There has been a lot of news as of late regarding players being shut down for the rest of the season (and others who we aren’t quite sure about).
Let’s take a look at a few of the names that influence fantasy owners.
Geovany Soto, Chicago Cubs
Shoulder surgery brought his renaissance campaign to a bitter conclusion as he hit .280 with 17 HRs, 53 RBI, and 47 runs on the year.
He is likely going to be replaced in the lineup by Koyie Hill, who doesn’t offer much upside for fantasy owners, even those in two-catcher formats.
Soto should be fine for spring training and should be a starting option at a weak position entering the season.
Josh Hamilton, Texas Rangers
He has two fractured ribs, but if he can endure the pain, he can play through the injury. It’s actually hard to imagine him not getting into a game before the season comes to an end, as he hasn’t played since September 4 and the team is going to want him ready for the postseason.
Going through that lengthy of a layoff and then being thrust back into the biggest stage would be awfully difficult. Still, it’s hard for fantasy owners to trust him at this point.
It’s a big loss with fantasy championships on the line, but just stash him on your bench.
Tyler Colvin, Chicago Cubs
He suffered an injury after being hit in the chest with a broken bat.
He put up a surprisingly strong rookie campaign, hitting .254 with 20 HRs, 56 RBI, 60 runs and six SBs.
You should be able to find someone on the waiver wire, but he will certainly have potential value next season in a five-outfielder format.
Coco Crisp, Oakland Athletics
He suffered a broken pinkie; just the latest in what feels like a never-ending list of injuries.
He’ll likely miss the remainder of the season, putting a kink in the plans of owners trying to make a run in stolen bases.
Andrew Bailey, Oakland Athletics
He has soreness in his elbow and will be meeting with Dr. James Andrews to get checked out.
That’s never a good sign, but for now owners need to simply hope that there isn’t a major problem and he is able to be ready for 2011. Unfortunately, 2010 seems like a lost cause.
For those desperate for saves, Michael Wuertz and Craig Breslow are the most likely candidates to replace him.
Gavin Floyd, Chicago White Sox
He was pulled from his last start with tightness in his shoulder and now buried in the AL Central race, the White Sox really have no reason to push him.
It’s unlikely he makes another start so look for another option to fill out your staff.
What are your thoughts on these players?
Make sure to check out Rotoprofessor’s early 2011 Rankings:
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