: Indians starter Jake Westbrook is confident his reconstructed right elbow can withstand the grind of a season. Westbrook hasn't pitched in the majors since May 28, 2008, two weeks before he underwent Tommy John surgery. Westbrook recently made four starts during winter ball in Puerto Rico and said Wednesday he came away feeling better than at any time during his rehab. Westbrook said he made all his pitches and his fastball was in the 90 mph range. Speaking on a conference call from his home in Georgia, Westbrook said new Indians manager Manny Acta visited him in Puerto Rico.
Analysis: Westbrook, who won 44 games from 2004-2006, has a clean bill of health and might be Cleveland's opening-day starter if he can make it through a full spring's worth of work. There are plenty of survivors of Tommy John surgery to come out fine, but Westbrook will no longer be pitching for a contending Indians club. Consider him a late-round option in AL-only leagues on Draft Day, but he could be a sleeper for deeper mixed leagues if he proves healthy and effective early.
News: Indians right-hander Jake Westbrook won't pitch again this season, though Cleveland hopes he will be ready for spring training next year. Westbrook had Tommy John surgery in June 2008 and recently experienced discomfort during a rehab start at Double-A Akron. He visited Dr. Lewis Yocum in Los Angeles on Monday and had a series of tests that showed no ligament damage, Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said Tuesday. "An MRI on Jake's right elbow revealed that the symptoms are from the buildup of scar tissue and tendinitis, but there is no damage to the reconstructed ligament," Soloff said. "Dr. Yocum recommended that Jake be shut down for six weeks, which makes it unlikely he will pitch this season."
Analysis: The Indians had hoped that the 31-year-old Westbrook would return this season. He made a couple of minor league starts in June before experiencing discomfort and was shut down for a month. He worked two innings at Akron on Aug. 4 and said he felt the same soreness. From 2004-06, Westbrook won a total of 44 games. He went 6-9 in 2007, going on the disabled list for six weeks with a strained left oblique. He made only five starts in 2008 before being sidelined and having surgery. "It's disappointing, but as long as we the guy back healthy, that's what we want," manager Eric Wedge said. "We want him to be somebody we can count on next year." The Indians and Westbrook are discussing whether or not the right-hander will pitch winter ball in order to be in good condition entering spring training. It's safe to cut Westbrook in all seasonal Fantasy formats. He has mild appeal in long-term keeper leagues and will be merely an injury-risk Fantasy sleeper Draft Day 2010.
News: MLB.com reports that Indians SP Jake Westbrook had his scheduled rehab assignment on Sunday put on hold due to soreness in his right elbow. Westbrook, who had Tommy John surgery in June, 2008, will visit Dr. Lewis Yokum to determine the extent of the arm soreness.
Analysis: This doesn't sound good at all for Westbrook, who didn't appear very far away from a possible return to the Indians rotation. Now, he is probably out for at least another few weeks, so the AL-only owners who are stashing him away might want to think about cutting ties.
News: Indians RHP Jake Westbrook allowed four hits and two runs over two innings, striking out two in a rehab start at Double-A Akron. He had Tommy John surgery in June 2008.
Analysis: Westbrook's role when he returns is unclear at this point, but he was a decent innings eater in the years leading up to the injury. For that reason, he's worth a flier if you have a free DL slot in an AL-only league, but it's a complete shot in the dark at this point.
News: Indians RHP Jake Westbrook, who underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2008, will pitch three innings on Tuesday in a minor-league game. He should be back in the majors in a few weeks.
Analysis: Westbrook's role when he returns is unclear at this point, but he was a decent innings eater in the years leading up to the injury. For that reason, he's worth a flier if you have a free DL slot in an AL-only league, but it's a complete shot in the dark at this point.
News: Indians RHP Jake Westbrook threw a simulated game and said he felt "great". Westbrook, who had Tommy John surgery in June 2008, had experienced soreness during a minor league rehab assignment in June.
Analysis: Westbrook is worth stashing in AL-only formats and could eventually make an impact if he is able to return to the rotation. That likely won't come until at least the middle of August at this point, however.
News: Indians RHP Jake Westbrook (Tommy John surgery) threw 50 pitches in Cleveland on Friday. Trainer Lonnie Soloff said the session went well and Westbrook will go through a similar workout Monday.
Analysis: Westbrook was expected to make a Triple-A start on June 17 but was scratched and had not pitched until starting his current throwing program. He is worth stashing in AL-only formats and could eventually make an impact if he is able to return to the rotation.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook, who made two rehab starts in the minors before being shut down with soreness, will resume a throwing program next week. Westbrook had Tommy John surgery last June.
Analysis: Westbrook was scratched from his last scheduled start at Triple-A Columbus on June 17 and hasn't picked up a ball since. Westbrook is 64-64 in his career with a 4.31 ERA in nine seasons in the majors. He is worth stashing in AL-only formats and could make an impact toward the end of the season when he does eventually return to the rotation.
News: MLB.com reports that Cleveland SP Jake Westbrook, who suffered a setback in his rehab from Tommy John Surgery earlier this week, will not throw for 14 days while his sore elbow gets better. "We were hoping that he'd be [back] late June or early July," Soloff said. "Now it may be late July or early August. It's from the 12-month timeframe to the 13-month timeframe, which is still OK. But Jake wants to pitch another eight to 10 years. We respect our short-term needs but also consider Jake's long-term goals, so that's what we're doing."
Analysis: Westbrook was scratched from his last scheduled start at Triple-A Columbus on Wednesday and hasn't picked up a ball since. Westbrook is 64-64 in his career with a 4.31 ERA in nine seasons in the majors. He is worth stashing in AL-only formats and could make an impact toward the end of the season when he does eventually return to the rotation.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Jake Westbrook has had a setback in his rehab from Tommy John surgery last year. Westbrook will not make his scheduled rehab start Wednesday for Double-A Akron because of some soreness in his arm.
Analysis: In his second rehab start June 12, Westbrook threw four scoreless innings for Akron. Manager Eric Wedge said that instead of a rehab start Wednesday, Westbrook will throw a bullpen session. He remains a player worth stashing in in AL-only formats, though this likely will keep him out a bit longer than expected. He has been targeting a return in late June.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook, who is coming back from Tommy John surgery, pitched four scoreless innings in a rehab start for Double-A Akron against Portland on Friday. He is expected to rejoin the Indians late this month.
Analysis: Westbrook remains a player worth stashing in in AL-only formats as he is expected to be back with the team at the end of June. He is an innings eater and could provide a boost to teams in AL-only formats and deeper mixed leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Indians SP Jake Westbrook's scheduled rehab start for Double-A Akron on Thursday was rained out. Westbrook has been on the disabled list as he recovers from Tommy John surgery last year.
Analysis: Westbrook could be back by the end of June from the Tommy John surgery he had last year. He is an innings eater and could be valuable in deeper mixed leagues when he returns.
News: Cleveland right-hander Jake Westbrook is inching closer to returning to the Indians. Westbrook is scheduled to pitch four or five innings at Double-A Akron on Thursday - the one-year anniversary of his Tommy John surgery. He worked three scoreless innings Saturday in his first rehab outing.
Analysis: The Indians think Westbrook could be back by the end of June from the Tommy John Surgery he had last year. He is an innings eater and could be valuable in deeper mixed leagues when he returns.
News: According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Indians SP Jake Westbrook threw a three-inning simulated game for Double-A Akron on Saturday. He allowed a run and a hit in the game.
Analysis: The Indians think Westbrook could be back by the end of June from the Tommy John Surgery he had last year. He is an innings eater and could be valuable in deeper mixed leagues when he returns.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (elbow), who was originally scheduled to pitch three innings for Double-A Akron on Friday, will instead work Saturday.
Analysis: Westbrook made only five starts last year before succumbing to Tommy John surgery. He's not a big strikeout guy, but he eats innings and could prove useful enough for deeper mixed leagues upon his return. Don't bother stash him outside of AL-only leagues.
News: The Akron Beacon Journal reports that Indians SP Jake Westbrook (elbow surgery) is scheduled to pitch three innings for Double-A Akron on Friday, as he begins a rehab assignment.
Analysis: Westbrook continues on his long road back from Tommy John surgery. He could return towards the end of the month, but remains just an AL-only stashee.
News: From The Sports Xchange: RHP Jake Westbrook will make a rehab start Monday in extended spring training in Goodyear, Ariz. Westbrook, who had Tommy John surgery, hopes to rejoin the big-league club sometime before the All-Star break.
Analysis: Westbrook is nothing more than a DL stashee in the deepest of AL-only leagues at this point. He could return before the All-Star break and be a nice sleeper in deeper leagues.
News: Indians head athletic trainer Lonnie Soloff said that right-hander Jake Westbrook is progessing well at the Indians' spring training complex in Arizona. Westbrook had Tommy John surgery 11 months ago and is scheduled to throw three innings or 50 pitches on Wednesday.
Analysis: Westbrook is in the midst of the slow comeback from Tommy John surgery so the Indians will not rush him back. We may seem him on a major league mound by late June or early July but right now you need to just monitor his progress and hope for no setbacks. He should be worth using in AL-only leagues when he can return.
News: Indians starter Jake Westbrook threw two-thirds of an inning and 20 pitches in an extended Spring Training start Monday and will throw again Friday, according to the team's official website. He is still on target for a mid-or late-June return.
Analysis: Westbrook will add one inning or 15 pitches to his workload each week and will be sent out on rehab when he can tolerate an estimated four innings or 65 pitches, trainer Lonnie Soloff said. Mid-June or even late June seems a little optimistic at this point, but continue to monitor his progress in AL-only leagues.
News: Cleveland right-hander Jake Westbrook, who had Tommy John surgery last June, is progressing at the team's training facility in Arizona and could be pitching in about a month, trainer Lonnie Soloff said Monday.
Analysis: Westbrook is making nice progress from surgery, but still isn't expected back until midseason. Continue to ignore him in Fantasy, likely until after the All-Star break.
News: The Akron Beacon Journal reports that Indians SP Jake Westbrook threw batting practice Saturday for the first time since Tommy John surgery and is scheduled to do it again twice next week. ”If all goes well, he will get his first game activity, pitching one inning (20 pitches) next Monday,” head trainer Lonnie Soloff said.
Analysis: Westbrook is making nice progress from surgery, but still isn't expected back until midseason. Continue to ignore him for another month at least.
News: Cleveland RHP Jake Westbrook, who is attempting to come back from Tommy John surgery, threw a 60-pitch bullpen session in extended spring training Monday.
Analysis: Westbrook is on track to possibly return in the middle of the season somewhere and is still a ways away from returning. Fantasy owners should leave him on waivers for the time being in all leagues.
News: Indians right-hander Jake Westbrook could begin simulated game activities next month as he continues to make his way back from Tommy John surgery. Westbrook is throwing off-speed pitches from the mound and "doing quite well," trainer Lonnie Soloff said Saturday.
Analysis: Westbrook is on track to possibly return in the middle of the season somewhere and is still a ways away from returning. Fantasy owners should leave him on waivers for the time being in all leagues.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that Indians SP Jake Westbrook (elbow surgery) should begin throwing off-speed pitches off the mound this week. He has only been throwing fastballs off the mound until now.
Analysis: Westbrook remains on schedule for a mid-season return, so continue to consider him a DL stashee for the next couple of months.
News: The Indians placed pitcher Jake Westbrook on the 60-day DL. He is recovering from right elbow surgery and will miss at least half of the season.
Analysis: Westbrook is nothing more than a DL stashee for the first half of the season, but at least he can be officially assigned to your Fantasy DL lists now.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook threw off a mound for the first time since having Tommy John surgery in June.
Analysis: Westbrook has hip surgery after having Tommy John surgery last June. He will miss at least half of the season, so consider him nothing more than a DL stashee in deeper leagues until late July.
News: The Indians activated RHP Jake Westbrook from the 60-day disabled list.
Analysis: Westbrook has hip surgery after having Tommy John surgery last June. He will miss at least half of the season, so consider him nothing more than a DL stashee in deeper leagues until late July.
News: Cleveland Indians starter Jake Westbrook underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right hip and will be on crutches for four weeks. Westbrook's hip first bothered him during spring training. He flew to Nashville, Tenn., for an examination Thursday and Dr. Thomas Byrd performed the surgery there Friday.
Analysis: The right-hander's season ended in June when he had Tommy John surgery on his right elbow. The Indians say the hip surgery is not expected to affect Westbrook's scheduled return to throwing off flat ground around Thanksgiving. Westbrook went 1-2 with a 3.12 ERA in five starts this season. He was sidelined early in the season for about a month with a strained oblique muscle, then felt pain in his elbow after his first start back in May. Westbrook is out until at least the middle of 2009 at this point. Cut and ignore him in any Fantasy league right now. The veteran is no certainty to return to his previous level like some younger elbow surgery returnees.
News: The Indians will send right-hander Jake Westbrook, recovering from Tommy John surgery, to see a hip specialist Thursday. Westbrook felt some discomfort in his hip during spring training and said he would like to get it checked out after the season. He will visit Dr. Thomas Byrd in Nashville for further examination.
Analysis: Westbrook is out until at least the middle of 2009 at this point. Cut and ignore him in any Fantasy league right now. The veteran is no certainty to return to his previous level like some younger elbow surgery returnees.
News: The Indians moved Jake Westbrook (Tommy John elbow surgery) to the 60-day DL.
Analysis: Westbrook is out until at least the middle of 2009 at this point. Cut and ignore him in any Fantasy league right now. The veteran is no certainty to return to his previous level like some younger elbow surgery returnees.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Indians SP Jake Westbrook is scheduled to undergo Tommy John surgery Thursday in Los Angeles. Westbrook is expected to be sidelined for approximately one year.
Analysis: Westbrook went 1-2 with a 3.12 ERA in five starts this season. The right-hander was on the DL from April 20 to May 28 with a strained muscle in his left side. He's injury prone and he won't be back this season. Go ahead and cut ties with Westbrook in all Fantasy formats.
News: Cleveland Indians starter Jake Westbrook will have surgery on his right elbow, sidelining him for the rest of the season. Westbrook was scratched from his scheduled start Tuesday and sent to Cleveland to have his elbow checked out. He was placed on the DL retroactive to May 29, the day after he was activated to start against the Chicago White Sox. The team said Saturday that Westbrook will have ligament reconstruction surgery in the next week or two.
