Sunday March 25, 2007

Jonny Gomes had a great day on Sunday, going 2-3 with three runs, two rbi’s and a homerun. The homerun was his fourth of spring training. He is only 26 and has hit 20 and 21 homeruns the last two seasons, while never topping 385 at bats. I think his .216 batting average last year was more related to injuries than to his skill level. In 2005 he batted .282 with nine steals, to go along with his 21 homeruns, in only 348 at bats. Simply put, the guy has talent, and if you don’t want to take him at the end of drafts in deeper leagues then at least keep an eye on him as the season starts as a cheap source for power.

Although most see him as an unspectacular lower middle-tier starting pitcher, Chuck James put up decent numbers last year and had a pretty good start Sunday. He went six innings, gave up two hits and struck out four. He also walked four, but he’s not a bad guy to keep an eye on as he could take strides forward this season.

Josh Beckett gave up three hits and no earned runs while striking out seven in seven innings. I think I’ve said it before, but it is interesting how he went from being vastly overrated to underrated in the last two years. I like him to be better this year and play like a #2 fantasy starter for teams. He plays on a good team that will win him some games, and he strikes guys out.

Gary Sheffield made the most out of his one at bat, finishing with a homerun and four rbi’s. The guy may be old, but he still has his bat speed and playing at DH will keep him healthy.

Chase Utley had himself a day, going 3-4, with two runs, four rbi’s and two homeruns (giving him 6 in spring training). I still say if he drops past fifth in drafts it’s a crime. And yes, he is the best fantasy option on the Phillies, although Ryan Howard did get a hit today.

Cole Hamels got the win with 6 k’s in 6.2 innings. He didn’t walk anyone and gave up five hits, two of them being homeruns.

Raul Ibanez hit a homerun, giving him 5 in spring training. I don’t think he’ll repeat last season’s numbers, but he should be good for 20-25 homeruns and close to 90 rbi’s. His average has never been lower than .280 when he’s had over 250 at bats.

In our keeper league, Chien-Ming Wang and Prince Fielder hit the waiver wire. Not quite sure on either one. Wang could have gone to the DL and Fielder was dropped for Doug Davis. The team adding Davis is way short on pitching, but come on, its Doug Davis. And Fielder should be owned at all times in a keeper league (or any league).

I’m a little bitter because I have the eighth waiver out of ten, so it is unlikely that I’ll get the Prince on my team, which is desperate for some power. Anyway, take it easy and don’t drop Prince Fielder for Doug Davis.
-Adam