-Dexter Sports
3:16 PM
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Maybe it isn't quite of a buzz, but hey, I have some news and analysis for you.

• Blues Notes has the grades of the 2008 Dodgers posted today. I was surprised a bit with Furcal's A. But Hey, when he was on the field, he was a game changer. Unsurprisingly Andruw Jones got an F. But hey, he's got a hefty contract, doesn't that automatically give him a C?

• Metsmerized plays "Should I stay or should I go" in a recent post. It seems that they don't want to bring back anyone over there. The Mets will undoubtedly have one of the most interesting off-seasons. If they don't bring in a top tier pitcher and resign Oliver Perez, then I will be shocked. Imagine, Johan Santana, Ben Sheets/Derek Lowe, John Maine, Oliver Perez and Mike Pelfrey. Pretty good rotation. I think that the Bullpen has to be an issue here. If a top tier starter isnt brought in then expect Frankie Rodriguez to be closing out games in New York. They have to add someone to that pen. I'll suggest Braden Looper.

• The Boston Herald has a bunch of good information this afternoon. Micheal Silverman covers the to do list for Theo epstein this off-season. One major on the list has to be add bullpen help. Especially if Justin Masterson is not going to be a full time reliever. But I agree with Silverman. The Red Sox need to lock up the young guns to compete in the AL East in the not to distant future. Silverman also touched upon how hard it will be to obtain Jake Peavy. All I got to say is, Forget about it!

• According to the New York Daily News, Former Yankee and Met manager Willie Randolph is high on the list of potential managers to fill the void left when the team let go of Interm Dale Sveum. Randolph was interviewed by the Brewers in 2000 as a managerial candidate, but was not choosen. There is also rumor that he could join Manny Acta's staff in Washington. Heck, its a win win for Willie. He will make 2.9 million in 2009 if he isnt hired.
  

• And Finally, Bobby Abreu wants to stay in Pinstripes according to the New York Post. I think this would be a wise move, but Abreu could pick up a bit more money on the open market. The Outfield is a pretty weak position in the upcoming free agent market, and Abreu brings a pressence a lot of teams are looking for. Abreu hit .333 in clutch situations for the New York Yankees last season.
  

-Dexter Sports
6:34 PM
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Its upon us. Jon Lester, the ace of the Red Sox this Season. Matt Garza, the now ace that was once thought to be a part of a lopsided trade that sent Delmon Young to Minnesota. The Red Sox have certainly been in this situation before.

The Rays have not.

Tonight, expect a tough battle. No doubt about it in my mind. Both are two of the AL's best at eating innings, and performing under pressure. And I really like the Rays offense in this game seven. Expect a homer a peice from young bats B.J. Upton and Evan "Long gone"ia. The games have shown that the offenses will be there. The question mark has to be bullpen pitching. and that is what seperates these clubs.

On one end, is a bunch of solid relievers, all with great experience and a fireball youngster David Price. I say, why not throw him in for three or four innings if needbe. This kid has been lights out all year. Why not give him the ball? I say it is a must for this team to win in a close ball game.

On the other end is a closer that could quite possibly surpass Mariano Rivera's post season numbers and dominance. Jonathon Papelbon continues to answer the call time and time again. And that is going to be the game changing factor. Or so it could be.

Welcome back to the World Series Boston.

Notes from Around the League:

• Speaking of those Red Sox, top prospect, starter Clay Buchholtz, tossed five scoreless innings in AFL action on Friday. Buchholtz struggled in 2008 after having a breakout 2007 campaign. I have to admit its wierd not seeing him out there on the mound this time of the year.

• The Tigers brought in pitching coach Rick Knapp on Friday. Knapp, 46, does not have any coaching experience at the major league level. The funny part of the story though is, according to the Detroit Free Press, nobody knows or remembers who reccomended Knapp. The Tigers will also be hiring a bullpen coach later this offseason, and manager Jim Leyland says he is "99 % sure" that it will be from within the organization. Does Kenny Rogers fit the bill? Toledo pitching coach A.J. Sager has been a mainstay in the organization and could also be a very good possibility.
  

• Josh Hamilton will be releasing a book detailing his life. The book will be titled, "Beyond Belief" and will cover nearly everything that has gone on in Hamilton's life. His wife even stated there was stuff in it that she didn't know about. All I can say is Kudos to this kid for his effort to get off cocaine and to straighten up his life. Its a miracle that he made it back to the majors. I will definitely be picking up a copy.
  

