FOXSports.com Fantasy Buzz » posts from September 2012

• Fantasy Baseball Morning Update: Season could be over for A's Anderson

  September 20, 2012 by JohnHalpinFOX

  Ichiro Suzuki had seven hits and four stolen bases in Wednesday's doubleheader. If you own Ichiro, didn't that feel like Fantasy Baseball Christmas?

  ***

  Chris Archer was good enough on Wednesday, and Matt Harvey was lights out in his final start of 2012, raising our streaming starter record to 99-59 for the season. Today's pick is Ross Detwiler (owned in 30.4 percent of FOXSports.com leagues), and Friday's selection is Cincinnati's Bronson Arroyo (22 percent owned). I don't mean to load up against the Dodgers - it just worked out that way.

  On to the news:

  • A's SP Brett Anderson, who has pitched very well since returning last month from Tommy John surgery, left last night's game with a strained oblique. Anderson will have an MRI today, but can you remember the last time you heard about someone coming back from that injury in less than two weeks? Yeah, me neither. Feel free to replace Anderson.
  • Aroldis Chapman threw a bullpen session on Wednesday, and could return to closing games for the Reds this weekend. Stay tuned.
  • The Rangers played without OF Josh Hamilton (blurry vision) and 3B Adrian Beltre (intestinal issues) last night. It's unclear when either player will return, and if you own Beltre, hope that his malady is just a bad stomach ache.
  • There are seven afternoon games on today's schedule, starting with Twins-Indians at 12:05 p.m. ET. Set your lineups accordingly.
  • Padres SP Andrew Cashner has been shut down for the rest of the season due to lingering issues with his lat injury. Rookie Casey Kelly will start in Cashner's place against the Giants on Friday. The game isn't at PETCO, but the Giants don't hit much, so NL-only owners can consider him.
  • Reds OF Ryan Ludwick left last night's game because of groin tightness, but it doesn't sound serious.
  • Coco Crisp's pink eye kept him out of the A's lineup again last night. His status for today is unclear, but my AL keeper league team could really use some steals. No pressure, Coco.
  • Brandon League saved last night's Dodger win because Don Mattingly wants to ease Kenley Jansen back into the closer role. Look for Jansen to get the job back very soon.
  • The Tigers aren't sure when C Alex Avila (concussion) will be available to play, but today's doesn't sound likely.
  • Neil Walker's back is still an issue, and it sounds like his playing time will be inconsistent over the final two weeks of the season.
  • Rookie Jean Segura has pulled ahead of Jeff Bianchi in the Brewers' shortstop competition. Segura steals bases sometimes, if you need that from a middle infielder in a deep mixed league.
  • The Indians activated DH Travis Hafner from the DL on Wednesday, but he's expected to play only three times per week. Hafner figures to cut into rookie Russ Canzler's playing time.
  • Jake Odorizzi is expected to make his MLB debut on Sunday for the Royals. FanGraphs has a good look at why the talented Odorizzi might be a good fantasy option against the Indians.
  • Bud Norris (flu) might not be able to make his start today for the Astros. The moderately interesting Edgar Gonzalez will start if Norris can't go against the Cardinals.
  • The Diamondbacks don't plan to call up pitching phenom Trevor Bauer again this season. Bauer will be an interesting guy to rank for 2013 - great stuff, lots of Ks, too many walks in the minors.

   

  See you back here tomorrow morning.

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• Fantasy Baseball Morning Update: Kershaw's return up in the air

  September 19, 2012 by JohnHalpinFOX

  Blue Jays SS Yunel Escobar received a three-game suspension for wearing eye black that included a homophobic slur. In the old days, when we had to squeeze eye black out of a tube instead of wearing it as a sticker, this never would have happened.

  ***

  Last night's streaming starter, Matt Harvey, had his game rained out, so the record stands at 97-59. Let's use Harvey (owned in 22.3 percent of FOXSports.com leagues) and Tampa's Chris Archer (2.5 percent owned) today as previously planned, and go with the still-underappreciated Ross Detwiler (25.1 percent owned) on Thursday against the Dodgers.

  Today's schedule includes two doubleheaders: Blue Jays-Yankees starting at 1:05 p.m. ET, and Nats-Dodgers at 4:05. Set your lineups accordingly.

