Well, it didn’t take long for Bryce Harper to get back into the swing of things huh? First at-bat, back from a 30+ game DL stint, and he jacks a homer. It’s a no brainer to start guys like Harper, Chris Davis (who is on pace to be the first possibly clean player to hit 60 HRs since Roger Maris) or Miggy Cabrera (who is on pace for a possible back-to-back triple crown), but if you’re in a deep league and need to make some serious roster changes, where do you go? Helmuth’s Half Dozen.
Here are six nifty tips for the week.
Helmuth Hail Mary
It’s worth a long shot, but picking up this guy might be your lottery ticket for 2013.
Jacob Turner SP – Mia: The former Tigers top prospect might finally be putting it together, even though he’s on a bad team. He threw his first complete game against the Padres over the weekend and now has a 1.76 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP over 41 innings since his call up on May 31. He’s only 24 percent owned and still crazy young with a high ceiling.
Rookie Watch!
On the lookout for the next Mike Trout or Bryce Harper.
Adam Eaton OF – Ari: Granted there are no final setbacks, this rookie stud is supposed to finally make his big league debut in mid-July. If you have a DL spot where you can stash him it would be wise to pick him up now. He is expected to start his rehab schedule of games this Saturday. Once he starts playing he should be a great source of speed, average and slight power.
Ripe Relievers!
Snatching up saves and holds however you can find them.
Blake Parker RP – ChC: According to many reports, it’s likely Kevin Gregg will be traded in coming weeks. Once that transaction happens, Cubs manager Dale Sveum said over the weekend that Parker would be the favorite for saves moving forward. The 28-year-old has a 2.19 ERA and 0.89 WHIP since being called up.
Pyrite Award!
Who is fake gold.
Rajai Davis OF – Tor: There’s no reason to really not like him. I just don’t. I’m sure he’s a great guy, but I’m not making room for him on my fantasy team. He hasn’t had 500 at-bats since 2010. Whether it’s injury, a share of playing time or just being on a bad team, something always seems to happen to prevent him from reaching his full potential. Maybe he’s the next Edwin Encarnacion: speed version, but I’m not getting my hopes up. Only pick him up in the deepest of leagues and if you’re desperate for speedy outfield help.
Post-Hype Sleeper!
Went from sexy to sucky. Now he’s hot again but many aren’t noticing.
Eric Hosmer 1B – KC: Hopefully the real Eric Hosmer is beginning to stand up. For the first time all season, Hosmer put together a great week, belting 4 home runs, 6 RBI and nearly a .300 average. He’s still unowned in over 30% of leagues.
Pick-Up Of The Week!
Player that should be owned but could still be on the waiver wire in your league.
Leonys Martin OF – Tex: Gotta love it when soon to be superstars fly under the radar. Martin currently has an 11 game hitting streak and has his average up to .293 on the season. He also has some slight pop, hitting 5 homers. He’s only owned in 34% of leagues and was No. 8 overall for hitters on the player rater last week. And c’mon, folks, he plays in Texas! And it’s summer! The ball will soar.
Hitter of the Week: (Monday-Monday)
Jason Kipnis 2B – Cle: .478/3/10
Hurler of the Week: (Monday-Monday)
Jeremy Hellickson SP – TB: 13 IP, 2 Wins, 10 K, 0.69 ERA, 1.08 WHIP
Josh Helmuth is the editor for CraveOnline Sports. You can follow him on Twitter @JHelmuth or subscribe at Facebook.com/CraveOnlineSports for the latest in sports on your newsfeed.
