Livan Hernandez Wins Rotation Spot

March 20, 2009

The New York Mets optioned RHP Jon Niese to the minors today.  This move all but solidifies Livan Hernandez as the Mets’ fifth and final starter.  Coming into Spring Training, Hernandez, Niese and Freddy Garcia all were in competition for the spot. However, after lackluster performances by Garcia and Niese, Hernandez emerged as the clear winner.  

At this moment, Hernandez has no fantasy value, well unless of course you enjoy a mid 5.00 ERA and tons of walks, he should be left alone.  Even though he did not get an opportunity to start the regular season, do not forget about Niese.  Hernandez’s injury problems, age and sometimes inability to get batters out could leave the door open for the young right hander.  Expect a possible return to the Mets by the Mid-Summer Classic.

-Bobby Holt

Written by Bobby Holt · Filed Under Player News | 2 Comments 

Breaking News: Brett Gardner Upgraded to Sleeper Status

March 20, 2009

According to the New York Post, the Yankees intend to start the season with Brett Gardner in Centerfield.  If true, Gardner has the makings of a terrific sleeper and a cheap source of steals.  Read more

Written by Evan Rosen · Filed Under Player News | Leave a Comment 

Conquering the Autodraft: A Real Experiment in Fantasy.. (II)

March 20, 2009

Our first transactions of the season:

1. Dropped Fernando Rodney and picked up Chris Ray

2. Dropped Adam LaRoche and picked up Travis Hafner

3. Dropped Rick Ankiel and picked up Brandon Lyon

Analysis: I wanted Ramon Hernandez but he was taken off waivers before I could get him, so I will open with Matt Wieters but will miss a few weeks at least of productivity while the Orioles toy with the timing of his arrival based on contractual/financial logistics.  I think Hafner, if healthy, has a higher ceiling than LaRoche and should do nicely rebounding from surgery, but is a no lose pickup for now. I can always release him if he isn’t healthy. Lyon I needed since my only other closer is, gasp,  Brian Wilson. Lastly for the same reason I picked up Lyon I picked up Chris Ray. Neither are players I expect big things from but I sincerely hope they can at least notch a few saves and keep me competitive there for now.  My lineup is decent, offensively, now have to focus on improving an ailing, autodrafted pitching staff. Our present roster:

C. Matt Wieters

1B. Prince Fielder

2B. Kelly Johnson

SS. Troy Tulowitzki

3B. David Wright

OF. Curtis Granderson

OF. Corey Hart

OF. Shane Victorino

UT. Lance Berkman

 

SP. Cliff Lee

SP. Matt Cain

SP. John Lackey

SP. John Maine

SP. Brett Myers

SP. Clay Kershaw

SP. Andy Pettitte

RP. Chris Ray

RP. Brandon Lyon

RP. Brian Wilson

Bench – Hafner, Justin Upton

 

Stay tuned as the team evolves!…

Written by Russell Sandman · Filed Under Blog | 4 Comments