| Billy Butler, 1B, Kansas City Royals | Tuesday 3/11, 11:55 PM CT |
|
| Billy Butler continued is journey towards the 1B job in Kansas City, hitting 2-for-3 with one homer and four RBI as the Royals won 8-7 over Arizona in the Cactus League. Whether he earns the shot on the 1st bag or is assigned to hit for a living at DH, Butler has been solid and appears to be one of the more promising bats in Kansas City this year. |
|
| Eric Chavez, 3B, Oakland Athletics | Tuesday 3/11, 11:42 PM CT |
|
| 3B Eric Chavez says he is ready to be the team's designated hitter and wants to jump into the roll once team doctors clear him to play, according to MLB.com. The hope, according to Chavez, is to be ready in time for the team's trip to Japan for the regular-season opener against Boston. However, if Chavez is not cleared to play, he won't be making the trip and will wait until the team returns stateside to make his '08 debut. With the injury history Chavez has built over recent seasons, the move to DH could be beneficial. Getting his bat in the lineup (not to mention the fantasy rotation) with regularity would be nice. |
|
|
|
| Vicente Padilla was forced to exit Tuesday's exhibition game due to a strained gluteus maximus muscle, according to the Dallas Morning News. At this point, the Rangers believe the injury is minor, in which case it shouldn't have much of any effect on his preparation for the beginning of the regular season. |
|
|
|
| Mark Reynolds served up a hot serving of baseball bat in the Diamondbacks' 7-8 loss to the Royals in Cactus League play today, going 2-for-3 with a double and a 2-run homer. Reynolds has been quiet in spring training this season and seems all set to fill the 3B job for Arizona this season. It would be nice if his bat would show more often coming down the stretch, but we'll see how he responds once these games count. |
|
| Chris Snyder, C, Arizona Diamondbacks | Tuesday 3/11, 11:13 PM CT |
|
| Chris Snyder continues to assert his desire to start behind the plate for the Diamondbacks this season, going 1-for-3 with his third homer of the spring, raising his average to .476 in Cactus League play. Snyder has been trying to push Miguel Montero to the shadows and take the starting catcher job for himself. The way he swings the bat should make the decision an easy one. |
|
|
|
| Ryan Zimmerman was removed from Tuesday's exhibition game in the sixth inning as a precaution due to a tight right hip flexor, according to the AP. Hopefully, by leaving the game early, he'll recover quickly and get back in action soon. |
|
|
|
| Kazuo Fukumori pitched one inning of near-flawless baseball in the Rangers' 7-5 win over the Chicago White Sox in the Cactus League today, completing one full inning with one strike out, no walks, and no hits allowed. Fukumori has pitched six scoreless innings over five Cactus League appearances thus far, all but securing a spot in the Texas bullpen and officially being viewed as a potential contender for the team's closer position. |
|
|
|
| Josh Hamilton continued his clinic on the art of hitting, more commonly known as spring training to many, going 3-for-3 with a homer in Texas' 7-5 win over the Chicago White Sox in the Cactus League today. Hamilton is the focus of daily reports of praise, stating the man is starting to resemble a player worthy of rank among the great hitters in the game today. There is no doubt he will be appearing in the Rangers' outfield this season, we just hope he can stay healthy and in the batter's box. |
|
|
|
| John Patterson still is building up strength in his arm but felt fine tossing 60 pitches in Tuesday's exhibition game, according to the AP. "It felt good," Patterson said. "My curveball was there and I was more comfortable with my cutter." His numbers were solid Tuesday, as he worked three scoreless innings, giving up just three hits and no walks, while striking out three. Patterson has been limited to just 15 starts over the past two seasons due to a nerve problem that required two surgeries. |
|
| Gavin Floyd, P, Chicago White Sox | Tuesday 3/11, 10:46 PM CT |
|
| Gavin Floyd stepped to the mound fresh off a win over the flu and pitched four solid innings, giving up two runs and three hits with a walk and two strike outs in the White Sox's 5-7 loss to the Texas Rangers in the cactus League today, according to the Associated Press. Floyd is considered the favorite for the 5th spot in Chicago's starting rotation, thanks in large part to performances such as this. Last year, Floyd posted an ERA of 7.07 in his first four starts but improved dramatically as the season moved along, improving to a 3.41 ERA over his final six starts. He has a ton of upside and may just now be starting to fulfill his potential. |
|
|
|
