Fantasy

Player notes from Class A Advanced and A Ball—from the slumping bat of Derek Norris to the seasoned arm of Randall Delgado.

POSITION PLAYERS:

Marc Krauss, OF Arizona Advanced A Line—.326 BA, 17 HR, 66 RBI

The former Ohio University standout has been on an offensive tear. In 24 games since the minor league all star break he's batting .423 (44 for 104) with 20 runs, 10 HR and 28 RBI.

As a fantasy baseball fan, I pay close attention to the rapidly approaching trade deadline.

For instance, I was thrilled to see Cliff Lee move to Texas, home of the long-ball, since I didn't draft him on any teams this year. Indeed, most trades have some fantasy impact, but there is a pending trade that has the potential to make a major impact—both in fantasy and reality.

In an attempt to shore up their rotation and make a strong push to win the World Series this year, the St. Louis Cardinals have been actively pursuing Roy Oswalt.

Ozzie Guillen was candid after last night’s loss to the Seattle Mariners, with Bobby Jenks allowing two ER on three hits over just 0.1 innings.

Just because you’ve slipped behind in the stolen base category, it doesn’t mean you can’t catch up.  Here are some reasonably available SB threats.

What do Craig Biggio, Pablo Sandoval, and Neil Walker have in common? All three saw a significant amount of time behind the plate in the minors but found new positions in the big leagues.

The trend of moving young catchers to other positions because of their defensive deficiencies behind the plate or to increase longevity has left fantasy owners with a diluted pool of catchers from which to choose. 

Mike Pelfrey has never been known for his pinpoint control. Throughout the minors and majors he has only stayed under three walks per nine innings once (2.87 BB/9 in 2008).

A quick review of last week's least owned top performers in fantasy baseball. Justin Smoak goes yard in back to back games. Paul Maholm wins the Dr. Jeckyll / Mr. Hyde award. Edinson Volquez dominates in his return. Who will continue to dominate and who will disappear like a ninja?

SWINGERS

Chase Headley 47% owned
6 R, 1 HR, 2 RBI, 1 SB, .500

Here’s a look at the unheralded players who played well yesterday.

Fantasy Baseball’s Pitching Line of the Week:

Paul Maholm (SP-PIT) 

We are now just past the midway point of the 2010 season and it is time for a little self-reflection.

Do you have a chance to compete or is it time to start preparing for fantasy football ? (Cheatsheet Compiler & Draft Buddy Football now available) Understanding your league rules and looking at results realistically will be the key to success.