That will wrap up this Around the Horn. Oh yah, Make sure you don't caught drunk driving on your way home tonight. Wouldnt want to be like Joba would you?

-Dexter Sports
11:48 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

It Almost Seems like the Red Sox were meant to go down 3-1, just to storm back. Last night, those 'pesky Rays had a chance of a lifetime to shut up the Fenway Faithful. Up 7-0, they blew it. Remind you of Yankees/Red Sox anyone? Except I don't think we will see this swing the Red Sox way.

Josh Beckett takes the mound for the Red Sox, and lets face it, he is one of the best in the game. There is nothing better than knowing as a player, the pitcher that is taking the mound for your squad has some of the best stuff in the game. And when he is on, he is nearly unmatchable pitch by pitch. And with history on their side, it will be tempting to see if the Red Sox can keep this streak alive.

On the other side of the spectrum is bulldog James Shields. He lost in his first visit to the mound, but will look to rebound on Saturday. Shields has added a cutter that has been downright devastating at times. Look for him to work in his change up quite a lot in game 6.

Honestly, I'm sick and tired of seeing the Red Sox in the World Series. How about some new blood? The Rays and Phillies would be a testament to the change in baseball as well. No More big boppin' bats, and ageless wonders making it happen on the field. The Rays are the future, and the Phils are the present.

Quick Hits from around the league:

• According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, The Braves are actively seeking starter Jake Peavy. The Braves could add up to 40 million dollars this off-season in payroll. If I'm Kevin Towers, I want Jair Jurrjens back in this deal. The Article rumors Charlie Morton, among others as a possibility. Jason Heyward is considered to be untouchable, so this deal would also include an infielder of some sorts I would imagine. I would not pull the trigger unless i could get a top pitcher and an outfield prospect to fill one of the biggest voids on this squad.
  

• As much as I would love to stay away from the Yankees, it appears that the staff has decided to use Joba Chamberlain as a starter next year. According to Big Hank, "The plan as of right now is Chamberlain is going to be a starter, everybody's pretty much in agreement with that." Well yah, I would hope so. Chamberlain is only 23, and could yet again be the anchor of the Yankees staff.

• The Mariners front office cannot catch a break. According to the Chicago Tribune, The Cubs have denied the Mariners the right to talk to GM Jim Hendry about their opening at General Manager. Hendry is considered the winningest GM in Cubs history, since their world series run in 1945. But hey, Brewers scouting director Jack Zduriencik is in the running. I campaigned for Jack in June.
  

• Brewers beat Writer Tom Haudricourt is doing what he is best at. Haudricourt is speculating who GM Doug Melvin is bringing in to interview for the manager position. Haudricourt mentions Bob Brenly, Buck Showwalter and Ken Macha. I think that Macha fits, but Showwalter and Brenly? Don't reach bud, don't reach. Read further about the Macha bit. It is quite interesting.

• Hal McCoy must of fallen off of his rocker this morning. The Dayton News beat writer has a post today wondering if the Reds can be the, "2009 Philedelphia Phillies." One word explains that Hal. No.
  

-Dexter Sports
3:04 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Jason Varitek might be on of the most overrated catchers of our time. His numbers are not even close to staggering. The last three seasons he has only eclipsed .250 once. Throughout his career he has flirted with .300 just three times. And its not like he is a stud defensively. Sure he had a .996 fielding percentage this season, but his backup, Kevin Cash, threw out the same amount of runners as him in the regular season (16). Manager Terry Francona doesn't trust 'Tek with knuckleballer Tim Wakefield on the mound. But yet, people always have labeled him as one of the best catchers in the league. Commending him for the 'C' that mans his uniform. Well folks, I did not buy into that 'C'. Until I read this morning's Boston Globe.

I was stuck by his comments in when asked last night about this possibly being his last game at Fenway Park. Here is what Varitek had to say:

"That's totally irrelevant now to what this team is facing. Sorry about that."

I know it sounds generic, but It sold me. Varitek could have talked about his career with the sox, maybe gone on one of those Curt Schilling rants. He could of complained about how he hasn't been taken care of. But no, he is only worried about the job he has to do. He has to keep compusure. And that is why he dons the "C'. And heck, if thats enough, the words of Daisuke Matsuzaka say it all:

"For two years over all those games that Varitek has caught for me, I've been able to pitch with less and less stress over that time, and that certainly has helped me in my performance as well."

