Post by Boyd on Apr 21, 2006 12:35:01 GMT -4
5/4 Updates
Reds' Aurilia goes on DL with groin injury
Reds placed infielder Rich Aurilia on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right groin.
A tough break for Aurilia, who had been off to a great start. The Reds will have to decide whether to make Scott Hatteberg a full-time first baseman or to go with Adam Dunn at first against lefties, opening up left field for Chris Denorfia now and Ryan Freel after Ken Griffey Jr. returns. We like the second option better.
5/3 Updates
Angels demote rookie catcher Mathis
Angels optioned catcher Jeff Mathis to Triple-A Salt Lake.
12 games. Mathis has 11 starts, one appearance off the bench and 39 at-bats with which to prove himself. Manager Mike Scioscia settled on Jose Molina before the start of the season, and even though Molina was also struggling mightily offensively, Mathis had started three games in the last 12 days. Maybe Mike Napoli will get more of a chance. Mathis is still the Angels' catcher of the future, assuming that Scioscia someday takes a liking to him
Ohka on DL with a partial rotator cuff tear
Brewers placed RHP Tomo Ohka on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 2, with a partially torn rotator cuff.
No word yet on whether Ohka will undergo surgery, but it sounds like he'll be out for quite some time. Either Ben Hendrickson or Dana Eveland will replace him in the rotation. Neither is particularly interesting for fantasy purposes, though Eveland does have some upside. Ohka won't be replaced on the roster until after tonight's game.
Lerner chosen as owner of Nationals
Source: USATODAY.com
Commissioner Bud Selig will officially announce today that Theodore N. Lerner has been chosen as the new owner of the Nationals.
Lerner will pay $450 million for the franchise and is expected to take possession of the club in June. Former Braves president Stan Kasten is expected to replace Tony Taveras as club president. GM Jim Bowden and manager Frank Robinson may also eventually lose their jobs.
Clemens offer reportedly around $12 million
Source: Houston Chronicle
The Astros' offer to Roger Clemens is expected to be no less than $12 million, which would be the pro-rated amount of the $18 million he made last season.
"We put forth a very strong number," general manager Tim Purpura said. "It's always hard to know, it's impossible to know what numbers are out there." Clemens isn't likely to make a decision this week. He won't play prior to June 1.
5/2 Updates
Astros, Clemens' agents meet
Source: Astros.mlb.com
Astros GM Tim Purpura and owner Drayton McLane Jr. met with the agents for Roger Clemens on Tuesday to discuss the contract proposal the team submitted.
Clement did not attend. "This was our first meeting. Basically, it was a chance to sit down and go over the preliminary offer we submitted to [agents Randy and Alan Hendricks]," Purpura said. "I thought it went fine, but there's not a lot to report because Roger still hasn't made a decision [as to whether he will pitch in 2006 or retire]. If he does decide to come back, obviously we'd love to have him, and we've made very clear our interest in having him back."
Royals' Sweeney DL bound with bulging disk
Source: Kansas City Star
Mike Sweeney has a bulging cervical disk and is expected to go on the disabled list prior to Wednesday's game.
The Royals haven't established a timetable for his return, but it's likely that he'll miss several weeks. Justin Huber will take his roster spot and should act as the club's primary DH, though with Buddy Bell running things, one never can tell. Mixed leaguers could consider dropping Sweeney, as it will likely be months before he's an asset again.
Lackey, Kendall ejected from Angels-A's game
John Lackey was ejected from Tuesday's game in the sixth inning for fighting with Jason Kendall.
Kendall was less than eager to get out of the way of Lackey's inside breaking ball, though it failed to hit him anyway. Back-and-forth shouting ensued, and Kendall charged the mound. It looked like Lackey got the better of the wrestling match, though Kendall was able to throw him to the ground. A suspension could be a possibility for Lackey. It seems like a definite for Kendall.
Pujols misses start with stiff back
Albert Pujols didn't start Tuesday against the Reds because of a stiff back.
Scott Rolen (bronchitis) remained out of the lineup and Jim Edmonds was given the day off against a lefty, so it's not a very imposing lineup that Reds starter Dave Williams is taking on. Pujols is considered day-to-day. Scott Spiezio started at first base.
5/1 Updates
Royals' Sweeney aggravates back
Mike Sweeney left Monday's game in the ninth inning due to a sore back he aggravated running out a grounder in the seventh.
"I hope I'll be back soon, but I'm not feeling good right now," he said. "When I started running down to first, it felt like a lightning bolt." Matt Stairs will receive most of the time at DH while Sweeney is out. If Sweeney goes on the DL, perhaps the Royals will go to Justin Huber, though it's at least as likely that they'd pick Aaron Guiel.
Braves' Hudson turns in one-hit shutout
Tim Hudson pitched a one-hit shutout Monday night against the Rockies. He walked three and struck out five in the 90-pitch outing.
It was the second career one-hitter for Hudson. The opposing starter, Jason Jennings, had the Rockies' lone hit, a single. Hudson retired the final 17 hitters he faced and lowered his ERA from 5.87 to 4.54. With two complete games in his last three starts, he's back looking like a borderline top-10 starter in NL-only leagues.
Red Sox reacquire Mirabelli in three-player deal
Red Sox acquired catcher Doug Mirabelli from the Padres for catcher Josh Bard, RHP Cla Meredith and a player to be named or cash.
