Author: Todd Zola
Tout Table: Smooth Saleing or reason for concern?
After a brief hiatus, the Tout Table is back! This week’s question:
What is your level of Chris Sale concern? Who from this list do you prefer rest-of-season over Sale: Blake Snell, Jameson Taillon, Luis Severino, Carlos Carrasco, Walker Buehler, Trevor Bauer, Clayton Kershaw, Mike Clevinger, Jack Flaherty and Patrick Corbin?
Larry Schechter (Winning Fantasy Baseball, @LarrySchechter): I took Sale at pick #9 in the first round of my NFBC Platinum league, so I have been extremely concerned about the lack of velocity. When I log on to answer these “tout table” questions I always write my answer before looking at others answers. But tonight I wanted to read what everyone else had to say first, looking for reassurance. It does make sense to think that they wouldn’t sign him to that contract without knowing for sure that he’s healthy, and his lack of spring innings, etc., so I am feeling a little better after reading everyone’s answers…but until I see the velocity come back, won’t be relieved. For the record, my pre-season projections for him were 180IP, 2.86, 0.96, 14.5 Wins, 245K
Brad Johnson (Patreon/BaseballATeam, @BaseballATeam): I’m definitely worried, but I wouldn’t say I’m ready to call him a non-ace yet. I valued him around pick 20 to 25 entering the season. Now I have him slightly after pick 30. In other words, two rough starts have barely affected my valuation despite elevated concern. As for pitchers I prefer, I’d definitely take Bauer over him. Probably Snell too. In other ace news, I’ve moved deGrom ahead of Scherzer on my personal pref-list.
Ray Murphy (BaseballHQ, @RayHQ): We ran a survey of HQ staff a couple of weeks ago, and I was surprised at how pessimistic we were as a group… very disconnected from our pretty optimistic projection. But, big picture: there was nothing structurally wrong with him after last season. Boston just gave him a giant extension, and I don’t think he’d be getting paid like that, or pitching right now, if there were a health concern. I think Boston is just playing the long game and managing his workload, thus making his first two starts were the equivalent of mid/late March starts for another pitcher. Just in case I’m wrong, I might consider taking Bauer or Snell from the above list instead of him. But nobody beyond that.
Gene McCaffrey (The Athletic, @WiseGuyGene): I was worried before the season started because the Sox babied him in the World Series, showing that surely they will baby him in the regular season. I’m a little more worried by the velocity loss but it’s hardly conclusive. That said, I would prefer ALL the above listed pitchers to Sale with the exception of Severino. I just don’t see ace IP to match the ace price, even if Sale turns it around.
Derek Carty (RotoGrinders, @DerekCarty): I called Sale the top pitcher in fantasy before the season, and I still stand by a healthy, no-concerns Sale being the top option. He’s the best pitcher in baseball with the best run support of any ace. Losing 2-4 mph of velocity is a big deal if it sticks around, but his velocity through April last season was low, and he finished the year with one of his highest average velocities in years. The velocity paired with the late-season shoulder injury last year is what has people freaking out, but I’m not ready to lose my cool yet. It’s entirely possible Sale is just easing himself into the season. Yes, there’s concern that an injury does exist, but the extent of that concern is what matters. A no-concerns Sale is a $45-50 player. Most of the guys on this list are in the $20-30 range, some are more like $10-15. If you’re really scared, MAYBE you can think about Snell or Bauer. But you’re banking on either 1) Sale losing substantial value or 2) those guys repeating their career-best 2018 seasons. That’s risk in and of itself, and after two starts, this is a lot of value to give up if you’re not really sure that Sale isn’t going to be the same guy we’ve come to expect for the majority of this season.
Charlie Wiegert (CDM Sports, @GFFantasySports): I’m not worried at all. He missed most of Spring Training and is just now catching up. Give him 2-3 more starts and he’ll be back to normal. I still think he’s the number 3 starter, behind Mad Max and Degrom.
Todd Zola (Mastersball, @toddzola): Maybe I’m blinded by too many duck boat parades, but I’m not concerned about health. I am a liitle worried short-term we may not see as many whiffs, but if the trade-off is September punchies, I’ll take that exchange. I’d be looking to acquire him, even dealing someone like Gerrit Cole or Aaron Nola for Sale if I can also get a decent stick as well, especially if I lost someone like Trea Turner, Daniel Murphy, Miguel Andujar or perhaps Marcell Ozuna.
Doug Dennis (BaseballHQ, @dougdennis41): I was all-in on Sale this year, rostering him in 3 leagues and taking the discount on what I perceived as his value. My worries are more about players on the IL right now–not Sale. I don’t prefer any of those list pitchers over Sale, ROS.
Tim McCullough (Baseball Prospectus, @TimsTenz): If there was a true medical issue with Sale’s shoulder, I doubt the Red Sox would have extended his contract earlier this spring. In addition, it appears they have a plan to ease Sale into the season. After giving him just nine innings in spring training, it wouldn’t surprise me to see him limited to a max of six innings per start through April and perhaps into early May with the goal being to preserve him for September and beyond. If the Sale owner in my leagues is panicking, I’m buying.
Anthony Perri (Fantistics, @Anthony_Perri): Seeing him only averaging 89.6 MPH on his fastball in last start is alarming, until you look back to last year and see that his fastball was also less than his norm in April. In fact last April 15th, he averaged 89.5. So when you combine that with the extension that Boston gave him this offseason….there is optimisim that he will rebound.
Dan Strafford (FNTSY Radio, @DanStrafford): I think a healthy amount of concern is worth while any time a pitcher isn’t hitting the velocity levels we’ve seen them consistently at. With no context, I’d be more concerned about Sale, but we’ve seen this story before. Sale is someone who has intentionally dialed things back in the past and been just fine. In a fantasy context, you’d need to best understand your league mates to consider what to do next. Sale’s value is clearly down from where we were to start the year and bailing on him now isn’t advisable without massive returns. It’s close, but I still would rank Sale first out of the pitchers listed.
Alex Chamberlain (Rotofraphs, @DolphHauldhagen): The odd part about looking at Sale’s game logs… many of his lowest velocity readings occur in the months of April and September. They account for 11 of his 18 worst starts by fastball velo, including his April 15 start last year. Don’t know if it’s a mental thing, just mailing it in a couple of times a year, especially early on. I’m hardly a scout, but it looked to me he wasn’t going 100% the other day. That doesn’t preclude an injury — he could be half-assing it because he’s injury — but I’d like to think it was more a conscious decision than one induced by injury. I’d definitely wait one more start to move him, if that decision is on the table. His value is already relatively low after the last start; waiting one more probably can’t make things any worse, only better. Assuming he is broken, I still might only place Snell, Bauer, Carrasco, maybe Clevinger and Flaherty above him (keeping the injured Severino and Kershaw below him for now). Lots of hypotheticals, though. Wouldn’t sound the alarms just yet.
