The Shallow

Corey Hart – Outfield (RF)

Hart's season has been an enigma wrapped in a labyrinth!

After coming off 2008 with such promise, and following that up with a stellar spring, things looked to be going in a positive direction.

Unfortunately, the newly named "Hart Break Kid" has done nothing but disappoint.

We hoped the All-Star break would give ‘Sunglasses at Night’ a much needed rest and he’d regain his focus. Hart has managed to crank at least one base hit in each game but one since the break, but has still yet to show the usual speed/power bonanza he’s provided in previous years.

The 6’6” Bowling Green native is the type of country hardball player coaches’ love, and it wouldn’t shock anyone if we witnessed a major rise in his production in the second half. Monitor the Kentucky outfielder’s progress this month, & watch for a probable turn around in August as the Brewers hope & pray for Corey’s bat to once again shine.

If he’s owned in your league, consider tossing a down on his services owner a low ball offer, or grab him off your wire if he’s lurking there - stashing him for better days that very well could lie ahead.

The Deep

Andy Marte – 3B (& 1B Soon?)

What’s that old adage…if at first you don’t succeed…Try Marte again?

With the Indians shipping Ryan Garko to the San Francisco Giants this week, they have decided to give 25 year old prospect bust (thus far) Andy Marte yet another go.

He has been hitting very well in Triple-A Columbus – and with plenty of power too! (18 home runs)

There will be plenty of skeptics, and this may very well be Marte’s final chance at sticking in the bigs, while wearing an Indians uniform. He should play predominantly first base we would think, and could occasionally spell Peralta over at third base. He will certainly have some pressure – as Matt LaPorta is also hitting well in the minors, and is likely due for a more serious call up soon as well.

When/if Eric Wedge decides to “unwedge” his head from his buttocks, and realize 2009 is a over, & it’s time to see what some kids can do & learn – these 2 highly regarded prospects should see enough playing time to consider as viable fantasy baseball options in deeper leagues – if they can produce the way they during their minor league careers.

The now famous Klement’s Sausage Race is a popular Milwaukee 'mascot break in the 6th inning action’ held every home game at Miller Park.

Over the years the Brewers have handed out several saugage bobbleheads, but the Bratwurst bobble head awarded to ALL FANS who attended Sunday’s July 26th game versus the Atlanta Braves is 2nd to none.

Okay, the Chorizo Bobbleheadmay have some legs to stand on, but what can I say, I’m a sucker for a mustachioed sausage in lederhosen~! Yikes...that sounded a little bit too much like the Paul Rudd/Seth Rogen - "You know how I know you're gay?" shtick - didn't it? Not that there's anything wrong with that.

But seriously - If you have yet to experience a Brew Crew gamein your life, you owe it to yourself to get out to Wisconsin for a game at beautiful Miller Park.

I’ve never hesitated when asked what my favorite National League ballparks are. Time and time again I’ve mentioned both Miller Park, as well as Pittsburgh ’s PNC Parkas my most enjoyable MLB ballparks in the NL.

Miller Parks tailgating is amazing in what looked to me when we’ve attended games like acres of parking lot space to break out the hibachi - and maybe sneak in a cold one…or several! C’mon, it’s Milwaukee!

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BREWERS Klements Racing Sausage #4 HOTDOG Baseball Mini Bobblehead Keychain Vtg US $29.99

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By Adam Forsyth

The Deep

Mike Stanton – Outfield (RF)

Mash, mash, mash...

If Mike Stanton continues his powerful ways, the Marlins may give him a late-season audition for a full time spot in 2010. And after smacking 39 big bombs in 2008 (finishing 2nd in the MiLB) Stanton could use that “cup-of-coffee” moment to take the majors by storm.

Through the first portion of this season, Stanton started out on fire continuing the pace; however, a slow start in AA-Jacksonville has halted the push the Fish may have been providing. Still displaying power with six HR’s in 33 games, the 6’5” powerhouse is hitting at a .220 clip - and continues to show impatience at the plate contributing to his high-whiff percentage.