Baseball trades are often described as helping both teams, though it usually doesn't work out that way. This one really should. The Red Sox needed Mirabelli back, and it was worth overpaying to get him. Apparently, they had to do so because the Yankees were trying to play keep-away. The Padres should benefit, as Mirabelli's ability to catch knuckleballers and occasionally hit 370-foot flyballs weren't going to do him any good in Petco Park. Mirabelli is expected to join the team in time to catch Tim Wakefield tonight.
Report: Red Sox reacquire Mirabelli
Source: ESPN.com
The Red Sox have reportedly reacquired Doug Mirabelli from the Padres.
To get Mirabelli back as Tim Wakefield's personal catcher the Red Sox are said to have given up Josh Bard and Cla Meredith. Mirabelli is expected to be in the lineup Monday night against the Yankees.
4/30 Updates
Report: Freddy Garcia tests positive for marijuana
Source: WhiteSox.mlb.com
According to the Venezuelan daily newspaper Lider, marijuana was found in Freddy Garcia's urine in a test administered during the World Baseball Classic.
Garcia was told of the positive test last week, according to the report. He can be suspended from international baseball for two years because of the positive test, but it's not going to have any effect on his major league status.
Orioles' Roberts on DL with groin injury
Orioles placed second baseman Brian Roberts on the 15-day disabled list with a pulled groin.
The Orioles aren't sure Roberts will need the full 15 days, but they had to add a bench player today. Chris Gomez and Brandon Fahey will share time at second base until Roberts returns. Corey Patterson is in the leadoff spot today, further increasing his value.
4/29 Updates
Pujols sets record with 14th April home run
Albert Pujols broke the major league record with his 14th home run of April in the Cardinals' 2-1 win over the Nationals on Saturday.
After Livan Hernandez and Chris Carpenter both allowed one run in seven innings, Pujols had a 411-foot solo shot off Jon Rauch in the eighth. Pujols had been tied with Ken Griffey Jr. (1997) and Luis Gonzalez (2001) for the most home runs in April. The homer also serve to tie him with Mark McGwire for the Cardinals' record of 32 RBI in April, established in 1998.
Mench homers in seventh straight game
Kevin Mench on Friday became the first right-handed hitter ever to homer in seven straight games.
The homer came off Guillermo Mota in the seventh inning. Dale Long, Don Mattingly and Ken Griffey Jr. share the major league record with homers in eight straight games. Mench will go for a share of the record against Fausto Carmona and the Indians on Saturday.
Royals' Sweeney to undergo MRI on strained back
Mike Sweeney will undergo an MRI on Saturday after suffering a strained back on Friday night.
Maybe the Royals wouldn't lose a lot by going to Matt Stairs, but if Sweeney lands on the DL, they could take a look at Justin Huber as a DH. AL-only leaguers should grab Huber now just in case. Sweeney's history of back injuries make it less likely that this will just be a day-to-day thing.
4/28 Updates
Tejada suffers hyperextended left knee
Miguel Tejada hyperextended his left knee while chasing down a foul ball in fifth inning of Friday's game and appears to be questionable for Saturday's contest.
Tejada, who has played in 942 straight games, hopes to play despite the injury. It's possible that he'll be used as a DH, putting Chris Gomez at shortstop.
Griffey remains on DL for another day
Ken Griffey Jr. (knee) took batting practice, ran in the outfield and caught fly balls on Friday, but he didn't think he was ready to come off the DL.
"When I come back," Griffey said, "we don't want it to be one of those things where we're trying to protect this or we're trying to protect that." Griffey might return at some point this weekend, but he wouldn't commit to a day. Neither would the Reds. "The last thing I want to do is put him in three days early and he's out for two months," GM Wayne Krivsky said.
Nationals' Patterson placed on disabled list
Nationals placed RHP John Patterson on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 23, with a strained flexor muscle in his right forearm.
Instead of sending down Mike O'Connor, Patterson is placed on the Dl toopen up a spot for Zach Day. It seems like the Nationals have been underestimating Patterson's problem right from the start, so there's very good reason for concern now. O'Connor will likely get another start in his place on Wednesday. The Nationals also need a starter for Sunday, but they may go with a bullpen day.
Mets' Iriki draws 50-game suspension
MLB suspended RHP Yusaku Iriki 50 games after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance.
Iriki is the first player suspended until the new major league rule. Although he was in the minors, he was on the 40-man roster at the time that he tested positive. Iriki, 33, was 1-2 with a 3.74 ERA in four starts at Triple-A Norfolk. Interestingly, nine of the 10 players suspended for PEDs this year have been pitchers.
Maddux starts 5-0 for first time ever
Greg Maddux started a season 5-0 for the first time in his career after holding the Brewers to two runs in six innings in the Cubs' victory on Friday.
The Brewers loaded the bases with one out in the first, but Maddux came back to strike out Prince Fielder and get Corey Koskie to fly out. The two runs scored on Geoff Jenkins' single in the fifth. Maddux earned his 323rd victory, leaving him one shy of tying Nolan Ryan and Don Sutton for 13th place all-time. In order to move to 6-0 next week, he'll have to win in Arizona for the first time. He's 0-4 with a 5.18 ERA in seven road starts against the Diamondbacks.
4/27 Updates
Sabathia effective in rehab start
Source: Indians.mlb.com
C.C. Sabathia (abdominal strain) allowed two runs -- one earned -- in five innings Thursday in his rehab start for Triple-A Buffalo.