Scott Engel (Rotoballer, @scotteTheKing): The entire Boston staff has not started the season well. But I am not ranking any one of those guys over Sale yet. I have seen aces like Corey Kuber start slow before and turn it around. I dont panic after two April starts. I just want him to stay healthy
Chris Liss (Rotowire, @Chris_Liss): Moderately concerned. Would take Snell and Bauer over him without a second thought. The others except for Kershaw and Severino would be closer calls.
Michael Stein (Fantasy Judgment, @FantasyJudgment): I am very concerned about Sale because of his injury history from 2018 as well as his unconventional throwing motion. The drop in velocity is not cause for panic in a vacuum, but coupled with his previous injuries there is good reason to be worried. It is understandable that he would want to hold back in order to prevent any re-aggravation. The idea is for him to pitch the entire year and avoid any time on the injured list so starting the season throwing softer does make sense. That being said, his fantasy value is partially premised on high strikeout totals so his decrease in velocity diminishes his fantasy value. I prefer Snell and Bauer over Sale for the rest of the season based on health and track record.
Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld, @sethroto): I’m a bit more concerned than I was entering the year, but the fact his velocity was very similar last April (including one sub-90 mph start, like he had in his second start this year) is more reassuring. He was my second ranked pitcher behind Max Scherzer entering the year. I’ve dropped him a few spots, but I’d only put Trevor Bauer and Walker Buehler ahead of him at this point.
Dr. Roto (Scout Fantasy, @DrRoto): Watch Sale become more of a pitcher than a thrower this season. It doesn’t mean that he won’t be good–it just means that I don’t anticipate him striking out 300 batters anymore. Snell and Bauer will have more Ks for sure than Sale by season’s end.
Phil Hertz (BaseballHQ, @prhz50): I’m not overly concerned after all the Sox just gave him oodles of money. That said, I’d probably take Snell and Bauer over him and if I can have another week, I migh5 also take Kershaw.
Lenny Melnick (LennyMelnickFantasySports, @LennyMelnick): Did Sox extend an injured pitcher for 5 years? Relax Sale and Bauer over all
Howard Bender (Fantasy Alarm, @RotobuzzGuy): Not worried about Sale at all. Alex Cora deliberately held back his starters so they were all in line for full work in October. Sale threw fewer than 10 innings of Grapefruit League ball and he’s supposed to be in midseason form? Nah. Not to mention, do we really thing the Red Sox are going to give a guy a five-year extension without checking the medicals real thoroughly? I’m super bullish on both Clevinger and Flaherty, but you just can’t deny what Sale has done over the years. If you believe he’s healthy, and I do, then he’s got to be your top arm.
Ariel Cohen (CBS Sports, @ATCNY): It is a 2.5. I am not concerned … but it does register as something to thing about. Sale is a PITCHER first and foremost. He will battle and be effective even if his velocity isn’t as high as it was in the past … and this could just be an April ramp-up. In either case, you aren’t dropping him, you are still playing him each and every week, and no one is trading you any pitcher close to him at this time anyways – so there isn’t anything for fantasy owners to do. As far as who I would rather have over him – the only one I would consider would be Snell.
Vlad Sedler (Fantasy Guru Elite, @rotogut): Very little concern about Sale but after these first two outings, it’s the perfect time to field some buy-low offers in case his current owner is panicked. From the list, the only guy I prefer to Sale rest-of-season is Bauer, and that’s because he’s going to be the best pitcher in baseball this year.
AJ Mass (ESPN, @AJMass): Let’s put it this way. Last season, on April 17, Jacob deGrom had a 3.24 ERA and a .312 slugging percentage against. Some people may have asked, “What’s the matter with Jake?” All he did the rest of the season was post a 1.50 ERA and a .272 slugging percentage against. Sure, Sale *could* be hurt. He also may win the Cy Young. Small sample sizes are sometimes bad. Remember Sale’s back-to-back starts at the end of May/beginning of June last year where he had an 8.71 ERA (.452 SLG)? Did that mean to sell? Until the IL becomes his home, you stick with him.
Michael Rathburn (Rotowire, @FantasyRath): As a Sox fan, I am concerned a little. I watched both starts and the power RHB on the Mariners took the outside FB and crushed it. It also happened vs. the A’s but not as much. I can see him trying to avoid that pitch until his velocity comes back. I wouldnt take any of the other pitchers over him with the exception of Blake Snell.
Andy Behrens (Yahoo! Fantasy Sports, @andybehrens): I don’t want to appear as if I’m completely dismissing Sale’s opening week issues, but this isn’t the first time we’ve seen him dial back velocity. There were no serious warning flares this spring. For me, he’s a strong buy. I don’t see a name on this list of pitchers (other than Snell) who belongs in the conversation with Sale.
Patrick Davitt (BaseballHQ, @patrickdavitt): I’m confident that it’s OK because I trust the team. I can’t see them signing Sale to an extension with salary-cap implications if they had any concerns with Sale’s long-term health. And as someone noted upthread, the team seems to be orienting its pitcher management to an extended run into October. I also think that Sale and the team might be trying to manage the long-term transition from Sale being a power pitcher to being more of a “smart” pitcher who gets guys out without maxing his delivery. That will likely have implications for his strikeout totals, which is why I’d probably lean to Bauer and Snell over Sale, but I’m not super-concerned about Sale.
Jeff Boggis (Fantasy Football Empire, @JeffBoggis): Sale owners don’t need to be in panic mode. Even if they are, they won’t be able to get full trade value right now. His fastball is in the high 80’s, but I feel it’s more related to a slow spring training rather than pitching mechanics or injury. Blake Snell would be the only pitcher that I would consider in a trade for Sale.
Ray Flowers (Fantasy Guru Elite, @BaseballGuys): There has to be some level of concern. That said, sheer panic is taking things way too far. If you’re not going to give an elite performer like Sale some rope, then it brings me back to the position I’ve always held – don’t take pitchers as foundational blocks of your team. Why people would spend a top-15 pick on a guy who didn’t qualify for the ERA title last year and on a guy who threw all of nine innings in spring, and then express concern when he starts slowly is a bit beyond me. He will find his groove eventually. He’s too talented not to.
Scott Swanay (FantasyBaseballSherpa, @fantasy_sherpa): Selfishly, I’m not concerned because I don’t have him on any of my teams this year. Keith Law and others have had concerns about his delivery for years, but so far those haven’t been borne out. He’s no Max Fried, but what we’re dealing with here is likely nothing more than a small sample size issue. Snell and Bauer are the only pitchers Todd listed who I think have the potential to produce similar value to Sale over the course of the entire season, but neither have the track record of sustained excellence that Sale does. I’d be buying low on him if the opportunity presented itself.