  On to the news:

  • A doctor told the Dodgers on Tuesday that ace Clayton Kershaw could continue pitching if he can tolerate the pain in his hip, but the team hasn't decided how to proceed other than to say that Kershaw won't pitch if the pain persists. Since they're a game-and-a-half out of the second wildcard spot, this is a tough call. Stay tuned.
  • In other Dodger news, closer Kenley Jansen has been cleared to return after missing three weeks due to an irregular heartbeat. Activate Jansen if you have him, especially since he could save two games today.
  • Tigers SP Max Scherzer left Tuesday's game in the second inning due to shoulder fatigue. A postgame MRI showed no structural damage, and while Scherzer thinks he might be able to make his next start, you should plan for a delay.
  • The news on Nats 2B Danny Espinosa isn't as bad as feared. He got a cortisone shot on Monday, and could be back in the lineup as soon as today.
  • Rangers OF Josh Hamilton left Tuesday's game because of blurry vision and a headache caused by a sinus issue. His status for tonight's game is TBD.
  • Angels 1B Albert Pujols is expected to play tonight after missing Tuesday's game due to the birth of his daughter. Congratulations, Pujolses!
  • Reds SS Zack Cozart hopes to return to the lineup this weekend. He's missed 12 games with a strained oblique.
  • In other Reds' news, closer Aroldis Chapman will throw a bullpen session today, so we might know a little more about his status tomorrow. Meanwhile, Jonathan Broxton got another save on Tuesday. Broxton is available in 64.9 percent of FOXSports.com leagues, you know.
  • Look for Marlins OF Giancarlo Stanton to miss his third straight game today because of a sore left intercostal muscle (that's a sore left side for you and me). The Marlins are off Thursday, so hopefully Stanton will be able to play on Friday.
  • Rockies OF Carlos Gonzalez (hamstring) was scratched again on Tuesday. Consider him day-to-day, and try not to get scared by things on the team's website that say things like "Gonzalez said the hamstring should heal in time for him to play before the end of the season."
  • The Yankees don't expect to get 1B Mark Teixeira (calf) back before their series next weekend in Toronto.
  • Tim Lincecum's ERA is below 5.00. Woo-hoo!
  • Jake Westbrook (oblique) hopes to return to the Cardinals' rotation next week.
  • Padres OF Cameron Maybin missed Tuesday's game with a sore Achilles. His status for today is TBD.
  • Brewers 1B Corey Hart (foot) was available to pinch-hit on Tuesday, but his return to the lineup is still unclear because he can't move laterally. That's bad for a guy who needs to play the field. See why I like the DH rule?
  • When you're at the pick-a-setup-guy portion of your AL-only draft next season, don't forget about Boston's Junichi Tazawa. He's been excellent over the past couple of months.
  • Braves SS Andrelton Simmons missed Tuesday's game because of a jammed left shoulder. He might be able to play tonight.
  • Diamondbacks OF Chris Young returned to the lineup last night and promptly re-injured his quad. Young doesn't seem to think the injury is severe, but you have to wonder if you'll see him again this season.
  • Finally, Ken Rosenthal tweeted this morning that the Orioles will call up 19-year-old pitching phenom Dylan Bundy today. Don't get too excited for the short term - the O's used seven relievers in last night's 18-inning win, and need a fresh arm, so don't expect Bundy to start in the middle of a playoff chase. I'd say I'm excited to see Bundy, but because I'm only about 440 miles from Camden Yards, I'm in the Orioles' TV blackout radius. Maybe I should buy season tickets.

   

  See you back here tomorrow morning.

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• Fantasy Baseball Morning Update: News today on Nats' Espinosa

  September 18, 2012 by JohnHalpinFOX

  Oh, Yunel Escobar. You're really going to get yourself suspended for doing something this stupid? You didn't think the cameras were going to catch this? Sigh ...

  ***

  Alex Cobb barely met our Fantasy Quality Start criteria last night (any two of a win, 4.00 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 4 Ks), raising our streaming starter record to 97-59. Today's pick is Met rookie Matt Harvey (owned in 19.7 percent of FOXSports.com leagues) against the Phillies, while Wednesday's selection is Rays' fireballer Chris Archer (0.6 percent owned) versus the Red Sox.

