By Adam Forsyth
Today we bring you the 2009 fantasy baseball waiver wire equivalents of the biggest hairy monster Muppet - “Sweetums”, and the legendary, Uncle Miltie!
Yes Sir! A couple of Texas sized, walking tall gentlemen who are available for hire off many a waiver wire. These two giants in their own right, just may give you the extra inches you need down the stretch. *heh heh*
The Shallow
Tommy Hunter – Starting Pitcher
Listed at 6-foot-3 and a generous 255 pounds, Tommy Hunter has been pitching very well in his six game stint with the Rangers rotation.
As a matter of fact the entire Rangers rotation (yes, even confirmed Swine Flu subject Vincente Padilla included) has been part of the reason that the Texas squad is playing with purpose into August.
Yet to give up more than three runs in a start, the portly righty has continued to impress the Rangers and has placed a temporary six-man rotation into effect, with Ron Washington requiring to make a decision sometime soon on how to move forward.
Though not overly gifted with a dazzling repertoire, nor a powerful pitcher, the former Frisco Rough Rider has controlled his way to effectiveness while handling some tough major league line-ups. With wins against Detroit , Tampa and Boston under his belt, Hunter hasn’t been wracked when placed into the fire. WaiverSharks has a soft spot for the big guys, so if you share our appreciation for cowboys who look like they could polish off a 72 oz steak at The Big Texan, don’t fear adding the Alabama native to the back end of your roster.
The Deep
Kyle Blanks – (1b/LF/RF)
“Gigantor”, as he is also affectionately known, has been slowly easing himself into better fantasy positioning with the increased playing time in the vast outfield at Petco Park . Don’t be afraid if you have yet to notice, with the exception of a measly four-percent ownership in YAHOO! Leagues, Blanks has hit safely five of his last seven games after bottoming out his BA at an embarrassing .160.
Fear not loyal Pads’ fans (HELLO…is there anybody there???) as Blanks is also adjusting to life in the OF as well. Drafted and groomed as a first baseman; the big 6-foot 6-inch, 285 pounder is also playing decent defense and has even recently amassed his first big league stolen base.
It’s rare to find such a big, athletic body; Blanks is definitely an intimidating presence at the dish as well as on the base paths. While he is still hitting a shade under the Mendoza line, he’s got power to burn, so expect an improvement for the remainder of the season as he gets more acquainted with the big league pitching. Keeper league and dynasty leaguers also take note, as his value is surely boosted by the exposure he is getting this season and moving forward for 2010 the potential 3-position eligibility is only considered a major plus.
