Projo Fantasy Sports Blog

By David Ferris

We've seen some big deals go down in the majors the last week or so (so long, CC; drop a line sometime, Rich), but in the fantasy world, franchise players come and go on a daily basis. Here's a look inside our current scouting notebook, focusing on the Junior Circuit.

Pitchers

BUY

Francisco Liriano, SP, Twins: His return can't be too far away - he's working on 20 straight scoreless innings in Triple-A, with 24 strikeouts. There's no reason why he can't be one of the AL's 10 best starters in the second half of the year, especially with CC Sabathia and Rich Harden out of the picture. If someone flaked on Liriano in your league, run to the waiver wire right now.

Sean Gallagher, SP, Athletics: The 22-year-old righty had some good days and some bad days with the Cubs, but don't look past his legit stuff (49 strikeouts in 58.2 innings). A bigger park, less pressure and a league that hasn't seen him yet, sounds like a good deal to us. Get that FAAB wallet ready for a bid.

SELL

R.A. Dickey, SP, Mariners: He's on a good run over his last four starts (26.1 innings, four runs), and knuckleballers are always fun to have around in theory, but can Dickey continue to get this lucky on balls in play? He's carrying 15 strikeouts against 12 walks over this span, which has to make you a little nervous. And when the knuckleball occasionally doesn't knuckle, balls fly over distant fences. Get out while the getting's good.

HOLD

A.J. Burnett, SP, Blue Jays: Toronto figures to shift into a seller mode soon - the Jays lost Vernon Wells and Dustin McGowan this week - and Burnett is a power righty who could ring up ridiculous strikeout totals if he's shipped back to the NL. Mind you there's plenty of assumed risk that comes with Burnett and his physical history, but if you're not afraid to swing for the fences, there's a major upside here - especially if Burnett is moved far away from the rough-and-tumble AL East.

Batters

BUY

Juan Rivera, OF, Angels: He's back and swinging a mean bat (four hits and a homer in Arlington), while Gary Matthews and his bloated contract are relegated to the bench. Give Mike Scioscia credit for tinkering with a first-place lineup, and give Rivera a look if you're looking for some pop from the back of your outfield. He was a $15-20 stick just a couple of years back.

SELL

Edgar Renteria, SS, Tigers: He's no longer a factor on the bases (three steals), he's slugging under .300 since May 1, and he's hitting all of .254. Can you say "declining bat speed?" Better yet, can you say "do you need a shortstop?" to one of your unwitting opponents. Being in the AL doesn't automatically help everyone - keep in mind Renteria struggled for most of his one season in Boston. Now, he's clearly in the decline years, coming up on his 33rd birthday.

HOLD

Jeff Mathis, C, Angels: He's not going to help your average much and no one behind the backstop in Anaheim seems capable of throwing anyone out, but Mathis can offer a couple of things to you: power (he's gone deep six times in 147 at-bats) and playing time (he's needed on a nightly basis now that Mike Napoli has hit the DL).

By David Ferris

All rankings assume 5x5 format (average, runs, homers, RBIs, stolen bases).

* = check status

Last Update: 7/1
Next Update: 7/8

First Base/DH

1. Lance Berkman, Astros
2. Mark Teixeira, Braves
3. Adrian Gonzalez, Padres
4. Prince Fielder, Brewers
5. *Miguel Cabrera, Tigers
6. Ryan Howard, Phillies
7. *Albert Pujols, Cardinals
8. Derrek Lee, Cubs
9. Justin Morneau, Twins
10. Carlos Guillen, Tigers
11. Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox
12. *David Ortiz, Red Sox
13. Conor Jackson, Diamondbacks
14. Jason Giambi, Yankees
NOTE: Comeback Player of the Year?
14. Mike Jacobs, Marlins
15. James Loney, Dodgers
17. Aubrey Huff, Orioles
18. Adam LaRoche, Pirates
NOTE: Here comes the summer push.
19. Joey Votto, Reds
20. *Carlos Pena, Rays
21. Ryan Garko, Indians
22. Carlos Delgado, Mets
23. *Travis Hafner, Indians
24. Jim Thome, White Sox
25. Casey Kotchman, Angels
26. *Paul Konerko, White Sox
27. Todd Helton, Rockies
NOTE: Declining vet has been overrated for a while.
28. Kevin Millar, Orioles

Second Base
1. Chase Utley, Phillies
2. Ian Kinsler, Rangers
NOTE: Most unheralded infield stud in league.
3. Brian Roberts, Orioles
4. Brandon Phillips, Reds
5. Dan Uggla, Marlins
6. Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox
7. Robinson Cano, Yankees
8. Placido Polanco, Tigers
9. Rickie Weeks, Brewers
10. Kelly Johnson, Braves
11. Howie Kendrick, Angels
12. Alexei Casilla, Twins
NOTE: Hitting well and the bags will come.
13. Orlando Hudson, Diamondbacks
14. Mark Ellis, Athletics
15. Mark DeRosa, Cubs
NOTE: Underrated part of NL's best lineup.
16. *Kaz Matsui, Astros
19. Freddy Sanchez, Pirates
20. Jeff Kent, Dodgers
21. Luis Castillo, Mets
22. Alexei Ramirez, White Sox
23. *Aaron Hill, Blue Jays
24. Jose Lopez, Mariners
25. Felipe Lopez, Nationals
26. Clint Barmes, Rockies
27. Mark Grudzielanek, Royals
28. Jamie Carroll, Indians
29. Brendan Harris, Twins
30. Jeff Baker, Rockies
31. Adam Kennedy, Cardinals

Shortstop
1. Hanley Ramirez, Marlins
2. Jimmy Rollins, Phillies
3. Jose Reyes, Mets
4. Michael Young, Rangers
5. Derek Jeter, Yankees
6. Miguel Tejada, Astros
7. Yunel Escobar, Braves
8. Ryan Theriot, Cubs
9. *Rafael Furcal, Dodgers
10. Orlando Cabrera, White Sox
11. Stephen Drew, Diamondbacks
12. Jhonny Peralta, Indians
13. Jason Bartlett, Rays
14. Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies
15. Edgar Renteria, Tigers
NOTE: Hasn't looked right most of season.
16. Jerry Hairston, Reds
NOTE: They'll find room for this Swiss Army Knife.
17. Cristian Guzman, Nationals
18. Julio Lugo, Red Sox
19. J.J. Hardy, Brewers
20. *Bobby Crosby, Athletics
21. Jeff Keppinger, Reds
22. Khalil Greene, Padres
23. Yuniesky Betancourt, Mariners
24. Erick Aybar, Angels
25. Alfredo Amezaga, Marlins
26. Omar Vizquel, Giants
27. Jack Wilson, Pirates
28. Cesar Izturis, Cardinals
29. David Eckstein, Blue Jays