Analysis: Westbrook went 1-2 with a 3.12 ERA in five starts this season. The right-hander was on the DL from April 20 to May 28 with a strained muscle in his left side. He's injury prone and he won't be back this season. Go ahead and cut ties with Westbrook in all Fantasy formats.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook is back on the disabled list for the second time this season with an inflamed right elbow. Westbrook was sent to the DL retroactive to Thursday, the day after his last start. He is 1-2 with a 3.12 ERA in five starts this season and was on the DL from April 20 to May 28. The Indians recalled RP Jensen Lewis to take Westbrook's place on the roster. Lewis is 0-2 with a 3.58 ERA in 20 appearances this season for Cleveland. He was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on May 24.
Analysis: Westbrook (1-2, 3.12 ERA) is becoming a bit of an injury-prone player. He made just 25 starts last season due to injury and has been limited to five in 2008. He can be a viable Fantasy SP when healthy, but only stash him in larger mixed leagues while on the DL, again. Lewis is nothing more than a middle reliever whose value lies in deeper AL-only leagues that use true middle men.
News: Cleveland right-hander Jake Westbrook has been scratched from his scheduled start Tuesday and is headed back to the disabled list. During their game Monday night at Texas, the Indians said Westbrook would be placed on the disabled list Tuesday because of right elbow inflammation. The DL move will be retroactive to Thursday, the day after his last start. The Indians will call up a pitcher from the minor leagues to start Tuesday. They didn't announce who that would be.
Analysis: Westbrook (1-2, 3.12 ERA) has been bothered by the elbow since his last appearance Wednesday, when he was activated from the DL before the game after being out since April 19 because of a strained left muscle in the rib area. He gave up three runs and five hits in five innings against the Chicago White Sox without a decision. Westbrook is becoming a bit of an injury-prone player. He made just 25 starts last season due to injury and has been limited to five in 2008. He can be a viable Fantasy SP when healthy, but only stash him in larger mixed leagues while on the DL, again.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook, activated from the disabled list before Wednesday's game against the White Sox, allowed three runs and five hits in five innings in a no-decision as Cleveland fell 6-5. Westbrook hadn't pitched for the Indians since April 19 because of a strained left muscle in the rib area. He struck out three and walked two.
Analysis: Westbrook's ERA rose from 2.73 to 3.12 on Wednesday, although he didn't pitch too horribly in his first outing in over a month. A viable Fantasy option when healthy, Westbrook has the additional allure of getting two starts in Fantasy Week 10 (June 2-8), against the Rangers and the Tigers. Last season, Westbrook was 1-0 with a zero ERA in one start against Texas and 0-1 with a 3.79 ERA in three starts against Detroit. He should be starting in all AL-only formats and some deeper mixed league for the period.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook, who has been on the DL since April 22 with a strained left intercostals, will start Wednesday's game against the White Sox.
Analysis: Westbrook is 1-2 with a 2.73 ERA. Consider him a viable Fantasy option when healthy. He won't strike out a lot of batter, but could win 10-plus games pitching for the Indians.
News: Indians SP Fausto Carmona is expected to be sidelined four weeks with a strained left hip. An MRI exam revealed a moderate strain of an exterior muscle in Carmona's left hip, Lonnie Soloff, Cleveland's head athletic trainer, said Sunday. "The good news is that there was no damage to the interior, which would have been much more serious," Soloff said. "If all goes well, Fausto should be able to start playing catch in about seven days." The Indians are expected to activate right-hander Jake Westbrook to take Carmona's place in the rotation, which has an AL-best 3.21 ERA this season.
Analysis: Westbrook has been out since April 22 with a strained muscle near his left ribcage. At the time Carmona was injured in Cleveland, Westbrook was pitching six scoreless innings on a rehab assignment at Double-A Akron. He is expected to rejoin the rotation Wednesday against the White Sox. Westbrook is 1-2 with a 2.73 ERA. Consider him a viable Fantasy option when healthy. He won't strike out a lot of batter, but could win 10-plus games pitching for the Indians.
News:Fausto Carmona was placed on the 15-day disabled list Saturday by the Cleveland Indians because of a strained left hip. Carmona was injured as he ran to cover first base in the third inning of Cleveland's 13-9 loss to the Texas Rangers on Friday night. Carmona's injury occurred at about the same time that right-hander Jake Westbrook was pitching six scoreless innings during an injury rehabilitation assignment at Double-A Akron. Westbrook has been sidelined since April 22 with a strain near his left ribcage.
Analysis: Carmona threw one pitch to the next batter, then left the game. The right-hander allowed six runs over two innings, hiking his ERA from 2.25 to 3.10. At the moment, there were no plans announced as far as who would take his next start Wednesday against the White Sox, although it seems likely that Westbrook will get the call. Think about cutting in line and picking him up in AL-only formats. In mixed formats, he's also worth picking up although he won't be as appealing to activate until he faces a possible two start Fantasy week.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook, out since April 22 with a back strain, threw six shutout innings in a rehab start at Double-A Akron on Friday. He allowed only three hits and, according to MLB.com, is set to come off the disabled list. "We've got to get Jake back on the roster," manager Eric Wedge said earlier in the day. "We'll see him next week."
Analysis: Westbrook looks like he'll contribute in Fantasy in Week 9 (May 26-June 1). His lack of upside, however, makes him nothing more than a low-end Fantasy SP in mixed leagues. Before the injury, he had a 2.73 ERA and a 1.11 WHIP in four starts.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Jake Westbrook will make his second minor league rehab start Friday. If Westbrook has no setbacks, manager Eric Wedge said he likely would be activated sometime next week. Westbrook is on the disabled list with a strained intercostal muscle.
Analysis: Westbrook likely won't be ready for Fantasy Week 8 (May 19-25). He could return before June, so stash him for potential rewards as a solid starter on anticipated contender.
News:Jake Westbrook (ribs) went 3 2/3 innings in his Class A rehab start Sunday, allowing three hits, a run and a walk. He struck out four.
Analysis: Westbrook likely gets another rehab start Friday, so keep him reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 8 (May 19-25). He could return before June, so stash him for potential rewards as a solid starter on anticipated contender.
News: Cleveland SP Jake Westbrook, out since April 22 with a strained ribcage muscle, threw a simulated game off the Progressive Field mound Tuesday. "I felt fine, threw all my pitches, about 60 of them," said Westbrook, who is scheduled to make a rehab start at Class A Lake County on Saturday.
Analysis: Westbrook was off to a good start, posting a 2.73 ERA and 1.11 WHIP before the injury. His ceiling isn't that high, but he usually posts serviceable enough numbers to use as a back-of-the-rotation type in Fantasy. He remains on track to be back in late May.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Indians SP Jake Westbrook, on the DL with a strained intercostal, will throw a simulated game Tuesday.
Analysis: Westbrook was off to a good start, posting a 2.73 ERA and 1.11 WHIP before the injury. His ceiling isn't that high, but he usually posts serviceable enough numbers to use as a back-of-the-rotation type in Fantasy. He remains on track to be back in late May.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook, sidelined since April 22 because of a back injury, threw off the mound Saturday. He can rejoin the rotation by the end of May.
Analysis: Westbrook was off to a good start, posting a 2.73 ERA and 1.11 WHIP before the injury. His ceiling isn't that high, but he usually posts serviceable enough numbers to use as a back-of-the-rotation type in Fantasy.
News: Indians starter Jake Westbrook is expected to miss at least one month with a muscle strain in his lower back, an injury the team initially figured would keep him out only for a few starts. He received a cortisone shot in his back Friday. Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said the timetable for Westbrook's recovery changed because the symptoms of his injury persisted for a week since he got hurt. Soloff said the injection seemed to help Westbrook.
Analysis: Westbrook hurt himself while throwing a pitch to Minnesota's Mike Lamb last Saturday. He was placed on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday. The right-hander is 1-2 with a 2.73 ERA in four starts. Westbrook is a decent low-end Fantasy SP in mixed leagues when healthy. Possible stopgap Fantasy options for Westbrook owners include Todd Wellemeyer, Mark Hendrickson, Scott Olsen, Carlos Silva and Gavin Floyd. Westbrook won't be back until late May at the earliest.
News: The Cleveland Indians placed SP Jake Westbrook on the 15-day DL Tuesday, retroactive to April 20, with a left intercostal strain. The intercostals are a group of muscles that run between the ribs. The Indians recalled OF Ben Francisco from Triple-A Buffalo to take Westbrook's spot on the roster. Westbrook, who missed almost two months last year with a left oblique strain, is 1-2 with a 2.73 ERA. "Obviously, he's pitched very well this year," Cleveland manager Eric Wedge said. "This is why you work so hard to have depth. We talk about it year in and year out." Wedge said Paul Byrd would move up to take Westbrook's scheduled start Friday against the New York Yankees. He said he would decide between left-handers Aaron Laffey and Jeremy Sowers to come up from Buffalo to take Westbrook's spot in the rotation.
Analysis: Westbrook just can't seem to avoid injuries to his midsection, it seems. Last year it was an oblique injury and now it's a rib issue. This is his fifth trip to the disabled list in his career. Trainer Lonnie Soloff said Westbrook strained a left intercostal muscle while pitching on Saturday and would probably be out 2-4 weeks. Westbrook was given an MRI and put on oral medication to control inflammation. "He was hoping to go down and in with a pitch and he hit a little extra and felt a tug," Soloff said. "He faced two hitters after that and his night was over." Westbrook is a decent low-end Fantasy SP in mixed leagues when healthy. Possible stopgap Fantasy options for Westbrook owners include Todd Wellemeyer (owned 75 percent of leagues), Mark Hendrickson (38 percent), Scott Olsen (66 percent), Carlos Silva (58 percent) and Gavin Floyd (49 percent).
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook, making his fourth start of the season, took his second loss Saturday at Minnesota. He walked one and struck out four, surrendering eight hits and three runs in seven innings. After Justin Morneau's home run, which cleared the tall right-field wall by a few inches, Westbrook had three 1-2-3 innings and retired 11 of 12 in one stretch.
Analysis: Westbrook is now 1-7 in his career against the Twins. He's actually pitched pretty well so far this season, compiling a 2.73 ERA, but he has only one win to show for it. He's one of the more streaky pitchers and baseball and isn't a major strikeout artist, but he's worth using in mixed leagues when he's going well. His next start is scheduled for Friday against the Yankees.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook was in line to get his second win Monday against the Red Sox before closer Joe Borowski threw it away in the ninth inning. Westbrook worked 6 1/3 innings, striking out five batters and walking three. He allowed two runs -- one earned -- on save hits.
Analysis: Westbrook slumped to a 6-9 record and 4.32 ERA in 2007, but he's off to a good start this year, posting a 2.38 ERA with a complete game to his credit. He's one of the more streaky pitchers and baseball and isn't a major strikeout artist, but he's worth using in mixed leagues when he's going well. His next start is scheduled for Saturday at Minnesota.
News:Travis Hafner hit a two-run homer off emergency closer Justin Speier with two outs in the ninth inning, and Jake Westbrook earned his first complete game since 2006 to lead the Cleveland Indians to a 4-3 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday night. Westbrook (1-1) gave up six hits over eight innings striking out four and walking none after losing a 2-1 decision to the Chicago White Sox in his season debut. The right-hander fell behind 3-2 in the sixth on a two-run homer by Vladimir Guerrero, his first this season. Westbrook held the Angels to just three singles through the first five innings, including bunt hits by Chone Figgins and Erick Aybar.
Analysis: Westbrook has been impressive through his first two starts to the tune of a 2.76 ERA. And it's not like he has faced perennial bottom feeders as well. This is definitely a good sign after Westbrook slumped to a 6-9 record and 4.32 ERA in 2007. Injuries played a part, but now he is healthy and pitching well. Consider him a solid AL-only and larger mixed league flier. His next scheduled start is for Sunday against the A's. He was 1-0 with a 2.57 ERA in one start against Oakland last season.
News:Jake Westbrook (0-1) gave up two runs and six hits in 7 1/3 innings Thursday afternoon against the White Sox, leaving after exactly 100 pitches. He still took the loss, though, with John Danks and three other pitchers combining to hold the Indians to two hits. Westbrook didn't allow a hit until A.J. Pierzynski grounded a single to right with one out in the fifth. He struck out three and a walk.
Analysis: Westbrook gave up both of his runs off solo homers leading off the sixth and eighth innings. He pitched very well for the most part and just suffered from a lack of run support. The Indians have a very potent lineup and this shouldn't be the case often this season. If Westbrook can manage outings like this on a consistent basis, he'll become more than just an AL-only pitcher. He is slated for one start next week at the Angels.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook wrapped up a perfect spring with four scoreless innings Saturday at Atlanta. The right-hander pitched 18 innings this spring without allowing a run, giving up just seven hits, walking six and striking out 20. For the game, he allowed two hits and a walk, striking out four. "It went well," Westbrook said. "I had some problems early on, but things worked out all right. I feel real good about it all."
Analysis: Westbrook won nearly as many games this spring as he did during an injury-plagued 2007 season, when he went 6-9 with a 4.32 ERA. Fortunately, we know enough about Westbrook by now to know his scoreless spring is all smoke and mirrors. He has an ERA over 4.00 and a WHIP over 1.400 in three of his last five seasons. Expect him to do about the same this season, making him a low-end Fantasy SP.
News:Jake Westbrook struck out eight over six perfect innings Monday against the Braves, putting an exclamation mark on his already flawless spring. Westbrook struck out the side in the first and extended his scoreless streak to 14 innings over four spring starts. The right-hander has yet to yield a run, allowing only five hits while striking out 16. "I don't think the '27 Yankees could have hit that guy today," Braves manager Bobby Cox said. "That's as good as you can get, and he had all of his pitches, all of them."
Analysis: Westbrook, who had a sore right arm early in camp, said he feels as strong as he ever has with one week to go before opening day. "I'm glad they sat me down a couple days early," Westbrook said. "I feel real strong and confident with all my pitches." Westbrook was so efficient, throwing only 65 pitches, that he went to the bullpen to throw 30 more, joking that he walked one there to ruin his perfect game. Fortunately, we know enough about Westbrook by now to know his scoreless spring is all smoke and mirrors. He has an ERA over 4.00 and a WHIP over 1.400 in three of his last five seasons. Expect him to do about the same this season, making him a low-end Fantasy SP.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook pitched four scoreless innings in his latest spring start Friday against a Nationals split squad in Winter Have, Fla. He allowed four hits and walked three.
Analysis: Westbrook has yet to allow an earned run this spring and has raised his Fantasy stock just a bit going into the regular season. Consider the veteran a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially since he figures to be a 15-win candidate for the contending Indians.
News: Indians Jake Westbrook, whose first start this spring was delayed because of a sore arm, gave up one hit, one walk and struck out five through three innings in his second outing Sunday against the Nationals. "I felt fine and threw all my pitches, even one curveball in there," said the right-hander, who usually relies on a sinker. "I threw about 50 pitches and it all feels good."