"First and foremost, what we wanted to make sure about C.C. was that he was healthy and he was able to finish his outing," Buffalo manager Torey Luvullo said. "He attacked his hitters and looked like he was in midseason form." Sabathia is expected to be activated to start either Tuesday's game against the White Sox or Wednesday's game in Oakland. AL-only leaguers will want to activate him next week. Mixed leaguers may want to wait a start. Apr. 27 - 7:43 pm et
Rangers' Cordero stripped of closer's role
Source: Rangers.mlb.com
Francisco Cordero will receive "a break from closing," manager Buck Showalter said Thursday. Akinori Otsuka is expected to replace him in save situations.
It's very likely just a temporary demotion for Cordero, who has blown five of his eight save chances. His velocity is fine and his slider still has plenty of bite, so it's likely that he'll get things turned around soon. He's a fine buy-low candidate at the moment.
Rays prospect Young suspended indefinitely
Triple-A Durham's Delmon Young was suspended indefinitely by the Internation League Thursday following an incident Wednesday night in which he flipped a bat at the home plate umpire.
"The Devil Rays organization supports the decision," said executive VP Andrew Friedman. A source told Baseball America that, while Young didn't flip the bat hard, he clearly intended it to hit the umpire following his ejection for arguing a called third strike. It sounds like the act was designed to show the umpire up rather than injure him, but Young should be looking at a lot of time off.
4/26 Updates
Griffey Jr. set to return on Friday
Source: Cincinnati Enquirer
Ken Griffey Jr. (knee) is on pace to come off the DL on Friday.
Griffey ran the bases at nearly 100 percent on Monday and his knee felt fine on Tuesday. "It's going good," trainer Mark Mann said. "(Tuesday) was more of a recovery day. But it was important to see how he felt. He said he was fine."
Report: Lerner Group to acquire Nationals
Source: WUSA9.com
According to WUSA-TV Washington, MLB has chosen Washington real estate magnate Theodore Lerner as the new owner of the Nationals.
The Lerner Group will edge out the groups led by Washington businessmen Fred Malek and Jeffrey Zients and Indianapolis radio tycoon Jeff Smulyan, which is probably good news. Former Braves president Stan Kasten is expected to serve as the team's president after Lerner assumes control next month.
Harden leaves games with back spasms
Rich Harden left Wednesday's game versus the Rangers with back spasms.
He gave up two hits and three walks while striking out six before leaving. He was charged with three runs after reliever Kiko Calero came in and gave up a Kevin Mench grand slam.
Rangers' Mench homers for sixth straight day
Kevin Mench homered for the sixth straight day when he hit a grand slam off Athletics reliever Kiko Calero on Wednesday.
That's a new Rangers' record, and Mench is just the 19th player ever to homer in six straight games. The major league record is eight, shared by Don Mattingly, Ken Griffey Jr., and Dale Long. Mench has driven in 20 runs on the season, all in the last seven games.
Rays' Cantu on DL with broken bone in foot
Devil Rays placed second baseman Jorge Cantu on the disabled list, retroactive to April 24, with a non-displaced fracture in his left foot.
He'll be replaced on the roster on Thursday. Cantu is expected to miss two to three weeks with the injury he originally sustained on April 7. "He may have been able to continue on with it, but he probably would have played the whole year with a sore foot," manager Joe Maddon said. Nick Green and Ty Wigginton will start at second base for now.
Rays prospect Young throws bat at ump
After being ejected following a called strike three and an argument, Triple-A Durham's Delmon Young threw a bat into the chest of the home plate umpire in Wednesday night's game.
If this was as bad as it sounds, Young should be facing a long-term suspension. It's a shame to see such behavior from the player universally recognized as baseball's best prospect.
4/25 Updates
Nationals' Patterson to miss start with arm injury
John Patterson will miss his next scheduled start because of a strained flexor muscle in his right forearm.
He's only expected to miss the one start, but since the problem has been bothering him for several weeks, maybe the Nationals should give him more than just a few days off. Unannounced was who would pitch in Patterson's place on Thursday. Triple-A New Orleans' Steve Watkins may be the choice.
Helton diagnosed with intestinal inflammation
Todd Helton has been diagnosed with intestinal inflammation.
Helton was hospitalized with stomach cramps and a fever last week, but was released yesterday. The exact illness is acute terminal ileitis, which is inflammation near the end of the small intestine. Doctors have prescribed more rest and it's still unclear if he'll be able to come off the DL when he's eligible on May 5.
Burnett may miss over a month
Source: Toronto Globe and Mail
While there is reportedly no structural damage in A.J. Burnett's injured elbow, the Blue Jays said Monday that he may be out over a month.
"Maybe it's a case where it's a month, six weeks, I don't know," general manager J.P. Ricciardi said. "We don't want to put a number on it, then you're held to a timetable. But this guy will definitely be pitching for us."
Ortiz bounced from D'Backs' rotation
Source: Diamondbacks.mlb.com
Russ Ortiz, who is in the second year of a four-year, $33 million contract, has been removed from Arizona's rotation after beginning the year 0-3 with a 6.91 ERA.
The Diamondbacks didn't say who would replace him in the rotation. Dustin Nippert has a 5.73 ERA in two starts for Tucson, so Kevin Jarvis and Enrique Gonzalez seem more likely to receive callups. We'd prefer to see Juan Cruz taken out of the bullpen and given an opportunity. Ortiz will likely get another look in the rotation sometime this summer, but he's probably not going to have fantasy value at any point.
4/24 Updates
Clemens won't be back before June 1
According to agent Randy Hendricks, free agent Roger Clemens has no intention of pitching in the majors before the start of June.
Although he said he has been throwing a lot of batting practice, Clemens is still leaning toward retirement. "I've listened to every other team [other than Houston] and I continue to get calls every day from those guys on the teams, front office people, I hear the concerns, I know what's behind it and understand it would be a great story," Clemens said. "It's very flattering [but] it would be a mental challenge [to come back]."
