Texas Rangers outfielder Nelson Cruz is one of eight players featured in the national ads for 2KSports Major League Baseball 2K10, per Anthony Andro of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
"It definitely was exciting to be part of the commercial," said Cruz. "I got a chance to meet with those guys like Kendry [Morales], [Justin] Verlander and [Felix] Hernandez. I was really happy to have the chance and the opportunity to be there."
Cruz, who will bat fifth in the Rangers' Opening Day lineup, hit 33 home runs and stole 20 bases in 2009.
How to top his breakout season in 2010?
Cruz guaranteed a 30-30 season and considering his sprained ankle last August nearly halted his stolen base attempts, it at least seems possible provided he can stay healthy.
"I see a very confident Nelson Cruz,” [manager Ron] Washington said. "I see a guy that’s been going about his business like a veteran."
According to MockDraftCentral.com, Cruz is the 16th outfielder drafted with an average draft position of 62. Seems like a steal to me.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Jose Reyes to start season on DL
Last year, Mets shortstop Jose Reyes missed 126 games.
To start the 2010 season, he will miss (at least) four more.
According to Brian Costa of the Newark Star-Ledger, Reyes will start the season on the disabled list (DL). In addition, the Mets could make it retroactive, which would allow Reyes to return as early as April 10th.
“As soon as I feel comfortable at home plate, I’ll be ready to go,” Reyes said (via the Star-Ledger).
If you're a glass-half-full guy, the problem has been his timing at the plate -- not the hamstring or running. Nonetheless, there seems to be more risk than reward with Reyes for my taste.
To start the 2010 season, he will miss (at least) four more.
According to Brian Costa of the Newark Star-Ledger, Reyes will start the season on the disabled list (DL). In addition, the Mets could make it retroactive, which would allow Reyes to return as early as April 10th.
“As soon as I feel comfortable at home plate, I’ll be ready to go,” Reyes said (via the Star-Ledger).
If you're a glass-half-full guy, the problem has been his timing at the plate -- not the hamstring or running. Nonetheless, there seems to be more risk than reward with Reyes for my taste.
Lance Berkman to the DL
Well, one player that won't outhit me in the first four games of the 2010 season is Astros first baseman Lance Berkman.
In addition to pitchers Yorman Bazardo and Alberto Arias, the Astros have placed Berkman on the disabled list (DL) retroactive to March 26th, according to MLB.com's Brian McTaggart.
Berkman, who had his knee scoped on March 13th, said: "Obviously it stinks to have to start the year on the DL, but I'll get off quick and never look back. I hate missing any games at all, but as long as it doesn't turn into an ordeal. Really just being eligible to come off Saturday [April 10] is good news."
Regardless, Berkman, who is a career .299 hitter, is on the decline. He missed 26 games in 2009, batted only .274 and drove in 80 runs (his lowest total since 2000).
In our Fantasy Baseball Weekly podcast on corner infielders, Berkman was a guy that we suggested to avoid.
If you didn't listen (to the podcast and/or advice), the good news is it's only four games (knock on wood) that he'll miss.
In addition to pitchers Yorman Bazardo and Alberto Arias, the Astros have placed Berkman on the disabled list (DL) retroactive to March 26th, according to MLB.com's Brian McTaggart.
Berkman, who had his knee scoped on March 13th, said: "Obviously it stinks to have to start the year on the DL, but I'll get off quick and never look back. I hate missing any games at all, but as long as it doesn't turn into an ordeal. Really just being eligible to come off Saturday [April 10] is good news."
Regardless, Berkman, who is a career .299 hitter, is on the decline. He missed 26 games in 2009, batted only .274 and drove in 80 runs (his lowest total since 2000).
In our Fantasy Baseball Weekly podcast on corner infielders, Berkman was a guy that we suggested to avoid.
If you didn't listen (to the podcast and/or advice), the good news is it's only four games (knock on wood) that he'll miss.
Our fantasy baseball podcast is rescheduled
We have three equally-important missions here. Make the world a safer place. Provide you with slightly-above-mediocre fantasy advice (provided it doesn't require too much work on our part). And drink beer.
In an effort to fulfill (an unspecified) one of our three missions, we need to reschedule tonight's Fantasy Baseball Weekly podcast to Thursday night at 6:30 p.m.
If this inconveniences our audience (otherwise known as Ed), we sincerely apologize.