Analysis: Westbrook, who missed seven weeks early in the 2007 season with a left oblique strain, took time off early in camp after experiencing tightness in his right arm. "Any time there's some soreness in your arm, there's some anxiety," said Westbrook, who went 6-9 last season after totaling 44 wins the previous three years. "They had me take a few days off and everything's fine now." Consider the veteran a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially since he figures to be a 15-win candidate for the contending Indians.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Indians SP Jake Westbrook was scratched from his first scheduled spring training start because of a sore arm. Westbrook's start was pushed back three days, and when he finally did pitch he had a successful outing, retiring all three batters he faced in a start against Detroit Sunday. "Everything feels good now," Westbrook said. "I'm glad we did what we did (delaying his first start). My arm feels a lot better than it did then."
Analysis: Westbrook, who turned 30 at the end of last season, said the soreness might have been nothing more than learning how to manage his body physically. "Thirty isn't that old, but in baseball terms I'm starting to get up there," he said. "People say the older you get the more you've got to do to stay on top of it, and I've found that to be true." Westbrook hopes to rebound from an up-and-down 2007 season. He spent more than a month on the disabled list with an abdominal strain and finished 6-9 with a 4.32 ERA in 25 starts. Consider the veteran a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially since he figures to be a 15-win candidate for the contending Indians.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook, scratched from Cleveland's spring training opener last week with arm soreness, got through one inning of work unscathed Sunday in a 3-1 win over the Tigers.
Analysis: Westbrook hopes to rebound from an up-and-down 2007 season. He spent more than a month on the disabled list with an abdominal strain and finished 6-9 with a 4.32 ERA in 25 starts. Consider the veteran a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially since he figures to be a 15-win candidate for the contending Indians.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook, penciled in as Cleveland's No. 3 starter, was scratched from starting the spring opener Thursday against the Astros because of arm soreness. Jeff Harris, who spent last season at Triple-A Buffalo, started in his place and pitched one scoreless inning. Westbrook has been bothered by similar arm trouble in past camps, and doesn't expect it to linger.
Analysis: Westbrook reported no problems after throwing a 45-pitch bullpen session Thursday. He wouldn't pinpoint the location of the soreness. "I usually get it every year," he said. "It's probably just a little stronger that it's been in the past." Westbrook hopes to rebound from an up-and-down 2007 season. He spent more than a month on the disabled list with an abdominal strain and finished 6-9 with a 4.32 ERA in 25 starts. Consider the veteran a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially since he figures to be a 15-win candidate for the contending Indians.
News: Indians pitcher Jake Westbrook was scratched from his scheduled start in Thursday's spring training opener against the Astros because of soreness in his right arm. Westbrook doesn't expect the soreness to last. He has experienced similar discomfort in past training camps. "I usually get this every year," he said Wednesday. "I'm not a big fan of throwing bullpens every other day. It usually acts up on me." Westbrook will throw a bullpen session Thursday and see how his arm responds. Jeff Harris, who pitched at Triple-A Buffalo last season, will replace Westbrook in the Grapefruit League opener.
Analysis: The 30-year-old right-hander is penciled in as Cleveland's No. 3 starter behind AL Cy Young Award winner C.C. Sabathia and Fausto Carmona. Westbrook hopes to rebound from an up-and-down 2007 season. He spent more than a month on the disabled list with an abdominal strain and finished 6-9 with a 4.32 ERA in 25 starts. Consider the veteran a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially since he figures to be a 15-win candidate for the contending Indians. Harris is nothing more than a middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues if he gets time on the roster this season. Ignore him.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Indians SP Jake Westbrook will look to have a bounce-back year in 2008. After pitching more than 200 innings and averaging 15 wins in each of the previous three seasons, Westbrook in 2007 slipped to 152 innings and a 6-9 record. One reason for Westbrook's down year was a strained abdominal muscle that caused him to spend six weeks on the disabled list in the first half of the season. That was Westbrook's first stint on the DL in five years.
Analysis: Indians officials feel a healthy Westbrook should, in 2008, have no problem reclaiming his status as one of the American League's most dependable and productive starting pitchers. Fantasy owners can only wish for the same sentiments. Consider him a viable AL-only and larger mixed league Fantasy option.
News: Jake Westbrook, often overlooked in Cleveland's top-heavy starting rotation, kept Boston grounded for nearly seven innings Monday night, leading the Indians to a 4-2 win over the Red Sox and a 2-1 lead in the ALCS. Westbrook, a laid-back Georgian, doesn't possess the overpowering stuff of C.C. Sabathia or Fausto Carmona -- Cleveland's two aces who flopped in Games 1 and 2 at Fenway Park -- or their stellar reputations. But Westbrook does have a devastating sinkerball, and oh my, how it sunk the Red Sox. "I was able to make good pitches when I needed to," said Westbrook, who lost at Yankee Stadium last week. "I'm a sinkerball guy. That's what I live and die by. I threw that all night and was able to mix in my secondary pitches pretty well."
Analysis: Westbrook had a hugely disappointing year by his standards, but he had won 15, 15 and 14 games in the previous three years and got a three-year contract extension earlier this year. Consider him a candidate for 12-15 wins again in 2008, especially since the Indians are expected to contend again.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed six runs and nine hits in five-plus innings against the Yankees in Game 3 of the ALDS Sunday. He walked none, but he did allow a home run in the loss.
Analysis: After signing a big free-agent contract in the spring, Westbrook failed to live up to expectations in 2007. An oblique injury robbed him of nearly two months of starts, but when he returned in July, Westbrook worked hard to get his ERA to a respectable 4.32 by season's end. If given a full season, Westbrook might develop into a solid top 50 Fantasy SP in 2008.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook was tagged for three runs in the first inning Saturday against the Royals, but held K.C. scoreless for the next 5 1/3 innings before leaving the game in the seventh inning. He allowed seven hits and one walk while striking out five. Westbrook did not allowed more than three earned runs in any of his last three starts (1-0).
Analysis: After signing a big free-agent contract in the spring, Westbrook failed to live up to expectations in 2007. An oblique injury robbed him of nearly two months of starts, but when he returned in July, Westbrook worked hard to get his ERA to a respectable 4.32 by season's end. If given a full season, Westbrook might develop into a solid top 50 Fantasy SP in 2008.
News: Jake Westbrook (6-9) had a big day on Sunday against the Athletics, striking out a career-high nine and allowing just four hits in seven innings. The win helped the Indians clinch the American League Central Division title, which is their first since 2001.
Analysis: Westbrook will get one more start in the final week of the regular season. He remains a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats down the stretch.
News: The visiting Tigers had their chances early against Indians SP Jake Westbrook on Tuesday, but they stranded 10 runners over the five innings he pitched. Westbrook gave up 12 hits and two walks but only four earned runs. He also struck out four and took the no-decision when Cleveland rallied for three runs in the sixth to win.
Analysis: Wow. That's a crooked stat line for Mr. Westbrook, but at least he didn't take the loss. Hits off him tend to come in bunches, so Tuesday's outing probably didn't surprise his Fantasy owners. He remains a useful starter in AL-only and some mixed leagues and will likely open a two-start week pitching at the Mariners on Tuesday.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook dropped to 5-9 on Wednesday after a loss to the White Sox/ He allowed seven hits and five runs (four earned) in six innings. He walked one and struck out five. He is 0-2 in his last three starts.
Analysis: Westbrook came into play Wednesday having not allowed more than three earned runs in any of his previous five starts. He has still failed to live up to expectations in 2007, but can be used in larger Fantasy leagues down the stretch. His next scheduled start will likely come either Monday or Tuesday against the Tigers. He will likely be a two-start pitcher during Fantasy Week 25 (Sept. 17-23).
News: At the Angels Friday, Jake Westbrook allowed two runs and five hits over 7 2/3 innings, striking out two and walking five -- including Garret Anderson twice intentionally.
Analysis: In August, Westbrook re-emerged as a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues as well as some larger mixed leagues. He hasn't allowed more than three earned in his past five starts. Get him active for Wednesday's game at the White Sox.
News: Jake Westbrook (5-8) allowed three earned runs and 11 hits over five innings in a loss Sunday vs. Chicago. The right-hander, who went 4-1 in six August starts, walked three and struck out six.
Analysis: In August, Westbrook re-emerged as a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues. Sunday's loss is a big step back. He's still too shaky to trust in most mixed formats.
News: Jake Westbrook (5-7) allowed three runs -- all in the fifth -- and 10 hits in 6 2/3 innings of Tuesday's game against the Twins. The right-hander, who spent six weeks on the 15-day disabled list and began the season 1-6, went 4-1 in August with 1.90 ERA.
Analysis: Westbrook heads into September, a crucial month for the postseason hopes of the Cleveland Indians, on a major roll. Don't look at the overall statistics, but the recent stats from August. He has re-emerged as a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some mixed formats as well. He'll get a second start in Fantasy Week 22 (Aug. 27-Sept. 2) on Sunday against probable starter Jose Contreras and the White Sox.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed three runs in 6 2/3 innings Tuesday to pick up the victory in Cleveland's 6-5 victory over Minnesota. The right-hander went 4-1 this month with a 1.90 ERA.
Analysis: Westbrook has proven to be a great sleeper down the stretch. Consider him a solid start this time of the year, because the contending Indians have something significant to play for down the stretch. It certainly helps they have a potent offense and Westbrook is hot right now to boot.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook's 1.50 ERA in August leads all American League starters, and is fourth in the majors behind Brandon Webb (0.53), Jake Peavy (1.38), and Roy Oswalt (1.46).
Analysis: Westbrook is in line to be a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 22 (Aug. 27-Sept. 1), facing the Twins Tuesday and the White Sox Sunday. He remains a solid play in all AL-only leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Cleveland starter Jake Westbrook and Detroit starter Nate Robertson kept Thursday's series finale scoreless through eight innings. Westbrook allowed five hits and two walks in eight innings, while Robertson gave up four hits and no walks in a season-high 8 2/3 innings. Neither factored into the decision, as the Indians won it in the top of the 10th. "Robertson was as good as we've seen him and he's been good against us a few times. He took it to another level," manager Eric Wedge said. "Jake was right there with him against that lineup and in their backyard."
Analysis: Westbrook is in line to be a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 22 (Aug. 27-Sept. 1), facing the Twins and the White Sox. He remains a solid play in all AL-only leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Jake Westbrook gave up one run over seven innings, Asdrubal Cabrera hit his first major league homer and the Cleveland Indians beat the Tampa Bay Devil Rays 8-1 Saturday night. Westbrook (4-7) allowed just two hits, including an RBI double by Carlos Pena with two outs in the seventh. He walked two and struck out four. The right-hander, who spent time earlier this season on the disabled list with a left abdominal strain, has won three of his last four starts.
Analysis: During Westbrook's three recent wins, he has allowed just two runs in 21 innings. This is the pitcher we saw in spring training and the one we thought would carry into the season. Better late than never? When facing favorable matchups, consider Westbrook a solid AL-only play and a decent low-end option in mixed leagues. His next scheduled start is for Thursday against the Tigers.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed four runs and nine hits in seven innings in a losing effort Sunday vs. New York. He struck out two and walked two. He also gave up two home runs.
Analysis: The four runs weren't bad considering the Yankees are averaging 7.6 runs per game since July 12. He'll have a better matchup on Saturday at Tampa Bay. When facing favorable matchups, consider him a solid AL-only play and a decent low-end option in mixed leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook, who gave up only one run, had his best outing of the season, striking out five and retiring 23 of 24 batters at one stretch to pick up his second straight win. "It feels good to get back to contributing to this team," Westbrook said after improving to 3--6 with eight strong inning on Tuesday at Chicago White Sox.
Analysis: Westbrook will get a second start in Fantasy Week 19 (Aug. 6-12) against probable starter Andy Pettitte and the Yankees on Sunday. Westbrook came over from the Yankees along with outfielder Ricky Ledee and pitcher Zach Day back on July 24, 2000 for veteran outfielder David Justice.
News: Jake Westbrook (2-6) stopped the longest winless streak of his career and the Indians snapped their longest losing skid of the season on the same day. Westbrook, who had started nine times since his last win on April 27, interrupted by a six-week stint on the 15-day disabled list with a strained side muscle. He gave up five hits in six scoreless innings. "That's the way I expect myself to pitch," Westbrook said. "I felt strong in my previous starts, but things just didn't work out."
Analysis: Despite the win, he still went over three months without a victory. Don't get too excited about this game against a last-place Rangers club. He remains useful only in the deepest of AL-only Fantasy leagues.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook allowed two runs and four hits over seven innings during Saturday's no-decision against the Twins, and remained winless in eight starts since beating Baltimore on April 27 for his only win in seven decisions this season. Westbrook walked three and struck out three Saturday. Westbrook has allowed two or fewer runs just three times this season.
Analysis: Westbrook has been giving Fantasy owners very little reason to keep him around. While he does pitch for the Indians, a team with a powerful lineup, his Fantasy value is limited to the deepest of AL-only leagues right now. His next scheduled start is for Thursday against the Rangers.
News: Jake Westbrook gave up four runs in the first inning of Monday's game against the Red Sox and is now 1-6. He settled down to stretch out his outing to six runs, but the offense could not come back against pitcher Jon Lester (1-0). Westbrook allowed five earned runs, 10 hits and four walks over the six innings and he has not won since April 27 against the Orioles, a span of seven straight starts and a stint on the 15-day disabled list.
Analysis: Westbrook has been giving Fantasy owners very little reason to keep him around. While he does pitch for the Indians, a team with a powerful lineup, his Fantasy value is limited to the deepest of AL-only leagues right now. Westbrook's ERA sits at an ugly 6.20 and he has shown little evidence of straightening himself out. He is expected to see a second start in Fantasy Week 17 (July 23-29), working against probable starter Matt Garza and the Twins on Saturday.
News: Westbrook, who spent six weeks on the 15-day disabled list with a strained left side muscle, hasn't won since he's been back. He lasted six innings on Wednesday against the White Sox but remains winless since April 27 -- a span of six starts. Westbrook allowed four earned runs and seven hits while walking two and striking out three.
Analysis: Westbrook will look to rebound in Fantasy Week 17 (July 23-29), when he will be a two-start pitcher. His next scheduled start will be July 23 against probable starter Julian Tavarez and the Red Sox in a difficult matchup. Of course, at this point, anyone is a difficult opponent for the Cleveland starter.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook allowed five hits, five walks and three earned runs during Friday's no-decision against the Royals. He struck out two. Westbrook did lower his ERA from 6.27 to 6.07.