  On to the news:

  • We should get an update today on the status of Nationals 2B Danny Espinosa, who's been dealing with an injured shoulder. Possible scenarios range from a cortisone shot (a few days off) to missing the rest of the season. Keep your fingers crossed if you own Espinosa.
  • Rockies OF Carlos Gonzalez missed Monday's game due to a tight left hamstring. CarGo will be re-evaluated today, and while the Rox don't seem too worried, his status for tonight is uncertain.
  • In other Rockies' news, Jorge De La Rosa will start Thursday for the first time since his May 2011 Tommy John surgery. De La Rosa has whiffed 22 batters and walked nine in 20 1/3 innings of rehab work, and will be limited to about 95 pitches. Picking up De La Rosa would be a reach.
  • Braves C Brian McCann was out again Monday with knee discomfort, but hopes to play tonight.
  • The chances of Orioles SP Jason Hammel starting again before the regular season ends don't sound good, but the O's say they're optimistic.
  • We should find out today or tomorrow if Dodger ace Clayton Kershaw needs season-ending hip surgery.
  • Sergio Romo got another one-out save for the Giants last night. He's available in 91.4 percent of FOXSports.com leagues, and leads the San Francisco closer committee.
  • The Mets might use eight starters over their final 16 games, but R.A. Dickey is slated to pitch three more times.
  • Andy Pettitte will start tonight against the Blue Jays, with a reported limit of around 75 pitches.
  • Chase Utley is still preparing for a move to third base. Whether it happens this season or next depends on if the Phillies fall out of the wildcard race.
  • Pirates 2B Neil Walker sat out Monday's game to get a rest. Walker played Saturday and Sunday after missing 16 games with back issues, and they're probably just trying to ease him back into everyday duty. Plan to start Walker today if you have him.
  • The Giants hope to get Gregor Blanco (shoulder) back in the lineup on Wednesday. Look for a Blanco/Xavier Nady platoon in left field for the rest of the season. That's gonna be one fearsome postseason lineup.
  • Tigers C Alex Avila, who suffered a sprained jaw and headaches after colliding with Prince Fielder on Sunday, didn't play Monday and is uncertain for at least the next day or two. Bless You Boys thinks the Tigers should shut down Avila for the rest of the season.

   

  See you back here tomorrow morning.

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• Fantasy Football Morning Update: Forte's injury not so bad?

  September 18, 2012 by JohnHalpinFOX

  Peyton Manning was terrific in Week 1, but last night he looked an awful lot like a guy who's lost his fastball. Can't wait to see what he does in Week 3.

  On to the news:

  • Bears head coach Lovie Smith said Monday that RB Matt Forte's sprained ankle isn't the dreaded "high ankle sprain" that was originally reported on Friday. Forte didn't practice Monday and isn't expected to be out there today, but the Chicago Tribune reported that he jogged off the field after practice and was "moving just fine for a player with a sprained right ankle." You should still plan to be without Forte for Week 3, but he could return sooner than you expected.
  • Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw reportedly suffered a sprained neck on Sunday, and his status for Thursday's game against the Panthers is very much in doubt. Andre Brown is owned in just 0.3 percent of FOXSports.com leagues, and after running for 71 yards on 13 carries in Bradshaw's stead against the Bucs, he's a very interesting Week 3 pickup.
  • The Patriots don't know exactly how long TE Aaron Hernandez (ankle) will be out, but you should plan for it to be at least a few weeks. We'd suggest Baltimore's Dennis Pitta (14.8 percent owned) as a replacement, as he leads all tight ends with 24 targets in two games, and is tied for the lead at that position with 13 receptions.
  • As far as how the Pats will deal with Hernandez's absence, they could turn to Wes Welker, who was on the bench until Hernandez got hurt in the first quarter on Sunday. The Boston media is full of theories about why Welker didn't start on Sunday, but he was targeted 11 times (five receptions, 95 yards) against the Cardinals, and they almost have to use him extensively now.
  • Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles carried only six times Sunday because of soreness in his surgically-repaired left knee. Charles is expected to play in Week 3, and while I'd still plan to start him, this is definitely a worrisome development. 
  • Lions RB Mikel Leshoure returns this week from a two-game suspension, and is "expected to take over as the starter before long," according to the Detroit Free Press, and Pride of Detroit thinks he "should play quite a bit." That doesn't necessarily mean you should start Leshoure in Week 3, but he should be owned in all formats.
  • Eagles WR Jeremy Maclin probably won't practice Wednesday after suffering another hip contusion against the Ravens. His status for Week 3 is TBD.
  • Chargers RB Ryan Mathews appears on target to make his 2012 debut this week against the Falcons.
  • The Redskins' D is in dire straits, as LB Brian Orakpo (torn pectoral muscle) and DE Adam Carriker (torn quad tendon) are done for the season. The Bengals visit D.C. this week, if you're on the fence about starting any of them.
  • The Jets aren't yet sure if CB Darrelle Revis (concussion) will return this week against the Dolphins.
  • The Steelers are close to getting RB Rashard Mendenhall back, but they might wait until after their Week 4 bye to suit him up.
  • The Jaguars seem to think that RB Rashad Jennings (knee) will be ready to return Sunday at Indianapolis. His role is likely to be as Maurice Jones-Drew's caddy, though.
  • The Vikings sound a little worried about overworking WR Percy Harvin, who has 18 receptions and seven rushes through the first two games. If you're a Harvin owner, it'll help you to know that the Vikes probably don't have the luxury of easing off the gas with Harvin.
  • In Cardinals' news, it sounds like Kevin Kolb will start again at QB this week, and that Beanie Wells and Ryan Williams will keep sharing the running workload. I figured that head coach Ken Whisenhunt would back away from Williams after his late-game fumble in New England, but that doesn't appear to be the case.
  • My colleague Joel Beall will be in the FOXSports.com fantasy football chat room today at 3 p.m. ET. Make sure to send him some questions!

