Beyond the Boxscore–Fantasy MLB News and Notes 9/11/08
I would like to start out tonight by just having a short remembrance of the over 2,000 people who lost their lives needlessly on this fateful day seven years ago. While we have gotten no answers or retribution for the worst act in American history, what we can do is always remember this day. I really felt bad that this morning was the first time I didn’t watch the news on September 11th on any of the years that have since past. I don’t want to forget that morning ever. I remember my father waking me out of bed, not knowing truly what had happened yet. And the absolute sadness felt when you watched the two towers fall. You could hardly believe what you were watching, but you knew when those towers fell that the loss of life was going to be staggering. Nothing can ever replace the mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, children, etc that were lost that day, but if we can always keep them in our memory, then perhaps that will help those that lost a loved one. I know nothing can ever replace the hole that must be in their hearts, but hopefully someday they can get some closure. God Bless those who lost their lives, especially those who did so while trying to help the people who were trapped inside. The word hero has never been so relevant.
Somehow we transfer to baseball.
The season is really winding down now, so the only real thing to talk about are injuries and possible pickups at this point.
Brandon Phillips‘ season is over. The Reds 2B broke his finger on a bunt attempt, and immediately afterwards had a game winning hit. Unfortunately for me and other owners, it would be his last hit. Possible replacements could be Jose Lopez in Seattle, Blake DeWitt in Los Angeles, Clint Barmes in Colorado, Alexei Casilla in Minnesota.
Hurricane Ike may have an incredible impact on the fantasy playoffs. This weekend’s series between the Cubs and Astros is in serious jeopardy. The Friday and Saturday games have already been postponed, and Sunday isn’t looking great either. If you are in weekly leagues, this could crush you if you have Soto, Lee, Soriano, Berkman, etc. If you need to make a move to replace these guys, do it now. You already know they aren’t playing Friday or Saturday. Don’t lose your whole league now due to some weather. If this is the playoffs, it’s win now or go home. They are hoping to play a doubleheader Monday, but for some of you, it might be too late by then.
It is very, very possible that David Price will be called to the major leagues to make a start for the Ray s in the second game of a doubleheader on September 23rd. He might only get the two starts, but if your league is still going at that point, I would try to grab him. Keeper leagues, if I have to explain David Price to you, you don’t stand a chance.
Manny Ramirez has 40 RBI in 38 games for the Dodgers, and they have gone from eight games back to 2.5 games in front in the NL West. You think that trade was worth it for them? Ah, yeah.
Alex Gordon is set to return from the DL on Saturday after declaring himself ‘good to go.’ He could come back on Friday, but the Royals go against Cliff Lee, and Gordon’s stats are already disappointing enough, no sense adding to it.
George Sherrill is set to return to the closer’s role for the Orioles over the weekend. Sherrill has been one of the better surprises in baseball, and if you have him, get ready to plug him back in.
Taylor Teagarden is making a case for himself making the Rangers next season. He hasn’t been playing everyday since being called back on Sept. 1st, but he has a hit in every game he has played including three homers and seven RBI. With Salty apparently out of favor in Texas, perhaps Teagarden has a chance to grab the job from Gerald Laird next year.
If Denard Span is available in your league and you have anyone that is dragging you down, take a look at him and see if he might be able to help. He doesn’t accel at any category, but does a little bit of everything.
Shin-Soo Choo has also been hitting the snot out of the ball. He has seven multi-hit games over the last 10, and even showing some power. He certainly might be able to help you especially if you need some help in batting average.
Travis Hafner has returned to the Indians lineup, and if he was dropped in his long injury absence, definitely pick him up. He has three hits in his first two games back.
Dustin Nippert pitched well again, as he threw five shutout innings and struck out seven. He did walk four, but that is another impressive start for the youngster. He was always a fairly high rated prospect in Arizona, so there is a distinct possibility that this will continue. If you need pitching help, he could be your guy.
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