Source: Astros.mlb.com
Mariners bring up LHP Livingston
Mariners recalled LHP Bobby Livingston from Triple-A Tacoma.
Another likely short-term callup for Seattle. Livingston, who had a 2.12 ERA in three starts for Tacoma, will pitch in middle relief. He'd be a top candidate to move into the rotation if the Mariners were to lose a starter. However, he may not be up for more than a few days this time.
Burnett's arm structurally sound
According to a press release from the Jays, Dr. James Andrews discovered no structural damage in A.J. Burnett's arm during Monday's examination.
The team is calling Burnett's injruy a mild sprain of the ulnar collateral ligament and a slight straining of scar tissue in the elbow. Obviously, the health of the UCL is the long-term concern. If he tears it again, he'd need a second Tommy John surgery. Burnett will probably get more time off after his latest setback than he did last month, but the Jays haven't commented on any timetable yet.
Angels' Kendrick to make major league debut
Angels recalled infielder Howie Kendrick from Triple-A Salt Lake.
Kendrick may only be up for a 10-day stay, but AL-only leaguers should grab him anyway. It's possible that he'll be productive enough in his handful of starts at DH that he'll secure a role for himself. The 22-year-old was hitting .386/.403/.586 in 70 at-bats for Salt Lake.
Reds designate 2B Womack for assignment
Reds designated infielder Tony Womack for assignment.
A complete waste of $1.1 million, money that could have been used to try for a reliever better than Rick White or Chris Hammond. The Reds will attempt to trade Womack, but it's likely that he'll just become a free agent. Maybe the Cardinals will want him back. Womack's departure leaves the Reds with one less player to challenge Brandon Phillips for at-bats at second base.
Reds acquire OF Ross from Dodgers
Reds acquired outfielder Cody Ross from the Dodgers for a player to be named.
Ross' ability to play all three outfield spots makes him useful as a fifth outfielder, though he wouldn't be a good choice to play center field on any sort of regular basis. He may have some fantasy value if Ken Griffey Jr. gets hurt again, but the Reds will likely continue to go with Ryan Freel as Griffey's primary backup, and should another spot open up, Chris Denorfia could be an option over Ross.
4/23 Updates
Helton expected to be released from hospital
Todd Helton is expected to be released from the hospital on Monday after another battery of tests.
Rockies trainer Keith Dugger said doctors "haven't officially eliminated anything" but reiterated that Helton's condition isn't considered life-threatening. Helton was hospitalized Friday with severe lower abdominal pain and a fever.
Bonds admits to swollen knee
Barry Bonds, who was out of the lineup Sunday as scheduled, admitted that his knee has remained steadily swollen for about a week now, but he doesn't want to take the time off necessary to make it better.
"If I took off for five days, the swelling would be gone," Bonds said. "But I don't have five days. I'm not taking five days off. I'm going to keep playing. I'm playing all year no matter what." Bonds also said today that he doesn't see himself hitting the 47 homers he'd need to pass Hank Aaron, although he hasn't completely ruled out a return in 2007. "Heck no," Bonds said when asked if he still had a chance to catch Aaron. "Maybe something would happen during the winter time. My knee could get better. Maybe there will be some kind of solution they can come up with that would make the pain go away. Who knows? There are all kinds of reasons. When you get older, these kinds of things happen. But that's baseball."
Reds' Milton to undergo knee surgery
Eric Milton will undergo surgery Monday to debride the meniscus in his left knee.
If Milton just needs the knee cleaned out, maybe he'll be back in three or four weeks. Elizardo Ramirez could be the choice to take his rotation spot on Monday. Paul Wilson will eventually be back, but perhaps not before Milton.
Source: Cincinnati Post
4/22 Updates
Angels' Rivera placed on 15-day DL
Angels placed outfielder Juan Rivera on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 17, with tightness in his rib cage.
The Angels gave no indication Friday, but Rivera must not have reacted well to his batting-practice session. Tim Salmon will fill in at designated hitter for the next 10 days. Maicer Izturis could also be looking at a few more at-bats.
Helton goes on DL with stomach ailment
Rockies placed first baseman Todd Helton on the 15-day disabled list with a stomach ailment.
This can't be good. If it was appendicitis, the Rockies probably would have announced it by now. Instead, they still haven't commented on Helton's illness. It's an especially costly loss for the club with Ryan Shealy still unavailable. Eli Marrero will likely be the starting first baseman for the next two weeks, giving him value in all formats.
Brewers hit five homers in one inning
Bill Hall, Damian Miller, Brady Clark, J.J. Hardy and Prince Fielder all went deep in the fourth against the Reds as the Brewers became the first team in 40 years to hit five homers in an inning.
The first fourth homers came off starter Brandon Claussen. Fielder had the fifth off reliever Chris Hammond. The last team to hit five homers in an inning was the Twins on June 9, 1966. Of the five teams ever to accompish the feat, four have done it versus the Reds.
Pujols second fastest to 1,000 hits
Albert Pujols tied Todd Helton as the second fastest player to reach 1,000 career hits when he homered off Cubs starter Jerome Williams in the first inning tonight.
Pujols and Helton each needed 3,003 at-bats to reach 1,000 hits. Ichiro Suzuki is the fastest to reach the mark, needing just 2,977 at-bats. The homer was his major league-leading 11th of the season, which also sets a Cardinals franchise record for most in the month of April. Mark McGwire hit 10 in April of 1998 on his way to a record-setting 70 home runs, and Pujols still has nine more games to pad his lead.