   

  See you back here later this morning with a baseball post, and on Friday with a new football entry.

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• Fantasy Baseball Morning Update: Kershaw's season might be over

  September 17, 2012 by JohnHalpinFOX

  For the umpteenth time, Bobby Valentine: If you talk non-stop, you're bound to say something stupid.

  ***

  Andrew Cashner got knocked around on Friday, Kyle Kendrick didn't pitch well against the Astros - the Astros! - on Saturday, and Andrew Werner posted a disappointing performance on Sunday to close out a miserable weekend and drop our streaming starter record to 96-59. Today's pick is Alex Cobb (owned in 16.1 percent of FOXSports.com leagues) against the fading Red Sox, and Tuesday's selection is Mets' rookie Matt Harvey (14.6 percent owned) in his final start of the season versus the Phillies.

  On to the news:

  • Dodger ace Clayton Kershaw was scratched from his Sunday start due to a hip injury, and multiple reports suggest that his season could be over. Kershaw will see a hip specialist on Tuesday, and could even miss the beginning of the 2013 season if he needs surgery, according to the Los Angeles Times. If you own Kershaw in a redraft league, hold him until the news breaks after his Tuesday appointment, and keep your fingers crossed.
  • The Tigers and White Sox play a 2:10 p.m. ET game today. Set your lineup accordingly. Tigers OF Austin Jackson (ankle) and C Alex Avila (jaw) might not be able to play.
  • Never say never, I guess. Chris Carpenter will make his first start of the season at Wrigley Field on Friday. You can give Carpenter a try in an NL-only league, but since all he's done to rehab is pitch simulated games, don't expect too much.
  • Look for Nationals 2B Danny Espinosa to be out until at least Friday with a shoulder injury. Grab Espinosa's real-life replacement, Steve Lombardozzi, if you need a fill-in for a few days.
  • Jonathan Broxton saved another game for the Reds on Sunday in place of the resting Aroldis Chapman, who said Friday that he thought he'd be ready to go in "a few more days." Look for a return sometime this week.
  • In other Reds' non-news, SS Zack Cozart (oblique) took batting practice on Saturday and Sunday, but his return date is uncertain. With an 11-game lead in the NL Central, the Reds are in no hurry to get these guys back.
  • The Yankees don't have any idea when 1B Mark Teixeira (calf) will return. They do know that Andy Pettitte will start on Tuesday.
  • With Lorenzo Cain done for the season due to a hamstring injury, look for David Lough and Jason Bourgeois to platoon in center field. Both are speedy, as noted in this week's edition of Free Agent Frenzy.
  • Rookie lefty Martin Perez will take Scott Feldman's rotation spot starting Friday at Seattle. AL-only owners might want to grab Perez, at least for that friendly matchup.
  • Rangers' closer Joe Nathan got the weekend off to rest a "dead arm," and is expected to be available to start the series with the Angels on Tuesday. Koji Uehara got Sunday's save.
  • Remember a couple of months ago, when we all loved James McDonald? He's been replaced in the Pirates' rotation by rookie Kyle McPherson. McPherson, who has flashed strong strikeout numbers with excellent control between the minors and majors this season, will start Wednesday against the Brewers. NL-only owners should consider him if they need pitching help.
  • Jorge De La Rosa might make his first start of the season this week for the Rockies, 16 months after undergoing elbow surgery. Zzz ...
  • Speaking of the Rockies, SS Troy Tulowitzki (groin) is still hoping to return for the final week of the season. Don't expect the 100% version of Tulowitzki if he plays.
  • Braves C Brian McCann missed last night's game with a hamstring issue, and is day-to-day.
  • Chris Tillman will return to the Orioles' rotation tonight after a two-week absence.
  • Astros OF Fernando Martinez could miss another game or two this week due to knee inflammation. He didn't play Sunday.
  • Corey Hart's planned Tuesday return from a foot injury is looking a little shaky.

