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| 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. |
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| Chris Snyder, C, Arizona Diamondbacks | Tuesday 3/11, 11:13 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| Jake Peavy, P, San Diego Padres | Tuesday 3/11, 9:06 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| Fred Lewis, LF, San Francisco Giants | Tuesday 3/11, 8:49 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| Ben Sheets, P, Milwaukee Brewers | Tuesday 3/11, 8:32 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| Kerry Wood, P, Chicago Cubs | Tuesday 3/11, 8:15 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| Odalis Perez, P, Washington Nationals | Tuesday 3/11, 7:47 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| Felix Pie, CF, Chicago Cubs | Tuesday 3/11, 7:32 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| Scott Olsen, P, Florida Marlins | Tuesday 3/11, 6:42 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| Ian Stewart, 3B, Colorado Rockies | Tuesday 3/11, 6:31 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| Chris Duncan, LF, St. Louis Cardinals | Tuesday 3/11, 6:21 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| Joel Pineiro, P, St. Louis Cardinals | Tuesday 3/11, 2:25 PM CT |
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| 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.
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| 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. |
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| 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.” |
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| Joe Blanton, P, Philadelphia Phillies | Tuesday 3/11, 1:13 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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." |
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| Bill Bray, P, Cincinnati Reds | Tuesday 3/11, 12:45 PM CT |
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| 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. |
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| Pedro Martinez is reportedly looking for a new three year contract, according to MLBtraderumors.com. Martinez is 36 years old and could pitch well in 2008 but a three year deal will be hard for the Mets to agree to. |
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| Randy Winn, RF, San Francisco Giants | Tuesday 3/11, 10:19 AM CT |
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| Randy Winn could be on the trading block for the Giants, according to MetsBlog.com. The Giants are reportedly shopping several players, and feel that Wynn would be a solid fit for the Mets as they will be without Moises Alou until May. |
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| Ruben Gotay, 3B, Atlanta Braves | Tuesday 3/11, 10:13 AM CT |
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| Ruben Gotay has resumed hitting following his ankle sprain, according to NY Daily News. This is good news, but he could still open the season on the DL. |
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| Joel Pineiro, P, St. Louis Cardinals | Tuesday 3/11, 10:08 AM CT |
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| Joel Pineiro has been delayed, with his return uncertain, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He underwent a magnetic resonance test which showed no structural damage to his right shoulder, but they do not know what is causing his chronic tightness, which has prevented him from pitching. The Cardinals rotation is already thin and they need to figure out how to get Pineiro back on the mound. |
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| Scott Nestor has been sent down to the minors, among others according to Fishstripes.com. Nestor was optioned to Triple-A Albuquerque, while Jai Miller was optioned to the Isotopes. Eulogio De La Cruz will join Nestor in Albuquerque and Chris Coghlan was sent to minor league camp. |
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| Clint Barmes is now on the Orioles' radar, according to the Denver Post. They need a starting shortstop following the departure of Miguel Tejada, and the Angels really only view Barmes as a backup, who are the other team currently interested. |
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| Chad Tracy, 3B, Arizona Diamondbacks | Tuesday 3/11, 8:09 AM CT |
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| Chad Tracy is expected to go off of blood thinners soon, according to the East Valley Tribune. He is recovering from a blood clot in his leg and would be able to return to practice about four or five days after ending his medication. He could start the season on the 40-man roster, even if only in a situational role. |
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| Kris Benson, P, Philadelphia Phillies | Tuesday 3/11, 7:36 AM CT |
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| Kris Benson is fighting for the fifth spot in the Phillies' rotation, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. He has the inside track as he is the only candidate who has not allowed a run over the last five days and has looked solid in limited work overall. As of now he is signed to a minor league deal and is expected to be promoted to the 40-man roster by March 25. He underwent shoulder surgery last season and would likely start 2008 on the DL until he is ready to start. |
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| J.D. Durbin, P, Philadelphia Phillies | Tuesday 3/11, 7:27 AM CT |
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| J.D. Durbin realizes it is time to step up for the Phillies, according to Philly.com. He has been called "The Real Deal" but he is yet to make an impact with the Phillies. He is 0-2 this spring with a 9.64 ERA but said this about where he wants to be headed this season,"That's the game - competition. It's what we thrive on. It's what we're here for. It's not cutting time, but I think it's maybe time to put up some better numbers. Try to put a little pressure on myself to make myself better." Durbin is competing for a spot in the Phillies' rotation or the bullpen. |
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| Brett Myers, P, Philadelphia Phillies | Tuesday 3/11, 7:18 AM CT |
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| Brett Myers has been performing well as he left the bullpen to re-join the Phillies' rotation, according to the Philadelphia Enquirer. He has been the only starter who has been consistently solid this spring and said this about leaving his closer's role, "I liked closing last year. That's no secret. But I like starting, too, because I'm getting the opportunity to pitch. I'm not going to be a selfish guy and whine and complain because they had to make a move. I'm not that type of guy. It's a little easier in spring training, because we're all pretty much spread out all over the place, and there's plenty of things going on. During the season, it's going to hurt a little bit, but we'll see." Myers notably won 25 games from 2005 to 2006 and was establishing himself as a strong starting pitcher before he moved to the pen.
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| Brian Schneider caught his first game with new ace pitcher Johan Santana, according to the NY Daily News. Santana pitched well and Schneider had this to say after the game, "I talked to him before the game and wanted him to shake me off as much as possible and make sure he threw his kind of game. I don't want him going out there and just throwing what fingers I put down. When I see how he throws, the different patterns, that's when I learn the most from him. We were on the same page a lot more than I thought we would be. He looked great." |
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