So watch for Mr. Varitek tonight to give it his all. He might still look ugly at the plate, and not drive in the runs requested, but he is a true gamer. And if the Red Sox let him walk, some pitching staff will be more than happy to give Varitek the reigns to the sleigh. Look what it has done. Since '99 when he took over, the Red Sox have been one of the best pitching staffs in history. I really think a lot of that has to do with him. I mean, the man has caught four no hitters.

-Dexter Sports
2:38 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

I know we have heard it over and over again this time of the season. They say Manny Ramirez cannot get by with antics that are, "Manny Being Manny." When the trade deadline approaches, we hear that the Red Sox are going to deal Manny. At this time, Theo is apparently upset with Manny's actions and is going to deal him.

I didn't buy it then, and I surely don't buy it now.

Sure, Manny is a nuisance, and he has his downfalls. His body collapses on baseballs, instead of catching them, and he ultimately doesn't care about October. But his production cannot be replaced. At least for the right place. Manny has a no trade clause, because of his veteran duty of ten years or more in the majors and five on the same ball club. It's going to be hard to find a team that will be willing to sign him to an extension, or at least pick up his options. Plus, all the contenders are stacked in the outfield. Theo Epstein claims that he has been trying to trade Manny for five and a half years. I do believe it. Of course I do. But I still don't think it would be the right move.

Of all the contending teams, I can really only think of two that would be willing to talk. The Tigers, who have been searching for a power bat, and had been rumored to be thinking about Bonds could be someone at least interested. But who do you give up for him? Plus the Tigers are searching for pitching help. And I don't think Jim Leyland and Manny Ramirez would get a long too well. With a slew of outfield prospects, and a big need for starting pitching, I just don't see this happening.

The Dodgers could fit. Sending back either Matt Kemp or Andre Ethier as well as a pitching prospect. But why? They have already overpaid for a man named Andruw. But he could be with another former Red Sox problem child, Nomar Garciaparra. But No, I don't see this happening.

Going down the list, the White Sox could make sense. They would most likely send Josh Fields and pitching prospects to the Red Sox. But then you have to either commit to Brian Anderson and give up on either Nick Swisher, Jim Thome or Paul Konerko. Or you would have to play Carlos Quentin in Center. Which I don't think is a good idea.

And of Course, their AL East teams match up pretty well, but they are division foes, and the Yankees already have found their hopeful solution to their woes. It is just going to be really hard to deal this man.

With that being said though, A Surprise team has to be the Texas Rangers. If they want to get a deal done, and can agree in principle with Manny on some type of extension, The Rangers could send some type of help to Boston. They have great catching depth, which could be needed in 09 for Boston. They also have some great pitching prospects that theo could fall in love with. The only thing is that you have to sell it to Manny. The Rangers are four over .500, but with Anaheim playing the way they have all season, it would have to be wild card or bust. And I don't think they have the major league pitching for that.

When its all said and done, I can see "Manny being Manny" somewhere else. Which is dissapointing. The clubhouse seems torn on how Manny has control over his situation. Just listen to Mike Lowell and David Ortiz in this Video:

-Dexter Sports
4:12 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

David Ortiz started swinging away last night in front of team doctors. Off of a Tee, Ortiz was hammering the ball left and right. Solid shots over the green monster. Ok, that was a bit of an exaggeration, but after the session doctors thought that he "did ok" in relation to his injured wrist.

Ortiz will have another session tonight, before team officials will decide if he should hit the road with the Red Sox. Manager Terry Francona told a local sports radio station that Ortiz will take batting practice with the team if he travels with them. Kevin Youkalis will be in the starting lineup tonight for the Sox.

Other News and Notes:

• Cardinals Slugger Albert Pujols could be the designated hitter on Thursday when he comes off of the DL. Pujols started running the bases yesterday for the first time. Pujols will be a huge addition to the Cardinal offense. St. Louis is three games back of first place Chicago.
  

• Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi claimed to have apologized to Adam Dunn after making ridiculous remarks regarding Dunn's love for baseball. Well, according to trusted beat writer Hal McCoy, Dunn claims to never have talked to Ricciardi. This just continues to add to the "great" reputation that Ricciardi is building up this season. I feel that his job is about to be taken away from him pretty quickly, and if not now, then by the end of the season.

• Jon Lieber could be pitching his last season of professional baseball. Lieber will reevaluate his career at the end of the season, but life as a reliever has to be getting to him. Lieber has only been used 21 times this season, and after a career where he has been a starter, it has been a real adjustment. I really wouldn't be surprised. Lieber's stuff has been on the decline for a long time.