Third Base
1. Alex Rodriguez, Yankees
2. David Wright, Mets
3. Ryan Braun, Brewers
4. *Aramis Ramirez, Cubs
5. Garrett Atkins, Rockies
6. Mike Lowell, Red Sox
7. Evan Longoria, Rays
NOTE: You might see 15-18 more homers.
8. Alex Gordon, Royals
9. *Chone Figgins, Angels
10. Joe Crede, White Sox
11. Jorge Cantu, Marlins
12. *Chipper Jones, Braves
NOTE: Can't be surprised when injuries hit here.
13. Kevin Kouzmanoff, Padres
14. *Edwin Encarnacion, Reds
15. Adrian Beltre, Mariners
16. Akinori Iwamura, Rays
17. Ty Wigginton, Astros
18. Mark Reynolds, Diamondbacks
NOTE: Lots of Ks, but power is legit.
19. Scott Rolen, Blue Jays
20. Blake DeWitt, Dodgers
21. Chad Tracy, Diamondbacks
22. Troy Glaus, Cardinals
23. Melvin Mora, Orioles
24. Jose Castillo, Giants
25. Eric Chavez, Athletics
26. Pedro Feliz, Phillies
27. *Ryan Zimmerman, Nationals
28. *Hank Blalock, Rangers

Outfield
1. Grady Sizemore, Indians
2. Josh Hamilton, Rangers
3. Carl Crawford, Rays
4. Matt Holliday, Rockies
5. Vladimir Guerrero, Angels
6. Carlos Lee, Astros
7. Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners
8. Nick Markakis, Orioles
9. Manny Ramirez, Red Sox
10. B.J. Upton, Rays
11. Carlos Quentin, White Sox
NOTE: Talk about highway robbery; D-Backs botched this deal.
12. Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox
13. *Alfonso Soriano, Cubs
14. Carlos Beltran, Mets
15. Curtis Granderson, Tigers
16. Adam Dunn, Reds
17. Milton Bradley, Rangers
18. Torii Hunter, Angels
19. Corey Hart, Brewers
20. Bobby Abreu, Yankees
21. Jay Bruce, Reds
22. Hunter Pence, Astros
23. Jason Bay, Pirates
24. Vernon Wells, Blue Jays
25. Nate McLouth, Pirates
NOTE: Correction came in June but don't overreact.
26. Michael Bourn, Astros
27. Johnny Damon, Yankees
28. Jermaine Dye, White Sox
29. Jose Guillen, Royals
30. *Magglio Ordonez, Tigers
NOTE: Is there anyone who *didn't* get hurt last week?
31. Alex Rios, Blue Jays
32. Matt Kemp, Dodgers
33. Chris Young, Diamondbacks
34. Carlos Gomez, Twins
35. Shane Victorino, Phillies
36. Ryan Ludwick, Cardinals
37. Randy Winn, Giants
38. *Juan Pierre, Dodgers
NOTE: If his legs are hurt, say goodnight.
39. Pat Burrell, Phillies
40. Kosuke Fukudome, Cubs
41. Jeremy Hermida, Marlins
42. Rick Ankiel, Cardinals
43. Nick Swisher, White Sox
44. Elijah Dukes, Nationals
NOTE: I guess this is growing up.
45. Brad Hawpe, Rockies
46. Jeff Francoeur, Braves
47. Aaron Rowand, Giants
48. Xavier Nady, Pirates
49. *Hideki Matsui, Yankees
50. Josh Willingham, Marlins
NOTE: Cranky back but looked good Monday (2 HR).
51. Chase Headley, Padres
52. J.D. Drew, Red Sox
53. Luke Scott, Orioles
54. Ken Griffey, Reds
55. Skip Schumaker, Cardinals
NOTE: Plucky and useful.
56. *Michael Cuddyer, Twins
57. Mike Cameron, Brewers
58. Justin Upton, Diamondbacks
59. Raul Ibanez, Mariners
NOTE: The decline starts to set in.
60. Willy Taveras, Rockies
61. Coco Crisp, Red Sox
62. Bill Hall, Brewers
63. Melky Cabrera, Yankees
64. Jack Cust, Athletics
65. Mark Teahen, Royals
66. Adam Jones, Orioles
67. *Lastings Milledge, Nationals
68. David Murphy, Rangers
69. Gary Matthews, Angels
70. Ben Francisco, Indians
71. Brian Giles, Padres
72. Garret Anderson, Angels
73. *David DeJesus, Royals
74. Jason Kubel, Twins
75. Andre Ethier, Dodgers
76. Delmon Young, Twins
77. Joey Gathright, Royals
78. Eric Hinske, Rays
79. Brian Giles, Padres
80. Jim Edmonds, Cubs
81. Fred Lewis, Giants
82. Gregor Blanco, Braves
83. Jody Gerut, Padres
84. *Ryan Church, Mets
85. Chris Duncan, Cardinals
86. Jonny Gomes, Rays
87. Frank Catalanotto, Rangers
88. Cody Ross, Marlins
89. *Eric Byrnes, Diamondbacks
90. Shin-Soo Choo, Indians
91. *Rocco Baldelli, Rays
92. Jayson Werth, Phillies
93. Geoff Jenkins, Phillies
94. Marlon Byrd, Rangers
95. Brad Wilkerson, Blue Jays
96. *Reed Johnson, Cubs
97. Endy Chavez, Mets
98. Austin Kearns, Nationals
99. John Bowker, Giants
100. Brandon Boggs, Rangers
101. *Andruw Jones, Dodgers

