Monthly ArchiveSeptember 2006
Posted on September 30, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
Overnight Dispatches - Alumni Edition
Ryan Zimmerman had an RBI single Friday. That’s 110 RBI for the rookie who keeps padding his numbers as he seeks the NL ROY Award.
General manager Brian Sabean revealed that closer Armando Benitez could require surgery on his ailing knee. he said the Giants will seek other closing candidates — either through trade or free agency — to protect themselves against the possibility that Benitez is not healthy in 2007. They don’t want to run into another Robb Nen situation.
Matt Wise, who underwent surgery three weeks ago to relocate the ulnar nerve in his elbow, played catch twice in the past week. He did not experience the uncomfortable tingling he felt before the procedure and Wise plans to play catch again Saturday and continue with his rehab and normal off-season conditioning after that. He’ll be fine for spring training.
Rich Aurilia homered and drove in three runs in a 5-2 win over the Pirates on Friday. Aurilia also singled twice, scored once, and swiped a bag in the contest. The right-hander has hit .300 with 23 homers in his age 34 season, which is easily his best performance since his career year back in 2001. He’s not a good bet to maintain that production again next season, particularly if the free agent doesn’t return to the Reds.
Juan Cruz (shoulder, thigh) will get a spot start for Arizona on Saturday, replacing Edgar Gonzalez as the starter against San Diego. Cruz hasn’t seen much action of late, and the D-Backs would like to get one more look at him before the year ends, as they determine who’ll contend for rotation berths in the spring.
Tom Gorzelanny closed out his season with a strong performance Thursday, allowing three runs in seven innings to the Astros. The 24-year-old lefty was perfect through 4 1/3 innings. Gorzelanny made three starts following a bout with elbow tendinitis, satisfying his manager, Jim Tracy. “I don’t think there’s any doubt in our mind that his arm is as sound as can be,” Tracy told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “He just had a little lapse and, against Roy Oswalt, that’s all it takes.”
Adrian Gonzalez strained a thigh muscle on Wednesday, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. He remained in the game and started Thursday’s contest. This injury does not sound like a big deal at all. He is currently enjoying his second-best month of the season: .365/.450/.553 with three homers and 16 RBI. Adrian should stay in your lineup, but keep in mind that if the Padres clinch the N.L. West, Gonzalez might get a day or two off. San Diego can clinch the division on Friday if they win and the Dodgers lose.
Posted on September 30, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
Overnight Dispatches
From Rotoworld, Rototimes, Rotowire:
Aaron Harang threw a complete game to record a win against the Pirates on Friday, yielding just two runs to help keep the Reds’ playoff hopes alive. Harang didn’t walk a batter and struck out nine while yielding eight hits. The nine strikeouts give him 216 on the season, one ahead of Jake Peavy for the NL lead. Peavy won’t get another start before the year is out, and the only threat to Harang’s crown is John Smoltz recording 10 or more strikeouts in his last outing of the season. Harang also finishes with a slight improvement in his ERA (3.76 from 3.83), but his 16 wins and increased strikeouts have made him a much better fantasy option.
Chuck James improved his record to 11-4 by limiting the Astros to one run in seven innings of work on Friday. James struck out eight while walking one and yielding just four hits. The lone run scored on a Craig Biggio solo homer, the 20th long ball that James has yielded in 119 innings this season. The left-hander has looked strong over the final two months of the season, recording seven wins and lowering his ERA to 3.78 since the start of August. If he can keep his command in check, he’ll be a quality fantasy starter even if he yields more homers than most.
Clay Hensley was handed a loss by the Diamondbacks on Friday after yielding just two runs in six innings of work. The loss puts the Padres just a half game up on the Dodgers in the NL West, pending the result of their game with the Giants. Hensley walked one and struck out four tonight, bringing his season totals to 122 strikeouts and 76 walks in 187 innings this season. He’s also posted a fine 3.71 ERA and 11-12 record, so he’ll enter next season with a spot in the Padres’ rotation reserved.
John Maine, auditioning for a spot in the Mets’ playoff rotation, limited the Nationals to three runs — two earned — in six innings of work on Friday. He didn’t factor into the decision while striking out three, walking three, and yielding three hits. The outing was solid, but didn’t really affect his status for the Mets in the postseason. Manager Willie Randolph could go with a three-man rotation for the first round if the Mets end up playing the Cardinals, but that means using Tom Glavine on three day’s rest in a potential game five. We’d rather use Maine, while also allowing Orlando Hernandez an extra day of rest. Either way, tonight ends Maine’s regular season, and he finishes with a 6-5 record and a 3.60 ERA in 16 big league appearances.
Hong-Chih Kuo was removed after allowing three runs and eight hits in five innings Friday against the Giants. The 6/0 K/BB ratio was promising even if Kuo didn’t end up having one of his better starts. All signs point to his becoming the Dodgers’ No. 4 starter in the postseason. He could even move up if it’s determined that Brad Penny can’t go.
Prince Fielder delivered a solo homer against the Cardinals on Friday, giving him the most of any 2006 rookie with 27. Dan Uggla is still stuck at 26, so Fielder has been able to gain some ground. In some seasons, leading all rookies in homers and driving in 80 runs might be enough to win the Rookie of the Year award. However, with the Nationals’ Ryan Zimmerman and a threesome of Marlins playing so well, that’s not going to happen this year. Despite a lack of hardware, it was an encouraging season from Fielder. If he can work on being more selective at the plate, he has the potential to take a step forward next season.
