Argh! That's the sound of a frustrated Al Alburqerque owner. I'll be honest in stating that you will want to steer clear of the Detroit closer situation in mixed leagues. However, AL only leaguers and the like are stuck speculating on what Jim Leyland will do with three pretty talented bullpen arms in a committee. My guess is the traditionalist Leyland, well known for his odd batting line ups (if you played 2B you bat 2nd, regardless of your skill) ends up sticking with Phil Coke from here on out. Why? Just to mess with us. Coke is a solid reliever but the high strikeout and right handed arms of Joaquin Benoit and Alburqerque seem like the more obvious choice. As usual in April, its definitely not time to overreact. However, if you are seeking saves, I'd probably snag Coke as quickly as possible. Just don't drop anyone proven for him at this point.
Alot of preseason talk about Twins outfielder Aaron Hicks after an awesome spring. His major league debut was less than stellar striking out three times with Tigers ace Justin Verlander on the hill.
Nice outing from Jon Lester, striking out seven over 5 IP against the Yankees (get used to this New York). Interesting to note that Junichi Tazawa was in the set up role today. Not that this is 'news' at this point, but keep an eye Tazawa as his skills in limited innings last season were incredible.
AJ Burnett looked great striking out ten Cubs over 5.2 IP. His mound opponent Jeff Samardzija was simply better striking out nine over eight shut out innings. Carlos Marmol was awful in the ninth and was quickly pulled for Kyuji Fujikawa who nailed down the save. If you are speculating, I believe Fujikawa takes this role and runs with it.
Collin Cowgill had a monster day for the Mets with a home run and a double, collecting four RBI in the process. Cowgill's bounced around a few teams but he's one to watch. The only thing that's held him back from regular playing time has been a history of injuries. His minor league track record suggests he'll be a solid source of steals and boasts a nudge of power if he can stay in the line up. Obviously, keep your expectations in check, but if you came up short in the OF in a deep league, he's worth a speculative pick up.
The fantasy story in Washington is playing out just like many pundits thought (after one game of course). Stephen Strasburg walked no one and struck out three over seven innings and Bryce Harper mashed two home runs, the only scoring in the game.
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