Catcher
1. Russell Martin, Dodgers
2. Brian McCann, Braves
3. Jorge Posada, Yankees
4. Joe Mauer, Twins
5. Geovany Soto, Cubs
6. Ryan Doumit, Pirates
7. Bengie Molina, Giants
8. Dioner Navarro, Rays
9. A.J. Pierzynski, White Sox
NOTE: Chemistry doesn't exist in fantasy baseball.
10. Chris Snyder, Diamondbacks
11. *Yadier Molina, Cardinals
12. Jason Varitek, Red Sox
13. Ivan Rodriguez, Tigers
14. Kurt Suzuki, Athletics
15. *Victor Martinez, Indians
16. Mike Napoli, Angels
17. Chris Iannetta, Rockies
18. Jesus Flores, Nationals
19. Jarrod Saltamacchia, Rangers
20. Jeff Clement, Mariners
21. Kenji Johjima, Mariners
NOTE: Another part of Seattle train wreck.
22. Rod Barajas, Blue Jays
23. Carlos Ruiz, Phillies
24. Ramon Hernandez, Orioles
25. Paul Bako, Reds
26. Miguel Olivo, Royals
27. *Gerald Laird, Rangers
28. Jeff Mathis, Angels
29. John Buck, Royals
30. Jason Kendall, Brewers
31. *Brandon Inge, Tigers

By David Ferris

All rankings assume 5x5 format (wins, saves, strikeouts, ERA, ratio).

* = check status

Last Update: 7/1
Next Update: 7/8

Starting Pitchers

1. Johan Santana, Mets
NOTE: Default rank, but he hasn't dominated.
2. Jake Peavy, Padres
3. Tim Lincecum, Giants
4. Cole Hamels, Phillies
5. Brandon Webb, Diamondbacks
6. Scott Kazmir, Rays
7. Edinson Volquez, Reds
8. John Lackey, Angels
NOTE: Letter perfect since his return.
9. C.C. Sabathia, Indians
10. Roy Halladay, Blue Jays
NOTE: Most underrated ace in the league.
11. Josh Beckett, Red Sox
12. Dan Haren, Diamondbacks
13. James Shields, Rays
14. Justin Verlander, Tigers
15. *Carlos Zambrano, Cubs
16. Daisuke Matsuzaka, Red Sox
17. Tim Hudson, Braves
18. Cliff Lee, Indians
19. Javier Vazquez, White Sox
20. Dustin McGowan, Blue Jays
21. Justin Duchscherer, Athletics
22. Chad Billingsley, Dodgers
23. Ted Lilly, Cubs
24. Joba Chamberlain, Yankees
NOTE: Can't deny the rank now.
25. Ryan Dempster, Cubs
26. Matt Cain, Giants
27. *Roy Oswalt, Astros
28. Ben Sheets, Brewers
29. Erik Bedard, Mariners
30. Ervin Santana, Angels
31. Derek Lowe, Dodgers
32. Jered Weaver, Angels
33. Matt Garza, Rays
NOTE: Ceiling remains very high.
34. *Felix Hernandez, Mariners
NOTE: One step forward, two steps back.
34. Aaron Harang, Reds
35. Rich Harden, Athletics
37. John Maine, Mets
38. *Adam Wainwright, Cardinals
NOTE: Looking for return in July.
39. John Danks, White Sox
40. Pedro Martinez, Mets
41. Joe Saunders, Angels
42. Jeremy Guthrie, Orioles
NOTE: Quality start machine, hasn't been supported.
43. Jon Lester, Red Sox
44. A.J. Burnett, Blue Jays
45. Kevin Slowey, Twins
NOTE: Radke 2.0, but with higher upside.
46. *Chris Young, Padres
47. *Francisco Liriano, Twins
48. Jonathan Sanchez, Giants
49. Gil Meche, Royals
50. Manny Parra, Brewers
51. Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers
NOTE: Still hasn't won a game.
52. Zack Greinke, Royals
53. Scott Baker, Twins
54. Ricky Nolasco, Marlins
NOTE: Been a factor since early May.
55. *Fausto Carmona, Indians
56. Mike Mussina, Yankees
57. Gavin Floyd, White Sox
58. Jair Jurrjens, Braves
59. Randy Wolf, Padres
60. Kyle Lohse, Cardinals
61. Dana Eveland, Athletics
NOTE: More confident and results show it.
62. Wandy Rodriguez, Astros
63. Randy Johnson, Diamondbacks
64. Mark Buehrle, White Sox
65. *Shaun Marcum, Blue Jays
66. Bronson Arroyo, Reds
67. Andy Pettitte, Yankees
68. Vicente Padilla, Rangers
69. Scott Olsen, Marlins
70. Paul Maholm, Pirates
NOTE: Not an ace but a nice back-fill.
71. Micah Owings, Diamondbacks
72. Justin Masterson, Red Sox
73. Jose Contreras, White Sox
74. Darrell Rasner, Yankees
NOTE: Is league catching up to him?
75. Jo-Jo Reyes, Braves
76. Andrew Miller, Marlins
77. Aaron Cook, Rockies
78. Armando Galarraga, Tigers
NOTE: See Darrell Rasner.
79. Aaron Laffey, Indians
80. Greg Smith, Athletics
81. Tim Wakefield, Red Sox
82. Jesse Litsch, Blue Jays
83. Nick Blackburn, Twins
84. Jon Garland, Angels
85. Johnny Cueto, Reds
86. Joe Blanton, Athletics
87. Hiroki Kuroda, Dodgers
88. *Clay Buchholz, Red Sox
89. Jeff Francis, Rockies
90. *Todd Wellemeyer, Cardinals
91. Brian Bannister, Royals
92. Greg Maddux, Padres
93. Jeff Suppan, Brewers
94. Jamie Moyer, Phillies
95. Tim Redding, Senators
96. Jorge Campillo, Braves
97. Andy Sonnanstine, Rays
98. *Phil Hughes, Yankees
99. *Brad Penny, Dodgers
100. Kenny Rogers, Tigers
101. Luke Hochevar, Royals
102. Garrett Olson, Orioles
103. *Josh Johnson, Marlins
NOTE: Sleeper looking strong in rehab starts.
104. John Lannan, Nationals
105. Shawn Hill, Senators
106. Daniel Cabrera, Orioles
107. Jason Bergmann, Senators
108. Kevin Correia, Giants
NOTE: Worth a look in deep leagues.
109. *Rich Hill, Cubs
110. Kyle Kendrick, Phillies
111. *Ian Snell, Pirates
112. Edwin Jackson, Rays
113. Ubaldo Jimenez, Rockies
114. Odalis Perez, Senators
115. *Chien-Ming Wang, Yankees
116. Oliver Perez, Mets
117. Livan Hernandez, Twins
118. Braden Looper, Cardinals
119. *Homer Bailey, Reds
120. Nate Robertson, Tigers
121. Tom Gorzelanny, Pirates
122. Paul Byrd, Indians
123. *Bartolo Colon, Red Sox
124. Miguel Batista, Mariners
125. Barry Zito, Giants
126. Jarrod Washburn, Mariners
NOTE: It just hasn't been Seattle's year.