Needless to say, the raw power enclosed in Stanton ’s swing is hard to come by. Like they say, chicks (…and fantasy managers) dig the long ball, so dynasty and keeper leaguers, take notice.

The bravado should return in the former 2nd round pick’s swing, and with it, more comfort against the best the AA Southern League pitching has to offer.

The Shallow

Ramon Troncoso – Relief Pitcher (RP)

With some reports suggesting that the toe injury to “Big Box Brox” may be of the nagging variety, it could be the opportunity for the spot closing Troncoso to gain temporary full-time status if the Broxton heads for a DL stint sometime in August or beyond.

Not as intimidating as Broxton when toeing the hill, Troncoso has been solid in his auditions and has been a holds machine. His sub 2.00 ERA (currently 1.95) through 60+ IP shows how effective this kid has been. He’ll need to lessen his walks, as he currently has a 1.62 K/BB ratio, but has an incredible sinker as his outpitch.

Once thought of as a starter, Troncoso has the opportunity to create some buzz even in the short term if he can earn the odd save for those desperate and grasping at each and every opportunity.

Even if Broxton and his troubled tootsie fully mend, the extra arm/handcuff will help in the appropriate stat categories.

By Scott Woodall

No, I'm not foolish enough to think that Jake Fox will have to hark back to his Michigan playing days – and land his at bats at catcher – I just liked this old black and white photo I came across!

(Although, Big Jake is currently backing up Koyie Hill while Geovany Soto is on the DL mending his strained oblique - his future is not too likely behind the plate.)

I'm not claiming to have the absolute fix as to how the Cubs should go about getting Fox the AB's he deserves (That's why they pay Lou the big bucks) ...I'm just adding to the resounding rally cries from Cubs faithful. Jake Fox most definitely could help the ballclub if Lou and crew could muster a way of attaining more playing time. And as far as his suspect defence...I am on the side that feels his ready for prime time stick would off set his lack of winning any future Gold Gloves.

And no, I'm not implying a silly platoon with Aramis Ramirez, or anything overtly drastic like that. (Aramis also could be a key factor in the Cubs making a Wild Card or NL Central Division run) But how's about this as one suggestion...

The Nutshell: Bench Milton Bradley…Play Jake Fox!
That’s it! The century plus one World Series drought will end with this one key move! Okay…maybe not.

Chicago Cubs skipper Lou Piniella, and his coaching staff recently did just about everything coaches can do to try and rectify Alfonso Soriano’s extensive slump. Soriano finally seems to be showing signs of life after being occasionally benched, as well as moved down to the sixth hole. But patience can be a tough sell to fans who havn't won the prize since 1908.

The Ivy is not getting any greener...

It’s time to do whatever it takes to make this club just a bit better. And I am convinced getting Jake Fox’ bat into the Cubbies lineup does that. The fact that he’s eating away a roster spot in my 12 team keeper league…well, that only adds fuel to my fire! By the way, is it just me or does Jake Fox resemble a younger version of 2005 Cubs outfielder Jeromy Burnitz - a little perhaps?

Anyways, It’s all about pushing the right buttons.

In 2008 I wrote a brief plea directed towards LA Dodgers GM Nick Coletti to get Andre Ethier playing time. Shortly after, Andre the Giant did indeed push Juan Pierre to the bench, and Chef Ethier and Manny being Manny Ramirez  helped put the Dodgers into the post season.

Oh yes, I'm aware of the fact that our little blog that could was never read, nor heard of by any of the Dodgers brass…but that’s not going to stop me from pointing out a really cool coincidence! The 2009 season sees no one really pulling away from the pack. Every division is still up for grabs in Major League Baseball. (Except perhaps the NL West where the Dodgers lead is now up to 9 games)

The St. Louis Cardinals just went out and got Tony La Russa's man - Matt Holliday this week. As we lobby for a serious Jake Fox playing time increase at Wrigley Field, & away games too...we wonder...if Fox saw pitches nearly every game could his impact compare to Matt Hollidays arrival in St Lou?