| While the Rangers expect Joaquin Benoit to toss a bullpen session Wednesday and hope he can take part in spring games by this weekend, there's rising doubt about whether he'll be over his sore right shoulder by opening day, according to MLB.com. "We think he's getting there, but it has been slow in coming," Rangers pitching coach Mark Connor said. "My hope is he'll still get his eight innings and be ready for spring training and be ready for opening day, but I have to go according to what he says. If he's not ready to pitch, I have to go with that." A healthy Benoit could end up closing games if expected closer C.J. Wilson isn't over his own ailment. However, Kazuo Fukumori is healthy, pitching great and making his own case to fill in for Wilson. |
|
|
|
| Chris Bootcheck was able to play some long-toss on Monday from 90 feet, just a week after straining his left oblique, according to MLB.com. "I kind of ramped it up, to see if I'd feel anything there," Bootcheck said. "It went very well. It's a little tight, but no discomfort. I'm trying to do what I can each day to get myself ready to pitch again. I don't know when I'll be back on a mound, but I want to be ready when they decide it's time." Bootcheck added that he hasn't ruled out being available on opening day. That may be wishful thinking, as a simple tweak of an already-strained oblique can set players back weeks. Expect the Angels to play it cautiously with the reliever and hope for a quick return. |
|
|
|
| Glendon Rusch , hoping to regain his form as a valuable starting left hander, pitched for the first time since 2006 when a blood clot was discovered in his lung, according to the Associated Press. Rusch threw three shutout innings, allowing just one hit and a walk, striking out four. The Padres could certainly use the help in the rotation and Rusch's performance today is a good sign of positive things to come. Rusch is going to get a hard look for the 5th spot in the starting rotation and days like this speak well of his potential. |
|
| Jake Peavy, P, San Diego Padres | Tuesday 3/11, 9:06 PM CT |
|
| San Diego ace Jake Peavy said he was using today's Cactus League start to work on his fastball, according to the Associated Press. The results were not as hoped, giving up four runs in the 1st inning as the Padres lost to the Angels 4-8. Peavy worked three innings, giving up five hits with two walks and six strike outs. To be fair, Peavy didn't allow a hit over those last two innings, admitting he abandoned his desire to work on the fastball. "My pride took over," said Peavy. |
|
| Fred Lewis, LF, San Francisco Giants | Tuesday 3/11, 8:49 PM CT |
|
| Fred Lewis is making some noise in an attempt to earn consideration for a job in the Giants' outfield, going 2-for-5 with two RBIs and two runs scored. Lewis was used in spots last year but struggled to earn significant playing time with Dave Roberts on the field. Roberts is still there, but Lewis is also getting time in right field where he is battling Nate Schierholtz for attention. Schierholtz has been a promising minor league player and would seem to have the edge, but today's game could help Lewis make an argument. |
|
| Ben Sheets, P, Milwaukee Brewers | Tuesday 3/11, 8:32 PM CT |
|
| Milwaukee's Ben Sheets had a rough day on the mound in today's 4-8 loss to the Giants, surrendering five runs in the 2nd inning (all earned). Sheets ended three innings of work with eight hits, two walks, and three strikeouts. Sheets noted this spring has reminded him of 2004, "My best year, I probably had my worst spring. I knew I was throwing the ball well, I know I'm throwing the ball well now." It may not be reason for major concern. It is spring ball. If you see his value drop in your fantasy league, it could be an excellent buy-low opportunity, but there should be no reason to believe these struggles will continue once games that count begin. |
|
| Kerry Wood, P, Chicago Cubs | Tuesday 3/11, 8:15 PM CT |
|
| In a game that saw all three candidates hit the field, today's 6-4 loss to the Oakland Athletics served as another in a growing saga that is the competition for the role of primary closer for the Chicago Cubs. Kerry Wood served as the most efficient arm of the three, according to MLB.com, giving up one hit to three batters with no walks and no strikeouts. Bob Howry, carrying an ERA of 11.57 this spring, surrendered two runs on two hits in just 2/3 of an inning. Carlos Marmol gave up one hit and one walk while striking out the side. Coach Lou Piniella insists this decision has not been made and will take more time. He has voiced nothing but understanding support for Howry despite the struggles, but none of the three seems to sit as the favorite for the job and there is a chance all three could be used in a committee effort. |
|
| Jack Cust, LF, Oakland Athletics | Tuesday 3/11, 8:06 PM CT |
|