Relief Pitchers

1. Francisco Rodriguez, Angels
2. Jonathan Papelbon, Red Sox
3. Joe Nathan, Twins
4. Billy Wagner, Mets
5. Bobby Jenks, White Sox
6. Takashi Saito, Dodgers
7. Mariano Rivera, Yankees
8. Kerry Wood, Cubs
9. Brad Lidge, Phillies
10. Joakim Soria, Royals
11. Matt Capps, Pirates
12. Francisco Cordero, Reds
13. Kevin Gregg, Marlins
14. Jose Valverde, Astros
15. Brian Wilson, Giants
NOTE: Not ideal command but his stuff jumps.
16. George Sherrill, Orioles
17. Huston Street, Athletics
18. B.J. Ryan, Blue Jays
19. Brandon Lyon, Diamondbacks
20. Todd Jones, Tigers
21. Jon Rauch, Senators
NOTE: Extra job security with Cordero done.
22. *Troy Percival, Rays
NOTE: Beware the hamstring, and go get Wheeler.
23. Joe Borowski, Indians
24. Trevor Hoffman, Padres
25. *J.J. Putz, Mariners
26. Salomon Torres, Brewers
NOTE: Gagne isn't getting job back.
27. Ryan Franklin, Cardinals
NOTE: Shelf life extended with Izzy nicked.
28. C.J. Wilson, Rangers
29. Mike Gonzalez, Braves
30. Brian Fuentes, Rockies
NOTE: Scuffling as the team tries to move him.
31. Taylor Buchholz, Rockies
32. Carlos Marmol, Cubs
33. *Brandon Morrow, Mariners
34. Dan Wheeler, Rays
35. Hong-Chih Kuo, Dodgers
NOTE: Piling up strikeouts, worth 5x5 consideration.
36. Jonathan Broxton, Dodgers
37. Heath Bell, Padres
38. Joel Zumaya, Tigers
39. Scot Shields, Angels
40. Blaine Boyer, Braves
41. *Eric Gagne, Brewers
42. *Rafael Soriano, Braves
43. Chad Qualls, Diamondbacks
44. Chris Perez, Cardinals
45. Masa Kobayashi, Indians
46. Manuel Corpas, Rockies
47. Hideki Okajima, Red Sox
48. Santiago Casilla, Athletics
49. J.P. Howell, Rays
50. Octavio Dotel, White Sox
51. *Jason Isringhausen, Cardinals
52. Scott Downs, Blue Jays
53. Doug Brocail, Astros
54. Renyel Pinto, Marlins
NOTE: More important with Lindstrom demoted.
55. Joaquin Benoit, Rangers
56. Scott Linebrink, White Sox
57. Keith Foulke, Athletics
58. Tony Pena, Diamondbacks
59. John Grabow, Pirates
60. *Eddie Guardado, Rangers
61. Alex Hinshaw, Giants
62. Manny Acosta, Braves
63. Tom Gordon, Phillies
64. Edwar Ramirez, Yankees
65. Jesse Carlson, Blue Jays
66. Bob Howry, Cubs
67. Arthur Rhodes, Mariners
68. Rafael Betancourt, Indians
69. *Chad Cordero, Senators
NOTE: Out for season, and part of 2009.

By David Ferris

Batting average is still the first stat they flash at you on TV and at the park, but we get a much fuller fantasy perspective when we consider the entire line, left to right. Let's lift the hood on some Senior Circuit guys and see who's coming and going in this week's version of the player swap.

Hitters

BUY

Rickie Weeks, 2B, Brewers: Batting-average risk can be a silent killer - OK, there's nothing silent about a guy hitting .217. But don't lose sight of what Weeks can do: 45 runs (in just 63 games), seven homers, 11 steals, 32 walks. Weeks got his leadoff spot back the moment he came off the disabled list, and if he can find a way to stay healthy over the balance of the year, we're still looking at 100-plus runs and a possible 20-30 finish.

SELL

Jeff Francoeur, OF, Braves: He's always had a see-the-ball, hit-the-ball approach, but with 46 strikeouts over 52 games, you have to wonder what else is at play here. Frenchy generally owns lefties, but it's been missing this year, and even his gap power has taken a holiday over the last two months. Is there a physical problem they're not telling us about? The club fitted Francoeur for a special contact lens a few days ago; his .210 average in night games was the trigger for that.

Jeff Baker, Utility, Rockies: He had a nice run in June while others were hurt (.358, five homers), but let's not lose sight of what Baker is -- a free-swinging journeyman with a .264 career average (on the Rockies, no less). His spotty glove isn't going to win him any time, either; in mixed leagues, you need to aim for a higher upside, especially with the Colorado infield now at full strength.

Ty Wigginton, 3B, Astros: He's a multi-position guy in most leagues and there's nothing wrong with his batting eye (20 walks against 27 strikeouts through 151 at-bats), but where's the pop? With just three extra-base hits in June and a puny .389 slugging percentage, it's fair to wonder if Wigginton is completely healed from the finger and rib injuries that dogged him in May.

HOLD

Yadier Molina, C, Cardinals: He's not going to win any titles for you on his own, but in the watered-down fantasy world behind the plate, let's not dismiss the worth of a serviceable option. Molina's line over the last year and a half supports the profile of a solid hitter (he's got 20 walks against 10 strikeouts this year), and he'll play enough to collect 8-10 homers and 50-60 RBIs. If you need a pair of backstops, here's your perfect No. 2, and someone you can make a small profit on.

