Projo Fantasy Sports Blog

By Rob Steingall

These recommendations are only for the fantasy week July 7 to 13, unless otherwise suggested.

AMERICAN LEAGUE

Put 'em in

Nick Swisher, OF, White Sox: Clearly looking like he doesn't want a return to manager Ozzie Guillen's doghouse, the slugger has really turned it up recently at the dish, clubbing three home runs and driving in 10 runs over the last week. This was the kind of performance fantasy owners hoped for when he came to Chicago in an off-season deal for a handful of top prospects. He has the opportunity to feast on the Rangers' pitching staff this coming week.

Dana Eveland, SP, Athletics: Although he still struggles at times with control, Eveland has been brilliant over the past month -- posting a 2.97 E.R.A. and two victories. He faces the Angels and the dismal Mariners this week, both at home, where he is 4-2 with a 2.84 E.R.A. He's looking more and more like another Billy Beane steal with each trip he takes to the mound.

Bench 'em

Melky Cabrera, OF, Yankees: Now in a full downward spiral, the "Melkman" has gotten two hits over his last 23 at-bats, and has produced zero runs during that span. The Yankees just called up punchless speedster Brett Gardner from Triple A, and he could soon be roaming center field if he gets off to a hot start. Rumors have swirled that Cabrera could be dealt in the Yankees hunt for a starting pitcher, but his trade value has taken a significant hit after a hot start to the season.

Jesse Litsch, SP, Blue Jays: He's been great this year for the Jays, but faces a tough task this week, getting only one start at home against the mighty Yankees offense. In his last start against the Bombers, he went 5 1/3 innings, giving up 10 hits and four earned runs. His E.R.A. over the past month is 4.58, suggesting that he's finally in need of a period of adjustment after his early season success.

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Put 'em in

J.J. Hardy, SS, Brewers: After finding his way on many league waiver wire following a sluggish start to the season, the Brewers shortstop has three home runs and seven runs batted in during the past week. He also entered the holiday weekend riding a 13-game hitting streak. Get him back on your radar in mixed leagues if you're looking to upgrade your middle-infield slot.

Ricky Nolasco, SP, Marlins: One of the hottest pitchers in the majors currently, he's 4-0 with a 3.19 E.R.A. over the past month. Even more impressive, he's won eight of his last nine decisions. He'll look to improve on that streak this week with starts against the struggling Padres and Dodgers.

Bench 'em

Nate McLouth, OF, Pirates: Those who said he'd come back down to earth following his scorching start are feeling very good about themselves, evident by a 4-for-23 slump over the last week. He's been nursing a painful bruised left kneecap recently, possibly contributing to his lack of production. Remember though, he has a career batting average of .259. Sell if you still can.

Randy Johnson, SP, Diamondbacks: The wheels look to be completely off the wagon with losses in his last six starts and a 7.94 E.R.A. over the past month. Those hideous numbers alone should scare off even the most diehard supporters. He is 12 wins shy of 300, but will be better off chasing that dream while on your league waiver wire.

 Tags  Dana Eveland J.J. Hardy Jesse Litsch Melky Cabrera Nate McLouth Nick Swisher Randy Johnson Ricky Nolasco Rob Steingall Weekly planner

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