   

  See you back here tomorrow morning.

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• Week 2 Fantasy Football Injury Report

  September 16, 2012 by JoelBeallFOX

  Early Game Injuries

  • Aaron Hernandez (ankle)
  • Ahmad Bradshaw (neck)
  • Jeremy Maclin (hip)

   

  QB

  John Skelton – Ankle – inactive

  Jake Locker – Shoulder - active

  RB

  Jonathan Stewart – Ankle – active

  Ryan Williams – Knee – active

  Beanie Wells – Knee – active

  Shane Vereen – RB – inactive

  Fred Jackson – Knee – Out

  Trent Richardson – Knee – active

  Rashad Jennings – Knee – Out

  Rashard Mendenhall – Knee – inactive

  Jonathan Dwyer – Foot – active

  Ryan Mathews – Shoulder - inactive

  WR

  Steve Smith (CAR) – Knee – active

  Jacoby Ford – Foot – Out

  Denarius Moore – Hamstring - active

  Hakeem Nicks – Foot – active

  Austin Collie – Head – inactive

  Jeremy Maclin – Hip – active

  DeSean Jackson – Hamstring – active

  Pierre Garcon – Foot – inactive

  Kenny Britt – Knee – active

  Nate Washington – Calf - active

  TE

  Ben Watson – Thigh – active

  Jason Witten – Abdomen – active

  Dustin Keller – Hamstring – Out

  Antonio Gates – Ribs - inactive

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• Fantasy Baseball Morning Update: Nova returns for Yanks

  September 14, 2012 by JohnHalpinFOX

  Another day, another walkoff win for the Orioles. Ho-hum.

  ***

  Minnesota's Liam Hendriks wasn't terrible last night, but he wasn't too good, so the streaming starter record is down to 96-56 for the season. The weekend selections are Andrew Cashner (owned in 5.4 percent of FOXSports.com leagues) against the Rockies tonight at PETCO, Philly's Kyle Kendrick (26.3 percent owned) at Houston on Saturday, and Mike Minor (18.5 percent owned) versus the Nats on Sunday.

  On to the rest of the news:

  • Ivan Nova, who has missed the last few weeks with a shoulder injury, will be back on the mound Saturday for the Yankees. Nova was getting battered before going on the DL in late August, but it's possible that his poor performance was because of the shoulder. Also, Nova pitches against the Rays this weekend, and since they can't hit, starting him on your fantasy squad might not be a bad idea.
  • In other Yankee rotation news, Andy Pettitte will start Tuesday for the first time since fracturing his ankle on June 27. I'd like to see Pettitte pitch well once before taking a chance on him.
  • Twins C Joe Mauer missed his third straight game last night due to back spasms. As an occasional sufferer of back spasms, my expert insight is that they go away when they go away. Try getting that kind of detailed analysis on WebMD.
  • Jason Hammel's knee MRI didn't show anything bad, but his return date is uncertain, and the Orioles' website reports that he'll rest and strengthen the knee "for the next several days." Cut Hammel if you have him.
  • Rangers OF Josh Hamilton (knee) didn't play last night, but he's expected to be in the lineup tonight. 3B Adrian Beltre (shoulder) made a surprise DH appearance, so he's fine.
  • The Pirates and Cubs play a 2:20 p.m. ET matinee at Wrigley today. Set your lineups accordingly.
  • Thanks to Thursday's rainout, the White Sox will start Chris Sale tonight at Minnesota, and skip Francisco Liriano's turn in the rotation.
  • Lance Lynn was pretty good last night, huh? Redemption!
  • Astros SP Bud Norris will have his rotation turn skipped due to a blister issue. Instead of pitching tonight, he's slated to go again next Thursday.
  • Royals OF Lorenzo Cain left Thursday's game with a strained hamstring. The injury doesn't sound serious, but hamstrings can be annoying for fast guys.
  • The Indians aren't sure when SS Asdrubal Cabrera (wrist) will be back in the lineup. Cabrera missed his fourth consecutive game on Thursday.
  • A's OF Yoenis Cespedes is day-to-day after spraining his wrist last night. It doesn't sound serious.
  • In other A's news, Brett Anderson is apparently human after all.
  • Reminder: David Price will be back on the mound tonight for the Rays after having his last start skipped due to shoulder soreness. Price reportedly will not be on a pitch count, so start him if you have him.
  • I'll be doing a brief weekly podcast through the end of the regular season to help you prepare for weekends. Here's the first edition. It's about five minutes long, and guaranteed to win all sorts of industry awards!