Pitchers

BUY

Taylor Buchholz, RP, Rockies: There's a new Brian Fuentes rumor served daily with your morning coffee, and with Colorado mired in the NL West basement, a summer yard sale is possible. Buchholz is clearly the No. 2 guy in the bullpen these days, posting a nasty 1.40 E.R.A. and 0.75 ratio, and he's got enough stuff to handle the ninth inning (29 strikeouts against nine walks over 38.2 innings). Add it all up and here's the best saves-speculation play in the NL right now.

SELL

Aaron Harang, SP, Reds: He's always had issues with gopheritis, but the problems run much deeper in 2008 -- strikeout rate is dropping, ground-ball rate is diminished, line-drive rate is up. Harang has the build and the mind-set of a true No. 1 horse, but perhaps the wear and tear of the last three years (677 innings) has caught up to him. Wait for one solid outing, then write your sell ticket.

HOLD

Dan Haren, SP, Diamondbacks: So much for the home park worries -- Haren's numbers have been outstanding in the desert, and they're not bad on the road, either (his 3.89 E.R.A. out of Arizona is more unlucky than real; check that snappy 1.02 ratio). With 89 strikeouts against just 17 walks and a dominant profile against both righties and lefties, you can argue that Haren has been the true Snake ace this year, not Brandon Webb.

By David Ferris

All rankings assume 5x5 format (wins, saves, strikeouts, ERA, ratio).

* = check status

Last Update: 6/24
Next Update: 7/1

Starting Pitchers
1. Johan Santana, Mets
2. Jake Peavy, Padres
3. Cole Hamels, Phillies
4. Brandon Webb, Diamondbacks
5. Tim Lincecum, Giants
6. Scott Kazmir, Rays
7. Edinson Volquez, Reds
NOTE: Ground balls good; walks worrisome.
8. C.C. Sabathia, Indians
9. John Lackey, Angels
NOTE: Hasn't missed a beat since return.
10. Roy Halladay, Blue Jays
11. Josh Beckett, Red Sox
12. Dan Haren, Diamondbacks
13. James Shields, Rays
14. *Carlos Zambrano, Cubs
15. Justin Verlander, Tigers
16. Javier Vazquez, White Sox
17. Daisuke Matsuzaka, Red Sox
18. Tim Hudson, Braves
19. *Felix Hernandez, Mariners
20. Cliff Lee, Indians
NOTE: Three months equals street cred.
21. Dustin McGowan, Blue Jays
22. Ryan Dempster, Cubs
23. Roy Oswalt, Astros
24. Chad Billingsley, Dodgers
25. Ted Lilly, Cubs
26. Matt Cain, Giants
NOTE: Learning how to put hitters away.
27. Ben Sheets, Brewers
28. *Erik Bedard, Mariners
29. Pedro Martinez, Mets
30. Justin Duchscherer, Athletics
31. John Maine, Mets
32. Ervin Santana, Angels
33. Derek Lowe, Dodgers
34. Aaron Harang, Reds
35. *Adam Wainwright, Cardinals
36. Rich Harden, Athletics
37. Joe Saunders, Angels
38. Jeremy Guthrie, Orioles
NOTE: Ignore the win count, he's rock solid.
39. Matt Garza, Rays
40. John Danks, White Sox
41. Joba Chamberlain, Yankees
42. Jered Weaver, Angels
43. Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers
44. *Francisco Liriano, Twins
45. Jon Lester, Red Sox
NOTE: Ideal keeper-league target.
46. A.J. Burnett, Blue Jays
47. *Fausto Carmona, Indians
48. *Chris Young, Padres
49. Joe Blanton, Athletics
50. Gil Meche, Royals
51. *Shaun Marcum, Blue Jays
52. Zack Greinke, Royals
53. Randy Johnson, Diamondbacks
54. Mike Mussina, Yankees
55. Manny Parra, Brewers
NOTE: Once he sharpens command, look out.
56. Darrell Rasner, Yankees
57. Scott Baker, Twins
58. Randy Wolf, Padres
59. Gavin Floyd, White Sox
60. Ricky Nolasco, Marlins
61. Kevin Slowey, Twins
62. Jonathan Sanchez, Giants
63. Jair Jurrjens, Braves
64. Bronson Arroyo, Reds
65. Micah Owings, Diamondbacks
66. Mark Buehrle, White Sox
67. Kyle Lohse, Cardinals
68. Justin Masterson, Red Sox
69. Dana Eveland, Athletics
70. Andy Pettitte, Yankees
71. Wandy Rodriguez, Astros
72. Vicente Padilla, Rangers
73. Scott Olsen, Marlins
74. Paul Maholm, Pirates
75. Oliver Perez, Mets
76. Jose Contreras, White Sox
77. Jo-Jo Reyes, Braves
78. Jesse Litsch, Blue Jays
NOTE: Pitch-to-contact guys often crash hard.
79. Brian Bannister, Royals
80. Armando Galarraga, Tigers
81. Andrew Miller, Marlins
82. Aaron Laffey, Indians
83. Aaron Cook, Rockies
84. Nick Blackburn, Twins
85. Jorge Campillo, Braves
86. Jon Garland, Angels
87. Johnny Cueto, Reds
88. Jeff Suppan, Brewers
89. Jeff Francis, Rockies
90. Hiroki Kuroda, Dodgers
91. Greg Maddux, Padres
92. Jamie Moyer, Phillies
NOTE: Will make a great coach some day.
93. Andy Sonnanstine, Rays
94. *Phil Hughes, Yankees
95. *Clay Buchholz, Red Sox
96. *Brad Penny, Dodgers
97. Shawn Hill, Senators
98. Kenny Rogers, Tigers
99. Greg Smith, Athletics
100. Garrett Olson, Orioles
101. Daniel Cabrera, Orioles
102. *Todd Wellemeyer, Cardinals
103. *Rich Hill, Cubs
104. Brett Myers, Phillies
NOTE: Puzzling slump; you can't trust right now.
105. *Josh Johnson, Marlins
106. *Ian Snell, Pirates
NOTE: Drop him in a mixer.
107. Ubaldo Jimenez, Rockies
108. Tim Wakefield, Red Sox
109. Tim Redding, Senators
110. Odalis Perez, Senators
111. Luke Hochevar, Royals
112. John Lannan, Nationals
113. Jason Bergmann, Senators
NOTE: Component numbers might equal 2009 breakout.
114. Edwin Jackson, Rays
115. *Homer Bailey, Reds
116. *Chien-Ming Wang, Yankees
117. Livan Hernandez, Twins
118. Kyle Kendrick, Phillies
119. Kevin Correia, Giants
120. Braden Looper, Cardinals
121. *Bartolo Colon, Red Sox
122. Shawn Chacon, Astros
123. Nate Robertson, Tigers
124. Miguel Batista, Mariners
125. Tom Gorzelanny, Pirates
126. Paul Byrd, Indians
127. Barry Zito, Giants
128. Jarrod Washburn, Mariners