| Jack Cust hit his third home run of spring training today as the Athletics silenced the Chicago Cubs 6-4 in Cactus League action. Cust was acquired from the Padres last season to help fill the void left at DH when Mike Piazza fell to injury, and during this short time in the league showed great promise, making several starts in left field and working towards a spot on the major league roster. He's a total gamble for fantasy owners now, but if he stays hot through spring training, anything is possible. The A's love to give youthful prospects a shot to shine and Cust could be their next subject for testing. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Gonzalez continues to voice his desire to join the major league club this spring, hitting 2-for-2 with a run scored in today's 6-4 Cactus League win for the Athletics over the Cubs, a performance posted against flame-throwing Carlos Zambrano. Gonzalez spent time in both right and center field and has, thus far, delivered in his spring training opportunities. The outfield in Oakland is going to invite competition for starting jobs and Gonzalez appears ready to seize the opportunity. Stay tuned. |
|
| Odalis Perez, P, Washington Nationals | Tuesday 3/11, 7:47 PM CT |
|
| LHP Odalis Perez was officially granted his work visa today, according to MLB.com. The Nationals' starting pitcher wasn't expected to get his work visa until late March, but Jose Rijo, the team's special assistant to GM Jim Bowden, assisted the effort and helped Perez get it done early. Perez is now clear to play in MLB exhibition games and will be making his first start later this week. Perez has been working with the minor league club and has experienced a bit of trouble locating his cutter and keeping his fastball down in the zone. However, joining the big league club will get him in front of the coaching he needs to get ready for the regular season. |
|
|
|
| Johnny Damon didn't play on Tuesday and will skip Wednesday's game, too, in order to rest his bruised foot, according to the AP. "Johnny has a bruised toe," Girardi said. "It doesn’t feel good. It might be a couple days." X-rays and an MRI came back negative, so Damon should return to game action later in the week after fouling a ball off his foot during Monday's game. |
|
|
|
| Gustavo Chacin's surgically repaired shoulder is feeling better, according to the AP. "I think I am 80 percent right now, but I am feeling better every time out," Chacin said. Unfortunately, 80 percent of Chacin equaled five hits, two walks, a homer and four runs over two innings during Tuesday's game. Expect him to begin the season at Triple-A while getting his shoulder up to 100 percent and his game up to speed. |
|
|
|
| Carlos Zambrano continues to work as one of the most dominant pitchers in the game, working four innings in today's 4-6 loss to the Oakland Athletics, giving up four hits and one run, striking out three without a walk. This spring, Zambrano has walked just one batter in nine total innings of work and has collected eight strikeouts. In other words, he's in form. |
|
| Felix Pie, CF, Chicago Cubs | Tuesday 3/11, 7:32 PM CT |
|
| Following up on an earlier story, Felix Pie has returned to the Chicago Cubs, one day after undergoing what is being described as an outpatient procedure for a minor groin injury, according to the Associated Press. Earlier reports indicated Pie would be gone for three to five days, but has missed just one day and is expected to return to game action on Friday. Pie is fighting to join the major league roster and work as a regular in the Cubbies' outfield. Returning so quickly from this minor setback certainly helps his cause. |
|
| Cliff Lee, P, Cleveland Indians | Tuesday 3/11, 7:31 PM CT |
|
| Cliff Lee was solid Tuesday, as he held the Tigers' split squad scoreless over three innings. He allowed two hits and a walk, while striking out three. Lee is in a battle with Jeremy Sowers and Aaron Laffey for the final spot in the Indians rotation, and he made a good case for himself today. |
|
|
|
| Closer Rafael Soriano completed a full session of pitching in the bullpen today without discomfort or pain, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Soriano told reports he feels he is ready to take the mound in spring training action and hopes to make his Grapefruit League debut on Thursday. Soriano hasn't faced an opposing batter since the first week of spring training. After an inconsistent season in '07 that ended with Soriano as the primary closer following the release of Bob Wickman, the young hurler is anxious to get cracking and prove he deserved the job once more in '08. The team has not made an official decision on his status or when he will see game action, but hopes are high that will be soon. |
|
|
|
| David Price was optioned to the minors by the Rays on Tuesday, along with Justin Ruggiano and Jae Kuk Ryu, according to the AP. Price was the No. 1 overall pick in last year's draft. There's a chance that we'll see him later this season if he can get hot in the minors. |
|
|
|
