On to the roundup for the week...
Breaking News: This week we saw the return to form of two of the American League's better starting pitchers, Scott Kazmir and John Lackey. Owners who drafted them back in March, are now reaping the rewards for being patient. Kazmir went 7 IP's against the A's, allowing 1 ER with 8 K's in picking up a win. He raised his record to 3-1 on the year. Lackey also went seven strong innings against the Blue Jays, allowing 1 ER in picking up his first win of the year. I believe we will continue to see impressive numbers from these two pitchers as the year rolls along.
If you missed this announcement, the Yankees now say that Joba Chamberlain is making the transition back to being a Starting Pitcher. This should increase his value
in all AL Leagues, as he should contribute in the K's and Wins categories much more significantly than he would have as a releiver.
Injuries:
There were no significant Injuries to report last week.....I can't remember the last time I ever had to report this? Let's hope everyone stays healthy.
Who's Hot:
Carlos Quentin(OF CHW) - Always was a decent prospect with the D-Backs. He leads the AL with 12 HR's.
Josh Hamilton(OF TEX) - Leads the AL with 51 RBI's.
Daisuke Matsuzaka(SP BOS) - He is now 7-0 with a 2.15 ERA. This is what the Sox were hoping to get out of him last year.
Bartolo Colon(SP BOS) - Picked up his first win this year against the Royals, and will probably stick in the rotation.
Who's Not:
Gary Sheffield(OF/DH Detroit) - Looks lethargic at the plate, hitting only .183 for the season.
Clay Buchholz(SP BOS) - With Bartolo Colon now up with the big club, his chances of remaining in AAA look real good.
Daric Barton(1B OAK) - Still struggling after going 7-55 this month.
Fantasy Studs(Last 7 Days)
1. Edgar Renteria(SS DET) - He went 9-18 with 1 HR and 5 RBI's.
2. Ichiro Suzuki(OF SEA) - Ichiro went 8-16 with 5 SB's.
3. Jason Varitek(C BOS) - He ripped 2 HR's and went 8-15 a .533 BA.
Fantasy Duds(Last 7 Days)
1. Emil Brown(OF OAK) - He went 6-29 and .207 BA.
2. Jack Hannahan(3B OAK) - Hit .200 by going 6-30.
3. Kenny Rogers(SP DET) - In two starts he went 9.3 IP's with a 10.61 ERA.
Got a fantasy question you would like answered in my column? Send it to me via
e-mail at mikek@creativesports.com. Until next week, I wish you the best of
luck.