Today's Fantasy Rx

Arizona: Jose Valverde, 24, RH Reliever
2-1 and 10 Saves on a 67:26 K:BB in 48 IP over 51 G
with 21 H, 2 HR, a 36-47 G-F, and a 1.69 ERA for Arizona.
1-1 and 5 Saves on a 26:14 K:BB in 29 IP over 22 G
with 26 H, 1 HR, and a 3.10 ERA for AAA Tucson(PCL).

I last reviewed Valverde back on May 15th, when I recommended you target him as a potential replacement if Mantei hit the DL again. Arizona promoted him two weeks later, and Valverde promptly saved 9 games before Mantei's return in July. Now he ranks as the Diamondbacks' primary set-up man and part-time closer, and if the team finds anyone willing to take Mantei's contract in the off-season, Valverde should pass 30 saves in 2004. Definitely look to acquire him since he at least should compile similar set of numbers next year while likely approaching $30 of roto value if allowed to close all year.

Previous Overachiever: April: Matt Mantei; May: Oscar Villarreal; June: Brandon Webb; July: Miguel Batista; August: Stephen Randolph.

Today's Fantasy Rx: Some youngsters with intriguing potential barely have played this year yet could break camp in the majors and approach double-digit value in 2004. Among the active NL pitching prospects meeting that definition who should be available in many leagues for last-minute minimum FAAB bids Cincinnati SP Matt Belisle, Milwaukee SP Luis Martinez, Montreal RP Chad Cordero, New York RP Jason Anderson, RP Orber Moreno, & RP Edwin Almonte, Philadelphia SP Josh Hancock & RP Geoff Geary, Pittsburgh SP Ryan Vogelsong, Pittsburgh RP John Grabow, and San Francisco SP Noah Lowry.