Relief Pitchers
1. Francisco Rodriguez, Angels
2. Jonathan Papelbon, Red Sox
3. Joe Nathan, Twins
NOTE: Best closer no one crows about.
4. Billy Wagner, Mets
5. Bobby Jenks, White Sox
6. Takashi Saito, Dodgers
7. Mariano Rivera, Yankees
8. Kerry Wood, Cubs
9. Brad Lidge, Phillies
10. Joakim Soria, Royals
11. Jose Valverde, Astros
12. Matt Capps, Pirates
NOTE: Losing club can still support 40 saves.
13. Francisco Cordero, Reds
14. Kevin Gregg, Marlins
15. Brian Wilson, Giants
16. Troy Percival, Rays
17. George Sherrill, Orioles
NOTE: See Matt Capps.
18. Brandon Lyon, Diamondbacks
19. B.J. Ryan, Blue Jays
20. Huston Street, Athletics
21. Todd Jones, Tigers
22. Joe Borowski, Indians
NOTE: Worst bullpen east of Texas.
23. Jon Rauch, Senators
24. Trevor Hoffman, Padres
25. *J.J. Putz, Mariners
26. Salomon Torres, Brewers
27. Brian Fuentes, Rockies
28. Ryan Franklin, Cardinals
29. *Mike Gonzalez, Braves
30. Carlos Marmol, Cubs
31. C.J. Wilson, Rangers
32. *Brandon Morrow, Mariners
33. *Jason Isringhausen, Cardinals
34. Taylor Buchholz, Rockies
35. *Rafael Soriano, Braves
36. Jonathan Broxton, Dodgers
37. Heath Bell, Padres
38. *Eric Gagne, Brewers
39. Dan Wheeler, Rays
40. Scot Shields, Angels
41. Blaine Boyer, Braves
42. Hong-Chih Kuo, Dodgers
43. Chad Qualls, Diamondbacks
44. Chris Perez, Cardinals
45. *Chad Cordero, Senators
46. Hideki Okajima, Red Sox
47. Masa Kobayashi, Indians
NOTE: Must-have handcuff for Borowski owners.
48. Octavio Dotel, White Sox
49. Scott Downs, Blue Jays
50. Joaquin Benoit, Rangers
51. Manuel Corpas, Rockies
52. *Santiago Casilla, Athletics
53. Matt Lindstrom, Marlins
54. Eddie Guardado, Rangers
55. Joel Zumaya, Tigers
NOTE: Electric stuff, but Leyland trusts Jones.
56. Scott Linebrink, White Sox
57. Keith Foulke, Athletics
58. Tony Pena, Diamondbacks
59. John Grabow, Pirates
60. J.P. Howell, Rays
61. Doug Brocail, Astros
62. Alex Hinshaw, Giants
63. Manny Acosta, Braves
64. Tom Gordon, Phillies
65. Edwar Ramirez, Yankees
66. Jesse Carlson, Blue Jays
67. Bob Howry, Cubs
68. Renyel Pinto, Marlins
69. Arthur Rhodes, Mariners
70. Rafael Betancourt, Indians
NOTE: No longer the heir apparent.

By David Ferris

All rankings assume 5x5 format (average, runs, homers, RBIs, stolen bases).

* = check status

Last Update: 6/24
Next Update: 7/1

First Base
1. Lance Berkman, Astros
2. Mark Teixeira, Braves
3. Adrian Gonzalez, Padres
4. Prince Fielder, Brewers
NOTE: So much for the meat story.
5. Ryan Howard, Phillies
6. *Albert Pujols, Cardinals
7. Derrek Lee, Cubs
8. Justin Morneau, Twins
9. *Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox
10. Carlos Guillen, Tigers
11. *David Ortiz, Red Sox
12. Jason Giambi, Yankees
13. Conor Jackson, Diamondbacks
14. Aubrey Huff, Orioles
15. Mike Jacobs, Marlins
16. Adam LaRoche, Pirates
17. James Loney, Dodgers
18. Ryan Garko, Indians
19. Joey Votto, Reds
20. Casey Kotchman, Angels
NOTE: More power would be nice.
21. Jim Thome, White Sox
NOTE: A sitter in NL parks.
22. *Paul Konerko, White Sox
23. Todd Helton, Rockies
24. Carlos Delgado, Mets
25. *Carlos Pena, Rays
26. *Travis Hafner, Indians
27. Kevin Millar, Orioles
28. Lyle Overbay, Blue Jays
29. *Gary Sheffield, Tigers

Second Base
1. Chase Utley, Phillies
2. Ian Kinsler, Rangers
NOTE: Big profit, whatever you paid.
3. Brandon Phillips, Reds
4. Brian Roberts, Orioles
5. Dan Uggla, Marlins
NOTE: Don't sweat the average, the power is real.
6. Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox
7. Placido Polanco, Tigers
8. Rickie Weeks, Brewers
NOTE: Most useful .210 hitter out there.
9. Kaz Matsui, Astros
10. Robinson Cano, Yankees
NOTE: Okay, it's time to get worried.
11. Howie Kendrick, Angels
12. Alexei Casilla, Twins
NOTE: Useful bat and has potential to run more.
13. Kelly Johnson, Braves
14. Alexei Ramirez, White Sox
15. Orlando Hudson, Diamondbacks
16. Jeff Kent, Dodgers
17. Mark Ellis, Athletics
18. Freddy Sanchez, Pirates
19. Luis Castillo, Mets
20. Maicer Izturis, Angels
21. *Aaron Hill, Blue Jays
22. Jose Lopez, Mariners
23. Ronnie Belliard, Nationals
24. Felipe Lopez, Nationals
25. Ray Durham, Giants
26. Jeff Baker, Rockies
27. Jamie Carroll, Indians
28. Edgar Gonzalez, Padres
29. Brendan Harris, Twins
30. Marco Scutaro, Blue Jays
31. Aaron Miles, Cardinals
32. *Tad Iguchi, Padres
33. Mark Grudzielanek, Royals
34. Adam Kennedy, Cardinals