Shane Victorino collected five hits while scoring three times and driving in three runs in a 14-2 romp of the Marlins on Friday. He singled twice, doubled twice, and tripled in the contest, raising his average to .289 in 405 at-bats this season. Every Phillies’ starter recahed base at least once in the contest, with Jimmy Rollins scoring three times and Chris Coste adding a pair of RBI. The win brings the Phillies back within a game and a half of the wild card-leading Dodgers, pending the outcome of their late game this evening.
If the Dodgers clinch a spot in the playoffs today, they plan to scratch Derek Lowe from his scheduled start tomorrow, according to the LA Times. They also would rest most of their regulars, even if the NL West title remains in doubt. “The important thing is to get into the playoffs,” manager Grady Little said. “When we get in, we’ll start setting ourselves up for the playoffs. The Dodgers might have sent Lowe out there with a chance at the division championship if not for Brad Penny’s setback on Thursday. As is, the Dodgers want Lowe to be ready to start Game 1 of the NLDS if possible.
Jose Reyes, who took a jolt to his left upper chest in a home-plate collision in the Mets’ 7-3 win over the Braves on Thursday, said he felt fine, the NY Daily News reports. “Same spot as Boston,” he said. “For the moment I stayed there to see if everything was okay.” Reyes did not miss any time after crashing into Jason Varitek on June 27 and is not expected to be sidelined after this collision.
Adam Dunn broke an 0-for-16 slump with a double on Friday night, and for the month of September he’s 11-for-76 (.145). Reds manager Jerry Narron suggested that Dunn might be fatigued, and particularly susceptible to that fatigue due to his size. Dunn for his part says that, compared to other years when he’s slumped in September, he feels pretty healthy.
Ryan Spilborghs hasn’t had much of a look down the stretch. He’s started just two of the last 13 games. He struck out as a pinch hitter on Friday, dropping to .289 for the year.
Posted on September 30, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
September 30th - Standings and Statistics
Standings: 2ND - 89 points - 4 out of first Gained 3 points and 0 standings place since yesterday GOK! 93 / AARR / Cover Zero 76.5 / X 73 / SJ 70 HR AVG RBI R SB W ERA WHIP K'S S -- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ----- --- --- 257 .2816 977 971 155 100 4.09 1.356 1105 59 2ND 3RD 3RD 5TH 1ST 1ST 3RD 5TH 4TH 4TH --- + 1 + 1 --- --- --- + 1 --- --- --- BOX SCORE FOR 09.29 Atomic Roadrunners ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Ronny Paulino Pit C 4 0 1 1 | 0 2 .311 Prince Fielder Mil 1B 4 1 1 1 | 0 0 .270 Jeff Kent LAD 2B 4 1 2 0 | 0 1 .290 Chad Tracy Ari 3B 3 0 2 0 | 1 0 .278 Moises Alou SF OF 4 0 1 0 | 0 1 .302 Dave Roberts SD OF 4 0 1 0 | 0 0 .294 Shane Victorino Phi OF 6 3 5 3 | 0 0 .289 Geoff Jenkins Mil OF 3 1 1 1 | 1 1 .264 Jason Bay Pit OF 3 0 0 0 | 0 1 .284 Chipper Jones Atl 3B 4 1 1 2 | 0 1 .324 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 39 7 15 8 | 2 7 .385 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: RPaulino 1(54), PFielder 1(79), SVictorino 3(46), GJenkins 1(69), CJones 2(85) 2B: SVictorino 2(18) 3B: SVictorino 1(8) HR: PFielder 1(27), CJones 1(26) PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Clay Hensley L(11-12) 6.0 4 2 2 1 0 4 22 3.00 0.83 John Maine 6.0 3 3 2 3 0 3 22 3.00 1.00 Aaron Harang W(16-11) 9.0 8 2 2 0 0 9 36 2.00 0.89 Hong-Chih Kuo 5.0 8 3 3 0 0 6 22 5.40 1.60 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 26.0 23 10 9 4 0 22102 3.12 1.04 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- RESERVE HITTING ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Adam Dunn Cin OF 4 1 2 0 | 0 2 .235 Carlos Quentin Ari OF 3 0 2 1 | 0 0 .256 Scott Thorman Atl 3B 1 0 0 0 | 0 0 .236 Chris Iannetta Col C 4 0 0 1 | 0 0 .268 Alberto Callaspo Ari 2B 1 0 0 0 | 0 0 .250 Ryan Spilborghs Col OF 1 0 0 0 | 0 1 .289 Jeff Salazar Col OF 4 0 0 0 | 0 2 .286 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 18 1 4 2 | 0 5 .222 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: CQuentin 1(32), CIannetta 1(9) 2B: ADunn 1(24), CQuentin 2(13) RESERVE PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chuck James W(11-4) 7.0 4 1 1 2 0 8 27 1.29 0.86 Jose Valverde S(18) 1.0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0.00 0.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 8.0 4 1 1 2 0 9 30 1.12 0.75 ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted on September 29, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
Overnight Dispatches
Roy Oswalt pitched shutout ball for seven innings to defeat the Pirates on Thursday. The Astros won their ninth in a row after waiting out a 3 1/2-hour rain delay. Oswalt improved to 9-1 in his last 13 starts to end the year 15-8 with a 2.98 ERA. If only the Astros had a respectable offense early on, Oswalt would likely be the Cy Young favorite right now. Still, Brandon Webb, the only NL pitcher with a superior ERA, would be more deserving either way. Including Thursday’s win Roy Oswalt is now 17-2 in his last 22 September starts. He’s also got a 51-16 record for his career after the All-Star break.