In the meantime, here's a shameless plug for our fantasy football podcast, which has the very original name of...Fantasy Football Weekly. Tonight (at 7:30 p.m. ET) we will do round 9 of our 2010 Fantasy Football Mock Draft.
In an effort to fulfill (an unspecified) one of our three missions, we need to reschedule tonight's Fantasy Baseball Weekly podcast to Thursday night at 6:30 p.m.
If this inconveniences our audience (otherwise known as Ed), we sincerely apologize.
In the meantime, here's a shameless plug for our fantasy football podcast, which has the very original name of...Fantasy Football Weekly. Tonight (at 7:30 p.m. ET) we will do round 9 of our 2010 Fantasy Football Mock Draft.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Tuesday Night Links
Reds closer Francisco Cordero said, "It's not only about me having a good year. It's about getting the team in the playoffs and maybe the World Series.
Meanwhile, his teammate Aroldis Chapman is likely to start the season in the minors.
And Reds manager Dusty Baker says of his bullpen, "You need a good bullpen. We've got a good bullpen."
John Shea of the San Francisco Chronicle points out that the difference between the "Big 3's" of Atlanta and Oakland in the past and the Giants today is offense.
Phillies reliever J.C. Romero says of his latest outing, "... today was very good and I am very happy about everything that went on today."
With his roster spot secure in 2010, Phillies starter J.A. Happ said, "I obviously don't want to give up hits or runs, but last year I had to go with what I was most confident in. This year, I'm maybe able to try a few different things. I did that."
San Diego's Chase Headley leads the majors in runs batted in (21) this spring.
Cubs outfield prospect Tyler Colvin, who's hitting .455 this spring, could push the starters.
As expected, Yovani Gallardo is the Brewers' Opening Day starter.
Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera hit a pair of 500-foot homers.
White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen says of outfielder Carlos Quentin's new attitude:''I love it, oh, my God, yes. I think Carlos enjoys the game a little bit more. I don't want him to change, I don't. ... I think he's out there more with the players, and I like that, believe me.''
The Mariners have released pitcher Seth McClung.
Reds starter Aaron Harang said about today's loss and being ready as Opening Day starter: "Yeah, I feel great. This is the best I've felt in spring training. The outcome is not what you want and expect. But it doesn't count. This is about getting ready for the long haul of the season. Overall, I feel very comfortable with the new stuff with my mechanics. I feel like the ball is coming out very well. It's a matter of coming in and stretching it out come Monday."
The Marlins acquired pitcher Nate Robertson from Detroit.
Pitcher Jeff Suppan was placed on the disabled list, retroactive to March 26th, by the Brewers.
Shameless plug of the day: here's the link to the latest post on my football site.
Follow me on Twitter @EDSBaseball.
Meanwhile, his teammate Aroldis Chapman is likely to start the season in the minors.
And Reds manager Dusty Baker says of his bullpen, "You need a good bullpen. We've got a good bullpen."
John Shea of the San Francisco Chronicle points out that the difference between the "Big 3's" of Atlanta and Oakland in the past and the Giants today is offense.
Phillies reliever J.C. Romero says of his latest outing, "... today was very good and I am very happy about everything that went on today."
With his roster spot secure in 2010, Phillies starter J.A. Happ said, "I obviously don't want to give up hits or runs, but last year I had to go with what I was most confident in. This year, I'm maybe able to try a few different things. I did that."
San Diego's Chase Headley leads the majors in runs batted in (21) this spring.
Cubs outfield prospect Tyler Colvin, who's hitting .455 this spring, could push the starters.
As expected, Yovani Gallardo is the Brewers' Opening Day starter.
Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera hit a pair of 500-foot homers.
White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen says of outfielder Carlos Quentin's new attitude:''I love it, oh, my God, yes. I think Carlos enjoys the game a little bit more. I don't want him to change, I don't. ... I think he's out there more with the players, and I like that, believe me.''
The Mariners have released pitcher Seth McClung.
Reds starter Aaron Harang said about today's loss and being ready as Opening Day starter: "Yeah, I feel great. This is the best I've felt in spring training. The outcome is not what you want and expect. But it doesn't count. This is about getting ready for the long haul of the season. Overall, I feel very comfortable with the new stuff with my mechanics. I feel like the ball is coming out very well. It's a matter of coming in and stretching it out come Monday."
The Marlins acquired pitcher Nate Robertson from Detroit.
