Bits and Pieces

Bits of Random

Player Projections on the rise

·                                 Rafael Furcal’s tender ankle of ‘07 season is fully healthy, expect a nice jump in both his SBs and Runs Scored.

·                                 Jerry Owens (CHA) hopes to steal 65 bases this year. First he’ll have to win the full time gig, Owens struggles against lefties (.235 BA) and only stole one of his 32 against lefties last year.

·                                 Sources close to the Red Sox believe that Jacoby Ellsbury not Coco Crisp will be their opening day starter. Crisp is already asking for a pass out if he doesn’t get the starting gig.

·                                 It’s officially a 3 man race, Kerry Wood, Bobby Howry, and Carlos Marmol are the lead contenders to become the new Cubs closer. Wood is throwing pain free and Cub insiders believe he may capture the role if he can remain healthy this spring.

·                                 Nick Johnson is moving well in camp, insiders were thrilled to see Johnson moving well on the field and putting his weight behind his swings in BP this week. Johnson posted a .290/23/77 season in a 2006 injury shortened season. Since he walks so frequently, he’s almost a lock for 100 Runs scored if he can attain 500+ ABs this season.

·                                 Josh Fields is early front runner for starting 3B job according to Sox skipper. Fields provides power on the cheap for us fantasy leaguers and 25 HRs are well within his potential with 450-500 ABs.

·                                 Ageless wonder Randy Johnson and comeback candidate Pedro Martinez both reported strong bullpen seasons this week.

·                                 Mark Prior is throwing pain-free (at least this week). He’s not expected to be ready for the opening bell (possible #5 for the Padres), but a May return is possible).

·                                 Chuck James played through a torn rotator cuff in ‘07, 5 months of shoulder strengthening exercises have him healthy once again. Only a consideration in deep leagues as a Mike Hampton comeback may leave James in the bullpen.

·                                 Player Projections on the decline

·                                 Ryan Dempster’s move out of the bullpen has been confirmed. Dempster is going to battle for the 5th rotation slot, although he may beat Sean Marshall out of the gate, we won’t be surprised to see Dempster in middle relief by mid season.

·                                 Matt Clement has struggled early in Cardinals camp, enough so that pitching coach Dave Duncan doesn’t believe he’ll be ready to open the season in the rotation. His arm strength isn’t nearly where it should be.

·                                 Coco Crisp (see Jacoby Ellsbury)

·                                 Dmitri Young playing time in question with a healthy Nick Johnson and a crowded outfield.

·                                 Anibal Sanchez is feeling discomfort in his surgically repaired elbow, he’s been shut down.

·                                 Joe Crede is recovering from off season back surgery and has to beat out Josh fields.