The tendinitis in Chad Tracy’s left knee has been flaring up more frequently, the Arizona Republic reports. Bob Melvin said Tracy, if he’s able, likely will make at least a couple more starts during the final three home games. Melvin added that prolonged rest after the season should help alleviate the problem. The Diamondbacks will want to put their best lineup on the field for the entire series against the Padres this weekend, so Tracy might not get another day off. Then again, it’s very debatable whether Tracy has any place in the club’s best lineup with his performance of late.
Despite eight walks, Doug Davis beat the Cardinals by allowing one run and two hits in six innings on Thursday night. He struck out seven. Exactly half of his 114 pitches were strikes. Command was the problem for Davis all year long, as he finishes 11-11 with a 4.91 ERA. He walked 102 to go along with his 159 strikeouts in 203 1/3 innings. Still, although it was his worst showing with the Brewers, he ends up at .500 for the third straight season. He went 12-12 with a 3.39 ERA in 2004 and a 11-11 with a 3.84 ERA last year.
Bob Melvin says he isn’t considering pulling Brandon Webb from his final scheduled start Sunday in order to keep Webb’s numbers where they are to help his Cy Young candidacy, the Arizona Republic reports. A rough outing conceivably could damage Webb’s chances of winning the award. “I haven’t even looked at that,” Melvin said. “It would be more if I felt there was a physical problem with Webby or he’s thrown too many innings. But the way he pitched (Tuesday) and the fact he’s been extremely healthy since that (elbow) problem he had, I don’t see any reason not to (let him pitch) right now.
Mike Jacobs has left the Marlins for personal reasons and will not return for the season’s final three games. The team didn’t elaborate. Wes Helms could start the remainder of the games at first base. Jacobs ends his first full season at .262/.325/.473 with 20 homers and 77 RBI in 469 at-bats. Since he hit just .184 against lefties, the Marlins could employ him strictly as a platoon player next year, something that would result in a higher average.
Adam Dunn went 0-for-4 and struck out for the 191st time Thursday against the Marlins. Dunn is hitless this week and is at .145 in 76 at-bats this month. If he didn’t already hold the single-season record for strikeouts at 195, the Reds would likely consider having him sit out a game or two this weekend. As is, it really doesn’t matter.
Khalil Greene has been limited to pinch-running duty since mid August because of the torn ligment in his left middle finger, but he could be close to being able to return to the lineup, according to the Union-Tribune. Greene had his most challenging hitting session yesterday since he went on the disabled list Aug. 18, and although manager Bruce Bochy said Greene “didn’t look quite as comfortable,” he thinks Greene is almost there. “I think he has turned the corner and is going to get better every day,” Bochy said. “It should be real soon, two to three days, where I’d feel comfortable putting him in.
Brad Lidge got a chance to close out a three-run lead against the Pirates on Thursday and pitched a perfect ninth for his 32nd save. Lidge pitched two innings last night, but he threw just 25 pitches, which is 21 fewer than it took Dan Wheeler to get through three. Wheeler will probably be the choice to close if another save situation arises on Friday.
Posted on September 29, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
September 29th - Standings and Statistics
Standings: 2ND - 86 points - 7 out of first Lost 0 points and 0 standings place since yesterday GOK! 93 / AARR / Cover Zero 78.5 / Cover Zero 75 / SJ 71 HR AVG RBI R SB W ERA WHIP K'S S -- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ----- --- --- 255 .2810 969 964 155 99 4.11 1.362 1083 59 2ND 4TH 4TH 5TH 1ST 1ST 4TH 5TH 4TH 4TH --- --- - 1 --- --- --- --- + 1 --- --- BOX SCORE FOR 09.28 Atomic Roadrunners ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Johnny Estrada Ari C 1 0 0 0 | 0 0 .303 Prince Fielder Mil 1B 5 0 0 0 | 0 2 .271 Jeff Kent LAD 2B 2 3 1 0 | 2 0 .287 Chad Tracy Ari 3B 2 1 0 0 | 1 1 .276 Jose Reyes NYM SS 4 2 2 1 | 1 0 .301 Mike Jacobs Fla 1B 3 0 0 0 | 1 1 .262 Willy Aybar Atl SS 1 0 0 0 | 0 1 .280 Dave Roberts SD OF 5 1 2 2 | 1 1 .294 Shane Victorino Phi OF 4 0 1 0 | 0 0 .281 Geoff Jenkins Mil OF 2 1 0 0 | 2 0 .264 Jason Bay Pit OF 3 0 2 0 | 1 0 .286 Chipper Jones Atl 3B 3 1 1 0 | 1 1 .325 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 35 9 9 3 | 10 7 .257 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: JReyes 1(81), DRoberts 2(44) 2B: JKent 1(27) GIDP: MJacobs 1(16) SB: JReyes 1(64), DRoberts 1(48) CS: SVictorino 1(2) ERRORS: JKent 1(8), JReyes 1(17) PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Roy Oswalt W(15-8) 7.0 4 0 0 2 0 6 27 0.00 0.86 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 7.0 4 0 0 2 0 6 27 0.00 0.86 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- RESERVE HITTING ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Adam Dunn Cin OF 4 0 0 0 | 0 1 .233 Carlos Quentin Ari OF 4 0 1 2 | 0 1 .248 Scott Thorman Atl 3B 1 0 0 0 | 0 1 .238 Chris Iannetta Col C 3 1 1 0 | 2 1 .284 Alberto Callaspo Ari 2B 1 0 0 0 | 0 1 .256 Ryan Spilborghs Col OF 2 1 2 1 | 1 0 .291 Jeff Salazar Col OF 0 0 0 0 | 1 0 .311 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 15 2 4 3 | 4 5 .267 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: CQuentin 2(31), RSpilborghs 1(21) 2B: CQuentin 1(11) RESERVE PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Doug Davis W(11-11) 6.0 2 1 1 8 0 7 27 1.50 1.67 Jorge Julio 1.0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0.00 0.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 7.0 2 1 1 8 0 8 30 1.29 1.43 ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted on September 28, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
Overnight Dispatches
Derek Lowe didn’t pitch well, but earned his 16th win Wednesday as the Dodgers came from behind to beat the Rockies 6-4 and retain their NL Wild Card lead. Lowe, who surrendered 10 hits and four runs in six innings, has won seven straight. He will get another start on three days’ rest on Sunday should the Dodgers’ playoff spot still be on the line. Lowe’s record has vastly improved this season thanks to cutting his home runs in half from last season. He hasn’t lost since August 9.