Derek VanRiper (Rotowire, @DerekVanRiper): Maybe it’s naive, but I’m trusting that the medical staff in Boston was confident in Sale’s health before green lighting the five-year, $145 million extension he just signed. I know we saw Luis Severino go on the shelf soon after signing an extension with the Yankees, so that logic isn’t bulletproof, but when you factor in his past history of reduced early-season velocity and his slow-played progress through the spring, I’m not ready to drop Sale’s projections beneath any of the pitchers included in this question. I think it’s easy to justify Justin Verlander, Gerrit Cole, or Aaron Nola ahead of Sale if you wanted to reduce risk, but ultimately, that could be a costly error based on two starts.
Michael Florio (NFL Network, @MichaelFFlorio): I am worried about Chris Sale. I get the reports that this is by design and watching video comparing him this year to last year, it is hard to argue that he is fully exerting himself. But velo is down across the Red Sox rotation. Either this is by design or their spring plan was attrocious. Still, Sale sitting at 88 MPH is concerning. He had just one strikeout and barely drew any swinging strikes. Of the pitchers listed I would take Bauer, Snell and Walker Buehler if I could in a trade. Other than that, I would take a shot on Sale returning to form.
Mike Gianella (Baseball Prospectus, @MikeGianella): I’m moderately worried about Sale, which is saying something, since I think people tend to overreact to reduced velocity in March/early April. But there’s a difference between being 1-2 MPH below your noirmal velocity and 3-4 MPH below. There’s usually an injury lurking when there’s that much of a drop and even when there isn’t it takes a while for pitchers to adjust to their new, diminished “normal”. I’m grabbing Snell, Bauer or Carrasco over Sale right now if I can, and I’d consider Buehler under the right circumstances.
Anthony Aniano (Rotoballer, @AAnianoFantasy): On a 1-10 scale my concern for Sale is a 3. The velocity is low but it’s early April, if he is still hovering at 90 mph after 5 starts or 6 starts my concern will grow. His secondary stuff is still good enough to get batters out. Of that list Snell, Bauer, are a preference over Sale. Younger arm with less wear and tear. Buehler still has to prove he can perform over a full season at the major league level.
Jon Hegglund (Baseball Prospectus, @JonHegglund): I’m not a Sale owner in any leagues, so this is a purely theoretical question for me, but I’d be moderately alarmed. That said, Snell would be the only name on this list that I would elevate above Sale at the moment. That the velocity issues from late last season and in the playoffs have continued is a big concern for me. Also, while he may well become vintage Sale eventually, how many sub-par starts will you be booking while you wait for him to ramp up? And finally, I’m not fully comforted by the idea that the Red Sox wouldn’t have extended him if they had even the slightest worries about his health. Hey, this logic holds true until it doesn’t. Teams make bad decisions sometimes. If you are a Sale owner, I think you have to hold, but you drafted him knowing full well about the red flags from last season, so you have to keep the faith.
Mike Sheets (ESPN, @MikeASheets): I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t concerned. Maybe it’s true that Sale is simply taking it easy early and will ramp up his velocity in the coming weeks. However, the fact that he was pounded by the Mariners in his first start and recorded only one strikeout in his second doesn’t make that explanation easy to swallow. Ultimately, Sale’s secondary stuff is good enough to compensate for diminished velocity, but I don’t want to be having these questions and discussions about a first-round player. At this point, I’d feel better with Snell or Bauer.
Justin Mason (Friends with Fantasy Benefits, Fangraphs, Fantasy Alarm, @JustinMasonFWFB): I think it is naive to not have any concern, but ultimately the Red Sox are a smart organization and I don’t think they would be running out Chris Sale every fifth day or have given him a long term contract if they had any concern about the structural integrity of his arm or his health. In my most recent starting pitching ranks over at Fantasy Alarm, I ranked Sale either among starting pitchers behind Scherzer, deGrom, Verlander, Bauer, Cole, Snell, and Nola.
Ian Kahn (Rotowire, @IanKahn4): I would take Trevor Bauer over Sale at this point, but that has as much to do with Bauer as it does with my concern for Sale. Sale looked like he was throwing batting practice the other day. He was far from giving full effort. That seemed to be a choice on Sale’s part. One would think that the Red Sox know exactly where he stands physically, and that contract shows great faith in his present and future. I just think the Sox didn’t have a great Spring Training plan with their pitchers, and they are paying the price in the early going. I expect to see vintage Sale coming our way in the next few starts.
Mike Podhorzer (Fangraphs, @MikePodhorzer): Level of concern: high. However, it’s only been two starts and nine innings! I projected Sale to earn significantly more than any of the other pitchers listed, so it’s still a bit too early to prefer any of those names.
Steve Gardner (USAToday Fantasy Sports, @SteveAGardner): Many pitchers go through the dead-arm period coming out of spring training. I’m not going to worry unless his reduced velocity and effectiveness last for a couple more weeks. The Red Sox gave him a full exam before signing him to his contract extension this spring so that’s the most important piece of info for me.
Clay Link (Rotowire, @claywlink): I’m concerned about Sale, as I have been since the end of last season. The fastball velocity was down to 92 and then 90 in his final two regular-season starts, and it was down around 90 in the ALCS. Now that concern is hightened, as he’s had close to a full offseason and the velocity hasn’t returned. The silver lining is that he was at least able to work around the diminished velo in his second start, and that lends hope to the idea that he can still be successfull without the velocity, just with fewer strikeouts. Pitchers I would definitely take over Sale: Blake Snell, Carlos Carrasco, Trevor Bauer and Mike Clevinger. I wouldn’t take Severino or Kershaw over him since they’re hurt and we don’t quite know what we’re getting from either when they come back. Jameson Taillon, Walker Buehler and Jack Flaherty aren’t far off from Sale, but I’d still lean Sale. For now.
Tout Daily Chat
Tout Wars FAAB Report: Week of September 24
Welcome to the weekly Tout Wars FAAB report, on its new home right here on the Tout Wars site. Each week, we’ll review the free agent acquisitions from all five leagues, with commentary from a league member, as well as yours truly.
We changed the timing of the weekly run to 1 PM ET every Sunday, with the report posted later that afternoon so you’ll have time to digest and apply to your own leagues. In addition, I’ll be joining Lawr Michaels and Justin Mason on the Tout Wars Hour on the FNTSY Network every Sunday at 3:20 PM ET to discuss the results.
You can find the complete list of Tout Warriors here. Everyone starts with 1000 FAAB units, less any penalty incurred by finishing below a designated point in the standings. This is a means of keeping everyone motivated to keep playing all season long. The minimum bid is $0. FAAB units can be traded as well as rebated for players released off the DL. The report will list all winning bids along with unsuccessful tries and contingencies. This provides the maximum level of information to help gauge interest on the players.