Analysis: Westbrook has not won since April 27 against the Orioles. In four starts off the DL, he is 0-2 with two no-decisions. He hasn't exactly been a great Fantasy option this season. He can be, but should only be used in larger AL-only and mixed Fantasy leagues at this time.
News: Jake Westbrook (1-4, 6.27), who will make his fourth start since coming off the disabled list, will face Kansas City Friday. The right-hander is 0-2 with a 4.05 ERA since missing six weeks with a strained left abdominal muscle. He gave up five runs and a season-high 10 hits in a 6-4 defeat to Detroit on July 4.
Analysis: Westbrook is 5-3 with a 2.41 ERA in 18 career games -- 12 starts -- versus the Royals. It appears safe to use him in AL-only and larger mixed leagues once again.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook allowed 10 hits, two walks and five earned runs during Wednesday's loss to the Tigers. He struck out three. Westbrook now has two losses in three starts since coming off the DL June 24.
Analysis: Westbrook had actually made two solid starts coming off the DL before running into the Tigers. Hopefully Wednesday is just a little hiccup. It appears safe to use him in AL-only and larger mixed leagues once again. Westbrook might make a start during Fantasy Week 15 (July 9-15), but the team has only three games against the Royals due to the All-Star break.
News:The Sports Xchange notes Jake Westbrook is 0-1 despite an excellent 2.57 ERA in two starts since being activated off the disabled list June 24.
Analysis: Two quality starts off the DL is an encouraging sign that Westbrook is back to 100 percent. It appears safe to use him in AL-only and larger mixed leagues once again. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday against the Tigers.
News: Friday's game between the Indians and Devil Rays turned into a great pitching matchup between starters Edwin Jackson and Jake Westbrook -- despite neither pitcher factoring into the decision. Jackson, who recorded his first win since September 26, 2005, in his last start Sunday against the Los Angeles Dodgers, gave up one run and six hits in six innings. He walked two and struck out six, including striking out the side in the sixth. Westbrook allowed one run and five hits in seven innings. He struck out seven, walked two and retired 16 of the last 17 hitters he faced.
Analysis: Westbrook was making his second start Friday since being on the disabled list with a left abdominal strain from May 7-June 24. He allowed three runs in seven innings against Washington on Sunday. Two quality starts off the DL is an encouraging sign that Westbrook is back to 100 percent. It appears safe to use him in AL-only and larger mixed leagues once again. His next scheduled start is for Wednesday against the Tigers.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook came off the disabled list Sunday against the Nationals and pitched seven solid innings for Cleveland in his first start since May 2. Westbrook (1-3) gave up three runs and seven hits, but did take the loss in a 3-1 win for the Nationals. He struck out two and walked none. He had been on the disabled list with an abdominal injury.
Analysis: Despite the loss, the good news is that Westbrook made it through the start without any problems. Now if he can only keep it up. He will head back to the mound Friday against the Devil Rays. It appears safe to use him in AL-only and larger mixed leagues once again.
News: The Cleveland Indians activated SP Jake Westbrook from the 15-day disabled list Sunday to start against the Washington Nationals. To make room for Westbrook, Cleveland optioned right-hander Edward Mujica to Triple-A Buffalo.
Analysis: Westbrook left a May 2 game against Toronto with a left abdominal strain. He is 1-2 with a 7.90 ERA in six starts with the Indians this season. Westbrook allowed two runs and two hits in four innings for Buffalo in his last rehabilitation assignment on June 18. He walked four and struck out three in his fourth rehab start. Westbrook is worth a look in all AL-only leagues for Fantasy Week 13 (June 25-July 1) if he makes it through Sunday's start without any setbacks.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook (left abdominal strain) will start Sunday at Washington. He hasn't pitched for the Indians since May 2. A roster move will have to be made when Westbrook returns. LHPs Jason Stanford, who started Tuesday night, and Rafael Perez, who has been pitching out of the bullpen, are the most vulnerable.
Analysis: It appears Cliff Lee, who won Monday's start against the Phillies, will be pushed back to Monday's game against the Athletics, losing his two-start status in Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24). Westbrook is worth a look in all AL-only leagues for Fantasy Week 13 (June 25-July 1) if he makes it through Sunday's start without any setbacks. Lee will be a two-start pitcher in Week 13, also facing the Devil Rays.
News: Jake Westbrook (abdomen) made a rehab start on Monday night for Triple-A Buffalo. He allowed two runs -- one earned -- and just two hits in four innings of work, but he also issued four walks in the 81-pitch effort.
Analysis: Westbrook didn't give up much in the way of runs or hits, but the walk total might be a little alarming. The Indians might want to see how Jason Stanford does in his outing on Tuesday against the Phillies before deciding if Westbrook needs another rehab start or not.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook will likely be activated off the disabled list late this week. Westbrook is scheduled to make his fourth and final minor league rehab start, for Buffalo on Monday.
Analysis: Assuming he has no setbacks in that start, Westbrook will be activated and moved back into the starting rotation, replacing LHP Jason Stanford. Westbrook has been on the DL since May 7 with a strained abdominal muscle. Consider him an injury-risk option for Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24). It is probably best to keep him reserved in Fantasy leagues until he is able to make at least one major league start. Westbrook is capable of once again becoming a viable mixed league Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (left abdominal strain) will make his fourth minor league rehabilitation start Monday for Triple-A Buffalo. He is expected to throw about 85 pitches.
Analysis: If Westbrook gets through Monday's outing with no problems, he likely will start for the Indians next weekend in Washington. Consider him an injury-risk option for Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24). It is probably best to keep him reserved in Fantasy leagues until he is able to make at least one major league start. Westbrook is capable of once again becoming a viable mixed league Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Indians manager Eric Wedge said SP Jake Westbrook (abdomen) needs at least one more rehab start in the minors. "We want to get Jake built up to where he can go deep in games," Wedge said.
Analysis: Westbrook has been sidelined since May 3 by an abdominal strain. LHP Jason Stanford, who worked six strong innings Thursday in his first big-league outing since April 2004, will take get another start in Westbrook's absence. Keep Westbrook for yet another Fantasy week.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (abdominal strain) threw five innings for Class-A Lake County on Wednesday, his third minor league rehab start. Westbrook allowed six hits, five runs (four earned) and struck out five, while walking none.
Analysis: If the Indians determine he doesn't need another rehab outing, he might re-join the team and start against Philadelphia on June 19. Westbrook might be a solid option in all AL-only leagues for Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24). Continue to track his progress.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook (abdominal strain) makes his third rehab start Wednesday at Class A Lake County. Manager Eric Wedge said Westbrook would throw about 75 pitches.
Analysis: If the Indians determine he doesn't need another rehab outing, he might re-join the team and start against Philadelphia on June 19. Westbrook might be a solid option in all AL-only leagues for Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24).
News: RHP Jake Westbrook (strained left abdominal) will make his third start on a rehabilitation assignment at Class A Lake County on Wednesday. If the Indians determine he doesn't need another rehab outing, he might re-join the team and start against Philadelphia on June 19.
Analysis: Westbrook might be a solid option in all AL-only leagues for Fantasy Week 12 (June 18-24).
News: Jeremy Sowers was demoted to Triple-A, but Jake Westbrook (side) apparently isn't ready to replace him in the rotation. He needs another rehab start. "We're not sure (who's starting) yet (Thursday)," manager Eric Wedge told MLB.com. "That's as truthful as I can be. We've got to evaluate and look at all of our options down there." Westbrook might be available to rejoin Cleveland's rotation next week. Left-hander Jason Stanford, who was in the Indians' rotation to start the '03 season before needing Tommy John surgery, is 4-1 with a 3.41 ERA at Triple-A Buffalo. Other starting options are right-handers Jeff Harris (2-4, 6.02 ERA in 11 starts), Sean Smith (5-3, 4.35) and Bubbie Buzachero (2-2, 3.96) and Jake Dittler (3-1, 5.23) and left-hander Aaron Laffey (2-3, 5.46 in five starts). Also, right-hander J.D. Martin (2-3 with a 4.25 ERA in Double-A) is an option.
Analysis: We think Stanford should get the nod, but none of these fill-in starters should be used in leagues for Fantasy Week 11 (June 11-17). Westbrook will be option for deeper leagues the ensuing week, especially since the Indians are a top contender with a very good offense.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook, out since May 3 with a left abdominal strain, allowed five hits and four runs with three walks and one strikeout in 2 1/3 innings of his second rehab assignment with Double-A Akron on Friday. "He said he started to find it at the end," Indians manager Eric Wedge said. "Hopefully, he'll be able to take it into his next start."
Analysis: Westbrook will make at least one more rehab start with Akron before the Indians decide their next course of action. Don't count on him for Fantasy Week 11 (June 11-17). The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (strained left abdominal) will make his second rehabittation start for Double-A Akron on Friday. He is scheduled to throw about 75 pitches. It's expected Westbrook will make a third rehab start being being activated.
Analysis: Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said the target date for Westbrook's return to the Indians' rotation from the 15-day disabled list is mid-June. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook, sidelined since May 3 with an abdominal strain, threw a bullpen session Tuesday. "I felt pretty good," he said. "I got after it. I threw all my pitches. I felt fine." Westbrook is scheduled to make a rehab start Friday at Double-A Akron.
Analysis: Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said the target date for Westbrook's return to the Indians' rotation from the 15-day disabled list is mid-June. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (strained left abdominal) allowed five runs and seven hits in 1 1.3 innings in his first rehabilitation assignment for Triple-A Buffalo on Friday night against Toledo. Manager Eric Wedge said Westbrook will start again for a minor league team Wednesday and throw 65 to 70 pitches.
Analysis: Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said the target date for Westbrook's return to the Indians' rotation from the 15-day disabled list is mid-June. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Jake Westbrook, on the disabled list with a strained abdominal muscle, made his first minor-league rehab start Friday night for Buffalo, versus Toledo. Westbrook threw 47 pitches in 1 1/3 innings, giving up five runs, four earned, on seven hits.
Analysis: Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said the target date for Westbrook's return to the Indians' rotation from the 15-day disabled list is mid-June. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Jake Westbrook, on the disabled list since May 7 with a left abdominal strain, will make his first minor league rehab start Friday for Triple-A Buffalo. Westbrook is scheduled to throw three innings or 50 pitches.
Analysis: Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said the target date for Westbrook's return to the Indians' rotation from the 15-day disabled list is mid-June. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Cleveland RHP Jake Westbrook (abdomen) threw a simulated two-inning game on Tuesday and will make a rehab start at Triple-A Buffalo on Friday.
Analysis: Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said the target date for Westbrook's return to the Indians' rotation from the 15-day disabled list is mid-June. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Indians RHP Jake Westbrook (abdominal strain) threw in the bullpen before Sunday's game at Detroit and is scheduled to pitch a simulated game Tuesday in Boston.
Analysis: Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said the target date for Westbrook's return to the Indians' rotation from the 15-day disabled list is mid-June. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook (strained abdominal muscle) threw a 40-pitch pain-free bullpen session Friday. He is scheduled to throw a 50-pitch bullpen session Sunday, then pitch in a simulated game Tuesday before making a minor league rehab start.
Analysis: Indians trainer Lonnie Soloff said the target date for Westbrook's return to the Indians' rotation from the disabled list is mid-June. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook threw 30 pitches off a mound Wednesday, the first time he's thrown off a mound since going on the disabled list May 7 with an abdominal strain. "I'm really excited with the way I feel," he said. "The pain is gone. Now it's just a matter of getting my arm back in shape."
Analysis: The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (left abdominal strain) played catch in the outfield Saturday. He will play catch again Monday and, if that goes well, will throw off the mound Wednesday. Westbrook is expected to return in mid-June.
Analysis: The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook (left abdominal strain) played catch Wednesday. He was injured May 2 and likely won't return until early June.
Analysis: The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. When healthy, he is a must-start in all AL-only Fantasy leagues and some deeper mixed formats.
News: Indians pitcher Jake Westbrook was placed on the 15-day DL on Monday because of a strained left abdominal muscle, and the team called up Fausto Carmona to take his place in the rotation. The usually durable Westbrook left Wednesday night's game against Toronto in the second inning. Westbrook, 1-2 with a 7.90 ERA, hasn't been on the DL since 2002. The move is retroactive to Thursday.
Analysis: Westbrook will be out three-to-four weeks, so keep him reserve until at least Fantasy Week 9 (May 28-June 3). The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. He should be fine with some rest.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (oblique) is likely headed to the disabled list on either Saturday or Sunday. Westbrook left his start Tuesday in the second inning and did not make the trip to Baltimore. "The estimated time table is three to five weeks," head trainer Lonnie Soloff said.
Analysis: Westbrook entered the game 1-2 with a 7.96 ERA. Earlier this season, he signed a three-year, $33 million contract extension through 2010. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. He hasn't been on the DL since 2002, when he sat out the final month with elbow inflammation. Westbrook will be out until at least late May, so make sure to reserve him in all Fantasy leagues for the upcoming scoring period (May 7-13).
News: Indians RHP Jake Westbrook, who left Wednesday's game with a strained left abdominal muscle, will likely be placed on the DL on either Friday or Saturday.
Analysis: Westbrook entered the game 1-2 with a 7.96 ERA. Earlier this season, he signed a three-year, $33 million contract extension through 2010. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. He hasn't been on the DL since 2002, when he sat out the final month with elbow inflammation. Westbrook will be out until at least mid-May, so make sure to reserve him in all Fantasy leagues for the upcoming scoring period (May 7-13).
News: Jake Westbrook could be going on the disabled list. Westbrook left Wednesday night's game against the Blue Jays in the second inning with left abdominal tightness.
Analysis: Westbrook entered the game 1-2 with a 7.96 ERA. Earlier this season, he signed a three-year, $33 million contract extension through 2010. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. He hasn't been on the DL since 2002, when he sat out the final month with elbow inflammation. If Westbrook has to miss any time, the Indians could recall right-hander Fausto Carmona from Triple-A Buffalo.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook left Wednesday night's game against the Blue Jays in the second inning with abdominal tightness. Westbrook threw a 2-1 pitch to Blue Jays catcher Sal Fasano, who fouled it off. The right-hander then stood on the mound as trainer Lonnie Soloff, manager Eric Wedge and pitching coach Carl Willis rushed out to see what was wrong. After a brief conference, Westbrook headed to the dugout. The team described Westbrook's injury as "left abdominal tightness." He was replaced by Fernando Cabrera.