Dan Wheeler pitched three scoreless innings of relief for the Astros in Wednesday’s 15-inning game. Houston got its win to keep pace with the Cardinals, but a long outing from Roy Oswalt is going to be needed on Thursday. Wheeler threw 46 pitches while working for the fourth time on five days, so he could use a day off. Brad Lidge threw two scoreless innings. Chris Sampson, who just tossed 3 2/3 scoreless innings as a spot starter on Monday, threw 2 2/3 innings of shutout ball tonight.
Chad Tracy did not play on Wednesday against the Giants due to tendinitis in his left knee, according to the AP. He’ll likely be back in the lineup on Thursday. Tracy has sat out two of the last four games and he plans on having the knee examined during the offseason and expects the problem will go away with rest.
Chipper Jones was able to start Wednesday as the Mets were using a right-handed starter (Pedro Martinez), the AP reports. Jones is battling an oblique problem and feels the most pain these days when he tries to bat from the right side. Jones hit a two-run homer and RBI single on Wednesday. so
His toe is obviously feeling better. Despite the litany of injuries he’s faced this season, Jones has 25 homers with a .325 BA.Khalil Greene took batting practice for the first time since injuring his finger. “I was taking a few normal swings,” Greene said. “There wasn’t a lot of discomfort. I would imagine I’ll continue to hit, and we’ll see.” If Greene is still pain-free after another batting practice session he could get a chance to pinch-hit on Wednesday.
Former Roadrunner Kerry Wood (shoulder) says he feels an obligation to return to the Cubs and be the pitcher they felt he would be. ”I know I haven’t given this organization or the fans or this team what they paid for two, three years ago,” Wood said. ”As a player, you feel — you don’t want to say ‘guilty’ — but you [don't] feel like you’ve done your job and earned your money and gone out and done what you’re supposed to do.” His $13.5 million contract option for 2007 won’t be picked up so he will need to sign an incentive-based deal if he plans on returning.
Posted on September 28, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
September 28th - Standings and Statistics
Standings: 2ND - 86 points - 6 out of first Lost 2 points and 0 standings place since yesterday GOK! 92 / AARR / X 78 / Cover Zero 76 / SJ 73 HR AVG RBI R SB W ERA WHIP K'S S -- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ----- --- --- 255 .2811 966 955 153 98 4.12 1.364 1077 59 2ND 4TH 3RD 5TH 1ST 1ST 4TH 6TH 4TH 4TH --- --- --- --- --- --- - 1 - 1 --- --- BOX SCORE FOR 09.27 Atomic Roadrunners ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Johnny Estrada Ari C 4 0 0 0 | 0 0 .303 Ronny Paulino Pit C 7 0 1 0 | 0 0 .311 Jeff Kent LAD 2B 4 1 2 1 | 0 0 .286 Chad Tracy Ari 3B 0 0 0 0 | 0 0 .277 Jose Reyes NYM SS 2 0 0 0 | 1 0 .300 Willy Aybar Atl SS 1 0 0 0 | 0 1 .282 Moises Alou SF OF 4 1 1 0 | 0 1 .303 Dave Roberts SD OF 4 1 1 0 | 1 0 .293 Shane Victorino Phi OF 7 1 2 1 | 1 1 .281 Geoff Jenkins Mil OF 1 0 0 0 | 0 0 .265 Jason Bay Pit OF 5 1 1 1 | 2 2 .284 Chipper Jones Atl 3B 4 1 2 3 | 0 0 .325 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 43 6 10 6 | 5 5 .233 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: JKent 1(68), SVictorino 1(43), JBay 1(109), CJones 3(83) 2B: JKent 1(26), MAlou 1(25) 3B: SVictorino 1(7) HR: CJones 1(25) GIDP: JBay 1(15) SB: MAlou 1(2), DRoberts 1(47) ERRORS: JReyes 1(16) PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Dan Wheeler 3.0 0 0 0 3 2 1 12 0.00 1.00 Chad Cordero 1.0 1 1 1 1 0 0 5 9.00 2.00 Francisco Cordero L(10-5)BS(10) 0.7 4 2 2 1 1 1 7 25.71 7.14 Derek Lowe W(16-8) 6.0 10 4 4 1 0 4 27 6.00 1.83 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 10.7 15 7 7 6 3 6 51 5.89 1.96 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- RESERVE HITTING ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Khalil Greene SD SS 0 1 0 0 | 0 0 .247 Adam Dunn Cin OF 4 0 0 0 | 1 3 .234 Carlos Quentin Ari OF 3 1 0 0 | 1 1 .248 Scott Thorman Atl 3B 4 1 1 1 | 0 2 .240 Alberto Callaspo Ari 2B 0 0 0 1 | 0 0 .263 Jeff Salazar Col OF 5 1 2 0 | 0 2 .311 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 16 4 3 2 | 2 8 .187 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: SThorman 1(14), ACallaspo 1(6) HR: SThorman 1(5) RESERVE PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Jose Valverde S(17) 1.0 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 0.00 1.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 1.0 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 0.00 1.00 ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted on September 27, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
Overnight Dispatches
Brandon Webb was denied a shot at his 17th victory by a couple of misplays in the eighth inning Tuesday against the Giants. He was removed after allowing two runs — one earned — in eight innings. Webb was pulled from a tie game even though he was at just 85 pitches. In the bottom of the ninth, Randy Choate hit one of the two batters he faced and Brandon Lyon came in to give up a two-run homer to Moises Alou. Although the Arizona offense has let him down in back-to-back outings, Webb has to be considered the clear favorite for Cy Young honors. He has one more win than Chris Carpenter, and he’s beating the St. Louis right-hander in ERA 2.88 to 3.09.
