Jeff Weaver: Based on his recent history, 6.07 ERA with the Indians Triple-A team and a 6.22 ERA with the Brewers Triple-A team last year, it is hard to believe that Weaver will last very long in the Dodgers starting rotation. In his last full major league season back in 2007, Weaver was hit hard, 7-13 with a 6.20 ERA, and by looking at his underlying skills, 4.9 K/9, 2.2 BB/9, and a 47% FB%, it is not hard to see why. Fly balls hurlers who pitch to contact are always a very risky proposition, and Weaver is no exception, 92 home runs allowed from 2005 to 2007.
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Aramis Ramirez: Ramirez, who was off to a good start this year, 4/16/.364 in 66 AB, is expected to miss 4 to 6 weeks with a separated shoulder. This is a big loss for the Cubs and fantasy owners as he contributes in every fantasy category except for speed, 26/101/.310 in 2007 and 27/111/.289 in 2008.
Ryan Freel: The Cubs trade for Freel on Friday became important when later in the day Aramis Ramirez separated his shoulder. Freel will see time at the hot corner and the outfield. Those in NL-only leagues who need speed should pick him up but just be aware that he is now 34 years old, has been injured over the last couple of years, and has been less successful in his SB attempts lately, 15 steals in 23 attempts in 2007 and 6 steals in 10 attempts in 2008.
Carlos Zambrano: Zambrano will throw a bullpen session this week and if all goes well he will return on May 19th. He improved his control, 2006/2007/2008 BB/9's of 4.8/4.2/3.4, by not trying to blow away every hitter, K/9's of 8.8/7.4/6.2. The walks are still on the high side, but his ground ball approach, GB%'s of 47%/47%/47%, limits any damage. If healthy, he is a good bet for double-digit wins and a sub-4.00 ERA.
Felipe Paulino: There is talk that the Astros will move Paulino back into the starting rotation, where he enjoyed success, 2.55 ERA in 3 starts. His dominance, 7.4 K/9 in 20.2 innings, makes him intriguing, but he will have to improve his control, 4.4 BB/9, before those in mixed leagues should consider him.