• Rafael Furcal is making strides in his attempt to come back this season. Furcal has started to take ground balls at shortstop, but could face back surgery if his recent rehab doesn't hold up. Furcal is a free agent in 2009.
  

-Dexter Sports
10:03 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

It looks like the career of Curt Schilling has come to a close. According to the Boston Globe, Schilling will have surgery on his shoulder and be out for the rest of the season. Schilling signed a one year deal this off-season, when many people believe he knew that he wouldn't be able to pitch.

The Red Sox and Schilling bickered on whether Schilling should have surgery at the beginning of the season, and it looks like Schilling has won. The announcement was made on a local radio station this morning. This is what Schilling had to say:

"I'm not exactly sure [what type of surgery it's going to be],we're still nailing down exactly what kind of surgery it's going to be."

Schilling seemed to be making major strides in coming back to the mound, but it looks like its over for Mr. Bloody Sock.

Schilling could be joined in retirement by Greg Maddux, Pedro Martinez, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz this off-season. That could be one heck of a class.

-Dexter Sports
11:14 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Tonight will be the much anticipated debut of Joba Chamberlain, The re-emergence of the Pedro Factor in New York and Dontrelle Willis will try to get the Tigers rolling in Oakland. Ken Griffey Jr. will go for 600 in Philadelphia, and the Giants will send Barry Zito to the mound to get win number 9 out of the last 13 games for San Fransisco. But now, lets go Around the Diamond, checking in on the latest news around the Major Leagues.

Top Stories:

• Red Sox slugger David Ortiz could be facing season ending surgery to repair a partially torn tendon sheeth in his wrist. Ortiz will at least be out a month to heal the wrist. Two weeks will be spent with the wrist in a cast, and then a rehab assignment will follow. Manager Terry Francona says that surgery is most likely not needed. Ortiz leads the team in HRs and RBIs. Kenny Lofton, Barry Bonds, Richie Sexson, or any aging Giant could be an option for the Red Sox. For now, Sean Casey will most likely fill in at DH.

• Joba Chamberlain will make his debut for the Yankees against Roy Holliday and the Toronto Blue Jays tonight. Kyle Farnsworth will fill in as the setup man, which could be quite scary. Farnsworth has given up six runs in his last six appearances. I think the Yankees will be hunting for a cheap fix in the pen.
  

• Bill Hall of the Milwaukee Brewers wants out, his agent told Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Tom Haudricourt. Hall is upset with the shared playing time between himself and Russell Branyan. Though Hall is a super utility type player, there wont be much interest in him. Possibly the Orioles for the right price, or some other team that is still in it but weak at shortstop. Possibly the Rays and Brewers could hook up again. The Rays are in need of a decent slugging shortstop. Hall hit 35 HRs in 2006.

Other News Around the League:

• Hal McCoy, long time beat writer for the Cincinnati Reds, talks about how the Reds cannot win on the road. 9-20 on the road isn't a great number, but still it doesn't seem to be the end of the world. This team was built for their home stadium, with a bunch of home run slugging, free-swingers. In other Reds news, Adam Dunn is extremely upset with Reds fans lack of interest in Ken Griffey's 600 chase. Reds fans didn't sell out Great American Ballpark on Sunday. It is sad to see Cincinnati's son be forgotten about and good for Adam Dunn. Way to stand up for your teammate. Now, if you could go up to the plate and not strike out, Reds fans would be happy.

• Sam Mellinger comments on Trey Hillman's current downfall in Kansas City. Hillman's National League style was working to begin the season, and still might be, but pitching and hitting have both slumped at the same time. GM Dayton Moore still believes that Trey Hillman is the right man for the job. So do I. Come on, give this guy a break. He is going to need time to develop his roster. He has a lot of young talent that he is depending on, and it will take a good couple years to harness it.
  

• Are Ozzie Guillen's latest comments the last string in Chicago? Unlike most, I think not. Guillen, yet again has pulled off a genius move. With a lack of offense really being the case, the best way to get a proven hitter is to rattle your GM into thinking that his assembled roster isn't good enough yet. Though Kenny Williams took slight offense to his bellyaching, He will probably respond with yet another mid season deal for offense. This is why I love Ozzie Guillen. He is a thinker (or maybe not).
  

-Dexter Sports
12:27 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Who-Hoo! I love Saturday afternoon Baseball! We have the Mariners and Yankees,and the Royals/Blue Jays going here in five minutes and a couple match ups at 4:00. Lets get you some news before those games begin!