Shortstop
1. Hanley Ramirez, Marlins
2. Jimmy Rollins, Phillies
3. Jose Reyes, Mets
4. Miguel Tejada, Astros
5. Michael Young, Rangers
6. Derek Jeter, Yankees
7. Yunel Escobar, Braves
8. Ryan Theriot, Cubs
9. Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies
10. *Rafael Furcal, Dodgers
11. Edgar Renteria, Tigers
12. Stephen Drew, Diamondbacks
13. Mike Aviles, Royals
NOTE: Late bloomer makes good.
14. Orlando Cabrera, White Sox
15. Jhonny Peralta, Indians
16. Jason Bartlett, Rays
17. Mark DeRosa, Cubs
18. Jeff Keppinger, Reds
19. Cristian Guzman, Nationals
20. J.J. Hardy, Brewers
21. Bobby Crosby, Athletics
22. Khalil Greene, Padres
23. Julio Lugo, Red Sox
24. Clint Barmes, Rockies
NOTE: He's back but Baker complicates.
25. Alfredo Amezaga, Marlins
26. Yuniesky Betancourt, Mariners
27. David Eckstein, Blue Jays
28. *Cesar Izturis, Cardinals
29. Omar Vizquel, Giants
30. Omar Quintanilla, Rockies
31. Jack Wilson, Pirates
32. *Jerry Hairston, Reds

Third Base
1. Alex Rodriguez, Yankees
2. Ryan Braun, Brewers
3. Miguel Cabrera, Tigers
4. David Wright, Mets
5. Aramis Ramirez, Cubs
6. *Chipper Jones, Braves
7. Garrett Atkins, Rockies
8. Mike Lowell, Red Sox
9. Chone Figgins, Angels
10. Alex Gordon, Royals
NOTE: Hasn't spiked as many expected in 2008.
11. Jorge Cantu, Marlins
12. Evan Longoria, Rays
13. Joe Crede, White Sox
14. Kevin Kouzmanoff, Padres
15. Edwin Encarnacion, Reds
16. Adrian Beltre, Mariners
NOTE: A host of physical concerns.
17. Mark Reynolds, Diamondbacks
18. Akinori Iwamura, Rays
19. Ty Wigginton, Astros
20. Troy Glaus, Cardinals
21. Eric Chavez, Athletics
NOTE: Sell high if the market is there.
22. Scott Rolen, Blue Jays
23. Pedro Feliz, Phillies
24. Blake DeWitt, Dodgers
25. *Ryan Zimmerman, Nationals
26. *Hank Blalock, Rangers
27. Jose Castillo, Giants
28. Ramon Vazquez, Rangers
29. Rich Aurilia, Giants
30. Melvin Mora, Orioles
31. Russell Branyan, Brewers
32. Casey Blake, Indians
33. Chad Tracy, Diamondbacks
34. Jose Bautista, Pirates

Outfield
1. Matt Holliday, Rockies
2. Grady Sizemore, Indians
NOTE: The Mayor of Cleveland.
3. Vladimir Guerrero, Angels
4. Josh Hamilton, Rangers
5. Carlos Lee, Astros
6. Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners
7. Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox
8. Carl Crawford, Rays
9. Nick Markakis, Orioles
10. Manny Ramirez, Red Sox
11. B.J. Upton, Rays
12. Carlos Beltran, Mets
13. Magglio Ordonez, Tigers
NOTE: Lineup is quietly coming on.
14. Hunter Pence, Astros
15. *Alfonso Soriano, Cubs
16. Nate McLouth, Pirates
NOTE: It's more real than most realize; hold.
17. *Milton Bradley, Rangers
18. Curtis Granderson, Tigers
19. Juan Pierre, Dodgers
20. Johnny Damon, Yankees
NOTE: Still a dynamite category stuffer.
21. Jose Guillen, Royals
22. Carlos Quentin, White Sox
23. Corey Hart, Brewers
24. Jay Bruce, Reds
25. Bobby Abreu, Yankees
26. Torii Hunter, Angels
27. Adam Dunn, Reds
28. Jason Bay, Pirates
29. Matt Kemp, Dodgers
30. Vernon Wells, Blue Jays
31. Alex Rios, Blue Jays
32. Michael Bourn, Astros
33. Ryan Ludwick, Cardinals
34. Hideki Matsui, Yankees
35. Randy Winn, Giants
36. Jermaine Dye, White Sox
37. Eric Byrnes, Diamondbacks
NOTE: Holes in swing, but the legs are what matter.
38. Shane Victorino, Phillies
39. Brad Hawpe, Rockies
40. Carlos Gomez, Twins
41. Chris Young, Diamondbacks
42. Pat Burrell, Phillies
43. J.D. Drew, Red Sox
44. Jeff Francoeur, Braves
NOTE: Where's the pop?
45. Kosuke Fukudome, Cubs
46. Jeremy Hermida, Marlins
47. Rick Ankiel, Cardinals
48. Nick Swisher, White Sox
49. Lastings Milledge, Nationals
NOTE: Gaining confidence on the bases.
50. Willy Taveras, Rockies
51. Justin Upton, Diamondbacks
52. Aaron Rowand, Giants
53. Xavier Nady, Pirates
54. Andre Ethier, Dodgers
55. Ken Griffey, Reds
56. Luke Scott, Orioles
57. Coco Crisp, Red Sox
58. Michael Cuddyer, Twins
59. David DeJesus, Royals
60. Marcus Thames, Tigers
61. Raul Ibanez, Mariners
62. Melky Cabrera, Yankees
63. Mike Cameron, Brewers
64. *Josh Willingham, Marlins
65. Elijah Dukes, Nationals
NOTE: Useful in short term, but can he last long term?
66. Jack Cust, Athletics
67. Delmon Young, Twins
68. David Murphy, Rangers
69. Gary Matthews, Angels
70. Ben Francisco, Indians
71. Adam Jones, Orioles
72. Mark Teahen, Royals
73. Cody Ross, Marlins
74. Joey Gathright, Royals
75. Brian Giles, Padres
76. Fred Lewis, Giants
NOTE: Roberts return takes away PT.
77. Garret Anderson, Angels
78. Jayson Werth, Phillies
79. Reed Johnson, Cubs
80. Brandon Jones, Braves
81. Skip Schumaker, Cardinals
82. Bill Hall, Brewers
83. Frank Catalanotto, Rangers
84. Gregor Blanco, Braves
85. Shin-Soo Choo, Indians
86. Jonny Gomes, Rays
87. Eric Hinske, Rays
88. Geoff Jenkins, Phillies
89. *Rocco Baldelli, Rays
NOTE: So far, so good with the rehab.
90. Jason Kubel, Twins
91. Jody Gerut, Padres
92. Brad Wilkerson, Blue Jays
93. Endy Chavez, Mets
94. *Ryan Church, Mets
95. Chris Duncan, Cardinals
96. Emil Brown, Athletics
97. Austin Kearns, Nationals
98. Marlon Byrd, Rangers
99. John Bowker, Giants
100. Jim Edmonds, Cubs
101. Brandon Boggs, Rangers
NOTE: He's in the right park.
102. Matt Stairs, Blue Jays
103. *Moises Alou, Mets
104. Luis Gonzalez, Marlins
105. Scott Podsednik, Rockies
106. Scott Hairston, Padres
107. *Andruw Jones, Dodgers

