Dustin Pedroia didn't reach base in the Red Sox's 14-run outburst against the Blue Jays Monday night. He was held hitless, bringing his slash line down to .272/.339/.368. Pedroia has four home runs and two stolen bases on the season, which lands him in two-category-contributor territory.
Only 30 of Pedroia's 107 hits have gone for extra bases. Hand injuries have plagued Pedroia's pop dating back to 2012, and his wOBA has dropped significantly this season. It sits at a lowly .316. He received a cortisone injection in his left wrist Tuesday, April 15, and also injured his right hand Friday, May 30.
Pedroia was drafted high this spring and is posting his worst season statistically. His name carries a lot of value, and if there is any opportunity to cash in on that value, you should do so. Pedroia only offers runs and RBIs going forward. He isn't playing at 100 percent.
Welcome to 2014 Austin Jackson. Where have you been old reliable friend? Jackson has now hit in nine of his last 10 games, and his home run Monday night, hopefully helps fantasy owners breathe a subtle sigh of relief. Jackson's batting average is up over 20 points since Wednesday, July 9.
Jackson has hit in six different slots in the Tigers' batting lineup, but he hits best atop the lineup. Aside from a single game batting ninth, Jackson has been in the leadoff spot all of July. His slash line in July was .354/.403/.523 entering last night's game. Manager Brad Ausmus has been looking to get Jackson going, and he has done so.
Setting the table for a potent Tigers' lineup is the best-case scenario for Jackson.
The Red Sox beat up on Drew Hutchinson last night. He allowed six earned runs, on nine hits and only struck out a single batter. It was the second consecutive game Hutchinson allowed six earned runs.
Hutchinson's 2014 statistics are no longer in the small-sample-size category. His 34.9 percent grand ball rate isn't going to kill in the majors. However, it could also -- more than likely -- kill your fantasy baseball team. Hutinson's control has been a major issue in July; he has only thrown 242 of 388 pitches for strikes.
Hutchinson is trending in the wrong direction. His pitching arsenal is lacking, beyond his fastball. One-trick ponies are easy targets for opposing hitters. Hutchinson could turn it around, but don't count on it.
Danny Santana has returned to the Twins' lineup. His shortstop eligibility makes him a potential play in all leagues and formats. He has a little bit of pop and speed and hitting atop the lineup makes him a four-category contributor. Consider any RBI a bonus.
It is a concern that he has slashed better at the highesst level than he has in the minors, but he has earned nearly-everyday at-bats with the Twins. His counting stats will be there. His run in June went to the tune of: 13 runs and RBIs, two bombs, four stolen bases and a .309/.337/.436 slash line.
There is limited upside here, but Santana boasts modest five-category production, and the Twins have a sneaky offense. Santana stands to be a fringe fantasy shortstop, but don't be afraid to cut bait if he falters.
John Lackey pitched a tidy seven innings to record his 11th win of the season. He allowed two hits and struck out three batters. Lackey lowered his ERA to 3.66 in the effort. He only threw 76 pitches on Monday night.
Lackey is prone to getting beat around and back-to-back rough outings. Interestingly, the Baltimore Orioles and New York Yankees have got the best of him on multiple occasions. Lackey is allowing fewer walks than ever and isn't giving the opposition any help.
Predicting wins is difficult business in fantasy baseball, but Lackey is winning lots this season. As mentioned, there are going to be highs and lows. He is capable of hitting double-digit strikeouts, but is just as likely to fan three batters. Owners should test the trade waters; Lackey is a sell-high candidate.