Pitcher Jeff Suppan was placed on the disabled list, retroactive to March 26th, by the Brewers.
Shameless plug of the day: here's the link to the latest post on my football site.
Follow me on Twitter @EDSBaseball.
Lindstrom to close games for 'Stros
The Houston Astros have named Matt Lindstrom as their closer to start the season, according to Bernardo Fallas of the Houston Chronicle.
With the contract (three years, $15 million) given to Brandon Lyon, who was expected to win the job, it wouldn't surprise me to see Lyon ultimately take over the role.
But for now, Lindstrom could be a source of cheap saves for your fantasy team.
With the contract (three years, $15 million) given to Brandon Lyon, who was expected to win the job, it wouldn't surprise me to see Lyon ultimately take over the role.
But for now, Lindstrom could be a source of cheap saves for your fantasy team.
Kinsler likely to start season on DL
When the Rangers open the 2010 season, it's likely that second baseman Ian Kinsler won't be on the field.
According to Jeff Miller of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, it's looking more likely that Kinsler will begin the season on the disabled list (DL) as he recovers from his ankle sprain.
"Whatever we decide is going to be in the best interest of Ian," manager Ron Washington said.
Kinsler was baseball's only 30-30 guy in 2009, but he's no stranger to the DL. He's averaged just shy of 130 games per season in his four-year career.
Since several fantasy owners may shy away from Kinsler due to his (lack of) durability, this (potential) brief stint on the DL could cause owners to overreact and create a buying opportunity.
In either case, buyer beware.
According to Jeff Miller of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, it's looking more likely that Kinsler will begin the season on the disabled list (DL) as he recovers from his ankle sprain.
"Whatever we decide is going to be in the best interest of Ian," manager Ron Washington said.
Kinsler was baseball's only 30-30 guy in 2009, but he's no stranger to the DL. He's averaged just shy of 130 games per season in his four-year career.
Since several fantasy owners may shy away from Kinsler due to his (lack of) durability, this (potential) brief stint on the DL could cause owners to overreact and create a buying opportunity.
In either case, buyer beware.
Francisco Liriano to start -- not close
Minnesota Twins starter Francisco Liriano will be just that -- a starter.
To be specific, Liriano will be the team's fifth starter, per Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.
With closer Joe Nathan out for the season after having Tommy John surgery, there was some talk about the potential for Liriano to close. Instead, the team will employ a closer-by-committee approach to save opportunities.
Liriano, who has pitched well in winter ball and spring training, threw six shutout innings today and is a guy you should target late in mixed-league drafts.
To be specific, Liriano will be the team's fifth starter, per Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.
With closer Joe Nathan out for the season after having Tommy John surgery, there was some talk about the potential for Liriano to close. Instead, the team will employ a closer-by-committee approach to save opportunities.
Liriano, who has pitched well in winter ball and spring training, threw six shutout innings today and is a guy you should target late in mixed-league drafts.
Sanchez beats out Morrison for Marlins' 1B job
Gaby Sanchez, who hit .409 this spring, beat out Logan Morrison to win the starting first baseman job for the Florida Marlins.
"To be able to do it with a team I grew up watching, it's even better,'' Sanchez said, per Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald.
Last year, Sanchez pressed too hard last spring, which is something that Morrison was doing this spring.
"[In] Morrison, I see a very good major leaguer, not just an average major leaguer,'' [manager Fredi] Gonzalez said. "This guy's going to hit. Maybe he's going through what Gaby went through last year.''
Morrison, who is 22 years old, ranks 20th on Baseball America's Top 100 Prospects list (via SI).
"To be able to do it with a team I grew up watching, it's even better,'' Sanchez said, per Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald.
Last year, Sanchez pressed too hard last spring, which is something that Morrison was doing this spring.
"[In] Morrison, I see a very good major leaguer, not just an average major leaguer,'' [manager Fredi] Gonzalez said. "This guy's going to hit. Maybe he's going through what Gaby went through last year.''
Morrison, who is 22 years old, ranks 20th on Baseball America's Top 100 Prospects list (via SI).
Monday, March 29, 2010
Monday Night Links
Mets shortstop Jose Reyes took batting practice for the first time on Monday, but his status for Opening Day hasn't yet been determined.
Astros pitcher Roy Oswalt, who received an injection in his back, is expected to start on Opening Day.
Marlins ace Josh Johnson is also expected to be ready to make his Opening Day start.