Sadly, we may never know.

Tell ya what Lou…I'll give you until Ryne Sandberg Bobblehead day(August 11th) to find a way to get Jake Fox at least 20-25 at bats a week.

If it still hasn’t happened by then - I'm writing President Obama. Oh wait, Obama is a White Sox fan, oh well…I'm writing him anyways, as I'm sure he wouldn't scoff at witnessing a Cubs VS White Sox World Series at some point during his Presidency - it would help boost the economy!

Yep...playing Jake Fox would ensure the Cubs their first World Series victory in 101 years, bring world peace, put a man on Mars, cure cancer, and put an end to the recession!

Do like Spike Lee, Lou! Do the Right Thing!

Give Jake Fox more playing time!

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The Shallow

Joe Blanton - Starting Pitcher

After starting the year downright stinky, Joey B has regained some of his Oakland magic over his past 9 starts. He's thrown 8 quality games in that span (yielding less than 3 runs in 5+ innings each outing), and his only bad was just ok (giving up 4 runs in 5.1 innings).

On the first place Phillies, Blanton can be looked at to receive an ample number of wins and plenty of K's down the stretch, so if he's available on your wire, I suggest you wait no longer and take a chance on this burly Philly.

The Deep

Aaron Poreda - Starting/Relief Pitcher

South paw, Aaron Poreda is not a starting pitcher - YET.

Hailing from the same home town as Randy Johnson, the big lefty has drawn similar comparisons on the mound, aside from his mullet haircut, which is probably a good thing.

The subject of numerous trade rumors this season, Poreda has done a fabulous job out of the pen for the South Siders.

Poreda hasn't had many appearances, but he has only allowed 2 runs in the 11 innings he's pitched thus far, notching over a K an inning (12), and only giving up 9 hits. A.P. has a knack for the strike zone and could be a potential ace in the making - when & if Kenny Williams and Ozzie Guillen decide to call upon him to enter the White Sox rotation.

Anyone in a keeper league should definitely take note of this guy and nab him for as long as they can.

The Deeper

Jarrod Parker - Starting Pitcher

Parker has been electric between Single A and Double AA this season (5-4 with a 2.51 ERA and 82 K's in only 17 starts). His dominance has left the D-Backs with little reason to keep him down there for much longer.

With the Diamondbacks battling for the basement in the NL West, there is a very realistic chance that Parker could see a cup of coffee come September.

Even if he gets past up, Parker should contend for a rotation spot come Spring of 2010, and those of you in keepers league should take note because this kid will have 2 of the games best mentors (Haren & Webb).

By Adam Forsyth

The Shallow

Carl Pavano – Starting Pitcher

Some laughed when the Indians stepped up and gave the former cash grabbing free agent the opportunity to join their rotation and frankly, Pavano has been respectable.

It takes a lot for me to say that, as I was one of the naysayers; however, perhaps he’s finally injury free and has a sense of swagger about himself that is turning into a number of quality starts.

It’s unfortunate that he can’t pitch on the road alone as he doesn’t seem to do well while at Jacob’s Field…er, Progressive, ah whatever. Regardless his ERA is over a full run lower when living out of a suitcase (4.50 compared to 5.88) and while his ERA is still a tad over 5.00 he has pitched well in his last four and you can’t ignore his return in control (3.85 K/BB ratio). And hey, if Alyssa Milano could approve at some point, I’m sure that you can too!

Alyssa Milano getting set for Spring Training. Doh! That was a touch harsh - we love ya Sam!

The Deep

Jonny Gomes – Outfield (LF/RF)

So, Jay Bruce is on the DL for an extended period of time. Do the Reds call up a hot rookie, such as Chris Heisey, Drew Stubbs or Darnell McDonald?