Moises Alou went 2-for-4 and hit a walkoff two-run homer off Brandon Lyon in the bottom of the ninth to give the Giants a 4-2 win over the Diamondbacks on Tuesday. Alou apparently isn’t going to need any rest this week. He has five homers, four doubles and 11 RBI in his last six games.
John Maine had a side-session on Tuesday and is expected to start for the Mets on Saturday. The Mets are still deciding on whether Maine or Steve Trachsel will be the team’s fourth starter during the playoffs. Trachsel is the favorite to remain in the rotation, but if Maine matches up well with an opponent he could get a start.
Manager Grady Little confirmed that Hong-Chih Kuo will start instead of Chad Billingsley on Friday against the Giants. Greg Maddux will start Saturday and Derek Lowe on Sunday, all pitching on three days’ rest. The way the rotation is setup, if the Dodgers make the playoffs Kuo would start Game 1 of the NLDS.
Chipper Jones was held out of the starting lineup on Tuesday due to ongoing injury concerns, according to the AO. Jones has been able to swing from the left side without discomfort, but he still has trouble right-handed due to a sore left oblique. He also has a sore toe on his right foot.
Chad Tracy committed his 26th error at third base to help the Giants get the tying run in the eighth inning of Tuesday’s game. Tracy hasn’t gone into a horrendous slump at any point, but he’s been a mediocre hitter ever since getting his long-term contract in May and he’s also been subpar defensively at third base. Instead of viewing him as one of their building blocks, the Diamondbacks should give serious thought to trading him while he still has plenty of value. He’s unlikely to last as a third baseman, and the club is going to have better options in the future at first base and the outfield corners.
Posted on September 27, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
September 27th - Standings and Statistics
Standings: 2ND - 88 points - 4 out of first Gained 1.5 points and 0 standings place since yesterday GOK! 92 / AARR / X 78 / Cover Zero 77 / SJ 71 HR AVG RBI R SB W ERA WHIP K'S S -- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ----- --- --- 254 .2814 960 949 151 97 4.11 1.360 1071 59 2ND 4TH 3RD 5TH 1ST 1ST 3RD 5TH 4TH 4TH --- --- --- --- +.5 --- + 1 --- --- --- BOX SCORE FOR 09.26 Atomic Roadrunners ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Ronny Paulino Pit C 4 1 2 0 | 0 0 .314 Prince Fielder Mil 1B 5 0 1 0 | 0 1 .273 Jeff Kent LAD 2B 3 2 2 0 | 1 0 .284 Chad Tracy Ari 3B 4 0 1 0 | 0 0 .277 Jose Reyes NYM SS 4 0 1 0 | 0 0 .301 Mike Jacobs Fla 1B 4 0 1 0 | 1 0 .264 Willy Aybar Atl SS 3 3 3 1 | 2 0 .283 Moises Alou SF OF 4 1 2 2 | 0 1 .303 Dave Roberts SD OF 5 3 2 0 | 0 0 .294 Shane Victorino Phi OF 4 1 2 0 | 0 1 .281 Jason Bay Pit OF 3 1 2 1 | 1 0 .284 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 43 12 19 4 | 5 3 .442 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: WAybar 1(30), MAlou 2(74), JBay 1(108) 2B: RPaulino 1(18), PFielder 1(35), WAybar 1(18), DRoberts 1(18) HR: WAybar 1(4), MAlou 1(22), JBay 1(35) GIDP: MJacobs 1(15) SB: JReyes 1(63), DRoberts 1(46), SVictorino 1(4) ERRORS: CTracy 1(26) PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Brandon Webb 8.0 3 2 1 0 0 6 28 1.12 0.38 Chad Cordero S(29) 1.0 2 1 1 0 0 1 5 9.00 2.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 9.0 5 3 2 0 0 7 33 2.00 0.56 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- RESERVE HITTING ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Adam Dunn Cin OF 3 1 0 0 | 2 1 .236 Carlos Quentin Ari OF 4 1 1 2 | 0 0 .253 Scott Thorman Atl 3B 4 1 1 0 | 0 2 .240 Chris Iannetta Col C 4 0 1 0 | 0 1 .281 Alberto Callaspo Ari 2B 4 0 1 0 | 0 1 .263 Jeff Salazar Col OF 4 1 1 0 | 0 0 .300 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 23 4 5 2 | 2 5 .217 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: CQuentin 2(29) 2B: JSalazar 1(4) HR: CQuentin 1(9) ERRORS: ACallaspo 1(2)
Posted on September 26, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
Overnight Dispatches
From Rotoworld:
Dan Wheeler pitched a perfect ninth to protect a 5-4 lead in the Astros’ victory over the Phillies on Monday night. It was important that he did retire the side in order, as Ryan Howard was due up fourth in the inning. The Astros used nine pitchers to win tonight. The guys in the middle didn’t do so well, but Trever Miller, Brad Lidge and Chad Qualls combined on scoreless seventh and eighth innings in front of Wheeeler. The Astros are now back to .500 at 78-78.