The American and National League only formats are 12-team leagues, as is the new points-based head to head league, The Mixed Auction and Draft each have 15 clubs. All the leagues have four reserves with an unlimited DL, expect the head to head league, which allows six reserves. The headings above each league are links to publicly accessible sites where you can see standings, roster and a complete review of transactions. The initial auctions and drafts can be found here.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| AMeadows, TB | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 29 | Mike Podhorzer 8 | |
| MStraw, Hou | Patrick Davitt 5 | ||
| DCovey, CWS | Mike Podhorzer 3 | ||
| RTellez, Tor | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| DStewart, Bal | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 29 | ||
| RHerrera, KC | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 29 | ||
| RLaMarre, CWS | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 29 | ||
| VReyes, Det | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 29 | ||
| WCalhoun, Tex | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 29 | ||
| HRondon, Hou | Patrick Davitt 5 | ||
| RBrasier, Bos | Patrick Davitt 5 | ||
| SRomo, TB | Patrick Davitt 5 |
Todd’s Take
It was surprising that the Rays did not call up Meadows sooner, especially after he performed decently with the Pirates for a stretch earlier in the summer. He’s up now, and after a three-hit game Friday night, Meadows could get a few starts the last week of the season.
Aside from being fodder for “stirs the drink” or “broke the back” puns, Myles Straw is up to do one thing – steal bases as a pinch runner.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| AAltherr, Phi | Phil Hertz 15 | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | |
| MKoch, Ari | Steve Gardner 1 | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | |
| COswalt, NYM | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | Phil Hertz 5 | Steve Gardner 1 |
| EDiaz, Pit | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | Steve Gardner 0 | |
| POBrien, Mia | Mike Gianella 0 | ||
| AConley, Mia | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | ||
| PReyes, Pit | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| RRodriguez, Pit | Phil Hertz 15 | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | |
| CFerguson, LAD | Phil Hertz 15 | ||
| MAndriese, Ari | Phil Hertz 5 | ||
| GParra, Col | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | ||
| HPence, SF | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | ||
| JBrebbia, StL | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | ||
| KCrick, Pit | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 |
Todd’s Take
Much more was expected from Aaron Altherr, at minimum he was thought to be a solid contributor to the Phillies outfield, garnering a $9 bid in March from an unsuspecting owner (cough, cough). Well, he couldn’t even deliver in a platoon role and was sent to Triple-A. Altherr was recalled in September, seeing regular playing time with Nick Williams sidelined. He hasn’t played as much lately, but is still capable of a couple swipes the final week.
Tristan Cockcroft is doing all he can to catch Steve Gardner, who currently holds five point lead. Both combatants made bids, with Tristan aiming to maintain his overall lead in strikeouts while using solid relievers to capture some ratio points still in play.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| JShields, CWS | Scott Pianowski 55 | ||
| WDifo, Was | Fred Zinkie 23 | ||
| TCahill, Oak | Ron Shandler 8 | ||
| ZDavies, Mil | Fred Zinkie 4 | Fred Zinkie 23 | Ray Flowers 1 |
| POBrien, Mia | Ray Flowers 2 | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | |
| TButtrey, LAA | Jeff Zimmerman 2 | ||
| KSeager, Sea | Zach Steinhorn 1 | Ray Flowers 2 | Scott Swanay 0 |
| TFlowers, Atl | Ray Flowers 1 | ||
| JVargas, NYM | Al Melchior 0 | Jeff Zimmerman 2 | |
| BHolt, Bos | Scott Swanay 0 | Ray Flowers 0 | |
| EAdrianza, Min | Ray Flowers 0 | ||
| AGarcia, SF | Al Melchior 0 | ||
| MMahtook, Det | Fred Zinkie 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| JJames, Hou | Ron Shandler 8 | Al Melchior 0 | |
| TPannone, Tor | Ron Shandler 8 | ||
| AConley, Mia | Jeff Zimmerman 2 | Al Melchior 0 | |
| EHernandez, LAD | Ray Flowers 0 | ||
| MPina, Mil | Ray Flowers 0 | ||
| JJones, Det | Fred Zinkie 0 |
Todd’s Take
While this can be construed as a backhanded dig at the other leagues, it isn’t. It’s just that nine of 15 participants still making bids despite leader Tim Heaney enjoying a over a 20-point lead is exemplary.
Most of the acquired names are familiar with a few exceptions. Ray Flowers grabbed journeyman slugger Pete O’Brien, who despite showing pop on the farm, has get to latch onto an MLB roster as he continues to exhibit defensive deficiencies along with a proclivity for punching out.
Jeff Zimmerman sees the Angels with an early week series against the Rangers, envisioning a save or two for Ty Buttrey, author of four ninth-inning conversions in five tries since being handed the closer gig in early September.
Al Melchior noticed Aramis Garcia is spitting time behind the plate and at first base, essentially filling in for Buster Posey. Garcia has an OPS of 1.000 with three homers since his promotion.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| GAllen, Cle | Charlie Wiegert 300 | ||
| BreAnderson, Oak | D.J. Short 100 | ||
| LVoit, NYY | Adam Ronis 16 | ||
| WAstudillo, Min | Adam Ronis 1 | ||
| TButtrey, LAA | Gene McCaffrey 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| TAnderson, Col | D.J. Short 100 | ||
| CStewart, Det | Adam Ronis 16 | ||
| LGurriel, Tor | Adam Ronis 16 | ||
| VRobles, Was | Adam Ronis 16 |
Todd’s Take
With Josh Donaldson back pushing Jose Ramirez to second, Greg Allen is losing playing time to Jason Kipnis. However, the Indians are likely to give everyone some rest this week as they’re locked into the three-seed, availing more action for Allen, even if it is coming into games in the mid innings. His asset, other than excellent defense is running, so if you need bags this week, consider Allen.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| TToussaint, Atl | Peter Kreutzer 101 | ||
| DPalka, CWS | Peter Kreutzer 57 | Andrea LaMont 0 | |
| ROsuna, Hou | Andrea LaMont 1 | ||
| AMondesi, KC | Andrea LaMont 1 | ||
| LVoit, NYY | Andrea LaMont 1 | ||
| JJames, Hou | Andrea LaMont 0 |
Todd’s Take
As mentioned last week, Jake Ciely is your 2018 Head to Head champion. Peter and Andrea continue to grind, looking to finish as high as possible, perhaps conserving FAAB for next season as all the leagues are penalized for finishes below a threshold contextual to the respective leagues.
Tout Daily Football: Robert Spiegelberg is King for Two Days
Yes, we play DFS football too! While not an official Tout Wars sponsored entity, I’ll be writing about our Tout Daily Football contest since the majority of participants are Touts or friends of Touts, most in the industry.
Unlike the baseball version where we segmented the scoring into five periods, we’ll recognize the top-three finishers each week as well as crowning the overall champion by virtue of most points over the 17- week regular NFL season.
Robert Spiegelberg, aka Kingpin54321 (does anyone else find it odd there are 54320 other Kingpins?) is off to a great start, leading the way in each of the first two weeks. Finishing behind Kingpin54321 in Week 1 were Derek Carty and Reid Kashmanian while Jake Ciely and Jeff Erickson trailed the leader in Week 2.