   

  See you back here Monday morning.

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• Fantasy Football Morning Update: Bolts' Mathews getting close

  September 14, 2012 by JohnHalpinFOX

  Do you think the Packers were happy to beat Jay Cutler and the Bears last night after Cutler recently wished the Pack "good luck" in trying to stop his new receivers? Check out these two postgame quotes from Packers' DBs, as reported by the Chicago Tribune:

  Charles Woodson: "It's the same old Jay ... We don't need luck, Jay will throw us the ball ... proof is in the pudding."

  Tramon Williams: "It was funny to me ... He was talking like a kid with new toys, a couple new receivers. At the end of the day, you have to be able to get the ball to those guys, and he didn't.''

  Fortunately, Cutler's offensive linemen will back him up today. Oops, wait - he spent some of the game screaming at them. Never mind.

  ***

  If you need additional help getting ready for Sunday's games after reading today's blog entry, here's what we've got for you before kickoff:

  • Send your questions to me via Facebook or Twitter. You can also tweet lineup questions to my colleagues Joel Beall, Ryan Fowler and Mike Harmon.
  • Listen to hosts Harmon, Peter Burns and Nate Lundy on the FOX Fantasy Freaks on FOX Sports Radio Sunday from 9 a.m. until noon ET. You can tweet questions to those guys as well.
  • Join a pregame chat with Beall and me on Sunday from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.
  • Review my Week 2 rankings, along with all the great information at our fantasy football news page.

  On to the rest of the news:

  • Chargers RB Ryan Mathews (clavicle) was back at practice as a limited participant on Thursday. San Diego Union Tribune beat writer Kevin Acee tweeted that it "appears Mathews will play" on Sunday, and while Mathews says he's ready to go, head coach Norv Turner was non-committal after Thursday's practice. We should know more later today, and while things look good for Mathews' fantasy owners, the late Sunday start may make it tough to wait for a gametime decision. Stay tuned.
  • In other Chargers' news, TE Antonio Gates hasn't practiced this week due to rib soreness related to an injury suffered Monday night, but he's expected to play.
  • Bears RB Matt Forte left last night's game with an ankle injury, and his status for Week 3 is TBD. (UPDATE, 10:23 a.m. ET: Reports indicate a high ankle sprain for Forte. That could sideline him for a month.)
  • Eagles WRs Jeremy Maclin (hip pointer) and DeSean Jackson (hamstring) both missed practice on Thursday. It sounds like Maclin is the one we need to worry about on Sunday.
  • Jets CB Darrelle Revis (concussion) has not yet been cleared to play this week. Owners of Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown should remember that it's not polite to be happy about news like this in public.
  • On the other side of the ball, the Steelers may be without both LB James Harrison (knee) and S Troy Polamalu (calf), though Harrison said on Thursday that he'll play. Also, RB Rashard Mendenhall (knee) isn't expected to be ready, so the Jonathan Dwyer/Isaac Redman timeshare gets another chance. Dwyer appears to be the better runner, but Redman should still get his share of carries.
  • Based on the lineup questions I've seen this week, many of you need to stop panicking over Chris Johnson and Wes Welker. While there's no guarantee that either player will have the year you expected, it's likely that both will, and one bad game is no reason to bench someone or trade him for 50 cents on the dollar. Be patient, OK?
  • Looking to play the DST matchup game? Your prime targets this week are the Bengals (vs. Brandon Weeden and the Browns), the Patriots (vs. Kevin Kolb and the Cardinals) and the Raiders (at Ryan Tannehill and the Dolphins). I've been picking up the Bengals everywhere I can.
  • The Titans expect WR Kenny Britt to play 15-25 snaps in his first game back from a suspension and offseason knee surgery. I know Britt's fantasy owners are anxious to get him back in the lineup, but waiting another week is the smart play.
  • In other Titans' news, it sounds like QB Jake Locker is on track to play after injuring his shoulder in Week 1.
  • According to Giants' head coach Tom Coughlin, rookie RB David Wilson is "a little bit out of the doghouse" after fumbling early in the season opener. They don't want Ahmad Bradshaw to carry the ball every time, right?
  • Redskins WR Pierre Garcon (foot) was "very limited" in Thursday's practice, and his status for Sunday seems iffy.
  • Seahawks WR Sidney Rice hasn't practiced yet this week due to a sore knee. Having Rice play in two consecutive games isn't too much to ask, right?
  • 49ers RB Brandon Jacobs (knee) will probably be out again this week.
  • Raiders WR Denarius Moore (hamstring) is expected to return this week, but offensive coordinator Greg Knapp said, "We don't want to play him the full game."
  • With RB Rashad Jennings (knee) unlikely to play in Week 2, it's MJD time in Jacksonville. So much for easing him back in.
  • Saints WR Devery Henderson (concussion) hasn't practiced this week, and his status for Sunday is TBD.
  • Speaking of concussions, Colts WR Austin Collie is expected to play this week. PPR owners can consider starting him.
  • Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart (ankle) was a full participant in Thursday's practice, and is expected to play Sunday. Stewart shares carries with DeAngelo Williams, has Mike Tolbert around to catch passes and possibly run in short-yardage situations, and often cedes goal-line carries to Cam Newton. Otherwise, he's a fine fantasy play.
  • Reminder: Browns CB Joe Haden is serving a four-game suspension. That's good news for A.J. Green owners.