| Matt Holliday went 1-for-3 today, bringing his spring average to .385, according to MLB.com. The Rockies' top power hitter led his team to a 4-1 victory over the Mariners in Cactus League action today. Holliday appears to be working towards another fantastic season and reports of moving him from third in the lineup to cleanup may be helped by his continued success in spring training. For fantasy owners, such a move could mean more RBI opportunities, more attempts to steal bases, and better fantasy rewards. |
|
|
|
| Sergio Mitre was back on the mound Tuesday to throw a bullpen session, according to the AP. He's dealing with tightness in his forearm and is scheduled to toss another session in two days. It's not clear at this time when he'll be available for exhibition game action. |
|
| Scott Olsen, P, Florida Marlins | Tuesday 3/11, 6:42 PM CT |
|
| As expected, Scott Olsen returned to the mound for a bullpen session on Tuesday, according to the AP. He was scratched from his last start Wednesday due to tendinitis in his left shoulder. We'll have to wait to see how the joint responds to the workout tomorrow, but this is a positive step. |
|
|
|
| The Mariners are hoping left-handed reliever Arthur Rhodes can return to action against the Brewers in the team's next Cactus League battle, according to MLB.com. Rhodes is attempting to return from Tommy John elbow surgery (ligament transfer) but seems to be a bit of a long shot to make the major league bullpen. The Mariners are reportedly planning to keep just two situational lefty options on hand and, as we sit, Rhodes is on the outside of that group looking in. He'll get a chance to prove his worth and could change expectations, but in terms of fantasy value, Rhodes is nothing more than a major gamble (at best) at this point. |
|
|
|
| The Marlins optioned Carlos Martinez to Triple-A on Tuesday. He never even had a chance to make their roster, as he just arrived in camp today due to a visa problem. We may see him back up with the team during the season if the bullpen needs some help. |
|
| Ian Stewart, 3B, Colorado Rockies | Tuesday 3/11, 6:31 PM CT |
|
| Ian Stewart put forth a positive effort today, earning his first extra-base hit of spring training with a two-run homer in the bottom of the eighth as the Rockies took the wood to the Mariners, 4-1, in Cactus League action today. Stewart is fighting for the starting job at 2B after making the move from third. Thus far, his numbers have been a bit concerning at the plate but today's performance could be a sign of progress. |
|
|
|
| Hong-Chih Kuo was back in action Tuesday after missing his previous start with a sore left elbow. He took down all three batters he faced, striking out two. It appears that his elbow is fine and shouldn't slow his attempt to earn a spot in the Dodgers bullpen. |
|
|
|
| Seattle phenom Felix Hernandez enjoyed a fantastic outing in the Mariners' 1-4 loss to the Cubs in the Cactus League today, according to MLB.com. Hernandez tossed five innings, giving up just three hits, striking out three, and forcing two batters into double plays. It appears Hernandez is well on his way to once again working as one of the top pitching desires for fantasy owners this season, and outings like this add substantial fuel to the fire. Staying strong deep into the season should be a top priority, but today's performance gives reason for hope in Seattle and to fantasy owners alike. |
|
| Chris Duncan, LF, St. Louis Cardinals | Tuesday 3/11, 6:21 PM CT |
|
| Chris Duncan was back in action Tuesday after missing five games due to a sore back. Manager Tony La Russ said he'd probably ease Duncan back into the action and started him at first base so he could take a look at some other outfielders, according to the AP. Duncan was 0-for-2 and struckout twice in his return to action. |
|
|
|
| Daniel Cabrera needed 31 pitches to get out of the first inning of Tuesday's start against the Cardinals. He loaded the bases in the inning but struck out Chris Duncan to earn the final out. In the end, Cabrera allowed just one run and one hit over three innings, while striking out three. However, he walked five batters. Cabrera still has loads of potential, but unless he can finally figure out a way to become consistent, he's going to be a constant source of frustration for the O's and fantasy folk. |
|
|
|
| Gary Sheffield finally returned to action Tuesday after missing a few games due to leg cramps. It was almost as if he wasn't there in statistical terms, since he was 0-for-3 in the game, but it's good to see him back in the mix, nonetheless. Let's hope he can stay in the lineup and get ready for the regular season now. |
|
|
|
| Marcus Thames was held out of Tuesday's game due to a strained pectoral muscle. However, Thames said he felt fine and was ready to play, according to the AP. At this point, we'll take him at his word and assume he'll back in the next day or two. |
|
|
|
