Richie Sexson: Sexson's .172 batting average is being held down by a .102 BHIP%. He is still showing a good walk rate, 12%, and his usual contact rate, 78%. What is more worrisome is that the 46% GB% could keep his power down. Consider that Sexson is just 31 years old and has a very good track record, so count on him getting more loft on the ball and for some more of the batted balls to find holes and gaps. He makes for a great buy low candidate.
Doug Mientkiewicz: There have been rumblings about the Yankees playing the weak hitting Mientkiewicz at first base. At look at his numbers shows that he has not been an offensive liability. His .231 batting average is being depressed by a .160 BHIP% and his underlying numbers, 88% Ct% and a .83 batting eye, support a nice potential surge. He has also hit for more power this year, 7 doubles and 4 home runs, then in previous seasons. The power is supported by a three-year drop in his GB%, 49%/41%/37%. Batting left-handed gets him the better part of the platoon with Josh Phelps and he has the inviting short porch in Yankee Stadium's right field. He can be used in AL-only leagues.
Eric Gagne: Since returning from the DL on May 10, Gagne has made 5 appearances without allowing a run. He is also showing the dominance from years past with 6 K's in 5 innings. He remains a big injury risk, but it looks like the skills are still there.
Alan Embree: With both Huston Street and Justin Duchscherer on the DL, Manager Bob Geren indicated that Embree would get the majority of save opportunities. He is hardly the ideal profile of a successful closer, 6.5 K/9, 2.3 BB/9, and a 31% GB%. At this point in his career, the 37 year-old Embree seems more fit to be a situational reliever against left-handed batters, lefty/righty ERA splits of 3.24/4.09 in 2007 and 1.67/4.97 in 2006. If Kiko Calero were pitching better he would clearly be the favorite. Don't go rushing out to pick up Embree, if Calero gets back on track, Embree will be relegated to being a left-handed specialist.
Alex Rios: Rios' power numbers, 12 doubles and 10 home runs, are fully supported by some nice three-year growth trends in FB%, 31%/42%/50%, batting eye, .28/.39/.62, and contact rate, 79%/80%/86%. At 26 years of age, he is at the right age for a power breakout. The only knock on him right now is that with his speed, he should be running more, just 3 stolen bases in 4 tries.
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