Do they extend the playing time within their current dugout structure?

Guys like Chris Dickerson could benefit, or even Laynce Nix. I like the power of former OF potential standout Jonny Gomes, especially in the launching pad known as the Great American Ballpark.

While his career shows that he is a BA nightmare, he is twice a 20 HR player in seasons spent with Tampa Bay . He may not be the favorite choice, but has been solid in bit play to this point of the season in Cincy.

His .311 BA is obviously going to drop should he get full time; however, his five homers could be doubled and even tripled if he gets a majority of the AB’s.

I wouldn’t suggest jumping at the opportunity as soon as you close this window; however, I suggest power hungry managers to certainly take note of the man missing the ‘H’ in his first name.

By Adam Forsyth

The Shallow

Franklin Gutierrez – (LF/CF/RF)

“Hey it’s Franklin. Coming over to play!”

No longer able to be ignored, this former hot Cleveland Indians prospect has succeeded in Starbucks Central. The Tribe could certainly use the multi category contributions of this right-handed hitting Venezuelan these days couldn’t they? *Cue the collective sigh from thousands living in/near Ohio *

Already with double digit homeruns, only one short of his career high, the 26-year old looks as if he is comfortable hitting out of the five slot with the Seattle Mariners behind future Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr.

Gutierrez has a touch of speed (Seven steals thus far in 2009) and gets on base enough to score a legitimate amount of runs. It’s not a guarantee that he will continue to hit at the near .300 pace; however, if he is available and you need an OF spot filled with a player that has some upside, don’t be afraid to add “El Guti” to your squad.

The Deep

Garrett Jones – 1B/ (LF/RF)

What do you figure Vegas odds makers would have put on Garrett Jones (huh?) making a splash in 2009?

About 1000 to 1?

Garrett Jones fantasy value could end up being short lived; however, in mashing his way through AAA pitching this season, (.307-12-49 w/14 SB’s) this potential late bloomer may be given the remainder of the season to prove that he finally belongs in the bigs.

The eye-popping 8 home runs in 60 at bats is what should really attract anyone looking for a potential power bat off of the waiver wire.

Alright, I won’t go mentioning names like Chris Shelton or anything, as I realize that sometimes players are seeing the ball really well, and they just fly out of the park in bunches…

So, let’s enjoy the ride - but plan a possible slide. For Pirates fans sake, we hope it’s not a total freefall come August, as Jones is the best thing to happen to the Buccos in 2009, outside of the arrival of Andrew McCutchen.

Lets see if Mr. Jones continues to launch dingers at a Barry Bonds on steroids like pace…or settles down to a more normal Barry Bonds during his Pirates days pace from here on out.

The first four series of the second half the Pirates face off against some pretty tough arms, (SF twice, MIL and ARI) so we may get a better idea if we are witnessing a Ryan Ludwick fall from the sky, or are we being “Shelton Punched” yet again?

By Adam Forsyth

American League MVP – 1B Justin Morneau (MIN)
The Canadian bomber is in the top 4 in the AL in 5 major categories (HR, RBI, SLG%, OPS & Total Bases) You just can’t deny that kind of mid-season production. Irked recently by the bland instrumental O’ Canada anthem played prior to this years All-Star game – the proud Canuck generally has spoke softly, and carried a big stick…and we expect he’ll continue down the 2009 stretch.

National League MVP – 1B Prince Fielder (MIL)
Prince Fielder may not be as popular as the Prince Albert nomination, but where would the Brew Crew be without the HR Derby Champ?

American League Cy Young – SP Roy Halladay (TOR)
It’s going to cost a lot to get ‘Doc’ to put on a new uni, but there are 29 other teams interested I’m sure. He has been his typical lights out self in putting up incredible 1st half numbers in the tough AL East.