Overall, Spiegelberg of course leads with Carty in second followed by Sammy Reid.
The overall standings can be found on the Leaderboard.
Tout Wars FAAB Report: Week of September 17
Welcome to the weekly Tout Wars FAAB report, on its new home right here on the Tout Wars site. Each week, we’ll review the free agent acquisitions from all five leagues, with commentary from a league member, as well as yours truly.
We changed the timing of the weekly run to 1 PM ET every Sunday, with the report posted later that afternoon so you’ll have time to digest and apply to your own leagues. In addition, I’ll be joining Lawr Michaels and Justin Mason on the Tout Wars Hour on the FNTSY Network every Sunday at 3:20 PM ET to discuss the results.
You can find the complete list of Tout Warriors here. Everyone starts with 1000 FAAB units, less any penalty incurred by finishing below a designated point in the standings. This is a means of keeping everyone motivated to keep playing all season long. The minimum bid is $0. FAAB units can be traded as well as rebated for players released off the DL. The report will list all winning bids along with unsuccessful tries and contingencies. This provides the maximum level of information to help gauge interest on the players.
The American and National League only formats are 12-team leagues, as is the new points-based head to head league, The Mixed Auction and Draft each have 15 clubs. All the leagues have four reserves with an unlimited DL, expect the head to head league, which allows six reserves. The headings above each league are links to publicly accessible sites where you can see standings, roster and a complete review of transactions. The initial auctions and drafts can be found here.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| CStewart, Det | Mike Podhorzer 92 | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 23 | |
| MShoemaker, LAA | Mike Podhorzer 46 | Larry Schechter 0 | |
| WAstudillo, Min | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 6 | ||
| DanNorris, Det | Larry Schechter 0 | ||
| WHarris, Hou | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| NVincent, Sea | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 0 | ||
| JJimenez, Det | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 0 |
Todd’s Take
It took Detroit longer than most expected, but Christin Stewart was finally given the keys to left field for the rest of the season. His plate skills for Triple-A Toledo were fine, fanning at an acceptable 21 percent rate while walking a healthy 13 percent. He swatted 23 homers for the Mudhens.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| JJeffress, Mil | Mike Gianella 38 | Phil Hertz 33 | Steve Gardner 1 |
| MLorenzen, Cin | Phil Hertz 17 | ||
| DomSmith, NYM | Phil Hertz 5 | Mike Gianella 35 | |
| AVizcaino, Atl | Phil Hertz 3 | Steve Gardner 1 | |
| CReed, Cin | Phil Hertz 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| JLuplow, Pit | Phil Hertz 33 | ||
| JUrias, LAD | Phil Hertz 1 | ||
| CFerguson, LAD | Phil Hertz 0 | ||
| JVenters, Atl | Phil Hertz 0 |
Todd’s Take
So, I’ve got one of the worst pitching staffs in the league, yet three of this week’s pick-ups were recently released off my sorry squad, including Lorenzen and Jeffress last week. I made the calculated decision I could gain more points in wins and whiffs than I’d lose in saves, while remaining in the cellar in ratios. I won’t see the wins and K’s points until the last week, if at all.
Mike Gianella benefited from my ply, grabbing Jeffress. None of the points Mike stands to gain in saves (including leapfrogging me) will influence the three-horse race for the title between Steve Gardner, Grey Albright and Tristan Cockcroft, though Jeffress could also help Mike in ratios, possibly costing Grey and Tristan a point. Selfishly, my concern is trying to minimize my loss of FAAB. I’d feel bad if my strategy contributed to the championship for someone, but that’s OK. There have been numerous other FAAB releases affecting things, like some bozo dropping Kyle Freeland in April. Just not my year… again.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| JMFernandez, LAA | Ron Shandler 18 | ||
| JBruce, NYM | Zach Steinhorn 9 | Ron Shandler 18 | Ray Flowers 6 |
| Fred Zinkie 5 | Tim Heaney 0 | ||
| CStratton, SF | Ray Flowers 8 | Tim Heaney 0 | |
| GHolland, Was | Ray Flowers 7 | Ray Flowers 4 | |
| YHirano, Ari | Scott Swanay 7 | ||
| JChoi, TB | Ray Flowers 6 | Zach Steinhorn 3 | |
| FValdez, Hou | Jeff Zimmerman 3 | ||
| JAlvarado, TB | Fred Zinkie 3 | Ray Flowers 4 | |
| WAstudillo, Min | Jeff Zimmerman 2 | Al Melchior 0 | |
| MDuffy, TB | Jeff Zimmerman 2 | ||
| RStripling, LAD | Al Melchior 1 | Ray Flowers 7 | Jeff Zimmerman 3 |
| RGrossman, Min | Scott Swanay 0 | Al Melchior 0 | |
| KPlawecki, NYM | Al Melchior 0 | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | |
| NMartini, Oak | Al Melchior 0 | ||
| SKieboom, Was | Al Melchior 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| LBrinson, Mia | Ron Shandler 18 | ||
| ZDavies, Mil | Ray Flowers 7 | Ray Flowers 5 | |
| YMunoz, StL | Ray Flowers 5 | Scott Swanay 0 | Jeff Zimmerman 0 |
| HDozier, KC | Ray Flowers 5 | ||
| TWard, LAA | Ray Flowers 5 | ||
| DFletcher, LAA | Jeff Zimmerman 2 | ||
| ARomine, NYY | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | ||
| CaJoseph, Bal | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | ||
| DanNorris, Det | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | ||
| WDifo, Was | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | ||
| AConley, Mia | Al Melchior 0 | ||
| JChavez, ChC | Al Melchior 0 |
Todd’s Take
I usually insert a photo of the player garnering the top bid atop the header, but in this case I opted to make an exception. Try to tell me Willians Astudillo isn’t the love child of former Tout Eno Sarris and Bartolo Colon. You can’t. Admit it, you can’t.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| BKeller, KC | Charlie Wiegert 123 | D.J. Short 35 | |
| SSchebler, Cin | Adam Ronis 47 | ||
| BLowe, TB | Adam Ronis 13 | Adam Ronis 37 |
Todd’s Take
At the time of this writing, Adam Ronis is nine points behind Rudy Gamble. Adam is looking at gaining 5 points in R, RBI and SB, one of which passes Rudy for a net six. He’ll still need a few more, but here’s why you keep grinding. To his credit, Rudy has been making consistent moves all season, he just didn’t see anything to help this week. Good luck, gents.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| JRoss, Was | Dr. Roto 27 | Jake Ciely 7 | |
| JrgLopez, KC | Jake Ciely 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| RStripling, LAD | Dr. Roto 27 |
Todd’s Take
Clay Link needed to sweep his match with Jake Ciely being swept to have a chance to set up a chance to pass current leader Jake in the season’s final two-week period. Clay is doing his part. It appears Jake will take at least four of the six points, leaving him with an insurmountable eight game lead.
