Today's Fantasy Rx

Note: For those of you unfamiliar with FAAB, each team normally begins with $100 to spend throughout the year on all free agent pickups. Most injury replacements or speculative picks go for a buck or two, hot starters go for $5-$10, top prospects go in the $10-$30 range, and we've seen $90+ bids on top players traded into the league.

Arizona: Chris Capuano, 24, LH Starter
0-2 on a 3:6 K:BB in 8 IP over 3 G(1GS)
with 7 H, 1 HR, and an 11-9 G-F; 10.13 ERA.
3-0 on a 41:14 K:BB in 59.2 IP over 10 GS
with 57 H, 5 HR, and a 3.17 ERA at AAA Tucson(PCL).

We've seen ten Tucson pitchers spend time in Arizona this year thanks to their excessive spat of injuries, and youngsters like Brandon Webb and Jose Valverde even could contend for Rookie of the Year given their performances thus far. All the roster moves mean only two pitchers have started more than 8 games for Tucson, yet while top prospect Mike Gosling has struggled, Capuano deserves another shot in the majors. He looked like a top prospect before Tommy John surgery last year, and he surprisingly already looks fully recovered and ready for another promotion. Capuano ranks with Brandon Webb as the best long-term pitching prospects in the organization, and I see no obvious reason why he shouldn't start ahead of someone like Edgar Gonzalez, who isn't nearly as experienced in the upper minors. Once the Diamondbacks given Capuano another shot, try to FAAB him cheaply since he possesses significant immediate fantasy upside.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Jose Valverde.

Atlanta: Andy Pratt, 24, LH Starter
4-3 on a 73:38 K:BB in 68.2 IP over 13 GS(14G)
with 63 H, 4 HR, and a 3.41 ERA at AAA Richmond(IL).

Although Jason Marquis or current Atlanta reliever Trey Hodges likely will receive any available starts, Pratt possesses a better chance to immediately succeed given his current dominance. He leads the International League in strikeouts, and the only reason we don't expect him in the majors very soon is that he also leads his league in walks. Pratt's quickest route to the majors likely lies with another team, and given the Braves' pitching depth below AAA, I expect him to finish the year with a different franchise. Ignore Pratt as long as he remains in Atlanta since he's unlikely to see an extended starting opportunity, however he could emerge as a nice sleeper if dealt to a team with an immediate need for big league pitching.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Travis Phelps.

Chicago Cubs: Wilton Chavez, 23, RH Starter
5-3 on a 55:18 K:BB in 61 IP over 11 GS
with 65 H, 9 HR, and a 4.13 ERA at AAA Iowa(PCL).

Due to both adding a couple years in agegate and a growing homer problem, Chavez stands behind Juan Cruz, Matt Bruback, and Todd Wellemeyer in line for spot starts in Chicago. However his continued dominance at the highest levels of the minors should keep his profile elevated for trade talks, and he easily could finish this season successfully starting in the majors for another team. Like several other older prospects for current contenders, ignore Chavez if he remains with this organization, but keep him in mind when he finally receives his first extended opportunity to start in the majors.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Rod Beck.

Cincinnati: Jose Acevedo, 25, RH Reliever
4-2 on a 38:14 K:BB in 42 IP over 21 G
with 37 H, 4 HR, and a 3.43 ERA at AAA Louisville(IL).

Although we're seeing impressive performances here from relievers like Mark Watson and Carlos Almanzar, Acevedo already owns a 40-man spot and should be a primary option for bullpen openings in Cincinnati. Of course we still believe he eventually will move into some team's rotation for a long run of success, but these skills strongly suggest he deserves a big league relief job now. His homer rate is nicely down from previous seasons, and a higher strikeout rate increases his immediate potential. Unfortunately pitching in the GAB kills the value of anyone not starting or closing, so ignore Acevedo as long as he stays in middle relief for the Reds.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Lance Davis.

Colorado: Matt J. Miller, 31, RH Reliever
3-0 and 3 Saves on a 51:13 K:BB in 43.1 IP over 40 G
with 31 H, 0 HR, and a 2.49 ERA at AAA Colorado Springs(PCL).

I hoped Miller finally would get a shot in the majors with Oakland last season, but his command slipped and he again remained at AAA all season. Fortunately, his dominant performance this year should earn him a call-up, and if Jose Jimenez keeps struggling, Miller might even factor in the saves' picture for the Rockies. Of course you likely should ignore him like any Colorado reliever, however he possesses enough upside to warrant your attention if promoted.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Jason Young.

Florida: Scott Sanders, 34, RH Starter
3-3 on a 52:13 K:BB in 54.1 IP over 9 GS
with 60 H, 4 HR, and a 3.48 ERA at AAA Albuquerque(PCL).

We haven't seen Sanders in the big leagues since he posted a 5.52 ERA in 104.1 IP for the 1999 Cubs, however now he looks like the Marlins' best option if the need to recall another starter. Both his dominance and control look very impressive right now, and his track record suggest he could succeed under the right circumstances. Don't add him unless you can drop him immediately if he struggles, however Sanders should merit a buck or two of FAAB if Florida gives him another chance in the majors.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Doug Bochtler.