National League Cy Young – SP Tim Lincecum (SF)
You can’t deny that ‘The Freak’ is silencing some that suggested winning the Cy Young last year may be “too much too soon” for the young superhuman.

American League Rookie of the Mid-Year – SP Rick Porcello (DET)
Will he have a 2nd half slow down? Skipping his last start before the break is hopefully just precaution as this kid has solidified a very impressive Top-3 in the Tigers rotation.

National League Rookie of the Mid-Year – SP J.A. Happ (PHI)
Flying totally under the radar, the Phillies young south paw has pitched extremely well, and provided the team with a tough decision once Pedro Martinez, and fellow rookie Antonio Bastardo come off of the DL.

American League MiLB Player that could be relevant 2nd half – LF/RF Matt LaPorta (CLE)
As the Tribe continue to slide and Ben Francisco persists to do the same, expect LaPorta to get another opportunity to prove himself. Hitting .309 and mashing 11 long balls, he’s got the goods.

National League MiLB Player that could be relevant 2nd half – SS Alcides Escobar (MIL)
With JJ Hardy flopping thus far this season, the patience with the Brewers in the thick of things may wear and they may give the speedy Escobar the shot he deserves.

American League Bust of the Year AL – RF Magglio Ordonez (DET)
Many expected a slight decline with his power numbers dwindling in recent years; however, no one and I mean no one expected him to fall this far down. A platoon in RF with Raburn and Thomas…Yikes!

National League Bust of the Year NL – SS Jimmy Rollins (PHI)
It’s been a very rough and frustrating first half for the 2007 MVP. He’ll break out of his funk; however, salvaging the season; at least statistically, may be too late.

American League Comeback Player of the Year – 2B Aaron Hill (TOR)
The concussion. The return. The great 1st half. The reward? Being named an All-Star! Hill has smiled the whole way, putting the Jays on his shoulders taking a huge leadership role on a team in need of an offensive chief.

National League Comeback Player of the Year – SP Chris Carpenter (STL)
Carp is the clear winner here. Chris Carpenter could become the 5th player in MLB history to win a 2nd Comeback player of the Year award, as he has been nothing short of dominant in his triumphant return to the mound.

AL Player Most Likely to Turn it Around 2nd Half – 3B Alex Rodriguez (NYY)
The power is certainly there; however, a .256 BA for a career .305 hitter isn’t acceptable. He’s looked rusty at times and “Juiced or Not” A-Rod is a better all-around player than his 1st half indicates.

NL Player Most Likely to Turn it Around 2nd Half – LF Manny Ramirez (LAD)
Alright, I am sort of cheating on this pick; however, in missing 50 games in the 1st half, he does qualify as being a bit of a letdown in the fantasy world. His 2nd half leading the Dodger charge should be interesting.

AL Surprise Player of the Year – SS Jason Bartlett (TB)
He’s not supposed to have.930 OPS! Bartlett ’s breakout mid-season line of .347-8-39-19 are more in line with numbers, and contributions from Shortstops with names like Jeter, Young and Rollins.

NL Biggest Surprise of the Year – C/1B/3B Pablo Sandoval (SF)
We knew that the Kung Fu Panda was good…But .333-15-55 with 24 Doubles, 3 Triples and a bonus 4 SB’s. Not bad! Oh and he’s also 3 position eligible? This switch hitter has got ‘Fantasy Stud’ written all over his face.

Strange, how a couple of months can alter the complexion of a baseball players fan acceptance and appreciation. We live in a truly forgiving time, where North Americans in general don’t want their heroes tainted. No one wants a “feel bad” story right now.

So, love him, or hate him…"Manny being Manny" has consumed the Los Angeles Dodgers once again, and the marketing folks for Dodger’s Stadium are loving every minute it, as they bobble this Manny Ramirez Bobbleheadpromo all the way to the bank.