Khalil Greene (finger) took 15 swings during a soft-toss session on Monday. “He was fantastic. I can’t explain it. A week ago, he was really hurting,” said hitting coach Merv Rettenmund. “Today, he was fantastic.” Greene is beginning to look like an option for the playoff roster if the Padres make it.
Jose Reyes is expected to get Tuesday’s game off. The Mets are going through their roster and resting their starters. Carlos Delgado sat on Monday and Tuesday is Reyes’ turn to sit.
Chad Tracy is at third base and batting cleanup Monday against the Giants. Tracy didn’t play Sunday because of left knee tendinitis.
Posted on September 26, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
September 26th - Standings and Statistics
Standings: 2ND - 86.5 points - 5 out of first Gained 1.5 points and 0 standings place since yesterday GOK! 91.5 / AARR / Cover Zero 78 / X 76.5 / SJ 73 HR AVG RBI R SB W ERA WHIP K'S S -- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ----- --- --- 251 .2804 956 937 148 97 4.12 1.365 1064 58 2ND 4TH 3RD 5TH T-1 1ST 4TH 5TH 4TH 4TH --- --- --- --- +1.5 --- --- --- --- --- BOX SCORE FOR 09.25 Atomic Roadrunners ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Chad Tracy Ari 3B 3 2 2 0 | 1 0 .277 Jose Reyes NYM SS 5 0 2 0 | 0 0 .301 Dave Roberts SD OF 4 1 1 0 | 0 0 .292 Shane Victorino Phi OF 5 1 1 0 | 0 1 .279 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 17 4 6 0 | 1 1 .353 --------------------------------------------------------- SB: JReyes 2(62), DRoberts 2(45) PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chad Cordero 1.0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0.00 0.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 1.0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0.00 0.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- RESERVE HITTING ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Khalil Greene SD SS 0 0 0 0 | 0 0 .247 Adam Dunn Cin OF 3 0 0 0 | 1 2 .237 Carlos Quentin Ari OF 0 0 0 0 | 0 0 .253 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 3 0 0 0 | 1 2 .000 --------------------------------------------------------- RESERVE PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Dan Wheeler S(8) 1.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0.00 0.00 Jose Valverde 1.0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0.00 0.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 2.0 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 0.00 0.00 ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted on September 25, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
Overnight Dispatches
Aaron Harang threw a complete game against the Cubs on Sunday, yielding two runs and picking up his 15th win of the season. Harang gave up six hits and no walks while striking out nine. The two runs scored on a pair of solo homers by Aramis Ramirez and Buck Coats. Harang was actually in line for the loss when he finished the top of the ninth, but the Reds scored twice in the bottom of the inning to give him the victory. The right-hander will finish his season against the Pirates.
Clay Hensley evened his record at 11-11 by limiting the Pirates to one run in a 2-1 Padres’ victory on Sunday. Hensley struck out nine and gave up seven hits without walking a batter. The win was his third straight and he’s also posted quality starts in each of his last four outings. The win keeps the Padres 1.5 games ahead of the Dodgers in the NL West race. They’ll get the Cardinals for three games starting tomorrow in a series that will help determine seeding in the NL playoffs. The Padres will then finish their regular season with four games in Arizona.
Hong-Chih Kuo threw seven innings and yielded just an unearned run against the Diamondbacks on Sunday but still wasn’t involved in the decision of a Dodgers’ victory. Kuo struck out eight and walked two while yielding four hits. The left-hander had looked strong against the Cubs and Mets in his first two big league starts, then struggled against the Pirates last week. Still, Kuo was controlling the strike zone and striking out batters at a good clip, so he remained a fine play in NL-only formats. His performance today makes it likely he’ll get the start over Chad Billingsley against the Giants on Friday.
Chuck James gave up six runs on seven hits in five innings against the Rockies on Sunday, but wasn’t involved in the decision of a 9-8 Braves’ loss. The loss, combined with a Phillies’ win, ends Atlanta’s streak of 14 straight trips to the postseason. It was a fantastic run that the record books will look fondly upon, even with just one title during that stretch. James actually left the game with an 8-6 lead, but relievers Macay McBride and Tyler Yates combined to blow the game in the seventh and eighth. Despite two straight ugly outings, keep James active for when he faces the Astros next time out.
Jose Reyes stole a pair of bases against the Nationals on Sunday, extending his major league-leading total to 60 and matching what he finished with in 2005. In addition to matching his total from last season, Reyes has added an additional 21 runs scored, 12 homers, and 22 RBI. The last player to post back-to-back 60 steal seasons was Kenny Lofton, who did so for three straight years from 1992-1994.
Apparently the knee tendinitis that kept Chad Tracy out of Sunday’s game has been bothering him all season, according to the Arizona Republic. “But this is the first time I’ve sat because of it since the first road trip of the year,” said Tracy. He said he’ll undergo extensive testing once the season wraps up to determine whether “anything else needs to be done or not. Damion Easley replaced him at third base today.