Tout Wars FAAB Report: Week of September 10
Welcome to the weekly Tout Wars FAAB report, on its new home right here on the Tout Wars site. Each week, we’ll review the free agent acquisitions from all five leagues, with commentary from a league member, as well as yours truly.
We changed the timing of the weekly run to 1 PM ET every Sunday, with the report posted later that afternoon so you’ll have time to digest and apply to your own leagues. In addition, I’ll be joining Lawr Michaels and Justin Mason on the Tout Wars Hour on the FNTSY Network every Sunday at 3:20 PM ET to discuss the results.
You can find the complete list of Tout Warriors here. Everyone starts with 1000 FAAB units, less any penalty incurred by finishing below a designated point in the standings. This is a means of keeping everyone motivated to keep playing all season long. The minimum bid is $0. FAAB units can be traded as well as rebated for players released off the DL. The report will list all winning bids along with unsuccessful tries and contingencies. This provides the maximum level of information to help gauge interest on the players.
The American and National League only formats are 12-team leagues, as is the new points-based head to head league, The Mixed Auction and Draft each have 15 clubs. All the leagues have four reserves with an unlimited DL, expect the head to head league, which allows six reserves. The headings above each league are links to publicly accessible sites where you can see standings, roster and a complete review of transactions. The initial auctions and drafts can be found here.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| JrgLopez, KC | Doug Dennis 100 | Seth Trachtman 45 | |
| ADiaz, Tor | Doug Dennis 83 | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 11 | |
| YMendez, Tex | Seth Trachtman 45 | ||
| JMFernandez, LAA | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 11 | ||
| BGuyer, Cle | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 1 | Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 6 | |
| JRickard, Bal | Larry Schechter 1 | ||
| TButtrey, LAA | Larry Schechter 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| DCovey, CWS | Seth Trachtman 11 | ||
| RTellez, Tor | Larry Schechter 1 | ||
| TScott, Bal | Doug Dennis 0 |
Todd’s Take
Geez, what does a guy have to do to get noticed, carry a perfect game into the ninth? Jorge Lopez followed up a seven inning, one run outing versus the Orioles, fanning eight with no walks with his gem versus the Twins. The former Brewers prospect spent much of the 2018 campaign working as a reliever. With 15 innings allowing just two runs this last two efforts, Lopez is making a strong case to be in the Royals rotation next season.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| FMejia, SD | Mike Gianella 65 | Todd Zola 29 | Steve Gardner 15 |
| Craig Mish 3 | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | ||
| PWisdom, StL | Mike Gianella 65 | Todd Zola 29 | |
| JRoss, Was | Mike Gianella 65 | Phil Hertz 60 | |
| JOsuna, Pit | Todd Zola 29 | ||
| TGore, ChC | Phil Hertz 25 | Phil Hertz 4 | |
| TomHunter, Phi | Steve Gardner 15 | ||
| SKieboom, Was | Mike Gianella 0 | Steve Gardner 0 | |
| AAvila, Ari | Steve Gardner 0 | Mike Gianella 0 | |
| JHicks, StL | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | Steve Gardner 4 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| FPena, StL | Mike Gianella 0 | ||
| PSeverino, Was | Mike Gianella 0 | ||
| TNido, NYM | Mike Gianella 0 | ||
| DHudson, StL | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | ||
| KGlover, Was | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | ||
| KWright, Atl | Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 |
Todd’s Take
In a bit of a switch, hitters dominated the NL bidding with Francisco Mejia paving the way. The jury is still out with respect to his defense; his stick is MLB ready.
Next up is Cardinals third-sacker Patrick Wisdom, called up to help an injury-riddled infield. As an example of how thin the hitting ranks are, Wisdom is just 6-for-31, albeit with half of his knocks leaving the yard. But, playing time is currency and he’s seeing regular run.
Without the budget to compete with Mike Gianella, I settled for Jose Osuna, hoping he plays down the stretch. Not-so-ironically, he’s replacing the same guy he’s replacing in Pittsburgh, Gregory Polanco.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| JCandelario, Det | Scott Swanay 81 | Ron Shandler 27 | |
| FMejia, SD | Jeff Zimmerman 32 | Tim Heaney 3 | Al Melchior 0 |
| SAlcantara, Mia | Ron Shandler 27 | Scott Swanay 81 | Fred Zinkie 4 |
| KYates, SD | Jeff Zimmerman 24 | Zach Steinhorn 6 | Al Melchior 1 |
| RTellez, Tor | Jeff Zimmerman 24 | ||
| JGray, Col | Jeff Zimmerman 24 | Ray Flowers 21 | Al Melchior 1 |
| BKeller, KC | Ray Flowers 20 | ||
| AFrazier, Pit | Ray Flowers 19 | Al Melchior 0 | |
| YGurriel, Hou | Ron Shandler 19 | Jeff Zimmerman 24 | Zach Steinhorn 2 |
| JRoss, Was | Ron Shandler 5 | ||
| VRobles, Was | Tim Heaney 3 | ||
| CStewart, Det | Jeff Zimmerman 2 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| CStratton, SF | Ray Flowers 19 | ||
| LBrinson, Mia | Ray Flowers 19 | ||
| MMahtook, Det | Ray Flowers 19 | ||
| HDozier, KC | Ron Shandler 11 | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | |
| WDifo, Was | Ron Shandler 5 | ||
| TomHunter, Phi | Jeff Zimmerman 4 | ||
| DFletcher, LAA | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | ||
| DTravis, Tor | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | ||
| JChoi, TB | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | ||
| YMunoz, StL | Jeff Zimmerman 0 |
Todd’s Take
Frequent helper Jeff Zimmerman was a busy man, reacquiring Jon Gray among several other moves. The two I want to focus on are Rowdy Tellez and Christin Stewart, both options to provide some late season pop. Tellez has replaced the slumping Justin Smoak at first base. After hitting safely in his first four games, Tellez was 0-for-4 om Sunday but still should receive a good look the next three weeks. Stewart will be the Tigers everyday left fielder down the stretch, after hitting 23 homers for Triple-A Toledo this season.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| FMejia, SD | Perry Van Hook 123 | ||
| RDavis, Cle | Anthony Perri 60 | ||
| DFletcher, LAA | Anthony Perri 60 | Rudy Gamble 27 | |
| AFrazier, Pit | Rudy Gamble 42 | Adam Ronis 28 | |
| AGomber, StL | Charlie Wiegert 37 | D.J. Short 15 | |
| RLaureano, Oak | Charlie Wiegert 37 | Adam Ronis 28 | |
| LVoit, NYY | Adam Ronis 28 | ||
| WChen, Mia | D.J. Short 20 | ||
| SAlcantara, Mia | Perry Van Hook 3 | D.J. Short 8 | |
| JAlvarado, TB | Gene McCaffrey 1 | ||
| RTellez, Tor | Gene McCaffrey 0 | Adam Ronis 28 | |
| CIannetta, Col | Gene McCaffrey 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| SSchebler, Cin | Adam Ronis 28 | ||
| ENunez, Bos | Rudy Gamble 22 | ||
| FPena, LAA | D.J. Short 15 | ||
| BLowe, TB | Adam Ronis 13 | ||
| BMcKinney, Tor | Adam Ronis 4 | Gene McCaffrey 0 | |
| JRoss, Was | Perry Van Hook 3 | D.J. Short 1 | |
| FValdez, Hou | Perry Van Hook 3 | ||
| JBeeks, TB | Perry Van Hook 3 | ||
| JrgLopez, KC | Perry Van Hook 3 | ||
| YHirano, Ari | Perry Van Hook 3 | ||
| TRichards, Mia | D.J. Short 1 | ||
| AGordon, KC | Gene McCaffrey 0 | ||
| DDeShields, Tex | Gene McCaffrey 0 | ||
| MAdams, StL | Gene McCaffrey 0 | ||
| NCiuffo, TB | Gene McCaffrey 0 | ||
| VRobles, Was | Gene McCaffrey 0 | ||
| WCastillo, CWS | Gene McCaffrey 0 | ||
| YSanchez, CWS | Gene McCaffrey 0 |
Todd’s Take
Kudos to Ray Flowers in the Mixed Auction and Rudy Gamble in the Mixed Draft for recognizing what Adam Frazier has done over the second half. How does .360/.413/.623 since the break grab you?