Reds' Aurilia goes on DL with groin injury
Reds placed infielder Rich Aurilia on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right groin.
A tough break for Aurilia, who had been off to a great start. The Reds will have to decide whether to make Scott Hatteberg a full-time first baseman or to go with Adam Dunn at first against lefties, opening up left field for Chris Denorfia now and Ryan Freel after Ken Griffey Jr. returns. We like the second option better.
5/3 Updates
Angels demote rookie catcher Mathis
Angels optioned catcher Jeff Mathis to Triple-A Salt Lake.
12 games. Mathis has 11 starts, one appearance off the bench and 39 at-bats with which to prove himself. Manager Mike Scioscia settled on Jose Molina before the start of the season, and even though Molina was also struggling mightily offensively, Mathis had started three games in the last 12 days. Maybe Mike Napoli will get more of a chance. Mathis is still the Angels' catcher of the future, assuming that Scioscia someday takes a liking to him
Ohka on DL with a partial rotator cuff tear
Brewers placed RHP Tomo Ohka on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 2, with a partially torn rotator cuff.
No word yet on whether Ohka will undergo surgery, but it sounds like he'll be out for quite some time. Either Ben Hendrickson or Dana Eveland will replace him in the rotation. Neither is particularly interesting for fantasy purposes, though Eveland does have some upside. Ohka won't be replaced on the roster until after tonight's game.
Lerner chosen as owner of Nationals
Source: USATODAY.com
Commissioner Bud Selig will officially announce today that Theodore N. Lerner has been chosen as the new owner of the Nationals.
Lerner will pay $450 million for the franchise and is expected to take possession of the club in June. Former Braves president Stan Kasten is expected to replace Tony Taveras as club president. GM Jim Bowden and manager Frank Robinson may also eventually lose their jobs.
Clemens offer reportedly around $12 million
Source: Houston Chronicle
The Astros' offer to Roger Clemens is expected to be no less than $12 million, which would be the pro-rated amount of the $18 million he made last season.
"We put forth a very strong number," general manager Tim Purpura said. "It's always hard to know, it's impossible to know what numbers are out there." Clemens isn't likely to make a decision this week. He won't play prior to June 1.
5/2 Updates
Astros, Clemens' agents meet
Source: Astros.mlb.com
Astros GM Tim Purpura and owner Drayton McLane Jr. met with the agents for Roger Clemens on Tuesday to discuss the contract proposal the team submitted.
Clement did not attend. "This was our first meeting. Basically, it was a chance to sit down and go over the preliminary offer we submitted to [agents Randy and Alan Hendricks]," Purpura said. "I thought it went fine, but there's not a lot to report because Roger still hasn't made a decision [as to whether he will pitch in 2006 or retire]. If he does decide to come back, obviously we'd love to have him, and we've made very clear our interest in having him back."
Royals' Sweeney DL bound with bulging disk
Source: Kansas City Star
Mike Sweeney has a bulging cervical disk and is expected to go on the disabled list prior to Wednesday's game.
The Royals haven't established a timetable for his return, but it's likely that he'll miss several weeks. Justin Huber will take his roster spot and should act as the club's primary DH, though with Buddy Bell running things, one never can tell. Mixed leaguers could consider dropping Sweeney, as it will likely be months before he's an asset again.
Lackey, Kendall ejected from Angels-A's game
John Lackey was ejected from Tuesday's game in the sixth inning for fighting with Jason Kendall.
Kendall was less than eager to get out of the way of Lackey's inside breaking ball, though it failed to hit him anyway. Back-and-forth shouting ensued, and Kendall charged the mound. It looked like Lackey got the better of the wrestling match, though Kendall was able to throw him to the ground. A suspension could be a possibility for Lackey. It seems like a definite for Kendall.
Pujols misses start with stiff back
Albert Pujols didn't start Tuesday against the Reds because of a stiff back.
Scott Rolen (bronchitis) remained out of the lineup and Jim Edmonds was given the day off against a lefty, so it's not a very imposing lineup that Reds starter Dave Williams is taking on. Pujols is considered day-to-day. Scott Spiezio started at first base.
5/1 Updates
Royals' Sweeney aggravates back
Mike Sweeney left Monday's game in the ninth inning due to a sore back he aggravated running out a grounder in the seventh.
"I hope I'll be back soon, but I'm not feeling good right now," he said. "When I started running down to first, it felt like a lightning bolt." Matt Stairs will receive most of the time at DH while Sweeney is out. If Sweeney goes on the DL, perhaps the Royals will go to Justin Huber, though it's at least as likely that they'd pick Aaron Guiel.
Braves' Hudson turns in one-hit shutout
Tim Hudson pitched a one-hit shutout Monday night against the Rockies. He walked three and struck out five in the 90-pitch outing.
It was the second career one-hitter for Hudson. The opposing starter, Jason Jennings, had the Rockies' lone hit, a single. Hudson retired the final 17 hitters he faced and lowered his ERA from 5.87 to 4.54. With two complete games in his last three starts, he's back looking like a borderline top-10 starter in NL-only leagues.
Red Sox reacquire Mirabelli in three-player deal
Red Sox acquired catcher Doug Mirabelli from the Padres for catcher Josh Bard, RHP Cla Meredith and a player to be named or cash.
Baseball trades are often described as helping both teams, though it usually doesn't work out that way. This one really should. The Red Sox needed Mirabelli back, and it was worth overpaying to get him. Apparently, they had to do so because the Yankees were trying to play keep-away. The Padres should benefit, as Mirabelli's ability to catch knuckleballers and occasionally hit 370-foot flyballs weren't going to do him any good in Petco Park. Mirabelli is expected to join the team in time to catch Tim Wakefield tonight.
