Jeremy Sowers: Sowers was hit hard again last night, 7 ER in 6 innings and for the year his record is now 0-4 with a 7.13 ERA. Sowers had success last year, 7-4 with a 3.57 ERA, despite having a very low K/9 of 3.6 because he had good control, 2.0 BB/9, and kept the ball on the ground, 48% GB%. Pitchers can succeed with that skill set, but the margin for error is razor thin. In his disastrous 2007 season, all it took was a drop in his K/9 to 2.6, a rise in his BB/9 to 3.2, and what he could afford the least, a drop in his GB% to 41%. The Indians will probably send him to the minors very soon, but in the mean time he needs to be avoided in all formats.
Alan Embree: Embree picked up a save last night by pitching a perfect 9th inning. It was more of a matchup situation as the Giants had two lefties, Barry Bonds and Ryan Klesko, coming to bat. Embree's 6.8 K/9, 2.5 BB/9, and 31% GB% are not closer worthy. His 26% LD% also shows that hitters are making solid contact against him. Do not consider him a candidate to seize the A's closer role while Huston Street is out.
John Koronka: Koronka was recalled from Triple-A to replace the injured Kevin Millwood in the rotation and started last night against the Astros, allowing 3 ER in 5 innings. It does not appear that Koronka has the skills to succeed in major leagues, 2006 numbers of 7-7, 5.69 ERA, 4.4 K/9, 3.4 BB/9, and a 42 GB%. In fact it does appear that he even has the skills to be a Triple-A pitcher, 3-3, 5.45, 5.6 K/9, and a 3.3 BB/9 at Oklahoma in the PCL this season. Stay away in all formats.
Dustin Pedroia: After a rough April, 0/2/.182, Pedroia is heating up in May, 1/5/.442. Even when he was struggling with his batting average, Pedroia had great peripherals. For the year he is sporting an above average batting eye of 2.00 and contact rate of 92%. He will not hit for much power, 6 doubles and a home run in 93 AB or provide much speed, but with his skill set he should be good for batting average help. With his on-base skills and playing in a powerful Red Sox lineup, he should also score his share of runs.
Jorge Posada: Posada is off to a hot start, 5/24/.386, with 14 doubles. While there is some solid underlying skill support; .64 batting eye and a history of power , keep in mind that he is 35 years of age, is in his 10th season as a starting catcher, has a contact rate of 83%, and is benefiting from a .352 BHIP%. Now could be the perfect time to sell high.
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