| Dontrelle Willis blames his poor outing Tuesday in a split-squad game on testing out his pitches and just trying to get ready for the season, according to the AP. "I was just missing and trying to stay aggressive," Willis said. "My command has to be a lot better. It’s going to be fine." Acquired by the Tigers in the Miguel Cabrera swap with the Marlins during the offseason, Willis allowed four walks and two hits, though he only gave up one run over 2 1/3 innings. |
|
|
|
| Chris Sampson was scheduled to pitch on Tuesday, but he was a scratch due to a stiff neck, according to the AP. Sampson may move into the rotation at some point this season, but he's likely to begin the season in relief, especially if he misses more games. |
|
|
|
| Mike DeJean performed terribly on Tuesday against a bunch of minor leaguers in a split-squad game versus the Reds. He allowed a triple, walked three straight batters, then gave up a run-scoring single. The Astros gave him a shot on a minor league deal, but performances like this aren't going to earn him a roster spot. |
|
|
|
| Michael Bourn was back in action for the Astros on Tuesday after missing two games with upper-back spasms. He had a nice outing, going 2-for-4 with a homer and a single. It looks like this was just a minor ailment that shouldn't affect him going forward. |
|
|
|
| Jonathan Papelbon is enjoying success with the slider that he's added to his repertoire, according to the AP. "I used to throw it when I was starting so it’s not like a new pitch, really," Papelbon said. "It’s a natural arm slot for me to throw this pitch. It’s not like I’m going out of my delivery to execute this pitch. To me, it’s just a matter of staying one step ahead of the competition." It's scary to think of a guy who had 37 saves, a 1.85 ERA and 0.77 WHIP with 84 strikeouts in 58.1 innings last year improving his stuff. On Tuesday, he worked two perfect innings, while striking out two batters. |
|
|
|
| Felipe Paulino has been dealing with discomfort in his upper arm for several days, according to the Houston Chronicle. He had his arm examined on Tuesday and is expected to undergo additional testing on Wednesday. He's trying to earn a spot at the back of the rotation or in the bullpen, but an extended absence likely would take him out of the mix. |
|
|
|
| Vicente Padilla left Tuesday's game in the top of the fourth inning, though Dallas Morning News writer Evan Grant believed Padilla hadn't reached his 60-pitch max. Pitching coach Mark Connor and manager Ron Washington both went to the mound, but there was no visible sign of Padilla displaying an injury. We'll have to wait to see if Padilla was hurt, though the trainer apparently didn't join the others at the mound, so he could have been pulled for another reason. |
|
|
|
| The Mets have contacted the Blue Jays about trying to acquire Shannon Stewart and Reed Johnson, according to the New York Post. The Mets are looking for right-handed hitter to pair up with Ryan Church, while the Jays need only one of them to pair up with Matt Stairs. Nothing but early contact between the two clubs, but it's possible something could happen. |
|
|
|
| Red Sox manager Terry Francona told ESPN.com on Tuesday that there's just about no way a this point that Josh Beckett's sore back can possibly heal in time for him to pitch in the season opener in Japan. "I don't think we know [for sure] yet," Francona said. "But we're certainly not going to rush him back to pitch a game March 24 if he's not ready. And I think if you look at it with common sense, he's not going to pitch over there." At this point, the injury doesn't appear to be anything that should bother him long-term, but it sounds like he won't be ready to go in two weeks. It's something to keep an eye on, but if he returns to workouts soon, he should be ready when the full season gets going next month. |
|
|
|
| Rafael Furcal went 3-for-4 with two RBI against the Marlins on Tuesday. He notably picked up his third triple and seventh RBI of the spring. |
|
|
|
| Grady Sizemore hit his first two home runs of the spring, at the expense of the Tigers on Tuesday. He is now batting 7-for-14, with 16 total bases. |
|
|
|
| Alvin Colina had a big day at the plate on Tuesday as he went 2-for-2 with three RBI. Those were the first runs batted in on the season for him, and the Reds have to be happy with his effort while David Ross nurses his back spasms. |
|
|
|
| Brandon Backe was dominant against the Reds today as he threw four scoreless innings, with only one hit and one walk. He notably retired the first nine hitters in a row and this was a much better outing than his last as he allowed four runs on seven hits. |
|
|
|
| Elvis Andrus has been cut by the Rangers, along with SS Joaquin Arias, CF Julio Borbon, 1B Chris Davis, pitcher Thomas Diamond, infielder German Duran, pitcher Kea Kometani, OF John Mayberry Jr., and catchers Max Ramirez and Chris Stewart. This according to the Star Telegram.