Royals first baseman Billy Butler said, “No personal goals. It’s team goals. Win the American League Central. Make some noise and show our organization is moving in the right (direction). If we do that, my individual goals will all be there because we’ll be where we want to be.”
When asked about his 20-20 potential, Pittsburgh's Garrett Jones said, "I think it's possible."
The Toronto Blue Jays have released outfielder Joey Gathright.
For ceremonial first pitches, Barack Obama will throw out the first pitch in Philadelphia while Roger Staubach will throw out the first pitch in Arlington.
Pirates manager John Russell plans to hit the pitcher 8th in the Pirates' lineup.
As expected, Ryan Perry earned a roster spot in the Tigers' bullpen.
Marlon Byrd said of Milton Bradley: ''I want him to be him. In Texas, he didn't smile. He put up ungodly numbers. He has to be himself. That's the only thing he can do. That's the only way he can play. I want to see him do it, 162 all-out, because he has MVP material.''
Orioles reliever Koji Uehara will start the season on the disabled list with a strained left hamstring.
Tigers pitcher Rick Porcello had a strong outing against the Blue Jays.
Felipe Paulino has a shot at winning the Astros' fifth starter spot in the rotation.
Indians outfielder Grady Sizemore said, "Whatever soreness or pain I've had has been minimal. I recovered from the next day. Going into this last week of spring training, I feel strong like I'll be ready to go for the season."
Reds pitcher Homer Bailey allowed five runs on five hits in five innings against the Dodgers single-A team.
Royals pitcher Gil Meche threw 127 pitches in a simulated game and didn't feel any soreness.
Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira was hit by a pitch on his elbow, but X-rays weren't required as it's only a bruise.
Astros pitcher Roy Oswalt, who received an injection in his back, is expected to start on Opening Day.
Marlins ace Josh Johnson is also expected to be ready to make his Opening Day start.
Royals first baseman Billy Butler said, “No personal goals. It’s team goals. Win the American League Central. Make some noise and show our organization is moving in the right (direction). If we do that, my individual goals will all be there because we’ll be where we want to be.”
When asked about his 20-20 potential, Pittsburgh's Garrett Jones said, "I think it's possible."
The Toronto Blue Jays have released outfielder Joey Gathright.
For ceremonial first pitches, Barack Obama will throw out the first pitch in Philadelphia while Roger Staubach will throw out the first pitch in Arlington.
Pirates manager John Russell plans to hit the pitcher 8th in the Pirates' lineup.
As expected, Ryan Perry earned a roster spot in the Tigers' bullpen.
Marlon Byrd said of Milton Bradley: ''I want him to be him. In Texas, he didn't smile. He put up ungodly numbers. He has to be himself. That's the only thing he can do. That's the only way he can play. I want to see him do it, 162 all-out, because he has MVP material.''
Orioles reliever Koji Uehara will start the season on the disabled list with a strained left hamstring.
Tigers pitcher Rick Porcello had a strong outing against the Blue Jays.
Felipe Paulino has a shot at winning the Astros' fifth starter spot in the rotation.
Indians outfielder Grady Sizemore said, "Whatever soreness or pain I've had has been minimal. I recovered from the next day. Going into this last week of spring training, I feel strong like I'll be ready to go for the season."
Reds pitcher Homer Bailey allowed five runs on five hits in five innings against the Dodgers single-A team.
Royals pitcher Gil Meche threw 127 pitches in a simulated game and didn't feel any soreness.
Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira was hit by a pitch on his elbow, but X-rays weren't required as it's only a bruise.
Pujols says he feels great
For anyone concerned about the back of Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols, don't be.
After hitting the ball hard yesterday off Mets' pitcher Mike Pelfrey (then again, who didn't hit Pelfrey hard?), Pujols was pleased with his swing and said "... if the season were to start tomorrow, I'd be ready to go," per Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
"I think if there is a good time to test (the back) it's right here and in the next three or four days," said Pujols. "I feel great. I don't think this is going to be an issue. If this would be an issue it would have flared up ... again. Long innings, long games — it's stuff like that. That's what I look at, and I feel really good."
In the obvious statement of the day, Pujols should be the top overall pick in fantasy drafts regardless of format.
And through nine MLB seasons, Pujols has never hit lower than .314 (2002), less than 32 home runs (2007) or has he driven in less than 103 runs (2007) in any season. And twice (including last year) he stole 16 bases.