Houston: Rodrigo Rosario, 25, RH Starter
5-7 on a 68:32 K:BB in 87 IP over 15 GS
with 71 H, 7 HR, and a 4.03 ERA at AAA New Orleans(PCL).

Johnson likely was Houston's best option as a spot starter, but after his mediocre performance, Rosario is the most prepared pitcher in the system for a call-up. Unfortunately his 11-6 record and 3.11 ERA at AA Round Rock(TL) last year obscured his 94:59 K:BB in 130 IP, so while I'm pleased at his skill improvement after a promotion, both his limited dominance and questionable control worry me. Given the downside of pitching in Minute Maid, you likely should ignore Rosario in most leagues, especially since I don't expect him to hold a rotation spot for any extended period of time.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Jonathan Johnson.

Los Angeles: Wilson Alvarez, 33, LH Starter
5-1 on a 33:6 K:BB in 47 IP over 8 GS
with 36 H, 1 HR, and a 1.34 ERA at AAA Las Vegas(PCL).

While I expected Alvarez to remake himself into a dominant lefty reliever, the effectiveness of Tom Martin and now Steve Colyer allowed Alvarez to continue starting in the minors. His numbers at Las Vegas are simply fantastic, and my only concern regarding Alvarez is the possibility of health problems. These demonstrated skills indicate that he's ready to succeed in the majors, particularly in an environment like Dodger Stadium, and if Los Angeles gives him the necessary opportunity, Alvarez merits a few bucks of your FAAB considering his upside in almost any role.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Steve Colyer.

Milwaukee: Pasqual Coco, 25, RH Starter
8-5 on a 67:29 K:BB in 91.1 IP over 18 GS
with 108 H, 9 HR, and a 4.83 ERA at AAA Indianapolis(IL).

Toronto released Coco this spring after an incident that echoed the circumstances surrounding Ruben Rivera's departure from the Yankees a season ago, and Milwaukee quickly grabbed him in their search for any available starting prospects. Coco isn't particularly dominant, however he demonstrates good control without a troublesome homer rate, so given the problems in the Brewers' rotation, we could see him in Milwaukee any time. Of course, you likely should ignore Coco even if you're desperate for innings, although I think he could succeed if the Brewers leave him in a low pressure role in the middle innings.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Danny L. Kolb.

Montreal: Eric Knott, 28, LH Swingman
5-5 on a 38:13 K:BB in 75.2 IP over 22 G(10GS)
with 101 H, 6 HR, and a 4.40 ERA at AAA Edmonton(PCL).

Knott ranked with the more attractive minor league free agent pitchers last off-season after posting a 96:23 K:BB in 150 IP over 23 GS(31G), and he deserved to break camp in the majors following several impressive performance out of the bullpen. Instead he again returned to AAA, where he continues to display his excellent command even if he only appears likely to see success in the majors as a reliever. You can FAAB him for a buck or two later this year as roster filler after Montreal finally promotes him, however make sure he'll pitch in relief since I don't believe he'll pitch effectively as a major league starter.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Julio Manon.

New York Mets: Jason Roach, 27, RH Swingman
5-4 on a 56:24 K:BB in 72 IP over 12 GS(20G)
with 72 H, 5 HR, and a 4.00 ERA at AAA Norfolk(IL).

Roach continues to battle Jeremy Griffiths for spot starts in New York, an impressive accomplishment for someone who only converted to pitching full-time in 2000. A career-best 7.0 K/9 demonstrates his potential, and while I believe he could dominate as a reliever, these numbers suggest he might develop into an effective starter. Rebuilding teams in particular should feel free to FAAB Roach for a few bucks upon his promotion.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Aaron Heilman.

Philadelphia: Geoff Geary, 26, RH Reliever
6-2 on a 44:8 K:BB in 59 IP over 29 G(3GS)
with 56 H, 0 HR, and a 1.98 ERA at AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre(IL).

A sub 2.00 ERA merits attention from any AAA pitcher, especially since Geary already owned a 103:38 K:BB in 123 AAA innings entering this season. He looks as prepared for the majors right now as someone like Carlos Silva, and with a 1.9 career walk rate, he offers far more fantasy potential than obvious downside. Geary could compete for save opportunities for the Phillies as soon as next season, so look to FAAB him for a couple bucks once he reaches Philadelphia later this season.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Ryan Madson.

Pittsburgh: Duaner Sanchez, 23, RH Reliever
3-3 and 1 Save on a 32:20 K:BB in 49 IP over 32 G(1GS)
with 51 H, 2 HR, and a 3.12 ERA at AAA Nashville(PCL).