• Top News: Tom Haudricourt is reporting on his blog that the Brewers have interest in reliever/starter Julian Tavarez. Haudricourt asked Bob Melvin about his interest of Tavarez and there was no doubt the brewers are considering a deal to the versatile pitcher. The Brewers have so many needs pitching wise that they could use Tavarez as a starter, middle relief, or even a closer. I believe Tavarez will fill the closer role if signed, because of his previous experience and his ability to still shut down hitters. It would be a good move on the Brewers part.

• Clayton Kershaw will get the start on Sunday vs the Cardinals. Kershaw should hang around a while simply because the Dodgers have 17 straight games without and off-day. That allocates three starts to Kershaw in the 5th slot. It will be interesting to see how Kershaw pitches in his debut. We have seen in th past that sometimes he has a hard time locating pitches. That could kill you in the majors.

• Barry Zito finally got win number one last night. Zito turned in a quality start, pitching 6 plus innings of three hit ball. Though he gave up a run, his curve ball looked genuine and his off speed and fastball were well located. It is weird though that Zito's win came against the same team that gave Brandon Webb his first loss. Jacque Jones also made his debut for the Marlins, when Brett Carroll was injured after chasing a ball down at the track.

• John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer talks about the Reds having to make a decision of keeping or trading Adam Dunn. Dunn is showing his value as of late, and right now might be the best time to deal him. John Fay seems to think that they will keep him, but if they Yankees, Tigers, or any other contending team puts together a solid deal, I think Cincinnati can kiss Adam Dunn goodbye. Why not? he give you 40 homers, but he also has a career .248 average and strikes out a ton.

• The Yankees are upset that Major League Baseball has selected David Ortiz to replay the 1932 called shot at this year's all-star game. This will be the last year of Yankee Stadium and Yankees officials are concerned with the fact that an opposing team will represent Ruth. I can see both sides, but when it comes down to it, I cannot think of anyone better to fill the role. He is our modern day Ruth. He hits Home Runs at will, has a swing that is unique and he even has a curse like feel to his legacy. The Yankees need to calm down and realize that this is Major League Baseball, not Yankee league. Come on Bud, Make this happen!

-Dexter Sports
12:30 PM
Dexter-Sport Inbox

Dana Eveland (4-3 2.90) continues to shine. The Oakland A's starter acquired from the Diamondbacks in the Dan Haren deal went the distance and only gave up one run on three hits. What a spectacular performance. In today's news our main focus will be on pitching and even the lack thereof.

• Brandon Webb's win streak ended last night as the Florida Marlins out dueled the Arizona Diamondbacks by the score of 3-1. Florida Marlins starter Ricky Nolasco looked good on the mound pitching 7 innings while only giving up a run. Webb's runs came of a Cody Ross homer and a Luis Gonzalez triple. I still don't think that we will see Webb lose a lot of games in a row in 2008. His sinker ball was working well and the Marlins executed very well. Throw in the fact that the Diamondback offense will not score just one run in most of his starts, and I think that Webb will be just fine. Not that anybody would argue.

• Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano insisted that his shoulder was fine on Wednesday. Zambrano, who is scheduled to start on Friday, was bothered by a stiff neck early this week. Many speculated that it could be Zambrano's shoulder that has bothered him in the past. Zambrano was clear when addressing the media. Zambrano even flexed his forearm and said he will show the media on Friday. Look for Zambrano to pull out a good outing against the Pirates.
  

• The Joba experiment has started in New York. Brian Cashman announced yesterday that the project to stretch his arm out is underway. Though it was thought that Chamberlain would make a few rehab starts in AAA, it seems that the stretching could take place in New York. The Yankees threw Chamberlain out for two innings against the Orioles. One spot that seems to be protected in the rotation is that of Darrell Rasner. Rasner is 3-0 with a 1.93 ERA. With Ian Kennedy getting a second chance today to make the rotation a mainstay and Phil Hughes coming off the DL pretty soon, Rasner might be the odd man out, simply because Mike Mussina and Andy Pettitte will be there all season.
  

• Red Sox pitcher Clay Buchholz will make a rehab start at Pawtucket on Sunday. Bartolo Colon, who replaced him picked up the win last night for the Sox. Kevin Cash will be in the lineup tonight as Daisuke Matzusaka will take the mound. It will be only the second time that Mutzusaka hasn't worked with Jason Varitek. Cash will be in the game to give Varitek two nights off as knuckler Tim Wakefield will take the mound tomorrow.
  