Analysis: Westbrook entered the game 1-2 with a 7.96 ERA. Earlier this season, he signed a three-year, $33 million contract extension through 2010. The 29-year-old Westbrook has been remarkably durable the past three years, making at least 30 starts and pitching no fewer than 210 innings each season. He hasn't been on the DL since 2002, when he sat out the final month with elbow inflammation. If Westbrook has to miss any time, the Indians could recall right-hander Fausto Carmona from Triple-A Buffalo. Consider Westbrook questionable for his next scheduled start May 7 against the Orioles. When healthy, he is a viable AL-only option and low-end option in deeper mixed leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook got his first win in five starts and the Cleveland Indians beat the Baltimore Orioles 5-4 Friday night for their sixth straight victory. Westbrook (1-2) won for the first time since signing a three-year, $33 million contract extension April 13. He allowed three runs and six hits over 6 1/3 innings, struck out five and walked one. He lowered his ERA from 9.15 to 7.96.
Analysis: It is about time. It probably would have been best for Fantasy owners had Westbrook not signed an extension until later in the season, but he still remains someone worth using in all AL-only formats and larger mixed leagues as well. His next start is scheduled for Wednesday against the Blue Jays.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed four runs and four hits in seven-plus innings Sunday at Tampa Bay. He did not factor in the final decision in Sunday's 6-4 win.
Analysis: Westbrook was coming off a terrible start last Tuesday when he allowed eight runs in 1 2/3 innings of a 10-3 loss to the New York Yankees. This was at least a positive outing for him and he needed one to get some confidence. He remains a low-end Fantasy SP at this time, but has the potential to turn things around in a hurry.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (0-2) will look to rebound Sunday against the Devil Rays from his last start Tuesday against the New York Yankees when he allowed eight runs over 1 2/3 innings in a 10-3 loss.
Analysis: Westbrook has been less than stellar through three starts this season. He is in dire need of a good outing and he might get one Sunday against the Devil Rays. He remains a low-end Fantasy SP at this time.
News: Jake Westbrook (0-2) had one of the worst outings of his major-league career -- four days after Cleveland announced his lucrative three-year contract extension. The right-hander allowed eight runs and eight hits in 1 2/3 innings in Tuesday's start at N.Y. Yankees, leaving him with a 12.08 ERA after three starts. "The contract wasn't in my mind at all. My focus was on getting those guys out, and I just didn't do it," he said.
Analysis: It was Westbrook's shortest outing not cut short by rain or an injury since his major-league debut with the Yankees, when he also lasted 1 2/3 innings against the Chicago White Sox on June 17, 2000. Westbrook will look to bounce back over the weekend against the Devil Rays in Tampa Bay on Sunday.
News: Jake Westbrook signed a three-year contract extension through 2010 on Friday with the Cleveland Indians, who locked up a key starter before possibly losing him as a free agent. Westbrook, one of the AL's most reliable pitchers the past three seasons, would have been eligible for free agency after this season, his seventh since coming to Cleveland in a trade with the New York Yankees. The Indians had hoped to work out a new contract with Westbrook during spring training, but were unable to complete a deal in Florida with agents for the 29-year-old right-hander.
Analysis: Westbrook has won 44 games the past three seasons. Since 2004, only Westbrook, teammate Cliff Lee, Minnesota's Johan Santana and Detroit's Kenny Rogers have won at least 14 games in each season. Westbrook is also one of just eight starters to pitch at least 210 innings in the last three years. He went 15-10 last season, winning a major league-high eight games after Aug. 1. He has a 56-53 career record with a 4.40 ERA. He was named an All-Star in 2004. Westbrook was acquired as part of a trade in 2000 when the Indians sent David Justice to the Yankees for Ricky Ledee. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against the Yankees, but is also in line for a two-start affair during Fantasy Week 3 (April 16-22) as he is slated to take the hill against the Devil Rays on April 22. Start the groundball pitcher in all formats.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook (0-1) proved nearly as difficult to hit as counterpart Joe Saunders on Wednesday, giving up three runs and five hits in six innings in a 4-1 loss to the Angels. But Westbrook allowed four walks, and his occasional control problems led to Angels runs. Westbrook loaded the bases with nobody out in the first inning, then induced Garret Anderson to hit into a double play that scored Gary Matthews Jr. from third to give the Angels a 1-0 lead. Shea Hillenbrand, playing despite a nagging groin injury, grounded out to end the inning. Westbrook also hit Casey Kotchman in the sixth, who scored on an RBI triple by Mike Napoli to put the Angels ahead 2-0. Napoli then scored on a wild pitch by Westbrook, putting the Angels ahead 3-0.
Analysis: Westbrook had four strikeouts Wednesday, but the control problems did him in. Because of weather problems in Cleveland, it was seven days between starts for Westbrook. He has been awful in two starts (7.36 ERA) after showing so much promise this spring. Hopefully he will be able to snap out of this funk, but for now, use him as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy SP in most formats. His next scheduled start is for Tuesday against the Yankees, but is also in line for a two-start affair during Fantasy Week 3 (April 16-22) as he is slated to take the hill against the Devil Rays on April 22.
News: Another snowed out doubleheader Monday pushes C.C. Sabathia back to Tuesday. He will be followed in the rotation by Jake Westbrook, Jeremy Sowers, Paul Byrd and Fausto Carmona, who is slotted as the No. 5 starter and is getting skipped on his first turn. Prospect Adam Miller, or Jason Davis out of the bullpen, won't be needed as a No. 6 starter now.
Analysis: Sabathia remains a two-start pitcher for this week, while Carmona loses his two starts. He will still get a start Saturday, though. Westbrook and Sowers are useful in any Fantasy league when the matchup is right, while Byrd and Carmona are risky AL-only Fantasy options at this point. Miller is one of the best pitching prospects in the minor leagues, while Davis is nothing more than a low-end middle reliever for the deepest of AL-only leagues.
News: For the second day in a row, snow and cold weather has forced a doubleheader between the Mariners and Indians to be postponed. Now the Mariners and Indians will try to salvage half of their four-game series by playing two Monday, beginning at 4:05 p.m. The second game will start approximately 20 minutes after completion of the first. The Indians will likely start C.C. Sabathia and Jake Westbrook of Fausto Carmona, who was moved off a Sunday start. Jeremy Sowers and Paul Byrd will follow in the rotation.
Analysis: Sabathia and Westbrook or Carmona will be two-start pitchers and the Indians will need a No. 6 starter Friday. It's uncertain at this point who that might be. Sabathia is a must-start two-starter in all leagues, while Westbrook could be, too. Carmona is more of a risk, but he could be useful in deeper leagues. The reshuffling will cost Sowers a two-start Fantasy Week 2 (April 9-15), unless Carmona is moved back to later in the week. Byrd was going to get one start regardless.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed seven earned runs, seven hits and three walks in Tuesday's start at Chicago White Sox. He also struck out five batters in frigid conditions on the south side, where there were snow flurries flying at times and the wind chill was 16 degrees.
Analysis: There will be much better days for Westbrook and a lot better of conditions. He'll look to bounce back as a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 2 (April 9-15).
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook went seven innings, allowing six hits, one walks and one run (no earned runs) during Friday's spring game against the Blue Jays. He also had three strikeouts. He finished spring with a 2-1 record, 3.21 ERA and 16 strikeouts.
Analysis: Indians have begun contract talks about a multiyear contract for Westbrook, who is eligible for free-agency after the season. The steady veteran arm is a sleeper in Fantasy, especially if he remains in a contract year and doesn't get paid before going free agent. Westbrook is scheduled to make his first start of the season on Wednesday against the White Sox.
News: Indians starter Jake Westbrook allowed seven runs and 11 hits in four innings Tuesday. He faced 24 batters and threw just eight first-pitch strikes. Tampa Bay scored six runs in the fourth, getting four consecutive two-out, extra-base hits. "It was one of those things," manager Eric Wedge said. "We didn't play very well behind him. He did do a good job, just a few balls were up, and you expect to see that every now and again during spring training."
Analysis: Indians have begun contract talks about a multiyear contract for Westbrook, who is eligible for free-agency after the season. The steady veteran arm is a sleeper in Fantasy, especially if he remains in a contract year and doesn't get paid before going free agent.
News: The Indians have begun contract talks about a multiyear contract for Jake Westbrook, who is eligible for free-agency after the season.
Analysis: Westbrook is already pitching like someone in a contract year and the regular season has yet to start. Look to Westbrook as a possible middle to late round steal in all Fantasy formats.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook had another impressive spring outing Thursday against the Devil Rays. He dropped his spring ERA to 0.82 after going four innings and not allowing a hit or a run. He also had three strikeouts.
Analysis: Westbrook is already pitching like someone in a contract year and the regular season has yet to start. The Indians might want to sign Westbrook to a long-term contract before the season opens. Look to Westbrook as a possible middle to late round steal in all Fantasy formats.
News: Indians starter Jake Westbrook struck out four and gave up one hit over three innings against the Reds in a spring training game Saturday. "I felt great, strong," he said. "I went to the bullpen and threw 18 more pitches. They were all working well."
Analysis: Westbrook's steady numbers could spike a little if he's still pitching for a contract this season. Consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially because the Indians can score runs for him and make him a 15-plus game-winner. The Tribe had a bad 2006, but Westbrook still won 15 games for the second consecutive year. With the team expected to be over .500 this season, Westbrook could be a Jon Garland-type 18-game winner -- especially because he's in a walk year. Don't expect outings like this though -- where he strikes out more than a batter per inning. He's a groundball pitcher that relies on solid defensive play.
News: Indians RHP Jake Westbrook, who can be a free agent at the end of the 2007 season, says he is determined not to let it become a distraction. "I try not to think about that," said Westbrook. "I'm just going to concentrate on trying to get ready for the season." General manager Mark Shapiro said the club will attempt to sign Westbrook to a contract extension during spring training, but Westbrook said there have been no negotiations between the two sides. Because Westbrook has pitched 200 innings and won 14 or 15 games in each of the last three seasons, his earning potential on the free agent market -- assuming he has another typical Westbrook season in 2007 -- is unlimited. "It feels good to be in the situation I'm in," Westbrook said.
Analysis: Westbrook's steady numbers could spike a little if he's still pitching for a contract this season. Consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially because the Indians can score runs for him and make him a 15-plus game-winner. The Tribe had a bad 2006, but Westbrook still won 15 games for the second consecutive year. With the team expected to be over .500 this season, Westbrook could be a Jon Garland-type 18-game winner -- especially because he's in a walk year.
News: Jake Westbrook pitched two shutout innings against the Mets' projected starters. Westbrook induced four groundouts and gave up just one hit, a leadoff bunt single to Jose Reyes. Westbrook also hit a batter in pitching two scoreless innings.
Analysis: Westbrook's steady numbers could spike a little if he's still pitching for a contract this season. Consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially because the Indians can score runs for him and make him a 15-plus game-winner. The Tribe had a bad 2006, but Westbrook still won 15 games for the second consecutive year. With the team expected to be over .500 this season, Westbrook could be a Jon Garland-type 18-game winner -- especially because he's in a walk year.
News: Jake Westbrook and six relievers combined of a five-hitter in a 13-2 victory over the Houston Astros Thursday. Westbrook, who could become a free agent after the season, allowed two hits, one walk and one run in two innings. He got five outs on grounders.
Analysis: Westbrook's steady numbers could spike a little if he's still pitching for a contract this season. Consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially because the Indians can score runs for him and make him a 15-plus game-winner. The Tribe had a bad 2006, but Westbrook still won 15 games for the second consecutive year. With the team expected to be over .500 this season, Westbrook could be a Jon Garland-type 18-game winner.
News: The Indians' front office could be facing some difficult financial decisions in the upcoming months. Right-hander Jake Westbrook, 44-34 the last three years, can become a free agent after the season. "That doesn't mean we wouldn't be able to get something done in the offseason," GM Mark Shapiro said.
Analysis: Westbrook's steady numbers could spike a little if he's still pitching for a contract this season. Consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially because the Indians can score runs for him and make him a 15-plus game-winner. The Tribe had a bad 2006, but Westbrook still won 15 games for the second consecutive year. With the team expected to be over .500 this season, Westbrook could be a Jon Garland-type 18-game winner.
News: Steady right-hander Jake Westbrook is in the final year of his contract after the Indians exercised a $6.1 million option in October. Westbrook, who has 44 victories the past three seasons, will begin contract talks with the Indians during spring training. "I hope we can work something out," he said. "I'm comfortable here and it means a lot to be comfortable. As someone who has been traded three times, I know how tough it can be to start over somewhere."
Analysis: Westbrook's steady numbers could spike a little if he's pitching for a contract this season. Consider him a sleeper in deeper leagues, especially because the Indians can score runs for him and make him a 15-plus game-winner. The Tribe had a bad 2006, but Westbrook still won 15 games for the second consecutive year. With the team expected to be over .500 this season, Westbrook could be a Jon Garland-type 18-game winner.
News: The Indians quickly took care of some business following a disappointing season by exercising the contract option for 2007 on steady starter Jake Westbrook, who won 15 games for the second consecutive year. The 29-year-old has pitched 216, 211 and 211 innings the past three seasons.
Analysis: Even with the Indians' playoff hopes long faded, Westbrook finished strong. He went 8-3 with a 3.94 ERA in August and September to end up 15-10 for the season. Relying mostly on a nasty sinker, Westbrook is 44-34 since becoming a fixture in the club's rotation in 2004. His 55 walks this season were a career-low. The Indians' anticipated revival in 2007 should keep Westbrook among the solid options when filling out a Fantasy staff next spring.
News: SP Jake Westbrook allowed one run in seven innings to help the Cleveland Indians beat Tampa Bay 6-1 Saturday night, handing the Devil Rays their 100th loss. Westbrook (15-10) took a shutout into the seventh before Ty Wiggington hit an RBI double for Tampa Bay. Westbrook gave up five hits, struck out six and walked one. The right-hander retired the side in order four times in the first six innings and threw double play balls in the third and fourth.
Analysis: Westbrook is 6-2 in his past eight starts. He has been a decent AL-only pitcher all year, but his value in mixed leagues fluctuated. Consider him a decent option in drafts next season, in any format, in the middle-to-late rounds depending on your league's size.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook, who will make his final start of the season on Saturday, is one of just three AL pitchers with at least 14 wins in the last three seasons. Minnesota's Johan Santana and Detroit's Kenny Rogers are the others.
Analysis: Westbrook is 5-2 in his past seven starts. He has been a decent AL-only pitcher all year, but his value in mixed leagues fluctuated. Consider him a decent option in drafts next season, in any format, in the middle-to-late rounds depending on your league's size.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook is one of only three AL pitchers with at least 14 wins in each of the last three seasons, joining LHPs Johan Santana of Minnesota and Kenny Rogers of Detroit.