After hitting the ball hard yesterday off Mets' pitcher Mike Pelfrey (then again, who didn't hit Pelfrey hard?), Pujols was pleased with his swing and said "... if the season were to start tomorrow, I'd be ready to go," per Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
"I think if there is a good time to test (the back) it's right here and in the next three or four days," said Pujols. "I feel great. I don't think this is going to be an issue. If this would be an issue it would have flared up ... again. Long innings, long games — it's stuff like that. That's what I look at, and I feel really good."
In the obvious statement of the day, Pujols should be the top overall pick in fantasy drafts regardless of format.
And through nine MLB seasons, Pujols has never hit lower than .314 (2002), less than 32 home runs (2007) or has he driven in less than 103 runs (2007) in any season. And twice (including last year) he stole 16 bases.
Ryan Madson on the 9th: "Just treat it as another inning"
Phillies (temporary) closer Ryan Madson can be a source for a cheap saves early in the season.
Madson will serve as the team's closer while Brad Lidge remains in Clearwater at the start of the season.
Athough he struggled in that role in 2009 by converting only 10 of 16 opportunities, last year's experience should help him this year.
At least, that's Madson's (and Lidge's) view.
"Just treat it as another inning," Madson said. "I got into a little bit of a groove and got my confidence and realized that. So if I can just start that way, get that feeling that I had at the end of the year last year and just treat it like another inning, go out for each hitter and have fun with it, everything will be fine."
"We all know [Madson's] stuff is as good as anybody's among the late-inning guys. And I think for him, the experience of last year will go a long way for him this year," Lidge said. "I thought he did fine for his first year getting in there. He probably learned a lot about how the ninth inning is a little different from the eighth inning. And now that he knows that, and with his stuff, I think he's going to do an excellent job. I mean, he's really capable of being a great closer."
In six spring appearances, Madson has saved one game while posting an ERA of 6.00 and WHIP of 1.50 in six innings pitched.
Madson will serve as the team's closer while Brad Lidge remains in Clearwater at the start of the season.
Athough he struggled in that role in 2009 by converting only 10 of 16 opportunities, last year's experience should help him this year.
At least, that's Madson's (and Lidge's) view.
"Just treat it as another inning," Madson said. "I got into a little bit of a groove and got my confidence and realized that. So if I can just start that way, get that feeling that I had at the end of the year last year and just treat it like another inning, go out for each hitter and have fun with it, everything will be fine."
"We all know [Madson's] stuff is as good as anybody's among the late-inning guys. And I think for him, the experience of last year will go a long way for him this year," Lidge said. "I thought he did fine for his first year getting in there. He probably learned a lot about how the ninth inning is a little different from the eighth inning. And now that he knows that, and with his stuff, I think he's going to do an excellent job. I mean, he's really capable of being a great closer."
In six spring appearances, Madson has saved one game while posting an ERA of 6.00 and WHIP of 1.50 in six innings pitched.
Ricky Nolasco lowers spring ERA to 1.78
Marlins pitcher Ricky Nolasco retired the first 16 Astro batters he faced yesterday and only allowed one hit (a single) in 7 1/3 innings.
According to Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald, however, Nolasco was "very upset" about allowing his first walk of the spring.
"You don't want to end a day like that -- ever,'' Nolasco said. "It's not acceptable."
"It's frustrating, especially being 0-2 to that guy. I don't care how many walks I have, or don't have. In that situation, it's the absolutely worst way to do it. He was completely overmatched there, and I didn't do my job and let him back in the count. That just can't happen.''
This spring, Nolasco is now 3-0 with an ERA of 1.78 and a K/BB ratio of 21.0.
"The biggest thing I learned as far as pitching is to throw strikes, not walk guys. It just makes your job a million times easier. It's something I've learned and thought about since maybe I was 12."
Despite a horrible start to 2009, Nolasco was 11-4 with an ERA of 3.82 since June. In those 141 1/3 innings, Nolasco struck out 158 batters.
With his strong spring performance, Nolasco is poised for a big season.
According to Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald, however, Nolasco was "very upset" about allowing his first walk of the spring.
"You don't want to end a day like that -- ever,'' Nolasco said. "It's not acceptable."
"It's frustrating, especially being 0-2 to that guy. I don't care how many walks I have, or don't have. In that situation, it's the absolutely worst way to do it. He was completely overmatched there, and I didn't do my job and let him back in the count. That just can't happen.''