• The Mariners have designated Cha Seung Baek for an assignment. R.A. Dickey will be on hand in the pen against the Tigers this afternoon. Dickey sports a knuckler that reaches 75 MPH and a slight fastball. The Mariners Bullpen has been atrocious so far this season and Dickey will get his chance to stop the bleeding. We could possibly see Dickey in the rotation for Miguel Bautista at some point.
  

-Dexter Sports
9:28 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Josh Beckett looks to have returned to his old form, at least for one start as he is dominating Tigers hitters as we speak. His Changeup has been moving well at 88 mph tonight and his curve has fooled everyone, especially Curtis Granderson this evening. Justin Verlander had the stuff to compete but gave up 5 runs pretty quickly. Verlander's struggles continue and it looks like he will get the loss. Anyone who watched this game though would note that Beckett's stuff was his best of 2008.

-Dexter Sports
3:59 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

We have some really good match ups in front of us tonight. Lets take a look at what is in front of us tonight in the six night games.

• Detroit vs. Boston 7:05 ET: Clearly the best pitching match up as Justin Verlander will take on Josh Beckett in a battle of what was thought to be Cy Young hopefuls at the beginning of the season, has not panned out that way. Verlander is 1-5 (hard to believe) with a 6.28 ERA so far, this year and his career numbers against Detroit don't get better. In 2 starts he is 1-1 with a 4.61 ERA. Detroit busted out of it's losing streak last night, and will continue to push for more victories. Josh Beckett takes the hill for the Red Sox. Beckett is 3-2 with a 4.19 ERA. Part of the Red Sox's success is due in major part to their pitching staff. They are tied for first in in wins, lead the league in shutouts, and have a solid team 4.10 ERA, despite giving up 150 walks so far this season. That is good enough for the second highest in the league.

• Tampa Bay vs. Toronto 7:07 ET: The Story of the game will be if the Jays offense can continue to improve after a slump to start the season. Edwin Jackson (2-3 4.98) will take on Jessie Litch (4-1 4.32). The Jays will be without shortstops David Eckstein and John Mcdonald. Marco Scutaro will make the start for the Jays. The Jays have won six of seven and the Rays have went 5-5 in the last ten games. Litch's only loss came against the Rays this season. The middle of the order will look to improve it's horrid 0-10 in Wednesday's game to give Edwin Jackson some support to get him back on track. I like Tampa's bats in this game.

• Milwaukee vs. Florida 7:10 ET: Though the pitching probable is nothing worth talking about (Villanevua vs Hendrickson) the mix up for the brewers lineup is. Joe Dillion will hit third in the lineup, as Prince Fielder will get a look from the bench. Milwaukee's bats have contiued to struggle. Gabe Kapler will also be inserted to give a spark of the bench. The Marlins have won 4 of their last 5 and has seen recent success from Dan Uggla, who started cold this season. Uggla is a career .324 hitter off Milwaukee with 3 HRs and 9 RBIs. Ned Yost is hoping his new lineup can show up the struggling starters.
  

• Washington vs. Houston 8:05 PM ET: The Nationals are one game away from getting swept by the hot Astros lineup that has seen Lance Berkman and Carlos Lee turn it up another notch and Youngster Micheal Bourn take better pitches and get more accustomed to major league pitching. The Astros will send Brandon Backe (2-3 4.42) to the mound to face John Lannan (2-3 3.74). I think this Houston Astros club is showing that at least their offense deserves to be talked about as contenders in the NL Central.
  

• Baltimore vs. Kansas City 8:05 PM ET: The Orioles look to get back to winning baseball after a tough season with Oakland. The Orioles send Daniel Cabrera (2-1 4.06) to the mound to oppose Luke Hochevar (2-1 4.86) in a game that could be high scoring. That is if the Orioles offense can get going. Five of the Orioles previous seven games they have only scored one or two runs. The Royals scored nine runs in their last game against the Angels. That is a season high. The Royals offensive effort has been team oriented, with David Dejesus Leading RBIs, Alex Gordon leading HRs and Billy Butler leading average. Look for the Orioles to return to the plate in this game against the young righty.

• Texas vs. Seattle 10:05 PM ET: The bottom of the NL west will take on each other tonight as the Mariners will send Felix Hernandez (2-2 3.04) to the mound to face Kevin Gabbard (1-0 2.18). Both team's pitching has been atrocious, especially the Rangers who rank near last in almost every pitching category. Texas though has won 5 of the last 7 in May and the pitching staff has been a big part of it. The Mariners will look to continue to warm up the bats. They have lost 7 of the last 8 and have posted .128 average in the last 23 innings. I think we will see a Mariner wake up call. I will predict a home run from Richie Sexson.
  