   

  Good luck in Week 2!

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• Fantasy Baseball Morning Update: Beltre injures shoulder

  September 13, 2012 by JohnHalpinFOX

  Those plucky Orioles just won't go away, will they?

  ***

  In PETCO we trust! Clayton Richard's latest strong home outing raised our streaming starter record to 96-55 for the season. Today's (reluctant) pick is Minnesota's Liam Hendriks (owned in 0.7 percent of FOXSports.com leagues) against the Royals, while Friday's selection is San Diego's Andrew Cashner (1.6 percent owned) versus the Rockies.

  On to the news:

  • The Rangers suffered a couple of high-profile injuries last night, but neither seems serious. Adrian Beltre left the game with a shoulder issue, and although manager Ron Washington said, "hopefully it will only be one or two days," keep an eye out for an update today. Josh Hamilton also departed early due to a sore knee, but he's expected to play today, per the team's website.
  • Derek Jeter aggravated a bruised left ankle last night, but says he'll play today. He always says that, though.
  • With Aroldis Chapman on a brief vacation, you knew that rookie J.J. Hoover would start saving games for the Reds, right? Just kidding. Jonathan Broxton had saved Tuesday's game, and they didn't want him to pitch for a third straight day. There's nothing to see here - please move along.
  • D-backs closer J.J. Putz is still dealing with back issues, so David Hernandez got his second consecutive save on Wednesday. Putz's condition seems to be improving, but it's not clear when he'll be ready to pitch again. 
  • Who needs Stephen Strasburg when you have John Lannan???
  • The Nationals aren't sure when OF Mike Morse (wrist) will return to the lineup. It could be Friday, it could be Saturday ...
  • Brewers OF Carlos Gomez is day-to-day after leaving Wednesday's game with a bruised quad. Did anyone out there bet on Gomez having 16 homers and 32 steals by mid-September? If that were a real wager, the odds would have been approximately a kajillion-to-one.
  • Carlos Ruiz came off the DL on Tuesday for the Phillies, but will probably share catching duties with Eric (Johnny Bench) Kratz. The closer the Phils stay in the NL wildcard race, the more Ruiz is likely to play.
  • The Dodgers are targeting a Tuesday return for closer Kenley Jansen (irregular heartbeat).
  • Padres closer Huston Street (calf) pitched another simulated game on Wednesday, but his return date is still up in the air, because his injury causes issues when trying to cover first base. Meanwhile, Luke Gregerson has seven saves over the last 18 days, and is available in 98.1 percent of FOXSports.com leagues. Fantasy baseball can be a simple game sometimes.
  • There are two afternoon games today, starting with Rays-Orioles at 12:35 p.m. ET. Set your lineups accordingly.
  • Today, Adam Dunn? Maybe.
  • Today, Desmond Jennings? Probably.
  • The Pirates are still playing the waiting game with 2B Neil Walker (back). Your guess is as good as mine as to when he'll return.
  • OF Denard Span (shoulder) is back in the Twins' lineup, but he's not completely healthy yet. He can play for AL-only owners.
  • Speaking of AL-only, I'm in first place in my longtime AL keeper league, with tough battles in ERA and WHIP, and Zach McAllister starting tonight against the Rangers in Texas. In related news, I didn't sleep a wink last night.
  • After last night's return, the Astros will slowly work SS Jed Lowrie back into their everyday lineup.
  • Here's an interesting look at Giancarlo Stanton's power. Who wants to bet me that he'll hit 50 homers next season?
  • Rockies C Ramon Hernandez is done for the season due to a hamstring injury. Fortunately, Wilin Rosario is still around to hit lots of home runs for his fantasy owners. Is Rosario a top-10 fantasy catcher for 2013? Hmm ...

