Mark Reynolds: According to Manager Bob Melvin, Reynolds will remain the starting third baseman despite the return of Chad Tracy. Reynolds has legitimate major league power, 25 home runs and 26 doubles in 158 career games, and surprising speed, a perfect 5 for 5 in steals this year. However, his low Ct% of 65%, struggles against right-handers, .211 batting average in 114 AB, and recent power drought, just 1 home run this month, makes some sort of time-share at third base for the righty swinging Reynolds with the lefty swinging Chad Tracy very likely.
Conor Jackson: Despite sitting in favor of the recently returned Chad Tracy at first base on Monday, Jackson is in no danger of losing his starting position. The 26 year-old already has an outstanding approach at the plate, 12% BB% and a 92% Ct%, which is translating into a solid .298 batting average. With 19 extra-base hits in 190 PA, he may be taking a step up in power just as he is entering his prime years.
Josh Banks: Banks will get the start in place of the injured Chris Young. Don’t be fooled by the 5 scoreless innings that he has thrown for the Padres, as he has walked 5 batters. Prior to being called up, he was getting bombed in Triple-A, 13 ER in 16.1 innings. Stay away from him
Jay Bruce: Bruce’s potential speed/power package makes him a must-own in keeper leagues. However, in non-keeper leagues, the holes in his game, 12/45 BB/K (with 5 of the walks being intentional) and a 76% Ct% in 184 Triple-A AB, makes him a much riskier play because of the batting average downside.
Wandy Rodriguez: After missing more than a month with a groin problem, Rodriguez is set to rejoin the Astros’ rotation today with a start against the Cardinals. Prior to going on the DL, Rodriguez was putting up very solid numbers; 2.31 ERA, 9.3 K/9, 1.9 BB/9, and a 44 % GB%, which was an improvement over the good peripheral numbers from 2007; 7.8 K/9, 3/1 BB/9, and a 41% GB%. He may need a start or two to get back into the groove, but he is a solid play in all formats.
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