This spring, Nolasco is now 3-0 with an ERA of 1.78 and a K/BB ratio of 21.0.
"The biggest thing I learned as far as pitching is to throw strikes, not walk guys. It just makes your job a million times easier. It's something I've learned and thought about since maybe I was 12."
Despite a horrible start to 2009, Nolasco was 11-4 with an ERA of 3.82 since June. In those 141 1/3 innings, Nolasco struck out 158 batters.
With his strong spring performance, Nolasco is poised for a big season.
Matt Cain gets contract extension
The San Francisco Giants have agreed to extensions with three pitchers: starter Matt Cain, closer Brian Wilson and set-up man Jeremy Affeldt, per Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle.
"We have cost certainty and the fans have the comfort of knowing these guys are going to be in Giants uniforms helping us win games," said Giants general manager Brian Sabean.
Before the extension, Cain would have become a free agent in 2012. Now, he will earn $15 million that season as a Giant.
In addition, ace Tim Lincecum and Jonathan Sanchez won't become free agents until after the 2013 season.
"When you see a group of pitchers stay together like that "... it builds us all up," said Cain, per Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News. "I feel we all share the leadership every time we go out there and pitch."
Cain had a career year last season posting a 14-8 record, 171 strikeouts and an ERA of 2.89.
That said, part of his success was due to (an improvement in his) luck. Cain's 2009 BABIP was .268, which was the fourth-lowest in the Majors, according to Fangraphs.com. Meanwhile, his BABIP in 2008 was .304.
Comparing 2009 to 2008, Cain actually had a worse K/9 rate (7.69 in 2008 to 7.07 in 2009) and HR/9 rate (0.79 in 2008 to 0.91 in 2009) last season.
Per MockDraftCentral.com, Cain's average draft position (ADP) is 89.17, which makes him the 20th starter off fantasy draft boards, which makes him a good value.
"We have cost certainty and the fans have the comfort of knowing these guys are going to be in Giants uniforms helping us win games," said Giants general manager Brian Sabean.
Before the extension, Cain would have become a free agent in 2012. Now, he will earn $15 million that season as a Giant.
In addition, ace Tim Lincecum and Jonathan Sanchez won't become free agents until after the 2013 season.
"When you see a group of pitchers stay together like that "... it builds us all up," said Cain, per Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News. "I feel we all share the leadership every time we go out there and pitch."
Cain had a career year last season posting a 14-8 record, 171 strikeouts and an ERA of 2.89.
That said, part of his success was due to (an improvement in his) luck. Cain's 2009 BABIP was .268, which was the fourth-lowest in the Majors, according to Fangraphs.com. Meanwhile, his BABIP in 2008 was .304.
Comparing 2009 to 2008, Cain actually had a worse K/9 rate (7.69 in 2008 to 7.07 in 2009) and HR/9 rate (0.79 in 2008 to 0.91 in 2009) last season.
Per MockDraftCentral.com, Cain's average draft position (ADP) is 89.17, which makes him the 20th starter off fantasy draft boards, which makes him a good value.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Ian Desmond wins Nationals' SS job
The Washington Nationals have named rookie Ian Desmond as the team's starting shortstop to begin the 2010 season.
“This is one of those moves that we can make to help the club this year and in the future,” [Nationals manager Jim] Riggleman said.
Provided Desmond doesn't struggle too much in the role, Cristian Guzman, last year's starting shortstop, will remain a utility player that could certainly be dealt mid-season.
"We have not made any calls and we haven't taken any calls about a trade," Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said about Cristian Guzman, per Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post.
Guzman, who's in the final year of his two-year contract, hit .284 last season after hitting .316 in 2008.
Through Sunday's game against the Braves, Desmond leads the Nationals in runs batted in (14) this spring.
“This is one of those moves that we can make to help the club this year and in the future,” [Nationals manager Jim] Riggleman said.
Provided Desmond doesn't struggle too much in the role, Cristian Guzman, last year's starting shortstop, will remain a utility player that could certainly be dealt mid-season.
"We have not made any calls and we haven't taken any calls about a trade," Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said about Cristian Guzman, per Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post.
Guzman, who's in the final year of his two-year contract, hit .284 last season after hitting .316 in 2008.
Through Sunday's game against the Braves, Desmond leads the Nationals in runs batted in (14) this spring.
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