The outside of the 2009 Manny Ramirez bobbleheadbox reads: “This is my Town”

Who are we to argue, as Manny Mania continues to sweep LA?

The LA Dodgers controversial outfielder’s 2009 Bobblehead SGAmay be the most eagerly anticipated baseball bobblehead of the 2009 MLB season.

We are not here to chastise Manny Ramirez steroids issue. Or debate Manny Ramirez’ contract or all the other ridiculous things Manny has said or done during his volatile major league baseball career.

We are not here to plug the virtues of fair play, and whether Manny Ramirez, after being suspended earlier this season for fifty games should be already, seemingly off the hook as Dodger stadium rose to give #99 a standing ovation…

We are however here to talk about bobbleheads, and bobblehead days!
…and Dodgers Manny Ramirez bobblehead for 2009 - if you are on the "love" side of Manny supporters – will be a most popular souvenir amongst kids, and parents alike!

Guaranteed to have countless auctions & bids on eBay, the short dreads, and pine tar helmet will only add to the allure. The poly resin bobble is a pretty good likeness of the Dodgers left fielder. And surely will attract more folks (right or not) to the ballpark than a Juan Pierre bobblehead ever could!

The Manny bobble head doll will be given out to no less than 50,000 Dodgers fans when the team plays host to the visiting Cincinnati Redson Wednesday July 22nd.
Tickets for the game are commanding a steep gouge, as folks line up to gather there FREE piece of Dodgers SGA promotion history.

You just can’t compete with the media frenzy that has helped build the beast that is the Los Angeles Dodgers Manny era. If Manny manages to connect with a homerun on Wedneday - fans may erupt as if the Dodgers just won a World Series title.

Is it right?…again…that’s not for us to decide.

I myself, was just as excited about the Cincinnati Reds Fan Vote bobblehead of Edinson Volquez that was recently given away at Great American Ballpark on July 18th – but, I digress.

If you can’t make the game, there are currently over 100 separate eBay auctions that feature a Manny Ramirez bobblhead– so at least you know, that you should be able to get your hands on one, if you’d like…

Try finding the cool looking Cleveland Indians minor league affiliate Akron Aeros Matt LaPortaBobblehead - and it’s a totally different story!!!

I found one bloody auction!!! ONE, compared to 112 for Manny Bobbleheads!!! Ugggggg!!! Supply and demand is just not fair when you seek the unpopular items is it?

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Manny Ramirez Dodgers Forever Bobble Bobblehead #d to only 2010 New in Box US $29.99

Manny Ramirez Bobblehead US $8.99

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By Ryan Roach

The Shallow

Howie Kendrick - (2B)

After starting the season absolutely atrocious, Kendrick’s fantasy owners felt like the one’s with pie in the face. Howie was sent down to the farm to regain his swing and collect some confidence.

That is exactly what he managed to do at Salt Lake City .

Now that's he's back up with the big club, Howie looks to regain the .300 + AVG. and ring up stats across the board in that potent Angel offense.

With hits in 5 of his first 6 games since being called up, there can be no where to look but up for Kendrick’s 2009 season.

The Deep

Jed Lowrie - (3B, SS)

Nobody is more excited for the "Return of the Jedi" than myself. Lowrie showed great strides in 2008, but has been derailed by injuries for most of the first half of the season.

Now that he's finally healthy, and Julio Lugo won't be stealing any at bats, Lowrie looks to take the field this weekend in hopes to help the Red Sox fill their hole at Shortstop.

Lowrie has a great eye at the plate, and as he showed in his rookie season, he has a knack for coming up with timely hits in the clutch. Something Beantown will need down the stretch if they are to fend off the New York Yankees in the AL East.

Although he doesn't have overwhelming power, Lowrie could be a Red Sox sparkplug in the second half (as he was last year), while providing fans at Fenway with big hits when necessary - and Fantasy owners solid results for those having trouble netting production from 2009 fantasy baseball's  particularly weak crop of shortstops.