Report: Red Sox reacquire Mirabelli
Source: ESPN.com
The Red Sox have reportedly reacquired Doug Mirabelli from the Padres.
To get Mirabelli back as Tim Wakefield's personal catcher the Red Sox are said to have given up Josh Bard and Cla Meredith. Mirabelli is expected to be in the lineup Monday night against the Yankees.
4/30 Updates
Report: Freddy Garcia tests positive for marijuana
Source: WhiteSox.mlb.com
According to the Venezuelan daily newspaper Lider, marijuana was found in Freddy Garcia's urine in a test administered during the World Baseball Classic.
Garcia was told of the positive test last week, according to the report. He can be suspended from international baseball for two years because of the positive test, but it's not going to have any effect on his major league status.
Orioles' Roberts on DL with groin injury
Orioles placed second baseman Brian Roberts on the 15-day disabled list with a pulled groin.
The Orioles aren't sure Roberts will need the full 15 days, but they had to add a bench player today. Chris Gomez and Brandon Fahey will share time at second base until Roberts returns. Corey Patterson is in the leadoff spot today, further increasing his value.
4/29 Updates
Pujols sets record with 14th April home run
Albert Pujols broke the major league record with his 14th home run of April in the Cardinals' 2-1 win over the Nationals on Saturday.
After Livan Hernandez and Chris Carpenter both allowed one run in seven innings, Pujols had a 411-foot solo shot off Jon Rauch in the eighth. Pujols had been tied with Ken Griffey Jr. (1997) and Luis Gonzalez (2001) for the most home runs in April. The homer also serve to tie him with Mark McGwire for the Cardinals' record of 32 RBI in April, established in 1998.
Mench homers in seventh straight game
Kevin Mench on Friday became the first right-handed hitter ever to homer in seven straight games.
The homer came off Guillermo Mota in the seventh inning. Dale Long, Don Mattingly and Ken Griffey Jr. share the major league record with homers in eight straight games. Mench will go for a share of the record against Fausto Carmona and the Indians on Saturday.
Royals' Sweeney to undergo MRI on strained back
Mike Sweeney will undergo an MRI on Saturday after suffering a strained back on Friday night.
Maybe the Royals wouldn't lose a lot by going to Matt Stairs, but if Sweeney lands on the DL, they could take a look at Justin Huber as a DH. AL-only leaguers should grab Huber now just in case. Sweeney's history of back injuries make it less likely that this will just be a day-to-day thing.
4/28 Updates
Tejada suffers hyperextended left knee
Miguel Tejada hyperextended his left knee while chasing down a foul ball in fifth inning of Friday's game and appears to be questionable for Saturday's contest.
Tejada, who has played in 942 straight games, hopes to play despite the injury. It's possible that he'll be used as a DH, putting Chris Gomez at shortstop.
Griffey remains on DL for another day
Ken Griffey Jr. (knee) took batting practice, ran in the outfield and caught fly balls on Friday, but he didn't think he was ready to come off the DL.
"When I come back," Griffey said, "we don't want it to be one of those things where we're trying to protect this or we're trying to protect that." Griffey might return at some point this weekend, but he wouldn't commit to a day. Neither would the Reds. "The last thing I want to do is put him in three days early and he's out for two months," GM Wayne Krivsky said.
Nationals' Patterson placed on disabled list
Nationals placed RHP John Patterson on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 23, with a strained flexor muscle in his right forearm.
Instead of sending down Mike O'Connor, Patterson is placed on the Dl toopen up a spot for Zach Day. It seems like the Nationals have been underestimating Patterson's problem right from the start, so there's very good reason for concern now. O'Connor will likely get another start in his place on Wednesday. The Nationals also need a starter for Sunday, but they may go with a bullpen day.
Mets' Iriki draws 50-game suspension
MLB suspended RHP Yusaku Iriki 50 games after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance.
Iriki is the first player suspended until the new major league rule. Although he was in the minors, he was on the 40-man roster at the time that he tested positive. Iriki, 33, was 1-2 with a 3.74 ERA in four starts at Triple-A Norfolk. Interestingly, nine of the 10 players suspended for PEDs this year have been pitchers.
Maddux starts 5-0 for first time ever
Greg Maddux started a season 5-0 for the first time in his career after holding the Brewers to two runs in six innings in the Cubs' victory on Friday.
The Brewers loaded the bases with one out in the first, but Maddux came back to strike out Prince Fielder and get Corey Koskie to fly out. The two runs scored on Geoff Jenkins' single in the fifth. Maddux earned his 323rd victory, leaving him one shy of tying Nolan Ryan and Don Sutton for 13th place all-time. In order to move to 6-0 next week, he'll have to win in Arizona for the first time. He's 0-4 with a 5.18 ERA in seven road starts against the Diamondbacks.
4/27 Updates
Sabathia effective in rehab start
Source: Indians.mlb.com
C.C. Sabathia (abdominal strain) allowed two runs -- one earned -- in five innings Thursday in his rehab start for Triple-A Buffalo.
"First and foremost, what we wanted to make sure about C.C. was that he was healthy and he was able to finish his outing," Buffalo manager Torey Luvullo said. "He attacked his hitters and looked like he was in midseason form." Sabathia is expected to be activated to start either Tuesday's game against the White Sox or Wednesday's game in Oakland. AL-only leaguers will want to activate him next week. Mixed leaguers may want to wait a start. Apr. 27 - 7:43 pm et
Rangers' Cordero stripped of closer's role
Source: Rangers.mlb.com
Francisco Cordero will receive "a break from closing," manager Buck Showalter said Thursday. Akinori Otsuka is expected to replace him in save situations.