Adam Dunn was ejected from Sunday’s game in the first inning for arguing balls and strikes. Dunn has hit a little better lately, but his long slump has obviously gotten to him. Dewayne Wise replaced him in left field against the Cubs.
Chipper Jones is starting at third base Sunday against the Rockies. Jones missed three starts due to a sore toe on his right foot.
Jason Bay, who had Saturday off because of a stomach virus, started Sunday and went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts. He maybe could have used one more day off. He will get one Monday since the Pirates are off.
Posted on September 25, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
September 25th - Standings and Statistics
Standings: 2ND - 85 points - 6.5 out of first Gained 1 points and 0 standings place since yesterday GOK! 91.5 / AARR / X 78 / Cover Zero 76 / SJ 74 HR AVG RBI R SB W ERA WHIP K'S S -- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ----- --- --- 251 .2802 956 933 144 97 4.13 1.366 1063 58 2ND 4TH 3RD 5TH 3RD 1ST 4TH 5TH 4TH 4TH --- --- - 1 --- --- --- --- + 2 --- --- BOX SCORE FOR 09.24 Atomic Roadrunners ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Prince Fielder Mil 1B 4 0 1 0 | 0 2 .274 Jeff Kent LAD 2B 4 0 0 0 | 0 1 .281 Jose Reyes NYM SS 3 0 1 0 | 1 1 .300 Mike Jacobs Fla 1B 1 1 1 2 | 0 0 .264 Willy Aybar Atl SS 1 0 1 0 | 0 0 .274 Moises Alou SF OF 4 1 1 0 | 0 0 .301 Dave Roberts SD OF 3 0 0 0 | 1 1 .293 Shane Victorino Phi OF 5 1 0 0 | 0 0 .280 Geoff Jenkins Mil OF 3 1 0 0 | 1 1 .265 Jason Bay Pit OF 4 0 0 0 | 0 2 .282 Chipper Jones Atl 3B 3 2 3 1 | 2 0 .323 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 35 6 8 3 | 5 8 .229 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: MJacobs 2(77), CJones 1(80) 2B: PFielder 1(34), MAlou 1(24), CJones 2(28) HR: MJacobs 1(20), CJones 1(24) SB: JReyes 2(60), DRoberts 1(43) PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Clay Hensley W(11-11) 6.0 7 1 1 0 0 9 24 1.50 1.17 Chuck James 5.0 7 6 6 2 0 3 25 10.80 1.80 Francisco Cordero S(22) 1.0 3 1 1 1 0 0 6 9.00 4.00 Aaron Harang W(15-11) 9.0 6 2 2 0 0 9 34 2.00 0.67 Hong-Chih Kuo 7.0 4 1 0 2 0 8 28 0.00 0.86 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 28.0 27 11 10 5 0 29117 3.21 1.14 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- RESERVE HITTING ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Adam Dunn Cin OF 1 0 0 0 | 0 1 .239 Carlos Quentin Ari OF 4 0 1 1 | 0 2 .253 Scott Thorman Atl 3B 2 0 1 0 | 0 0 .239 Alberto Callaspo Ari 2B 4 0 0 0 | 0 1 .265 Ryan Spilborghs Col OF 3 1 1 0 | 1 0 .282 Jeff Salazar Col OF 1 0 1 0 | 0 0 .306 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 15 1 4 1 | 1 4 .267 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: CQuentin 1(27) 2B: CQuentin 1(10), SThorman 1(11), RSpilborghs 1(6), JSalazar 1(3) RESERVE PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Dan Wheeler 1.0 1 0 0 0 0 2 4 0.00 1.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 1.0 1 0 0 0 0 2 4 0.00 1.00 ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted on September 24, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
Overnight Dispatches
Roy Oswalt, who left his last start with neck spasms, pitched seven innings and allowed three runs and nine hits Saturday against the Cardinals. Oswalt didn’t factor into the decision, but the Astros improved to 11-1 in his last 12 starts.
John Maine won on Saturday despite allowing four runs and walking five in five innings against the Nationals. Maine retired 11 of the first 12 hitters he faced, but after a two-out double in the fourth, he hit a batter and walked the next two, forcing in a run before Nook Logan popped out to end the inning. His struggles continued in a three-run fifth in which he walked two and hit another batter. It was probably the last start of the year for Maine, who should pitch out of the pen a couple of times next week in preparation for his probable postseason role.
Dan Wheeler blew a save Saturday against the Cardinals, but he got the win when the Astros came back in the bottom of the ninth. Wheeler gave up an RBI double to David Eckstein to tie the game at 4 in the top of the inning. The blown save probably won’t cause the Astros to shy away from using him over Brad Lidge in closing situations.
Shane Victorino broke out of a slump with four hits and three runs scored Saturday against the Marlins. Victorino hadn’t had a multihit game since Sept. 9, which uncoincidentally was the day on which he suffered a sprained wrist in a collision. He had been just 5-for-42 since that day.
Jose Reyes reached five times on Saturday, going 3-for-3 with three RBI and two walks. He also swiped his 58th base. It was looking like a lost week for Reyes because of the off days after the Mets clinched, but this will give his owners his lift. He hadn’t stolen a base in two weeks.
Johnny Estrada is frustrated with his lack of playing time since the Diamondbacks called up Miguel Montero. “I’m not happy about this at all,” Estrada said. “At this point, and I know this sounds bad, but I’d almost rather not play. Heck, let the kid (Montero) play. Let him get some games if that’s the direction they’re going to go in and those are going to be their guys next year.” Estrada is expected to be traded in the off season.
