Fantasy Notes

Brad Hawpe of the Rockies was activated from the DL and will resume his daily duties immediately. After a slow start to the season (.231, 3HR's, and 17RBI's) Hawpe is looking to bounce back after a breakout 2007 season where he hit .291, 29HR's, and 116RBI's. After a slow start in 2007 he continually picked it up as the summer heat set in. Owners, I recommend holding Hawpe on the bench for a few games until he finds his stroke. With Holliday coming back form injury and Atkins in the lineup Hawpe should hopefully find his groove.

Sidney Ponson of the Rangers was optioned to AAA after "disrespecting players and player personnel" in the locker room. This is kind of disappointing because of his number so far. They haven't been jaw dropping but they have added value to fantasy teams. I guess it is time to completely drop him off your rosters. If you want to be over cautious, you should wait it out to see if someone wants to pick him off waivers, which I highly doubt. It will take another 2 or so weeks for this to all settle out.

Michael Young of the Rangers missed a game due to a bruised ring finger. Currently, Young is on a 21 game hitting streak and is a great SS in all fantasy leagues. This finger issue was reported as not being too serious so owners shouldn't worry just yet.

Barry Bonds is going to trial and the media frenzy will begin on March 2, 2009 and does not have to appear in court until February of 2009. So, fantasy owners, if you have a spot on your roster you might want to grab Bonds just in case he does find a new home on a baseball team since his legal issues have completely cleared up. Looking at Bonds' stats, you can see he won't be hitting you 70HR's a year but he still adds value to any lineup. With his ability to bat with a high average because of his high walk rate, owners should keep their eye open with developments within the Bonds' camp. If he can get 250-300AB's he can realistically produce 15-20HR's, 60-70RBI's, with a .275-.285AVG. Not too shabby.

Under the Radar

Fantasy owners are always looking for the diamond in the rough and here are two players who might be a shiny diamond.

Sidney Ponson SP Rangers. With some legal problems and a tendency to allow 2-3 hits per inning, Ponson has started out very strong this year. In 13.1 innings he's allowed 2ER's with 9K's but the bad part is he's allowed 13 hits. Ponson has the potential and showed it by going 14-6 in 2003 but since then has bounced around the major leagues. If you are in need of a pitcher pick Ponson up and see if he continues his strong start. If not, just cut him.

Jonathan Sanchez SP Giants. I know the Giants are a terrible team but there is a bright spot in their lineup and that bright spot is Sanchez. This lefty has impressed so far in 2008 throwing 33.2 innings, 13ER's, and striking out 44 batters! He's currently 2-1 but with a team like the Giants hitting behind him that's no surprise. The K/BB of 44/16 is to drool over. Add Sanchez and enjoy his early success. Don't get attached because he hasn't sustained this greatness over a long period of time.