-Dexter Sports
11:10 PM

We are seeing teams finally make their first moves of the season. We know about the Frank Thomas move, but what else is happening around the league? Lets take a look.

• The Brewers optioned Dave Bush to AAA Nashville today. Somehow, despite numerous teams needing pitching, Bush cleared waivers. I thought teams like the Tigers, Yankees, Astros, and Rockies would be interested. This puts the brewers in a great position if Manny Parra struggles, because he can easily be optioned.

• The Diamondbacks recalled Max Scherzer today. It is about time that this happened. Scherzer is Baseball America's # 4 Prospect for the Diamondbacks. He was the 11th pick in the 2006 draft. He brings a 98 MPH fastball from the pen, but only touches 88-93 as a starter. The Diamondbacks see him as a starter, but will fill a pen role for now.

• The Rockies optioned 2nd basemen Jayson Nix to AAA Colorado Springs for relief pitcher Jose Cappellan. We thought this might happen a week ago, and sure enough it looks like Clint Barmes has taken this job away. I would like to see Ian Stewart steal some at bats here.

• Brandon Moss will look to continue his Japan Heroics in the Majors. Moss will replace Sean Casey on the roster after he went down on the 15 day DL. He should get a lot of playing time with Mike Lowell out. I like Brandon Moss to stay on the roster from here on out. He will be a great bat to have off the bench and as a major filler if someone gets hurt.

• Nate McLouth continues to kill the ball. He along with Carlos Delgado and Paul Konerko belted two home runs today. McLouth was the first Dexter Sports pick up of the week. He is hitting .333 with 6 homers and 21 RBIs.

• Mets outfielder Moises Alou will come back on Monday against Pittsburgh. This means Angel Pagan's time is over for now. Look for teams to spark interest in him. Most likely Moises Alou will end up on the DL like usual. I think that Pagan is a good value for the mets. He is a cheap version of Coco Crisp or Reed Johnson.

-Dexter Sports
2:14 PM

Man Alive, I have never imagined that so many Milestones could be breached within one day. In this edition we take a look at what milestones we could see very soon.

• Chicago Cubs- The franchise could see it's 10,000th win tonight against the Rockies in Colorado. Rich Hill will take the mound in a rubber match. Franklin Morales will look to defend his home turf tonight. The Cubs are 14-6, which is the best start for the north side since 1975. Here is a list of the best starts in team history.

• Atlanta Braves: Veteran John Smoltz eclipsed 3,000 strikeouts last night. Smoltz is the only pitcher to have 250 wins and 150 saves in his career. It is good to see one of the good ol' boys reach another milestone. Smoltz is a definite hall of famer.

-Dexter Sports
10:01 AM

Good Morning. Well if you are the Rockies or Padres, then heck your just going to bed. Man, who would think when I went to bed that the Rockies would of played the equivalent of two and a half games. Heck, I'm surprised that Jake Peavy didn't pitch all 22 innings. Anyways, lets get to what I have for you this wonderful Monday morning.

• Speaking of the Rockies and Padres, Did you know that Rockies Lefty Reliever Brian Fuentes was cut from his high school baseball team as a junior? It's interesting because he is the type of guy that puts the team first, though teams have spited him before. Five million a year ain't bad for someone who shouldn't have made it in the college game. Fuentes has become one of the best setup men in the league.

• The Detroit Tigers bats should wake up again this weekend against the Toronto Blue Jays. Today, the tigers will take on 25 year old call up David Purcey to make a spot start because of the emergency relief appearance of A.J. Burnett this week. Dustin McGowan will go for the Jays on Saturday. He is 1-2 with a 9.95 ERA in three starts against the Tigers in his career. The numbers for A.J. Burnett do not get any better. He is 1-1 with a 9.88 ERA in three starts against the tigers.
  

• This weekend's best pitching match up will take place today. Johan Santana will take the ball for the Mets, while Cole Hamels, the changeup wizard will go for the Phillies. Not only is this a rivalry, but Johan looks to improve after giving up four home runs against the brewers in his last start.

• Wow, It sure hasn't been talked about much but Manny Ramirez is inching closer to 500 homers for his career. I wonder where we will rank him all-time when it is all said and done. He is the first player, I can say that i have witnessed his whole career, that is in the 500 Homer club.