It's very likely just a temporary demotion for Cordero, who has blown five of his eight save chances. His velocity is fine and his slider still has plenty of bite, so it's likely that he'll get things turned around soon. He's a fine buy-low candidate at the moment.
Rays prospect Young suspended indefinitely
Triple-A Durham's Delmon Young was suspended indefinitely by the Internation League Thursday following an incident Wednesday night in which he flipped a bat at the home plate umpire.
"The Devil Rays organization supports the decision," said executive VP Andrew Friedman. A source told Baseball America that, while Young didn't flip the bat hard, he clearly intended it to hit the umpire following his ejection for arguing a called third strike. It sounds like the act was designed to show the umpire up rather than injure him, but Young should be looking at a lot of time off.
4/26 Updates
Griffey Jr. set to return on Friday
Source: Cincinnati Enquirer
Ken Griffey Jr. (knee) is on pace to come off the DL on Friday.
Griffey ran the bases at nearly 100 percent on Monday and his knee felt fine on Tuesday. "It's going good," trainer Mark Mann said. "(Tuesday) was more of a recovery day. But it was important to see how he felt. He said he was fine."
Report: Lerner Group to acquire Nationals
Source: WUSA9.com
According to WUSA-TV Washington, MLB has chosen Washington real estate magnate Theodore Lerner as the new owner of the Nationals.
The Lerner Group will edge out the groups led by Washington businessmen Fred Malek and Jeffrey Zients and Indianapolis radio tycoon Jeff Smulyan, which is probably good news. Former Braves president Stan Kasten is expected to serve as the team's president after Lerner assumes control next month.
Harden leaves games with back spasms
Rich Harden left Wednesday's game versus the Rangers with back spasms.
He gave up two hits and three walks while striking out six before leaving. He was charged with three runs after reliever Kiko Calero came in and gave up a Kevin Mench grand slam.
Rangers' Mench homers for sixth straight day
Kevin Mench homered for the sixth straight day when he hit a grand slam off Athletics reliever Kiko Calero on Wednesday.
That's a new Rangers' record, and Mench is just the 19th player ever to homer in six straight games. The major league record is eight, shared by Don Mattingly, Ken Griffey Jr., and Dale Long. Mench has driven in 20 runs on the season, all in the last seven games.
Rays' Cantu on DL with broken bone in foot
Devil Rays placed second baseman Jorge Cantu on the disabled list, retroactive to April 24, with a non-displaced fracture in his left foot.
He'll be replaced on the roster on Thursday. Cantu is expected to miss two to three weeks with the injury he originally sustained on April 7. "He may have been able to continue on with it, but he probably would have played the whole year with a sore foot," manager Joe Maddon said. Nick Green and Ty Wigginton will start at second base for now.
Rays prospect Young throws bat at ump
After being ejected following a called strike three and an argument, Triple-A Durham's Delmon Young threw a bat into the chest of the home plate umpire in Wednesday night's game.
If this was as bad as it sounds, Young should be facing a long-term suspension. It's a shame to see such behavior from the player universally recognized as baseball's best prospect.
4/25 Updates
Nationals' Patterson to miss start with arm injury
John Patterson will miss his next scheduled start because of a strained flexor muscle in his right forearm.
He's only expected to miss the one start, but since the problem has been bothering him for several weeks, maybe the Nationals should give him more than just a few days off. Unannounced was who would pitch in Patterson's place on Thursday. Triple-A New Orleans' Steve Watkins may be the choice.
Helton diagnosed with intestinal inflammation
Todd Helton has been diagnosed with intestinal inflammation.
Helton was hospitalized with stomach cramps and a fever last week, but was released yesterday. The exact illness is acute terminal ileitis, which is inflammation near the end of the small intestine. Doctors have prescribed more rest and it's still unclear if he'll be able to come off the DL when he's eligible on May 5.
Burnett may miss over a month
Source: Toronto Globe and Mail
While there is reportedly no structural damage in A.J. Burnett's injured elbow, the Blue Jays said Monday that he may be out over a month.
"Maybe it's a case where it's a month, six weeks, I don't know," general manager J.P. Ricciardi said. "We don't want to put a number on it, then you're held to a timetable. But this guy will definitely be pitching for us."
Ortiz bounced from D'Backs' rotation
Source: Diamondbacks.mlb.com
Russ Ortiz, who is in the second year of a four-year, $33 million contract, has been removed from Arizona's rotation after beginning the year 0-3 with a 6.91 ERA.
The Diamondbacks didn't say who would replace him in the rotation. Dustin Nippert has a 5.73 ERA in two starts for Tucson, so Kevin Jarvis and Enrique Gonzalez seem more likely to receive callups. We'd prefer to see Juan Cruz taken out of the bullpen and given an opportunity. Ortiz will likely get another look in the rotation sometime this summer, but he's probably not going to have fantasy value at any point.
4/24 Updates
Clemens won't be back before June 1
According to agent Randy Hendricks, free agent Roger Clemens has no intention of pitching in the majors before the start of June.
Although he said he has been throwing a lot of batting practice, Clemens is still leaning toward retirement. "I've listened to every other team [other than Houston] and I continue to get calls every day from those guys on the teams, front office people, I hear the concerns, I know what's behind it and understand it would be a great story," Clemens said. "It's very flattering [but] it would be a mental challenge [to come back]."