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| SAlcantara, Mia | Justin Mason 100 | Dr. Roto 15 | Jake Ciely 7 |
| BKeller, KC | Peter Kreutzer 36 | Dr. Roto 15 | Andrea LaMont 1 |
| FValdez, Hou | Dr. Roto 31 | Jake Ciely 7 | |
| FPena, LAA | Dr. Roto 15 | Jake Ciely 7 | |
| KBryant, ChC | Andrea LaMont 6 | ||
| FReyes, SD | Andrea LaMont 3 | ||
| AHedges, SD | Jake Ciely 2 | ||
| SReidFoley, Tor | Jake Ciely 2 | ||
| KMaeda, LAD | Andrea LaMont 1 | ||
| RLaureano, Oak | Jake Ciely 1 | ||
| ASimmons, LAA | Andrea LaMont 0 | ||
| AGordon, KC | Andrea LaMont 0 | ||
| MMahtook, Det | Andrea LaMont 0 | ||
| WMiley, Mil | Justin Mason 0 | ||
| JVargas, NYM | Justin Mason 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| JRoss, Was | Dr. Roto 15 | ||
| JUrena, Mia | Dr. Roto 15 | ||
| DMengden, Oak | Peter Kreutzer 13 | ||
| TWhite, Hou | Jake Ciely 1 | ||
| CReed, Cin | Justin Mason 0 | ||
| KSmith, CWS | Jake Ciely 0 | ||
| MDavidson, CWS | Andrea LaMont 0 |
Todd’s Take
There’s no better way to demonstrate context is everything than Kris Bryant drawing one bid while four pitchers drew multiple – and higher – bids. This format is all about unearthing pitching, hopefully with two starts.
Sandy Alcantara leads the way, though he only has one outing on the docket. His strikeout potential is the major allure.
Brad Keller also has just one, but it’s against the White Sox and their generous strikeout potential.
Framber Valdez is a sneaky pick-up since he lines up for two decent starts next week after facing the Tigers this week.
Francisco Pena is also looking at a double-dip in a week, though it lines up as more difficult that what Valdez will encounter.
Tout Wars FAAB Report: Week of September 3
Welcome to the weekly Tout Wars FAAB report, on its new home right here on the Tout Wars site. Each week, we’ll review the free agent acquisitions from all five leagues, with commentary from a league member, as well as yours truly.
We changed the timing of the weekly run to 1 PM ET every Sunday, with the report posted later that afternoon so you’ll have time to digest and apply to your own leagues. In addition, I’ll be joining Lawr Michaels and Justin Mason on the Tout Wars Hour on the FNTSY Network every Sunday at 3:20 PM ET to discuss the results.
You can find the complete list of Tout Warriors here. Everyone starts with 1000 FAAB units, less any penalty incurred by finishing below a designated point in the standings. This is a means of keeping everyone motivated to keep playing all season long. The minimum bid is $0. FAAB units can be traded as well as rebated for players released off the DL. The report will list all winning bids along with unsuccessful tries and contingencies. This provides the maximum level of information to help gauge interest on the players.
The American and National League only formats are 12-team leagues, as is the new points-based head to head league, The Mixed Auction and Draft each have 15 clubs. All the leagues have four reserves with an unlimited DL, expect the head to head league, which allows six reserves. The headings above each league are links to publicly accessible sites where you can see standings, roster and a complete review of transactions. The initial auctions and drafts can be found here.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| AMcCutchen, NYY | Rob Leibowitz 455 | Jeff Erickson 246 | Seth Trachtman 165 |
| Mike Podhorzer 149 | Vlad Sedler 101 | ||
| Rick Wolf/Glenn Colton 47 | Lawr Michaels 46 | ||
| Larry Schechter 1 | |||
| FValdez, Hou | Jeff Erickson 246 | Vlad Sedler 19 | Seth Trachtman 5 |
| IHamilton, CWS | Jason Collette 20 | ||
| DCastillo, TB | Doug Dennis 15 | ||
| DLugo, Det | Vlad Sedler 13 | ||
| AHechavarria, NYY | Lawr Michaels 11 | ||
| JMateo, Oak | Patrick Davitt 1 | ||
| DHess, Bal | Seth Trachtman 1 | ||
| HSantiago, CWS | Vlad Sedler 1 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| JrgLopez, KC | Vlad Sedler 7 | ||
| JAndreoli, Bal | Vlad Sedler 6 | ||
| BGuyer, Cle | Vlad Sedler 2 | ||
| RBuchter, Oak | Vlad Sedler 1 | ||
| BValera, Bal | Lawr Michaels 1 |
Todd’s Take
A combination of FAAB rebates for DL players in addition to a paucity of difference-making crossover players left a couple AL Toutians with deep pockets. Rob Leibowitz is glad Andrew McCutchen switched leagues as he tries to climb closer to the threshold to lose FAAB for next season. Cutch has a job now, we’ll see how much he pays once Aaron Judge returns.
