-Dexter Sports
1:01 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

We saw a streak end in the National League, The Tigers and Brewers got away from their losing ways and the Rays continued their winning ways, and will look for the sweep this afternoon in Oakland. First off, let's take a look at the news from around the league.

• Atlanta Braves Right Fielder Jeff Francoeur's 370 straight games started streak came to an end on in game 2 of last nights double header. Francoeur needed a day off due to his struggles at the plate. Hitting .211 and with only 7 RBIs, Francoeur has not been able to see the ball well so far this season. In the opener of the double header he went 0-3. Bobby Cox ultimately made the decision to sit Francoeur, stating it was important to have a bit of rest and have some fun on the bench. The Braves pulled off both games against the Mets yesterday.

• Jon Rauch gave up his first run of year as the closer for the Washington Nationals. Rauch already has ten saves after replacing Chad Cordero in the beginning of May. Cordero is on the disabled list. Rauch could be a great fantasy option for those of you that need a couple more saves in your league. The Nationals face the Phillies tonight. The Phillies lead the league in homers.

• Arizona Starter Billy Buckner (no pun intended) has finally figured out what has caused such a slow start after coming over to Arizona from the Kansas City Royals. The Right hander was told when coming over that he was tipping his pitches, but didn't do much about it. Buckner since then has made an adjustment and its proving to be the factor that slowed him down. Before the adjustment Buckner had a 9.97 in 22 innings. In the last 27, Buckner has a 1.67 ERA in AAA Tucson. If it continues Buckner could be returning to the pen for the parent club.

• David Price will make his professional debut tonight for Vero Beach of the Florida State League. Baseball fans got to see the talent this kid has in the Ray's spring training. Price has been said to be more polished at this point of his career than Scott Kazmir. Price led the NCAA in strike outs with 194 his junior year (see image above).

• Sports Illustrated covers the fact that the Rays have been the team to beat in the NL East. The cover, which is a comic of Carl Crawford holding up Derek Jeter in the air brings up some good points. Simply, Jeter is on the decline, and the Rays youngsters are the players to watch now in the AL East. I really feel this team has a shot at winning the AL Wild card or their division.