• Mike Sweeney stuck out for the first time this season Wednesday night. That is interesting, especially since that is all he could do in Kansas City.
  

• Detroit Tigers' outfielder Curtis Granderson will began a rehab assignment today. He will start off in Low A West Michigan, but make his way to AAA Toledo for the weekend. Granderson should be up and ready in the tiger's lineup next week. The free press also notes that Reliever Joel Zumaya has been throwing off the ground. Manager Jim Leyland said he was, "firing the ball." that is good news for this weak pen.

-Dexter Sports
2:48

After one Week into the season, it is evident who who will have very strong bullpens during the 2008 season. In this edition of Around The Horn, we will rank the top three pens as well as the bottom three to start the season.

The Big Boys

1. Brewers - I know that Eric Gagne blew his first save of the year, but beyond that this pen has been flawless. The rebuilt pen has kept the crew in games, exactly the way GM Doug Melvin and Manger Ned Yost wanted. David Riske seems like the perfect set-up man for this club and Solomon Torres is the inning eater that they need for the very few starts that don't go 5 innings plus.
2. Orioles - Though the pen has not seen a lot of time, it has been a huge reason the Orioles are 4-1 and on top of the AL East. George Sherrill's pitching has not been hit yet and he has shut down opponents, which has resulted in two saves. Dennis Sarfate, a gift from the Astros in the Tejada deal, has also shined early this season. Matt Albers, who has been effective as a long reliever could take away Daniel Cabrera's rotation spot sooner rather than later. Albers was also acquired with Troy Patton, Mike Costanzo and Luke Scott from Houston for Miguel Tejada.
3. Red Sox - Seems to be the only thing keeping the Sox in games. Well, not quite. Manny Declarman struggled giving up a grand slam to Frank Thomas, but this pen will form. With veteran Mike Timlin coming off the DL, this team will be more than solid.

The Bottom Three

1. Detroit Tigers -The Bullpen is 0-3 after last night's blowout against the White Sox. Without Joel Zumaya and Fernando Rodney there is nobody that can plug he bleeding of the middle relief of Jason Grilli and company.
2. Cincinnati Reds - This is expected from a really week bullpen and a weakness on this team that will keep them out of the hunt for a playoff birth. Of the 7 relievers that the reds have thrown out there, six have given up at least a run.
3. Cleveland Indians - Ok, so maybe it is too early to give up on this bullpen, but I am worried. Joe Borowski has always been shaky, but not the likes of Fernando Betancourt. He has been a staple in the eighth inning, but not so much this year. This Bullpen will shape up in due time.
   

-Dexter Sports

11:21 AM

In today's around the horn, we focus on players that are making comebacks that could be vital to your fantasy team, or to your favorite team in general. We will also set some time tables of when you should let go of some of your "sleeper" pick ups.

• Josh Beckett will make his debut for the Red Sox today. That pitching match up of Roy Halladay and Beckett is the best all day. Look for a low scoring game and fantasy buffs, be happy that Beckett is back. He will do you wonders today in Toronto.... Unless your fantasy team has both Halladay and Beckett like mine does.
  

• For those of you in Holds leagues Scot Shields will be back tonight with the Angels. Shields is considered one of the best set up men in the game. If he is available, go grab him from free agency. Another option if you are in a bind for holds is Detroit's Denny Bautista, who is filling in for Fernando Rodney. He has looked sharp so far and if the Tigers can get in a winning situation he could be someone of value.
  

• Andy Pettitte made his season debut yesterday. Don't think much of it fantasy owners because his curve ball couldn't be placed and that his cutter had nothing on it. For those of you in dyer need of an innings eater and decent starter, this could be your guy, unless he gets caught up in the winter months that haunted him this off-season.

• Those of you who are looking for a closer after both Chad Cordero of the Nationals and J.J. Putz of the Mariners, there are many options to explore that should work out. First and foremost, if Brad Lidge is still available after injury, go pick him up, he will fill the void fairly well. If that is not an option for you, Look for small market closers, such as Huston Street, Matt Capps, Joakim Soria and the likes. A bold move that could pay off is picking up Mariners starter Miguel Batista, who seems to be the favorite to take over Putz's closer job. Batista started against the Orioles last night, but has closer experience with the Jays.
  

• Mark Buehrle and Jeremy Guthrie both look to rebound tonight in their respected starts. After both had horrible opening days, I think it will be safe to say, if they don't compete tonight, it is time to go pick someone else up. I think Buehrle will rebound though.