Source: Astros.mlb.com
Mariners bring up LHP Livingston
Mariners recalled LHP Bobby Livingston from Triple-A Tacoma.
Another likely short-term callup for Seattle. Livingston, who had a 2.12 ERA in three starts for Tacoma, will pitch in middle relief. He'd be a top candidate to move into the rotation if the Mariners were to lose a starter. However, he may not be up for more than a few days this time.
Burnett's arm structurally sound
According to a press release from the Jays, Dr. James Andrews discovered no structural damage in A.J. Burnett's arm during Monday's examination.
The team is calling Burnett's injruy a mild sprain of the ulnar collateral ligament and a slight straining of scar tissue in the elbow. Obviously, the health of the UCL is the long-term concern. If he tears it again, he'd need a second Tommy John surgery. Burnett will probably get more time off after his latest setback than he did last month, but the Jays haven't commented on any timetable yet.
Angels' Kendrick to make major league debut
Angels recalled infielder Howie Kendrick from Triple-A Salt Lake.
Kendrick may only be up for a 10-day stay, but AL-only leaguers should grab him anyway. It's possible that he'll be productive enough in his handful of starts at DH that he'll secure a role for himself. The 22-year-old was hitting .386/.403/.586 in 70 at-bats for Salt Lake.
Reds designate 2B Womack for assignment
Reds designated infielder Tony Womack for assignment.
A complete waste of $1.1 million, money that could have been used to try for a reliever better than Rick White or Chris Hammond. The Reds will attempt to trade Womack, but it's likely that he'll just become a free agent. Maybe the Cardinals will want him back. Womack's departure leaves the Reds with one less player to challenge Brandon Phillips for at-bats at second base.
Reds acquire OF Ross from Dodgers
Reds acquired outfielder Cody Ross from the Dodgers for a player to be named.
Ross' ability to play all three outfield spots makes him useful as a fifth outfielder, though he wouldn't be a good choice to play center field on any sort of regular basis. He may have some fantasy value if Ken Griffey Jr. gets hurt again, but the Reds will likely continue to go with Ryan Freel as Griffey's primary backup, and should another spot open up, Chris Denorfia could be an option over Ross.
4/23 Updates
Helton expected to be released from hospital
Todd Helton is expected to be released from the hospital on Monday after another battery of tests.
Rockies trainer Keith Dugger said doctors "haven't officially eliminated anything" but reiterated that Helton's condition isn't considered life-threatening. Helton was hospitalized Friday with severe lower abdominal pain and a fever.
Bonds admits to swollen knee
Barry Bonds, who was out of the lineup Sunday as scheduled, admitted that his knee has remained steadily swollen for about a week now, but he doesn't want to take the time off necessary to make it better.
"If I took off for five days, the swelling would be gone," Bonds said. "But I don't have five days. I'm not taking five days off. I'm going to keep playing. I'm playing all year no matter what." Bonds also said today that he doesn't see himself hitting the 47 homers he'd need to pass Hank Aaron, although he hasn't completely ruled out a return in 2007. "Heck no," Bonds said when asked if he still had a chance to catch Aaron. "Maybe something would happen during the winter time. My knee could get better. Maybe there will be some kind of solution they can come up with that would make the pain go away. Who knows? There are all kinds of reasons. When you get older, these kinds of things happen. But that's baseball."
Reds' Milton to undergo knee surgery
Eric Milton will undergo surgery Monday to debride the meniscus in his left knee.
If Milton just needs the knee cleaned out, maybe he'll be back in three or four weeks. Elizardo Ramirez could be the choice to take his rotation spot on Monday. Paul Wilson will eventually be back, but perhaps not before Milton.
Source: Cincinnati Post
4/22 Updates
Angels' Rivera placed on 15-day DL
Angels placed outfielder Juan Rivera on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 17, with tightness in his rib cage.
The Angels gave no indication Friday, but Rivera must not have reacted well to his batting-practice session. Tim Salmon will fill in at designated hitter for the next 10 days. Maicer Izturis could also be looking at a few more at-bats.
Helton goes on DL with stomach ailment
Rockies placed first baseman Todd Helton on the 15-day disabled list with a stomach ailment.
This can't be good. If it was appendicitis, the Rockies probably would have announced it by now. Instead, they still haven't commented on Helton's illness. It's an especially costly loss for the club with Ryan Shealy still unavailable. Eli Marrero will likely be the starting first baseman for the next two weeks, giving him value in all formats.
Brewers hit five homers in one inning
Bill Hall, Damian Miller, Brady Clark, J.J. Hardy and Prince Fielder all went deep in the fourth against the Reds as the Brewers became the first team in 40 years to hit five homers in an inning.
The first fourth homers came off starter Brandon Claussen. Fielder had the fifth off reliever Chris Hammond. The last team to hit five homers in an inning was the Twins on June 9, 1966. Of the five teams ever to accompish the feat, four have done it versus the Reds.
Pujols second fastest to 1,000 hits
Albert Pujols tied Todd Helton as the second fastest player to reach 1,000 career hits when he homered off Cubs starter Jerome Williams in the first inning tonight.
Pujols and Helton each needed 3,003 at-bats to reach 1,000 hits. Ichiro Suzuki is the fastest to reach the mark, needing just 2,977 at-bats. The homer was his major league-leading 11th of the season, which also sets a Cardinals franchise record for most in the month of April. Mark McGwire hit 10 in April of 1998 on his way to a record-setting 70 home runs, and Pujols still has nine more games to pad his lead.