Analysis: Westbrook is 5-2 in his past seven starts. He'll get one more start on Saturday against the Devil Rays at Jacobs Field, so keep him active.
News: Jake Westbrook (14-10) allowed five runs and nine hits over five innings in a win at Texas Sunday.
Analysis: Westbrook is 5-2 in his past seven starts. He'll get one more start on Saturday against the Devil Rays at Jacobs Field, so keep him active.
News: Jake Westbrook (13-10), a sinkerballer who had a no-decision against the A's on June 6, ended a two-start losing streak that followed three straight victories with a win against Oakland Monday. Westbrook struck out five, walked one and allowed only one earned run on nine hits in 7 2/3 innings.
Analysis: Westbrook remains a decent play in all AL-only leagues and most mixed formats despite the Indians not playing for anything. That may acutally be to his benefit.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed four runs and 11 hits over six innings on Wednesday against Kansas City.
Analysis: In his previous start Sept. 6, he also gave up 11 hits in six innings in a 3-2 loss to Toronto. He's only recommended in AL formats these days.
News: Jake Westbrook, who had won his last three starts, allowed three runs on 11 hits in six innings for a loss on Wednesday at Toronto.
Analysis: Westbrook had looked pretty decent in his past few starts -- he remains a good start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook pitched seven strong innings to help the Indians beat the Texas Rangers 7-2 on Friday night. Westbrook (12-8) won his third straight start, giving up two runs and seven hits. He struck out six and walked two.
Analysis: Westbrook has looked pretty decent in his past few starts, but has had a run of tough luck. He remains a good start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook (11-8) gutted out seven innings, allowing five runs and 12 hits Saturday to win for the fourth time in five starts. He walked three, didn't record a strikeout and was helped by three double plays.
Analysis: Westbrook has looked pretty decent in his past few starts, but has had a run of tough luck. He remains a good start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook gave up three runs and eight hits in seven innings in his tenth win on Sunday at Tampa Bay. He struck out four and walked two.
Analysis: He remains a decent play in all AL-only leagues and most mixed formats.
News: Westbrook (9-8) was fantastic for 7 2/3 innings, but fell apart with two outs in the eighth on Tuesday at Minnesota. He ended up taking a complete game loss, as Johan Santana was just a little better. "My job is to keep the team in the ballgame and I didn't do it," Westbrook said. "My job is to put up a zero in the eighth to give us a chance in the ninth."
Analysis: Westbrook recorded his 11th career complete game and second in as many starts. However, he was unable to avoid the loss. He remains a decent play in all AL-only leagues and most mixed formats.
News: Jake Westbrook pitched his second shutout this season, leading the Cleveland Indians to a 4-0 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday night. Westbrook (9-7) limited the Angels to nine hits -- all singles -- and has won consecutive starts for the first time since April 4-9. The right-hander was coming off a 15-hit win over Boston in which he became the first pitcher since Montreal's John Dobson in 1988 to give up at least that many hits and win. Using his sinker to near perfection, Westbrook got the Angels to bounce into three double plays. He walked one (not until the eighth), struck out seven and has pitched into the sixth inning in 11 of his past 12 starts.
Analysis: It was Westbrook's third career shutout -- he blanked Kansas City on May 17 -- and his 10th career complete game. He remains a decent back-end option in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook became the first pitcher in 18 years to win despite allowing 15 hits, and the Cleveland Indians used Shin-Soo Choo's grand slam to beat Josh Beckett and the Boston Red Sox 7-6 Thursday night. Westbrook hung on while giving up the most hits in the majors this season, permitting six runs in eight innings. The Red Sox got 12 singles, three doubles and a walk against him. John Dopson was the last pitcher to win while permitting 15 hits when he pitched Montreal past Atlanta 9-2 on July 3, 1988, the Elias Sports Bureau said.
Analysis: Westbrook ended his three-game losing streak and won for the first time since July 4. Good luck making up the ground in the WHIP category if you play in a Rotisserie league. Despite the bizarre game and recent cold streak, he remains a decent back-end option in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed two earned runs, six hits and two walks in eight strong innings on Saturday against the Mariners. Unfortunately, despite the quality start, the Indians provided him with just one run of support. He also struck out three batters in the loss (7-7).
Analysis: The Indians offense was not singling him out, as they have scored just one run in each of the past three games. Expect a lot of these types of performances down the stretch, as the young Cleveland offense might struggle to produce at times. Westbrook fell to 5-4 with a 7.30 ERA in eight starts and 10 career outings against Seattle, his worst ERA against any AL team. Luckily, he won't have to face them again until at least 2007.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed three runs and eight hits in six innings Sunday vs. Minnesota, walking three and striking out four. He took the loss, however, as he was outdueled by Minnesota's Francisco Liriano in a 3-1 game.
Analysis: Westbrook has looked pretty decent in his past eight starts, but has had a run of tough luck. He remains a good start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed seven runs -- five earned -- and 12 hits in just 3 2/3 innings on Monday night at L.A. Angels, as he took the loss and fell to 7-5. He walked one and struck out one in the abysmal outing, as he lost to Dustin Moseley and the Angels.
Analysis: He entered Monday night's start leading the staff again in innings pitched with 116, after throwing more than 200 innings each of the previous two seasons. He is trying to join Rick Waits, Charles Nagy and knuckleballer Tom Candiotti as the only Indians since 1975 to work at least 200 innings in three or more consecutive seasons. "It depends on Jake's workload," manager Eric Wedge said. "I mean, you're never going to put somebody in harm's way, but the ability for him to get a ground ball and a double play gives you a tendency to keep him out there a little bit more."
News: Westbrook remains too shaky to consider using in mixed formats, but he still has some value as a back-end Fantasy starter in AL-only leagues.
Analysis: Westbrook has looked pretty decent in his past six starts, but has had a run of tough luck. He remains a good start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed one unearned run, five hits and three walks in seven strong innings on Tuesday night against the Yankees to improve to 7-4 and lower his ERA to 4.09. He also struck out three batters in the quality start.
Analysis: Westbrook has looked pretty decent in his past five starts and finally got some run support to provide him with his second win during the stretch. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed three runs on six hits with four Ks over six innings in a no-decision on Wednesday at St. Louis.
Analysis: He's pitched pretty well for four straight starts but only has one win to show for it because of lack of run support and a spotty bullpen. He remains a solid start in all Fantasy leagues despite all of this.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed three earned runs, two walks and eight hits in six strong innings in Friday's game against Cincinnati to drop to 6-4.
Analysis: Westbrook has managed three straight quality starts, but he has just one win to show for it due to a lack of run support. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite all of this.
News: Bob Wickman (1-2) blew his second save in 11 opportunities and wasted Jake Westbrook's dominating performance in a duel with Brewers starter Dave Bush on Saturday. Westbrook was coming off a commanding win on the road against the White Sox and had the game in hand when he left after eight innings. He retired nine in a row at one point and struck out the side in the first. Westbrook allowed just five hits and an unearned run.
Analysis: He’s a must-start in all leagues while he’s on fire.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed just two earned runs, six hits and a walk in eight inning on Sunday at Chicago White Sox to earn his sixth win of the season. The bullpen was a little shaky in the ninth inning, as the White Sox fought back for six runs, but Bob Wickman clamped down and preserved the solid effort for the Snake.
Analysis: Westbrook has won four of his past five decisions, posting four quality starts in every other start in seven appearances. He remains a decent No. 4 or 5 Fantasy starter in mixed leagues because of the explosive Cleveland offense and his groundball-inducing abilities.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed four runs on five hits with three walks in a no-decision on Tuesday vs. Oakland.
Analysis: We're still recommending him as a decent back-of-the-rotation starter in mixed leagues because of his groundball-inducing ability.
News: RHP Jake Westbrook is stuck in an every-other-start rut. It began on April 19. In an eight-start run since then, Westbrook is a combined 0-2 with a 10.80 ERA in starts 1, 3, 5, and 7. In starts 2, 4, 6, and 8, Westbrook is 3-1 with a 1.33 ERA. "I think Jake will settle in and when it's all said and done he'll have the type of year you expect him to have," Indians manager Eric Wedge said.
Analysis: Westbrook will start Tuesday against Oakland. We're still recommending him as a decent back-of-the-rotation starter in mixed leagues because of his groundball-inducing ability.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed six hits over seven shutout innings in Wednesday's win over the White Sox. He struck out two and lowered his ERA to an even 5.00 on the season. His record now stands at 5-3.
Analysis: Westbrook has been feast or famine this season for Fantasy owners. In his previous start he allowed seven earned runs in a loss to Detroit. He is a potential two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 10, starting June 6 vs. Oakland.
News: Jake Westbrook (4-3) lost for the seventh time in 10 career decisions against Detroit on Friday, giving up seven runs, seven hits and four walks in 5 1/3 innings. Westbrook has a 6.54 ERA in 16 games against the Tigers.
Analysis: Westbrook can't get over the hump against the Tigers. Despite the loss, he's pitched well this season and remains a useful No. 3 or 4 Fantasy starter in most formats.
News: With off-days Monday and Thursday, the Indians have juggled their rotation according to MLB.com. Cliff Lee and Sabathia will start Tuesday and Wednesday in Minnesota. Jake Westbrook will start Friday in Detroit on eight days' rest. Westbrook normally doesn't throw in the bullpen between starts, but did Sunday to keep sharp. One positive is Westbrook won't have to pitch in the Metrodome, where he is 1-5 with a 4.63 ERA in eight games. "I don't feel like I've pitched terrible there, but I haven't gotten many wins," he said. "It's kind of a fast track that doesn't play to my strengths." Paul Byrd and Johnson also will pitch on longer rest than they normally do. Byrd, who started Sunday against the Pirates, will start Saturday, while Johnson will pitch Sunday.
Analysis: Westbrook pitched a six-hit shutout in Wednesday's game against Kansas City to improve to 4-2 and lower his ERA to 4.98. He remains a useful No. 3 or 4 Fantasy starter in most formats.
News: Jake Westbrook pitched a six-hit shutout in Wednesday's game against Kansas City to improve to 4-2 and lower his ERA to 4.98 in the impressive performance. He also did not walk a batter and struck out two. "Every starting pitcher's goal is to finish the ballgame," Westbrook said. "It's a nice feeling."
Analysis: Westbrook bounced back from a beating at the hands of these same Royals in his last start on May 10 in Kansas City. He remains a useful No. 3 or 4 Fantasy starter in most formats.
News: Due to Monday's postponement against the Royals, all Cleveland starters will be pushed back a day and Jake Westbrook will now pitch in Wednesday's game against Kansas City.
Analysis: Westbrook was to be a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 7 (May 15-21), but now he will make just the one appearance. However, he will be in line for two starts in Fantasy Week 8 (May 22-28) barring any further weather problems.
News: Jake Westbrook, who entered with a 4-2 record and 1.65 ERA against the Royals, gave up eight runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings on Wednesday at Kansas City. "Our offense is swinging the bats too good to be losing a game like that, and it's all my fault," Westbrook said. "I might have got a no-decision, but I lost this game for us."
Analysis: You can usually consider Westbrook a good start in AL-only leagues at this point, but his value in mixed formats is dependant on the size of your league and the matchup he faces.
News: Now that LHP C.C. Sabathia has returned from the DL, manager Eric Wedge is hoping to separate right-handers Jason Johnson and Jake Westbrook in the rotation. They were not pitching back-to-back early in the year before Sabathia went out. "We've got an off day coming up. We're going to look at everything. We've got it mapped out," Wedge said. "At some point in time we are, I'm just not exactly sure when. I think it's more important to separate the sinkerballers than the left-handers."
Analysis: Consider Westbrook a good start in AL-only leagues at this point, but his value in mixed formats is dependant on the size of your league and the matchup he faces.
News: Jake Westbrook won for the first time since April 9, leading the Indians over the Seattle Mariners 9-4 Friday night. Westbrook (3-2) allowed three runs -- two earned -- and six hits in six innings. "We had a three-run lead and I kind of gave it back to them," Westbrook said. "But I felt strong tonight. My sinker was good. It was a good night."
Analysis: Westbrook had lost his past two decisions so the win is a welcomed sight. Consider him a good start in AL-only leagues, but give him an extra start or two before relying on him in mixed leagus if you can afford to do so.
News: Jake Westbrook, who will start Friday night in Seattle, has a 9.17 career ERA in eight appearances, six starts, against the Mariners.
Analysis: Westbrook has lost his past two decisions, and his ERA is now at an unimpressive 5.60 on the season. His value is limited to AL and deeper mixed formats.
News: Jake Westbrook was cruising along in Sunday's start against the Rangers, allowing just one run through six innings. He failed to record an out in the top of the seventh inning and ended up allowing four earned runs and six hits in six innings in a loss. He struck out seven batters on the evening. "I felt strong, but elevated a couple pitches that got hit," Westbrook said. "That's the difference between a good pitcher and a great one -- the ability to fight through the late innings and finish it off."
Analysis: Westbrook's problems were not entirely his, as Jason Davis did not offer much relief to help him out of a jam. He will look to bounce back in his next start on Friday at Seattle against Jamie Moyer and the Mariners in Safeco Field. He is 3-2 with an 8.78 ERA in five starts dating back to 2003 against the Mariners. He has only allowed more runs to the Los Angeles Angels during the span.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed two earned runs and just six hits in five innings on Tuesday against the Red Sox, but he also issued a season-high six strikeouts with just two strikeouts in the no-decision.
Analysis: Westbrook will look to bounce back on Sunday Night Baseball against Vicente Padilla and the Texas Rangers. Despite the abnormal amount of walks, he remains a must-start in all AL-only leagues and most mixed formats.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed nine runs -- eight earned -- and 12 hits in 4 2/3 innings in Wednesday's game at Baltimore, as manager Eric Wedge tried to get him the win and it ended up costing the team the game. He also did not walk a batter or strike one out.
Analysis: Westbrook and the Indians entered the bottom of the fifth inning with a 7-3 lead, but the Baltimore offense came alive and the flood gates opened. Westbrook will be a two-start pitcher in Fantasy Week 4 (April 24-30) against Curt Schilling and the Red Sox on Tuesday and over the weekend against the Rangers.
News: Jake Westbrook outpitched Twins ace Johan Santana Sunday to earn his second victory of the young season. Westbrook gave up two hits and one run over 6 1/3 innings, walking two and striking out four. The right-hander didn't earn his second win in 2005 until May 29 after opening 1-9. "Jake was fantastic," said Indians manager Eric Wedge. "He had that sinker working throughout." Making his 100th career start, Westbrook retired 14 in a row before walking Jason Kubel with one out in the seventh and being replaced by Guillermo Mota.