Several veterans like Mark Corey and Mike Holtz deserve consideration for a call-up before Sanchez, but Sanchez possesses a great arm, and more importantly, a spot on the 40-man roster. His demotion ranked as perhaps the most surprising cut from Pirates' camp this spring after he dominated the upper minors a year ago, however his control problems suggest more seasoning certainly won't hurt him. While Sanchez still should earn consideration to close for Pittsburgh next spring, his unimpressive AAA stats should allow you to FAAB him for only a few dollars once the Pirates finally promote him.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Ryan Vogelsong.

San Diego: Courtney Duncan, 28, RH Reliever
2-6 and 18 Saves on a 39:29 K:BB in 43 IP over 41 G
with 47 H, 3 HR, and a 4.60 ERA at AAA Portland(PCL).

As San Diego seems to rotate relievers at least once a week, the combination of an 8.2 K/9 and his success in closing for Portland should earn Duncan a tryout with the Padres later this summer. He displayed closer potential throughout his career with the Cubs, and only nagging control problems kept him from reaching his upside. Unfortunately his 6.1 BB/9 indicates he still isn't ready for a significant role in the majors, so ignore Duncan until he finally demonstrates good skills in the majors.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Carlton Loewer.

San Francisco: Jeff Urban, 26, LH Starter
3-5 on a 56:28 K:BB in 85.1 IP over 15 GS(17G)
with 110 H, 8 HR, and a 4.85 ERA at AAA Fresno(PCL).

Regardless of the success of Jesse Foppert and recent performance from Jerome Williams in San Francisco, Urban still should see a call-up if the Giants ever need to replace Kirk Rueter or Damian Moss for any extended period. Urban fell off most prospect lists during the off-season after he slipped into a swingman role for Fresno a year ago, however his performance this season suggests he still possesses impressive potential. While I expect he'll eventually settle into middle relief, Urban merits a low FAAB bid if San Francisco needs him to start for any extended period.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Matt Blank.

St. Louis: Jason Pearson, 27, LH Reliever
3-0 on a 25:8 K:BB in 30.1 IP over 26 G
with 25 H, 2 HR, and a 3.26 ERA at AAA Memphis(PCL).

Kevin Ohme's struggles leave Pearson as the most viable lefty remaining at Memphis, and his skills suggest he could pitch effectively in the majors if given the opportunity. Normally he suffers from some control problems, however a 2.4 BB/9 indicates he's ready for a promotion. While you likely should ignore Pearson during the foreseeable future, keep him in mind since the instability in the Cardinals' bullpen could create save opportunities for pitchers like Pearson who currently seem very unlikely candidates for short relief work.

Previously discussed 2003 NL pitching prospects: May: Dan Haren.

Internet Challenge

SP(6)
Matt Morris: Sat:@NYY(A.Pettitte)
Mike Mussina: Sun:STL(W.Williams)
Kevin Millwood: Fri:@CIN(J.Haynes)
Kerry Wood: Fri:@TOR(K.Escobar)
Jason Schmidt: Fri:@KC(C.George)
Mark Prior: Sat:@TOR(D.Davis)
Kurt Ainsworth?: Sun:@KC(K.Snyder)?
No starts: Randy, Pedro, Schilling, Oswalt, Brown, and Halladay.

With Ainsworth's Sunday start very uncertain, we'll start our six sure starts even though half of them appear rather risky.

While we hate leaving 500+ on the table again, our primary replacement choices for Vlad's salary are Sheffield and Delgado, and we don't envision fitting Delgado into our lineup without upsetting positions elsewhere. Sheffield also would help, but he's in Seattle this weekend while Carl Everett, who he'd replace in our lineup, plays at home against Florida. We'll hold off for another couple days and hope we hear good news about our expensive pitchers.

The Umpire Hunter(5th lg; 193rd overall)
Week 11b: June 13-June 15

C	Jorge Posada		1120
C	Toby Hall		460
1B	Todd Helton		1850
1B	Aubrey Huff		610
2B	Alfonso Soriano		1460
2B	Luis Castillo		1210
3B	Aaron Boone		1010
3B	Hank Blalock		500
SS	Alex Rodriguez		2010
SS	Nomar Garciaparra	1330
OF	Lance Berkman		1640
OF	Manny Ramirez		1610
OF	Preston Wilson		1220
OF	Carl Everett		850
OF	Austin Kearns		650
OF	Dave Roberts		620 
DH	Aramis Ramirez		820
DH	Erubiel Durazo		520

SP	Matt Morris		1300
SP	Mike Mussina		1210
SP	Kevin Millwood		1010
SP	Kerry Wood		990
SP	Jason Schmidt		790
SP	Mark Prior		750
RP	Eric Gagne		1430
RP	Scott Williamson	960
RP	Mike MacDougal		750
RP	Tim Worrell		740

Total Salary for Week 11b: 	29420

Today's Fantasy Rx: When trolling for roster filler among recently promoted relievers, we normally find a few pitchers in nearly any league with solid albeit roughly similar skills. Your first tiebreakers should involve analyzing pitchers' home ballparks and the strength of the rest of the pen, however we next look for veterans since they both are less likely to lose their job after one poor outing and won't suffer from the adjustment period often experienced by rookies.