Carlos Quentin went 3-for-4 with a two-run homer and a walk as the Diamondbacks’ No. 8 hitter on Saturday. Fortunately for the Diamondbacks, Chris Young didn’t begin getting his additional playing time tonight. Quentin collected his first hits in a week and came through with just his third homer since the beginning of August. He’s batting .254 with eight homers in 142 at-bats as a major leaguer.
Chipper Jones returned to action as a pinch-hitter on Saturday and struck out against Jeremy Affeldt with the bases loaded. Jones missed his third straight start because of a sore toe. He might be back at third base on Sunday.
It’s not clear yet if Hong-Chih Kuo or Chad Billingsley will start for the Dodgers next Friday at San Francisco, according to the team’s official site. The most likely scenario is Kuo, but it could hinge on how effectively he pitches in today’s home finals with Arizona. Grady Little said Billingsley will be in the bullpen for the Colorado series which starts Tuesday, another indication that Kuo is the more likely starter in San Francisco. “We’ll see how it looks after we play Colorado,” Little said.
Jason Bay had to go to a hospital Saturday for intravenous fluids due help him deal with a stomach virus, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He missed that day’s game, and his status for today is uncertain.
Dave Roberts hasn’t played the last two nights, in part because the Padres have faced left-handed starters and in part because he’s batting just .197 in September. San Diego is expected to face right-handed opponents for the rest of the regular season, so Roberts will probably be used regularly for the final week.
Jeff Kent will probably start every game the rest of the way despite his sore oblique muscle, Grady Little told the AP. Those starts could be conditionally tied to the Dodgers staying in the playoff hunt, of course; Los Angeles enters today’s play a half-game out in the wild-card race, and 1.5 games behind San Diego in the division. The Dodgers play six road games next week, three at Colorado and three at San Francisco
Derek Lowe could get two starts next week if the Dodgers still are playing meaningful games on the weekend, according to the team’s official site. He’ll start Wednesday in Colorado, then be available Sunday at San Francisco, if needed. Entering today’s play the Dodgers are 1.5 games back in the NL West, and a half game out in the wild card standings.
Posted on September 24, 2006 by Andrew Flynn
September 24th - Standings and Statistics
Standings: 2ND - 84 points - 7 out of first Lost .5 points and 0 standings place since yesterday GOK! 91 / AARR / Cover Zero 77 / X 75 / SJ 74 HR AVG RBI R SB W ERA WHIP K'S S -- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ----- --- --- 249 .2805 953 927 141 95 4.15 1.370 1034 57 2ND 4TH 2ND 5TH 3RD 1ST 4TH 7TH 4TH 4TH --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- BOX SCORE FOR 09.23 Atomic Roadrunners ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Johnny Estrada Ari C 5 0 2 1 | 0 0 .306 Ronny Paulino Pit C 4 0 1 0 | 0 2 .312 Prince Fielder Mil 1B 4 1 0 0 | 0 1 .274 Jeff Kent LAD 2B 4 0 0 0 | 0 0 .284 Chad Tracy Ari 3B 4 1 0 0 | 0 1 .275 Jose Reyes NYM SS 3 1 3 3 | 2 0 .300 Mike Jacobs Fla 1B 3 3 2 0 | 1 0 .262 Willy Aybar Atl SS 4 1 2 1 | 1 1 .270 Moises Alou SF OF 5 2 3 2 | 0 1 .302 Shane Victorino Phi OF 5 3 4 0 | 0 0 .283 Geoff Jenkins Mil OF 0 0 0 0 | 0 0 .267 Chipper Jones Atl 3B 1 0 0 0 | 0 1 .318 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 42 12 17 7 | 4 7 .405 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: JEstrada 1(71), JReyes 3(80), WAybar 1(29), MAlou 2(72) 2B: JReyes 1(30), MJacobs 2(37), WAybar 1(17), MAlou 2(23) HR: MAlou 1(21) GIDP: JEstrada 1(17) SB: JReyes 1(58) ERRORS: MAlou 1(4) PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- John Maine W(6-5) 5.0 3 4 4 5 0 7 24 7.20 1.60 Francisco Cordero S(21) 1.0 0 0 0 1 0 1 4 0.00 1.00 Roy Oswalt 7.0 9 3 3 2 0 4 30 3.86 1.57 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 13.0 12 7 7 8 0 12 58 4.85 1.54 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- RESERVE HITTING ab r h bi | bb so avg --------------------------------------------------------- Adam Dunn Cin OF 4 1 2 0 | 0 1 .239 Carlos Quentin Ari OF 4 2 3 2 | 1 0 .254 Chris Iannetta Col C 3 1 1 0 | 1 1 .283 Alberto Callaspo Ari 2B 0 0 0 0 | 1 0 .300 Jeff Salazar Col OF 5 0 3 2 | 0 1 .286 --------------------------------------------------------- Totals 16 4 9 4 | 3 3 .562 --------------------------------------------------------- RBI: CQuentin 2(26), JSalazar 2(8) 2B: JSalazar 1(2) HR: CQuentin 1(8) SB: JSalazar 1(2) RESERVE PITCHING ip h r er bb ibb so bf era whip ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Dan Wheeler W(3-5)BS(3) 1.0 2 1 1 2 1 0 7 9.00 4.00 Jose Valverde 1.0 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 0.00 1.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Totals 2.0 3 1 1 2 1 0 11 4.50 2.50 ----------------------------------------------------------------------