|
|
|
|
| C.J. Wilson threw a bullpen session on Tuesday for the first time since being hit with a case of biceps tendinitis on March 1, according to the Star Telegram. He could reportedly returned to the mound this weekend. |
|
| B.J. Ryan, P, Toronto Blue Jays | Tuesday 3/11, 3:05 PM CT |
|
| B.J. Ryan took another step forward in his mission to be ready for opening day, according to MLB.com. He looked good on Tuesday as he rehabs from elbow surgery by downing four hitters on 16 pitches, including nine strikes. He is expected to pitch in his first Grapefruit League game this Friday. |
|
|
|
| Evan Longoria hit his first home run of the spring (while going 1-for-2) on Tuesday. That should help his case to make the 25-man roster on opening day. |
|
|
|
| James Shields had a strong day from the mound on Tuesday as he pitched five scoreless innings, while allowing four hits and walking one. He looked great at times in 2007 and this is encouraging news. |
|
|
|
| George Sherrill is reportedly the front-runner to be the Orioles' featured closer this season, according to MLB.com. Manager Trembley said that he is leaning toward Sherrill as his closer and added, "I would say he's leading the pack right now. He's got a leg up. He wants to be the guy. I know that about him."
|
|
| Joel Pineiro, P, St. Louis Cardinals | Tuesday 3/11, 2:25 PM CT |
|
| Joel Pineiro has been scratched from his Wednesday start, according to the AP. The team has given no indication as to when he may return to the mound, while Tony LaRussa commented, "We’re optimistic again. We’ll see when he’s ready to throw.” It is his right shoulder that is slowing him down, in case you are new to his situation.
|
|
|
|
| Pedro Martinez threw about 59 pitches in a simulated game on Tuesday and reportedly did fine, according to Metsblog.com. He faced three minor leaguers as well as Carlos Beltran, who went 1-for-5 against Martinez. His fastball was notably up to 87-mph and he is still on pace to start his first spring game on Sunday. |
|
|
|
| Chris Carpenter threw a light bullpen session (20 pitches) off the mound on Tuesday and felt no soreness or discomfort in his surgically repaired elbow, according to StLouisToday.com. While he knows he is still months away from returning to the rotation, he stated,“It was fun to get back out there. I got the ball down real good. It had some pop at the end.” |
|
| Alan Embree, P, Oakland Athletics | Tuesday 3/11, 1:24 PM CT |
|
| Alan Embree blew his second save opportunity of the spring on Monday and is carrying a 15.75 ERA. In his defense, he has been nursing a stiff back. |
|
|
|
| Daric Barton returned to the lineup on Monday and his injured hand seemed fine as he blasted a three run home run. This according to the SF Chronicle. That was his first hit of the spring and a great sign he is healthy, as he is not known as a power hitter. |
|
| Joe Blanton, P, Oakland Athletics | Tuesday 3/11, 1:13 PM CT |
|
| Joe Blanton could be on the Yankees' radar, according to the SF Chronicle. This news comes after a Yankees scout was seen tracking Blanton at Sunday's game. |
|
|
|
| Johnny Damon is reportedly fine after X-Rays showed no damage after he fouled a ball of his foot on Monday, according to Newsday. The injury bug likes Johnny Damon, so it is good to see he's alright. |
|
|
|
| Casey Janssen was forced to cut his practice session short on Tuesday due to pain in his right shoulder, this according to the MLB.com. Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi commented that the team wasn't certain how a potential injury would affect the pitcher's program moving forward. Janssen was notably fighting for a spot in the Jays starting rotation.