Analysis: Jake Westbrook is 16-6 since last May 29. Westbrook should pitch next week at Detroit, which is all of a sudden not that great of a matchup for the righty. Still, he remains an excellent option in most formats.
News: Jake Westbrook outpitched Twins ace Johan Santana Sunday to earn his second victory of the young season. Westbrook gave up two hits and one run over 6 1/3 innings, walking two and striking out four. The right-hander didn't earn his second win in 2005 until May 29 after opening 1-9. "Jake was fantastic," said Indians manager Eric Wedge. "He had that sinker working throughout." Making his 100th career start, Westbrook retired 14 in a row before walking Jason Kubel with one out in the seventh and being replaced by Guillermo Mota.
Analysis: Westbrook should pitch next week at Detroit, which is all of a sudden not that great of a matchup for the righty. Still, he remains an excellent option in most formats.
News: Indians SP Jake Westbrook pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing six hits, two earned runs, a walk and four strikeouts at Chicago. Westbrook's only major gaffe was a solo homer to Jim Thome.
Analysis: Westbrook should pitch next week vs. Seattle, a decent matchup for the righty. Use him in all leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook got the win despite allowing 11 hits in seven innings as the Cleveland Indians beat the Detroit Tigers 6-4 Thursday. Indians manager Eric Wedge said he wasn't concerned about Westbrook, who worked out of a couple of jams by inducing double-play grounders. "A few groundballs found the holes, which is going to happen with a sinkerball pitcher from time to time," Wedge said.
Analysis: Westbrook remains a decent option in mixed leagues heading into the season. He recorded a 15-15 record with a 4.49 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 210.1 IP in 2005.
News: The Indians have set their rotation with C.C. Sabathia starting Sunday in Chicago, followed by Jake Westbrook, Cliff Lee, Paul Byrd and Jason Johnson.
Analysis: Westbrook was the 161st overall selection (fourteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a 15-15 record with a 4.49 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 210.1 IP in 2005.
News: Cleveland starter Jake Westbrook pitched six innings and allowed only one earned run Saturday vs. Atlanta, striking out five while walking four.
Analysis: Westbrook was the 161st overall selection (fourteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a 15-15 record with a 4.49 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 210.1 IP in 2005.
News: Jake Westbrook's cutter helped him slice and dice the Toronto Blue Jays. Westbrook tuned up for the regular season with four scoreless innings, Jhonny Peralta homered and Andy Marte drove in two more runs to lead the Cleveland Indians to a 4-3 win over Toronto on Wednesday. Relying on a cut-fastball that he added to his repertoire two years ago, Westbrook allowed one run and four hits. "I got a little tired, but I battled through it and that's what spring training is for," said Westbrook, who will make three or four more starts before opening day. The right-hander was taught how to throw the cutter - a pitch made famous by New York's Mariano Rivera - by former Cleveland pitching coach Dick Pole. Westbrook's go-to pitch remains his sinker, but the cutter has become an effective way for him to work to left-handed hitters. "It has made me a better pitcher," he said. "It's helped me a lot, and it's a nice weapon to have. I've got a good feel for it now."
Analysis: Westbrook was the 161st overall selection (fourteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a 15-15 record with a 4.49 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 210.1 IP in 2005.
News: MLB.com reports the Cleveland Indians have set their early rotation. C.C. Sabathia will pitch the season opener on April 2 in Chicago, and Jake Westbrook and Cliff Lee will finish up the three-game series with the White Sox on April 4 and 5.
Analysis: Westbrook was the 161st overall selection (fourteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a 15-15 record with a 4.49 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 210.1 IP in 2005.
News: Indians starter Jake Westbrook gave up one run over four innings on Friday vs. Atlanta. He allowed five hits and struck out two. Jake was scheduled for three but able to go four," manager Eric Wedge said. "He kept his sinker down and looked real good."
Analysis: Westbrook was the 161st overall selection (fourteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a 15-15 record with a 4.49 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 210.1 IP in 2005.
News: In spring training play against the Mets on Monday, SP Jake Westbrook went three innings, giving up one run and one hit. The hit was a home run by OF Cliff Floyd in the second inning. Westbrook added a K.
Analysis: Westbrook was the 161st overall selection (fourteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a 15-15 record with a 4.49 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 210.1 IP in 2005.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed two runs on five hits in Thursday's spring opener, but he did not walk a batter and struck out one. He threw 37 pitches, including 25 strikes. "I felt good, I gave up some ground-ball hits," Westbrook told MLB.com. "I feel like I was doing what I was supposed to be doing, getting them [to hit the ball] on the ground, which is encouraging for me. I felt like I could have kept going, which is what you're looking for in spring training."
Analysis: Westbrook was the 161st overall selection (fourteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a 15-15 record with a 4.49 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 210.1 IP in 2005.
News: Jake Westbrook was the 161st overall selection (fourteenth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a 15-15 record with a 4.49 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 210.1 IP in 2005.
Analysis: Westbrook has been a bit inconsistent in his pro career, but he should be able to duplicate his 15 wins from '05. He is well worth a thirteenth- to fourteenth-round selection in AL leagues.
News: Despite the Jake Westbrook for Austin Kearns trade rumors, the Cincinnati Enquirer reports the Reds have no intention of dealing Kearns. "Austin is going to get a chance to play," Cincinnati manager Jerry Narron told the paper. "I believe in this guy. He's going to be in right field. I believe in him so much that I'm pretty much betting my job on him."
Analysis: If the Indians dealt Westbrook, they were rumored to be interested in signing Jeff Weaver, who remains on the free-agent market. Table those thoughts for now and consider Westbrook a mixed-league flier. He finished strong last year after a bad start by him and the Indians.
News: Jake Westbrook (14-14) allowed two runs and six hits against the Twins Friday.
Analysis: The right-hander won for the fourth time in five starts and is 13-7 since a 1-7 start.
News: Jake Westbrook worked seven scoreless innings, allowing two hits and a walk in a dominant 101-pitch performance at Oakland on Tuesday to improve to 8-12.
Analysis: Westbrook has gone 15 straight innings over his past two starts without allowing an earned run. He has lowered his ERA from 4.77 to 4.28 due to the impressive streak.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed one unearned run and nine hits in seven innings against the Royals on Thursday to improve to 7-12.
Analysis: Westbrook was 0-3 with a 6.75 ERA in three starts during the month of July.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed four earned runs and seven hits in only five innings on Saturday against the White Sox to take his 12th loss of the season against only six wins.
Analysis: Westbrook continues to plug again and give a good effort, but he is absolutely brutal against the Central Division this season. He is 1-7 with a 6.39 ERA in nine starts against Central Division foes and 0-3 with a 4.95 ERA against the White Sox in three starts.
News: Jake Westbrook will work the third game after the All-Star break, starting on Saturday afternoon against the White Sox.
Analysis: Westbrook is 0-2 with a 3.73 ERA against the White Sox this season. In fact, he is 1-6 against the American League Central Division, so conside reserving him until he proves he can pitch more consistently against division foes.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed three runs and five hits in five innings against the Tigers to drop to 6-10.
Analysis: Westbrook is 0-3 with an 18.32 ERA in three starts against the Tigers this season. He is now 2-5 with a 6.44 ERA in 13 career appearance against Detroit.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed three earned runs and four hits in seven innings on Thursday at Baltimore to improve to 6-9. He walked three and struck out one.
Analysis: Westbrook has won four straight starts, which is by far his best stretch of the season. The pitching has been there all season with the exception of a few tough starts against Detroit. The difference now is that the offense is starting to come through and provide enough run support for him.
News: Jake Westbrook (5-9) gave up three runs and eight hits in seven innings, walking one, against Cincinnati Saturday. He tied a career high with eight strikeouts as he won his third straight start. An All-Star last year when he went 14-9, Westbrook had been the victim of several poor offensive performances by the Indians - who have totaled only 15 runs his nine losses.
Analysis: Westbrook is 4-0 with a 2.48 ERA in his last four starts at home. It's safe to start him in the back of your mixed-league rotations for now.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed two earned runs and five hits in eight innings against the Diamondbacks on Sunday to earn his fourth victory of the season. He did not walk a batter in the efficient 94-pitch effort and he struck out five.
Analysis: As per usual, the Indians provided only three runs of support for Westbrook, but he had pinpoint accuracy helping the Indians to their ninth consecutive win.
News: Jake Westbrook went seven strong innings, allowing two earned runs while scattering eight hits to pick up his third win of the season. He also walked two batters and struck out five.
Analysis: Westbrook saw the Indians provide him with a season-high 11 runs of support to help him notch his third victory of the season. He will face the Diamondbacks on Sunday afternoon.
News: Jake Westbrook fell to 2-9. Cleveland has scored just 34 runs in his 13 starts, and his 2.62 runs of support per start is the third-lowest among AL starters.
Analysis: Westbrook has actually compiled a 3.14 ERA over his past five starts, but has just gone 1-3. He'll face off against the Rockies in his next start.
News: Jake Westbrook (2-9) allowed just three hits and three runs -- one earned -- in six innings, walked two and struck out two in a loss at San Diego Thursday.
Analysis: In six of Westbrook's last eight starts, he has allowed two earned runs or less -- yet he is only 2-4 in that span. Blame the Indians offense's ability to score runs and the defense's ability to make plays. Start him in all AL-only formats.
News: Scott Elarton, Thursday's original starter, was moved up one day in the starting rotation with Jake Westbrook getting bumped back to Thursday. Manager Eric Wedge made the switch so both pitchers would have one extra day of rest.
Analysis: Westbrook is 2-8 with a 5.30 ERA on the season. He'll get the nod against the Padres on Thursday.
News: Jake Westbrook went seven innings, allowing six runs and 11 hits at the White Sox Friday for his eighth loss of the season.
Analysis: Westbrook's ERA rose to 5.30 after this disappointing outing. He is worth starting in AL-only leagues at this point. He was expected to be one of the anchors of Cleveland's rotation entering the season.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed five hits and two runs in 8 1/3 innings Wednesday against the Angels. He struck out a season-high eight and walked just one in his seventh loss of the year.
Analysis: Westbrook brought a 1-0 lead into the ninth inning, but was unable to hold on for the win. He's 1-2 with a 4.22 ERA in his past four games. He's currently scheduled to match up against Joe Mays and the Twins on Tuesday.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed six earned runs, seven hits and two walks in 3 1/3 innings on Sunday at Texas as he fell to 1-6.
Analysis: Westbrook's ERA mushroomed to 6.69 after the terrible outing. He looked solid early, but has turned in three terrible outings. He has not been able to carry over the momentum from what might have been a career year.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed two earned runs and eight hits in six innings at Minnesota on Tuesday to finally break into the win column and avoid becoming the league's first six-game loser.
Analysis: Closer Bob Wickman tried hard to ruin his outing, allowing a hit and a walk in the ninth inning, but he beared down and picked up the save to preserve Westbrook's first win.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed nine earned runs, eight hits and two walks in 2 1/3 innings against the Tigers on Wednesday. He did not strike out a batter as he dropped to 0-5.
Analysis: Westbrook is 0-2 with a 33.23 ERA in two starts against the Tigers this season. He has an 0-3 record with a 1.50 ERA against everyone else in the league. Keep that in mind when setting your lineup the next time the Indians and Tigers hook up and Westbrook is scheduled to go.
News: The game between the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Indians was postponed due to rain on Tuesday. There has been no makeup date announced for the game.
Analysis: Tuesday's scheduled starter for the Indians, Jake Westbrook, will now pitch on Wednesday against Jeremy Bonderman.
News: Jake Westbrook has allowed two earned runs and five hits in eight innings at L.A. Angels, but he dropped to 0-4.
Analysis: Westbrook was outdueled by Bartolo Colon on Wednesday, as the team was only able to amass four hits and no runs of support. Westbrook has produced three quality starts in his four games, but the team has given him 0.75 runs of support in the games he has pitched.
News: Jake Westbrook fell to 0-3 on the season Friday against the Indians. He surrendered three hits and three runs in eight innings.
Analysis: Westbrook is pitching fairly good baseball, but has just had some bad luck. Keep the young right-hander active for Week 3's start against the Angels.
News: The Indians announced on Tuesday that Jake Westbrook's next start will be pushed back a day to Friday giving him an extra day of rest.
Analysis: Westbrook was pounded by the Tigers in his last start. He will now face Johan Santana and the Twins rather the Orlando Hernandez and the White Sox, so consider reserving him in daily leagues for this difficult matchup.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed seven earned runs on seven hits in two innings at Detroit Saturday. Westbrook's two-inning start was his shortest since a one-inning outing at Kansas City on Sept. 11, 2003.
Analysis: The outing wasn't as bad as it seemed and Westbrook should remain in all starting lineups. Cleveland finished the game with three errors.
News: Jake Westbrook went the distance, allowing one earned run and four hits in eight innings in Monday's regular season opener at Chicago White Sox, but he took the loss as the offense did not provide a run.
Analysis: In the eighth inning, shortstop Jhonny Peralta misplayed a ball at shortstop off the bat of Aaron Rowand which allowed the only run of the game to score.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed seven earned runs, six hits and three walks in only two innings of work in Wednesday's spring game against the Tigers in Lakeland.
Analysis: The opening day starter took the loss to fall to finish 1-1 during the spring. His ERA also rose to 6.75 after the abysmal outing, but Fantasy owners should not be concerned.
News: Indians opening-day starter Jake Westbrook feared the worst when he got drilled in the right hand by a line drive during a minor-league game Friday. "The whole thing went numb," he said. "I thought it was shattered. I was scared to death." X-rays were negative and Westbrook is not expected to miss any time.
Analysis: Consider Westbrook a decent sleeper this season after his breakout 2004 campaign, but don't overvalue him.
News: Jake Westbrook, who was named the Indians' opening-day starter in the wake of C.C. Sabathia's injury, allowed 14 hits in five innings Sunday, but the Phillies managed just three runs while stranding four runners at third base.
Analysis: Westbrook might be one of the more unimpressive opening-day starters in baseball, despite his breakthrough last season. Consider him a solid option, but certainly don't expect him to continue to improve at the rate he did last year.
News: Jake Westbrook tossed two scoreless innings in Thursday's spring game against the Indians, allowing one hit and striking out two.
Analysis: Westbrook will not fly under the radar as he did this time last year on Draft Day. Be sure not to overvalue him too much on Draft Day, but a middle-round pick is certainly warranted in most formats.
News: Jake Westbrook, nearly an afterthought before emerging as Cleveland's most consistent starter last season, agreed to a two-year contract with the Indians on Monday and avoided salary arbitration. Westbrook, who made $1 million in 2004, asked for $3.7 million in arbitration and was offered $2.5 million by the club. His agreement with the Indians includes a team option for 2007.