Jeff Erickson was also able to lighten the wallet, grabbing Astros starter Framber Valdez. Valdez is working in Lance McCullers Jr.’s spot, allowing just two earned runs in his 14.1 innings, albeit with only 10 whiffs and seven walks. Still, starters, especially for contending teams are hard to come by.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| LDuda, Atl | Brian Walton 60 | ||
| TToussaint, Atl | Brian Walton 25 | Todd Zola 17 | Grey Albright 11 |
| DPoncedeleon, StL | Mike Gianella 23 | Todd Zola 17 | Andy Behrens 2 |
| Tristan H. Cockcroft 0 | |||
| ZDavies, Mil | Mike Gianella 22 | ||
| CGranderson, Mil | Steve Gardner 14 | ||
| BWilson, Atl | Grey Albright 11 | ||
| BMitchell, SD | Todd Zola 7 | ||
| AGarcia, SF | Craig Mish 4 | ||
| BMorrow, ChC | Steve Gardner 2 | ||
| JBrigham, Mia | Craig Mish 1 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| KWright, Atl | Grey Albright 11 | ||
| AChafin, Ari | Craig Mish 0 |
Todd’s Take
Lucas Duda was the big-ticket item, but with Freddie Freeman in two, Duda will likely be relegated to pinch-hitting duties, perhaps seeing some outfield time after a double-switch.
Starting pitching was the next order of business with five arms scheduled to work this week added to Tout rosters. My personal rank matches that of the bids with the Braves Touki Toussaint leading the way as he’s been announced to open the interleague series with Boston on Labor Day. Daniel Poncedeleon may lose his spot once Adam Wainwright and/or Michael Wacha return, but he has a nice matchup with Detroit this week. Zach Davies makes his return from the DL on Monday, the first of a double -dip. Without a lot of FAAB, I landed on Bryan Mitchell, someone I was expecting to transition to a usable starter after the Yankees dealt him to San Diego.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| RRay, Ari | Zach Steinhorn 82 | Bret Sayre 61 | Scott Swanay 48 |
| Tim Heaney 4 | Jeff Zimmerman 1 | ||
| LUrias, SD | Scott Engel 19 | Tim Heaney 4 | Jeff Zimmerman 0 |
| JCave, Min | Scott Engel 5 | ||
| BMcCann, Hou | Fred Zinkie 5 | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | |
| JFry, CWS | Tim McLeod 4 | Jeff Zimmerman 1 | |
| TJankowski, SD | Fred Zinkie 4 | ||
| FPena, LAA | Al Melchior 3 | Zach Steinhorn 22 | |
| AJackson, NYM | Scott Engel 2 | ||
| RYarbrough, TB | Tim McLeod 1 | ||
| JRodriguez, Was | Tim McLeod 1 | ||
| FValdez, Hou | Jeff Zimmerman 1 | Al Melchior 0 | |
| JUrena, Mia | Tim Heaney 1 | ||
| SCishek, ChC | Fred Zinkie 0 | ||
| DRobertson, NYY | Fred Zinkie 0 | ||
| CReed, Cin | Al Melchior 0 | ||
| VCaratini, ChC | Jeff Zimmerman 0 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| DStraily, Mia | Zach Steinhorn 22 | ||
| JAlvarado, TB | Tim McLeod 3 | Fred Zinkie 0 | |
| AFrazier, Pit | Scott Engel 3 | Tim Heaney 0 | |
| FHernandez, Sea | Al Melchior 3 | ||
| MMahtook, Det | Scott Engel 2 | ||
| ZDavies, Mil | Tim Heaney 1 | ||
| DHess, Bal | Tim McLeod 0 | ||
| HFillmyer, KC | Tim McLeod 0 | ||
| HDozier, KC | Tim Heaney 0 | ||
| JBruce, NYM | Tim Heaney 0 | ||
| NWalker, NYY | Tim Heaney 0 | ||
| WDifo, Was | Tim Heaney 0 | ||
| JBriceno, LAA | Jeff Zimmerman 0 | ||
| JSucre, TB | Jeff Zimmerman 0 |
Todd’s Take
Robbie Ray’s 11.6 K/9 is excellent, but he’s only pitched more than 5.1 innings once in his last 10 outing so his raw strikeout total isn’t especially high.
I’m a little surprised there wasn’t more interest on David Robertson. Yeah, it’s still a committee but my money is on Robertson to get the bulk of the saves in Aroldis Chapman’s absence.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| TWhite, Hou | Adam Ronis 37 | Ray Murphy 30 | Charlie Wiegert 20 |
| SMatz, NYM | Ray Murphy 24 | Charlie Wiegert 18 | Adam Ronis 3 |
| ABeltre, Tex | Ray Murphy 24 | ||
| TAustin, Min | Adam Ronis 23 | Charlie Wiegert 12 | |
| JUrena, Mia | Charlie Wiegert 18 | ||
| APlutko, Cle | Charlie Wiegert 18 | ||
| YChirinos, TB | Charlie Wiegert 18 | ||
| MShoemaker, LAA | Charlie Wiegert 18 | ||
| MMahtook, Det | Ray Murphy 14 | Adam Ronis 1 | |
| ROHearn, KC | Charlie Wiegert 12 | Adam Ronis 23 | |
| JShields, CWS | Jeff Boggis 12 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| AGomber, StL | Charlie Wiegert 18 | ||
| RLaureano, Oak | Adam Ronis 17 | ||
| AGordon, KC | Ray Murphy 14 | ||
| WChen, Mia | Charlie Wiegert 12 | Adam Ronis 3 | |
| ASenzatela, Col | Charlie Wiegert 12 | ||
| BJohnson, Bos | Charlie Wiegert 12 | ||
| FPena, LAA | Charlie Wiegert 12 | ||
| BMcKinney, Tor | Adam Ronis 12 |
Todd’s Take
If you’ve been using Evan Gattis for your catcher, you understand why Tyler White topped the bidding in the mixed Draft league. White has usurped primary DH duties, posting a 1.097 OPS with nine homers over the past month.
SUCCESSFUL BIDS
| PLAYER | WINNING BID | ||
| MFulmer, Det | Dr. Roto 29 | ||
| JBeeks, TB | Dr. Roto 18 | ||
| SOhtaniP, LAA | Dr. Roto 16 | ||
| DSpan, Sea | Peter Kreutzer 13 | ||
| MShoemaker, LAA | Peter Kreutzer 11 |
UNAWARDED BIDS
| PLAYER | |||
| JGant, StL | Peter Kreutzer 10 | Dr. Roto 9 | |
| APlutko, Cle | Peter Kreutzer 8 | ||
| FValdez, Hou | Dr. Roto 7 | ||
| WMiley, Mil | Peter Kreutzer 7 | ||
| NGoodrum, Det | Peter Kreutzer 4 | ||
| RErlin, SD | Peter Kreutzer 3 | ||
| MGonzalez, Hou | Peter Kreutzer 1 |
Todd’s Take
The competitors are looking for any help down the stretch in an effort to track down league leader Jake Ciely. Dr. Roto fortified his pitching staff, hoping the struggling Michael Fulmer returns to form. The righty has two starts next week, facing the White Sox and Cardinals.