|
|
|
|
| Yovani Gallardo continues to make progress on his recovery from knee surgery, according to The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He has been throwing lightly off the mound since having torn cartilage removed from his knee at the beginning of camp and will pitch batting practice to hitters in minor league camp on Wednesday. Manager Yost stated that he is right on schedule. |
|
|
|
| Shingo Takatsu has been released by the Cubs, according to The Chicago Tribune. Shingo had a tough spring while holding a 9.64 ERA, and didn't seize his opportunity to win a bullpen spot with the club. |
|
|
|
| Jeff Samardzija has been optioned to Double-A Tennessee, according to The Chicago Tribune. He had a 6.00 ERA over three spring innings and stated,"Everyone is here to learn and grow and I think I'm probably one of the guys who have the most to learn and grow." |
|
| Bill Bray, P, Cincinnati Reds | Tuesday 3/11, 12:45 PM CT |
|
| Bill Bray came through his throwing session on Sunday without incident and coach Baker said "He might be ready for game action today or Wednesday." This according to the Enquirer. |
|
|
|
| Hank Blalock returned to his post at third base for the first time since his car accident on Monday, according to Dallas News. He was 0-for-3 hitting but was solid in the field and notably charged a chopped in the fifth inning to make a strong play. He commented that he is completely over the soreness now. |
|
|
|
| Sidney Ponson had a bullpen session on Monday and already said that he feels like he is ready to pitch in a game, according to Dallas News. He also said that his troubles are in his past and that he has learned his lesson. He is aiming for the Rangers fifth spot in the rotation, and won't have to be ready to go until April 12. |
|
|
|
| Brandon McCarthy did not go to Dallas as scheduled for treatment on his strained right forearm, according to Dallas News. Dr. Keith Meister wanted to see another MRI from a different angle, which McCarthy got late Monday afternoon in Arizona. Before having the second MRI, McCarthy stated that Meister thought there was no ligament damage, but he wanted a clearer view of the area before determining treatment options.
|
|
|
|
| Kevin Millwood is doing fine as he fights through his hamstring ailment, according to the Dallas News. He isn't pleased with his pitch location but noted that his hamstring feels good, which is the important thing right now. Millwood has three outings left before he's scheduled to pitch the season opener on March 31. Millwood said, "I'd like to be able to pitch in a game where I have to do everything. I understand that right now, erring on the side of caution is better than trying to do more than I'm ready for." |
|
| John Lackey, P, Los Angeles Angels | Tuesday 3/11, 11:57 AM CT |
|
| Despite an elbow ailment, John Lackey hopes to be ready to pitch on opening day, according to the LA Times. Lackey made his spring debut on Monday and considers himself strong enough to start the Angels' opener. Mike Scioscia also stated, "I would not consider Lackey for the opener because he would not be able to make the five spring starts necessary to build his pitch count to 100. The probability is, he will not be the opening-day starter. There certainly is a possibility. We're going to let this thing play out." Scioscia left open the possibility Lackey could work up to 90 pitches in four spring starts and up to 100 on opening day, however.
|
|
|
|
| Travis Metcalf is expected to have surgery, according to the Dallas News. The needed procedure will cut out part of his left hamstring tendon. He tore part of the tendon while running the bases during game action on Friday . Metcalf stated that the procedure takes about 15 minutes and he will probably be out six to eight weeks. He will need at least three weeks of rehab before he can get back into playing shape.
|
|
|
|
| The Toronto Blue Jays have signed veteran pitcher Armando Benitez to a minor league contract, according to The Star. Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi said this about the 35-year old reliever, " He hasn't got in shape, but we're going to keep stockpiling as many arms as we can. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. We're not looking for a closer." |
|
| Juan Rivera, RF, Los Angeles Angels | Tuesday 3/11, 11:30 AM CT |
|
| Juan Rivera is on the Braves' radar, according to Bill Shaikin of the LA Times. Rivera does not have a starting job and would be able to help several clubs, one being the Braves. Ken Rosenthal also suggested Sunday that Reggie Willits was not available but the team wanted to trade Rivera. David O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal Constitution was quoted, "After talking to a couple of people today, I think there’s something to the Juan Rivera thing. I believe the Braves do have interest, just not sure if there’s a match."
|
|
|
|
| Josh Beckett is reportedly feeling better today, according to the Providence Journal. Manager Francona commented that Beckett is doing better and is more comfortable but the team still plans to take it slow and there is no new date set for his possible return. Beckett has been battling back spasms, in case you are new to his situation. |
|
|
|
Baseball
| Football | Basketball
| Hockey | Golf
| Auto Racing
| Soccer