   

  See you back here tomorrow morning.

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• Fantasy Baseball Morning Update: Rays' Price set to return Friday

  September 12, 2012 by JohnHalpinFOX

  A's SP Brandon McCarthy was released from the hospital yesterday, less than a week after having brain surgery. Check out the tweet he sent upon his departure. I think he's my favorite baseball player.

  ***

  Yeah, Marco Estrada! His six-and-two-thirds innings of shutout ball raised our streaming starter record to 95-55 for the season. Today's pick is San Diego's Clayton Richard (owned in 12 percent of FOXSports.com leagues) at home against the Cardinals, while Thursday's selection is Twins' rookie Liam Hendriks (0.1 percent owned) versus the Royals. There are only a few eligible options for Thursday, and Hendriks (6.20 ERA) is a desperation call more than a strong recommendation. He's not as bad as his ERA suggests, though.

  On to the news:

  • After having a start skipped due to shoulder soreness, Rays SP David Price had a good bullpen session yesterday and is set to pitch on Friday against the Yankees. Start Price if you have him.
  • Twins C Joe Mauer was scratched Tuesday due to back spasms, and his status for tonight is TBD. For all the grief Mauer gets about not having enough home-run power, he ranks first in runs (75) among catchers, second in batting average (.319) and steals (eight), and third in RBI (76). 
  • Reds closer Aroldis Chapman expects to be shut down for "five days to a week" in an effort to get over shoulder fatigue. Look for Jonathan Broxton to get save opportunities in Chapman's absence.
  • In other Reds' news, SS Zack Cozart missed his seventh straight game due to an oblique injury. His return date is up in the air, as the Reds have the luxury of resting people as much as they want right now.
  • Orioles SP Jason Hammel left Tuesday's game after re-injuring his surgically repaired right knee. Hammel will have an MRI today.
  • Why did David Hernandez get last night's save for the Diamondbacks? Because J.J. Putz was sidelined with a stiff back. There's probably nothing to get excited (or worried) about here.
  • Cubs 1B Anthony Rizzo left Tuesday's game with a bruised shoulder (or sore neck and back, depending on the report) after getting into this collision with Astros 1B Brett Wallace. The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Rizzo is expected to be out until "at least the weekend."
  • White Sox manager Robin Ventura suggested last night that DH Adam Dunn (oblique) might return to the lineup today, but make sure Dunn is in there before starting him. He hasn't swung a bat for a few days.
  • The Astros hope to get 2B Jose Altuve (abdominal strain) and SS Jed Lowrie (leg) back in the lineup tonight. Altuve has been mostly sidelined since Friday, while Lowrie has been on the DL for a couple of months. Altuve entered last night's game as a defensive replacement, so he's probably ready.
  • John Lannan will be on the hill tonight for the Nationals, taking Stephen Strasburg's rotation slot. Aside from throwing 10 mph slower with the opposite hand and not retiring nearly as many batters, Lannan and Strasburg are very similar.
  • Jerry Blevins got last night's save for the A's after Grant Balfour couldn't close the deal. Balfour has been lights-out lately, so this was probably just an isolated bad outing.
  • Nationals OF Mike Morse will have tests today on his injured left wrist. Look for Morse to miss today's game, and possibly more.
  • Rays OF Desmond Jennings (back) hopes to return to the lineup today, but didn't we say that yesterday?
  • Padres OF Carlos Quentin missed last night's game because of a sore knee, and could be out until Friday.
  • OK, so maybe things are a little too crowded in the Phillies' outfield for Darin Ruf to get meaningful playing time. Sorry if I jumped the gun yesterday.
  • The Brewers hope to get 1B Corey Hart back in the lineup by Friday, but he'll be dealing with foot pain for the rest of the season.
  • It sounds like Angels OF Mark Trumbo will lose some at bats down the stretch unless he starts to hit pretty quickly. Remember two months ago, when everyone thought Trumbo was Babe Ruth?
  • The Indians hope to get SS Asdrubal Cabrera (wrist) back in the lineup by Thursday.

   

  See you back here tomorrow morning.

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