Catcher
1. Russell Martin, Dodgers
2. Brian McCann, Braves
3. Joe Mauer, Twins
4. Jorge Posada, Yankees
5. Bengie Molina, Giants
6. Geovany Soto, Cubs
7. Dioner Navarro, Rays
NOTE: Second half of 2007 didn't lie to us.
8. *Ryan Doumit, Pirates
9. A.J. Pierzynski, White Sox
10. *Victor Martinez, Indians
11. Jason Varitek, Red Sox
12. Jesus Flores, Nationals
13. Ivan Rodriguez, Tigers
14. Kurt Suzuki, Athletics
NOTE: A keeper into the new decade.
15. Chris Iannetta, Rockies
16. Ramon Hernandez, Orioles
17. Jeff Clement, Mariners
NOTE: New regime will find at-bats for him.
18. Jarrod Saltamacchia, Rangers
19. Rod Barajas, Blue Jays
20. Chris Snyder, Diamondbacks
21. Kelly Shoppach, Indians
22. Miguel Olivo, Royals
23. Yadier Molina, Cardinals
24. Gregg Zaun, Blue Jays
25. *Gerald Laird, Rangers
26. Mike Napoli, Angels
27. Kenji Johjima, Mariners
28. John Buck, Royals
29. Brian Schneider, Mets
30. Chris Coste, Phillies
31. Jeff Mathis, Angels
32. Brandon Inge, Tigers
33. Matt Treanor, Marlins
34. Paul Bako, Reds
35. *Josh Bard, Padres
36. Carlos Ruiz, Phillies
37. Yorvit Torrealba, Rockies
38. Dave Ross, Reds
39. Jason Kendall, Brewers

By David Ferris

Yesterday’s bush-league star can be today’s fantasy difference maker, a theme we’ll explore in this week’s version of the American League stock watch. Get those FAAB dollars ready and let’s pump some life into our offense.

Hitters

BUY

Mike Aviles, SS, Royals: He was ripping up Triple-A pitching (leading the PCL in RBIs and extra-base hits) and the hits keep on coming in Kansas City (.321 average, .642 slugging). Sure, 27 is old for a prospect, but let’s not forget that he hit .296 with 17 homers in Triple-A last year. Aviles probably will settle in as a $7-8 fantasy bat the rest of the way, but that makes him Alex Rodriguez compared to former Royals starter Tony Pena. Don’t ask why on Aviles, ask why not?

Jeff Clement, C, Mariners: Here’s another player with nothing left to prove at Triple-A (.337, 14 homers), and the Ms are fully in experiment mode for the season, which means they have an excuse to sit Kenji Johjima at least half of the time. Granted, they’re still on the hook for Johjima’s bloated contract, but that’s ownership’s problem, not ours. Clement was the seventh catcher off the board in an AL-only expert draft that we participated in Thursday.

SELL

Mike Napoli, C, Angels: He’s in the game for his power, and that still comes now and then (10 homers), but a .202 average and ordinary defense won’t win him any fans in the O.C. Jeff Mathis is getting 60 percent of the starts over the last month, and Mike Scioscia has no incentive to break up a winning hand.

HOLD

J.D. Drew, RF, Red Sox: His monster June (.441, nine homers, 21 RBIs) screams out sell-high in theory, but the street value on Drew has been compromised for years – just about everyone in your league has been tripped up by this stock once or twice. If you fell into this surprise run, sit back and enjoy the ride – the third spot in Boston’s electric order is a cushy spot to be in, and Drew’s much more relaxed in his second Hub summer.

Pitchers

BUY

Jeremy Guthrie, SP, Orioles: Forget the low win count and focus on the other things; the tidy 3.51 E.R.A., the solid 1.21 ratio. He keeps the ball in the park, strikes out just enough batters to be 5x5 useful, and he’s only had three bad turns in 16 starts. There’s a pedigree as well to Guthrie, a former No. 1 draft choice out of Stanford.

SELL

C.J. Wilson, RP, Rangers: Part of his struggles can be attributed to the jet stream in Arlington, but Wilson makes enough of his problems with his messy walk/strikeout rate (16 free passes, 23 whiffs). And it’s a little odd to see a closing southpaw who can’t dominate against left-handed hitters (.286 batting average against, 1.80 ratio). There isn’t a clear heir to the throne in Texas, but this could be a full-fledge committee fairly soon, with Joaquin Benoit and Eddie Guardado entering the mix.

HOLD

Jon Lester, SP, Red Sox: His strikeout rate has dipped a bit, but that’s a trade-off we’ll take against all the improvements: fewer walks, more ground balls, fewer home home runs. It’s a bit strange to say this about someone who recently threw a no-hitter, but Lester is still undervalued in many groups. He’s going to be a Top 15 pitcher in the AL for many seasons to come, and don’t let the home park throw you; Lester has a 3.73 E.R.A. at Fenway for his career – it’s over a run better this season – and it’s a myth that southpaws can’t succeed in that yard. Bruce Hurst, anyone?