Pedro Martinez outdueled Tim Lincecum. No, you didn't read that wrong, Pedro Martinez outdueled Tim Lincecum. Martinez went seven innings and struck out nine while allowing just one run. He has been wildly inconsistent. Three of his starts Martinez has lasted five or more innings, and two of them he pitched only two or three innings. I still wouldn't trust him unless you are completely desperate for pitching or just trying to pick up a win or two. He is now 3-0 in five starts.
John Smoltz took his first loss as a Cardinal, but it wasn't that bad. He allowed four runs over six innings, walked none and struck out six. I would continue to start Smoltz if you have him, and wouldn't be too worried about this semi-poor outing.
Manny Parra continues to be the most unpredictable pitcher. After allowing five or more runs in three of his last four starts, Parra allowed just two runs over 6.2 innings and struck out five. Unless you are in a 16 team league, I don't think that you should be starting Parra.
Pat Misch made another quality start for the Mets, is it possible he could finish the season strong? He's 28 and had a career 0-8 record before his first career win today. The Mets have gotten David Wright back, and Carlos Beltran might not be far behind. Even with that, I wouldn't touch Pat Misch.
Clay Buchholz won his third straight decision on Thursday, and is now looking more comfortable in the major leagues. This is now five of his last six starts that he has allowed three runs or less. Of course, the other one in there he allowed seven runs. His strikeouts are lower than I expected them to be, but I believe they will come over time.
Michael Brantley was called up by the Indians and could be a guy who might help you down the stretch in steals. He had 28 steals at AA in 2008, but had racked up 46 steals this season before the callup. He stole his first major league base on Thursday, and there could be more where that comes from. I worry about his ability to get on base in the majors, but if he is able to get to first, he's probably not staying there.
B.J. Upton left the game today after a collision with Carl Crawford. He was on the ground for a few minutes, but was able to get up and walk off on his own power. X-rays were negative on his injured ankle, and he will likely miss a day or two. He has been a huge disappointment again with the batting average and power in 2009, but at least he has been stealing some bases.
Mariano Rivera doesn't have a return date from his sore groin, but given the Yankees solid hold on a playoff spot, don't be surprised if they take their sweet time bringing him back. He said he was fine after a workout on Thursday, but I wouldn't be surprised if he was out for the weekend. Phil Hughes would get the save chances while Rivera is out. This is probably not a big deal, but with a 6 game lead the Yankees would be crazy to bring him back before he is completely 100%.
Josh Hamilton has a pinched nerve in his back, the latest in his long list of injuries this season. He was given an injection to try to help with the inflammation. He is considered day to day, but will be joining the team on their road trip this weekend to see if he's able to play.
Brett Myers made his final rehab appearance on Wednesday, and could be back with the Phillies over the weekend. He will be used out of the bullpen, not as a starter. However, given the struggles of Brad Lidge and Ryan Madson trying to close games, can Myers get a chance down the stretch? He did save 21 games in 2007, so he has the experience. It might not happen, but it is a possibility.
Huston Street has been shut down with biceps tendonitis, a possible crushing blow to both the Rockies and fantasy owners. He has been shut down indefinitely. Street says he expects to be out for a few days, but no longer than a week. He apparently is going to try to play catch over the weekend. Franklin Morales saved the game for the Rockies and he could get some more over the next couple days. It doesn't seem like this will last long enough for it to be worth your while to make the move unless you are absolutely desperate for saves.
I am still taking fantasy baseball questions at fightingchancefantasy@gmail.com. Keepers, playoff rosters, etc. I still guarantee a response in 18 hours.