Analysis: Westbrook was an excellent sleeper last season, but after his breakout year, he will be much more highly sought this season. The Indians figure to compete in the AL Central and Westbrook is one of the reasons why. Try to make him a member of your pitching staff, but know that you're buying high on him right now.
News: Jake Westbrook earned his 11th win of the year with an impressive performance against the Twins on Saturday. He logged seven innings and gave up five hits and one run.
Analysis: Westbrook is 5-0 with a 4.58 ERA in his last six starts. Thanks to quality run support, he has emerged as a very reliable Fantasy pitcher this year.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed five earned runs and 11 hits in six innings at Toronto on Wednesday, but the Cleveland offense provided him with more than enough run support, as he moved to 9-5.
Analysis: Westbrook has won three straight decisions over his past four starts, but he has a 4.33 ERA. The ERA is not considered that high, especially in the American League, but that is including a performance on July 25 where he went the distance, allowing only one unearned run and six hits. In the other three starts, he has a 6.16 ERA.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed six hits and one unearned run in a complete-game victory against Kansas City Sunday. He struck out three and walked a pair. It was his fourth complete game this year.
Analysis: The All-Star pitcher will face off against the Royals again next week. He should remain starting in all Fantasy formats as he goes for his third straight victory.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed five earned runs and 10 hits in seven innings on Tuesday, but it was more than enough in Cleveland's 14-5 win at Anaheim.
Analysis: Westbrook improved to 7-5, as even the Cleveland bullpen could not possibly fritter away such a big lead.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed six hits and one run in 6 1/3 innings on Sunday against the Reds. He left with a 3-1 lead, but Cleveland relievers could not hold that advantage. He is now winless in his last four starts.
Analysis: Westbrook is a solid start in all Fantasy formats against Oakland next week.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed four earned runs and eight hits in only five innings on Saturday at Atlanta.
Analysis: Westbrook, from nearby Athens, GA, did not pitch badly in front of many family and friends. He did allow two home runs which proved too much with the Cleveland offense providing no support.
News: Jake Westbrook shut out the Orioles on Monday, allowing just four hits and two walks while striking out four batters. He tossed 103 pitches, 67 for strikes. Westbrook is now 3-1 with a 1.96 ERA in his last five starts.
Analysis: Westbrook has been somewhat streaky this season, but more have them have been on the hot side of the scale. His effort against a decent Baltimore offense is a good sign for his Fantasy value in his next few starts, so keep him active.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed one earned run and six hits in eight innings against Florida on Wednesday to improve to 5-2.
Analysis: Westbrook has posted three quality starts over his past four outings.
News: Jake Westbrook is 1-1 with a solid 3.20 ERA in his last three games. He has a 4-1 record as a starter this season.
Analysis: Westbrook is a great start next Fantasy period as he is scheduled to matchup against Baltimore and Atlanta.
News: Westbrook outdueled Curt Schilling, as he tossed six scoreless innings on Monday against Boston, to win his second consecutive start.
Analysis: Westbrook's spot in the Cleveland rotation is still not official, although after allowing only two earned runs over his past 22 innings, he has likely cemented a spot until he proves he can no longer handle the chore any longer.
News: Sunday's game between the Orioles and Indians in Cleveland was postponed by rain. No makeup date was scheduled. Jake Westbrook, the Indians' scheduled starter, will be pushed back by a day to pitch Monday against Boston.
Analysis: Westbrook will now get two starts during the upcoming week, with the other coming Saturday at Baltimore. He's worth considering in AL-only formats despite facing two strong lineups.
News: The Akron Beacon Journal reports that Jake Westbrook was named the American League player of the week on Monday.
Analysis: Westbrook allowed only two earned runs in two starts with 10 strikeouts during the week against Detroit, one of the hottest hitting teams in the majors.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed only one hit and one earned run in a complete game win at Detroit on Sunday.
Analysis: Westbrook has allowed only one hit and one earned run in his past 16 innings. Despite his outstanding pitching, he is still only worth using in AL-only leagues when the matchup is favorable. He still has not officially landed a rotation spot.
News: Jake Westbrook tossed seven perfect innings in Monday's game in relief against the Tigers.
Analysis: Westbrook relieved an ineffective Jeff D'Amico, who allowed three runs without retiring a batter. Westbrook might be back in manager Eric Wedge's rotation if each pitcher continues on this path.
News: Jake Westbrook will begin the season in the bullpen. Jeff D'Amico has won the No. 4 starter's job, which Westbrook had been penciled in for at the beginning of the spring. "Anything can happen during the season," Westbrook told the Cleveland Plain Dealer. "I could start and relieve again this year."
Analysis: Westbrook could find his way back into the rotation later in the year, and he still bears watching in AL-only leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook allowed two earned runs and four hits in three innings on Tuesday against the Astros.
Analysis: Westbrook will need to pitch a lot better if he wishes to remain in line for either the fourth or fifth starter job.
News: Jake Westbrook begins spring training as the favorite for the fourth starter job in Cleveland, according to the Akron Beacon Journal. He would only lose the job if he has a poor spring.
Analysis: Westbrook has enough talent to be a decent AL-only option when the matchups are right, and he does pitch in baseball's weakest division. However, he should never be confused for a breakout candidate, since his upside is somewhat limited.
News: Cleveland signed Jake Westbrook to a one-year deal Tuesday.
Analysis: Westbrook was 2-1 with a 2.01 ERA in his final month of 2003. Consider him in the later rounds of AL-only league drafts.
News: The Indians recalled Jake Westbrook from Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday to start the second game of a doubleheader against Chicago White Sox. He allowed one earned run in five innings, evening his record at 4-4. He gave up three hits and walked five.
Analysis: Westbrook will likely return to the bullpen or will be sent back to Buffalo when the second half of the season begins. He has no Fantasy value.
News: Jake Westbrook will get a spot start in one of the day-night doubleheader games Saturday against the White Sox, according to the Akron Beacon Journal.
Analysis: Westbrook has pitched well in Triple-A Buffalo recently, but he's not a recommended big-league Fantasy pitcher. He'll probably return to the minors after this starting assignment.
News: Jake Westbrook, who was bumped to the bullpen last week, allowed five runs on seven hits in three innings Monday in Detroit. He was standing in for the injured C.C. Sabathia, whose start was pushed back to Friday.
Analysis: Westbrook will only remain in the Indians' rotation if Sabathia is sidelined for a lengthy time, which is unlikely. Westbrook has no Fantasy value.
News: Jake Westbrook will start for the injured C.C. Sabathia on Monday.
Analysis: If Sabathia is able to make his next scheduled start on Friday, Westbrook will likely return to the bullpen.
News: Jake Westbrook has joined the Cleveland bullpen now that Jason Bere has been activated off the disabled list. According to the Akron Beacon Journal, the move was also made to limit Westbrook's innings due to concerns stemming from elbow surgery. “Jake did an outstanding job as a starter, but we've had physical concerns with him from Day One,'' manager Eric Wedge said.
Analysis: Westbrook has minimal Fantasy value as a reliever.
News: Jake Westbrook will return to the bullpen when Jason Bere (shoulder) is activated from the 15-day disabled list Thursday.
Analysis: Westbrook will be used as a spot starter if any of the other Cleveland starters suffer an injury. He has no Fantasy appeal.
News: Jake Westbrook's performance in his scheduled start Tuesday against Detroit might be the determining factor in his remaining in the Cleveland rotation. Jason Bere is expected to return later this week, and either Westbrook or Jason Davis is likely to get bumped to the bullpen.
Analysis: Westbrook is not a consistent enough pitcher to warrant using in a Fantasy league, even when he faces a favorable matchup like Tuesday's against the weak-hitting Tigers.
News: Westbrook won his first game of the season on Monday at Chicago White Sox. He allowed two earned runs, six hits and two walks in 5 2/3 innings.
Analysis: Westbrook has pitched very well in his three starts this season. In 17 1/3 innings, he has allowed only four earned runs and 11 hits. He is worth adding in larger AL-only leagues.
News: Jake Westbrook was scheduled to pitch Sunday at Kansas City, but he will now be skipped in the rotation. He might pitch next Saturday against Kansas City.
Analysis: Westbrook does not warrant any Fantasy consideration, even as a starter.
News: According to the Akron Beacon Journal, Jake Westbrook will join the rotation in place of Jason Bere (shoulder) while he is on the 15-day disabled list.
Analysis: Westbrook will not be useful from a Fantasy perspective, even as a starter.
News: The Akron Beacon Journal reports that Westbrook might be pushing himself into the race for a rotation spot after allowing just one run in five innings in Wednesday's exhibition game. "I have an opportunity to make the rotation for the first time ever in spring training," he said. "But if I hadn't got hurt, I would have had a chance last year."
Analysis: Westbrook is coming off an injury-plagued 2002 campaign and is more likely to wind up in long relief, so he'll only warrant consideration in a Fantasy league if he is officially given a rotation spot.
News: Westbrook pitched well Friday in his first start since rejoining the rotation. He allowed only two earned runs in six innings. Consider picking him up if he pitches well in his next start.
Analysis:
News: Indians manager Joel Skinner said Westbrook, who is scheduled to make his first start of the season on Friday night, will likely stay in the rotation through August. "Jake has been a starter most of his career and it is a bit easier on his arm to have a set routine," Skinner said. Westbrook had surgery on his right elbow on February 26. He has made seven relief appearances since rejoining the Indians on July 13. Westbrook shouldn't receive much Fantasy consideration unless he strings together a few solid starts.
Analysis:
News: The Indians will give Jaret Wright's vacated rotation spot to Westbrook, according to The Plain Dealer. Westbrook has been used mainly as a reliever since coming to Cleveland, but he will start Friday's game against Texas. He has been fairly ineffective as a reliever and might not have the stamina needed to start, so he isn't a recommended Fantasy option right now.
Analysis:
News: The Indians activated Westbrook from the 15-day disabled list Thursday and is expected to join the bullpen. Westbrook had been sidelined since undergoing elbow surgery during spring training. Westbrook won't have any Fantasy value as a reliever.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook, who is recovering from surgery on his right elbow, might soon be added to the Indians' bullpen, according to The Plain Dealer. He allowed four runs on eight hits in six innings Saturday for Triple-A Buffalo. Westbrook won't have any Fantasy value as a reliever.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook (elbow) will throw bullpen sessions Monday and Wednesday in Cleveland, according to The Plain Dealer. He is also expected to pitch in two simulated games at Class A Mahoning Valley, which will be followed by a rehab assignment.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook, who is coming off surgery on his right elbow, is scheduled to throw his first bullpen session on Thursday. "We're looking for his return around the All-Star break," general manager Mark Shapiro told The Plain Dealer. Westbrook won't help Fantasy owners this season.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook, who had surgery on his right elbow in spring training, is scheduled to pitch in an extended spring training game on June 5. "We've been very encouraged by his progress," assistant general manager Neal Huntington told The Plain Dealer. "He hasn't started throwing off the mound yet." Westbrook won't help Fantasy owners this season.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook, who is recovering from elbow surgery, remains in Cleveland to work on strengthening his arm. He is ahead of schedule in his recovery, and the Indians believe he could be back between mid-July and Aug. 1.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook had arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow at Lutheran Medical Center in Cleveland. Westbrook, expected to battle for the fifth spot in the Indians' starting rotation, is expected to begin throwing in six weeks. Ryan Drese is the favorite to take his spot as a starter until Westbrook returns.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook is scheduled to visit Dr. James Andrews on Monday to get a second opinion on his right elbow. He is likely to undergo surgery to remove bone spurs, and will be out until at least June.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook will undergo surgery within the next two weeks to fix bone spurs and a compressed ulnar nerve in his right elbow. He is out indefinitely, although Indians manager Charlie Manuel believes he could return by June at earliest. Westbrook is out of the running for the fifth starter job, so cross him off your draft lists.
Analysis:
News: An MRI on Westbrook's sore elbow revealed a bone spur, and he hay require surgery. Indians officials are discussing options, and the right-hander has been shut down for now. Westbrook was expected to compete for the fifth starter job, but cross him off your list for now. He'll have a chance to return later in the year if he has surgery, but won't be worth owning in 2002.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook threw off the mound Sunday but has reported pain in his right elbow. He underwent an MRI on Friday, and has said that the injury has only gotten worse over the past few seasons. Westbrook was expected to contend for the Indians' No. 5 starter job, but this bears watching. If he misses time, he won't have much of a chance for the job and won't be worth drafting.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo Wednesday and replaced in the rotation by pitcher Tim Drew. Westbrook had a 3-3 record with a 5.40 ERA in 16 games, including six starts, for the Indians this year. But he allowed eight runs in 2.1 innings against Oakland Tuesday.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook, making a spot start for Cleveland in place of Chuck Finley, allowed just one run on five hits while striking out four in six innings Tuesday against Boston. This solid outing could mean that Westbrook will get another start or two while Finley is sidelined, and if he pitches well his next time out, he's definitely worth adding to a Fantasy roster in an AL-only league.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook will start Tuesday's game for the Indians in place of the injured Chuck Finley. Westbrook is 1-0 with a 2.75 ERA in 10 appearances for Cleveland.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo when the Indians placed Paul Shuey on the disabled list Friday. Westbrook will work in middle relief, and isn't worth your Fantasy consideration right now.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo Tuesday and Steve Woodard was recalled to replace him. Westbrook was sent down to give Cleveland a pitcher available for long relief Tuesday. He pitched four innings on Monday and would have been unavailable for the Indians' June 5 game.
Analysis:
News: The Indians optioned Westbrook to Triple-A Sunday and called up lefty-reliever Rich Rodriguez. The move is designed to get Westbrook some starts and give Cleveland another left-handed pitcher in their bullpen. Don't expect Rodriguez to improve your pitching stats.
Analysis:
News: Recently recalled to replace the injured Steve Woodard, Westbrook will take over his role. He will be used as a long reliever and a spot starter. Avoid using him until he proves he can be effective.
Analysis:
News: Westbrook was optioned to the Indians' Triple-A club in Buffalo on Wednesday. He's only a marginal Fantasy prospect, so don't bother picking him this year.
Analysis:
News: Acquired by the Indians from the Yankees as part of the Dave Justice deal. Westbrook is currently out with a strained left side, but will likely be assigned to AAA when he returns from the injury. A major league callup is unlikely given his struggles in two trials with the Yankees this season but not impossible. Westbrook, 22, is already with his fourth organization and has failed to post the dominant K/BB numbers expected from top prospects.
Analysis:
