Brad Lidge
Fantasy owners expected Lidge to return to his closing duties this weekend after he underwent an MRI that revealed no structural damage earlier this week. Instead, Lidge is heading to the 15-day DL with elbow inflammation. The Phillies are just being cautious in the early going, and Lidge should be back to closing by the end of May. He should be stashed in all formats as he has the ability to rack up saves on a contender like the Phillies upon his return. In the short term, Jose Contreras will assume the closer role and can serve as a worthy stop-gap until Lidge returns.
Max Scherzer
Scherzer was optioned to the Tigers Triple-A affiliate following his start Saturday. He has posted a 1-4 record on the season with a 7.29 ERA. Scherzer has struggled to adjust to the American League after being traded from the Arizona Diamondbacks during the offseason. He is a young player with major upside, but he can be let go in mixed leagues as he could see significant time in the minors to work out his struggles. Armando Galarraga was recalled by the Tigers to take Scherzer's place in the rotation.
Jacoby Ellsbury
As an Ellsbury owner I am happy to report that a tentative rehab schedule has been set. Though Ellsbury admits to not feeling 100 percent after cracking four ribs in a collision with Adrian Beltre on April 11, he seems eager to get back out on the field. The Red Sox could desperately use his help at the top of their order as they have slipped to fourth in the division, 5.5 games out of first place in his absence. Ellsbury is set to begin his rehab assignment on Monday with the Pawtucket Red Sox, Boston's Triple-A affiliate.
Brian Roberts
Roberts has been sidelined with a herniated disk after aggravating an offseason injury in the first week of the season. He has just begun baseball-related activities such as hitting off a tee and playing catch and will continue his rehab at Orioles extended spring training in Sarasota, FL next week. Though Roberts is a long way off it is nice to see progress from the top tier second baseman. He should be stashed in all leagues in preparation for a return around the All-Star break.
Feel free to email me at sandlotsabermetrics@gmail.com with fantasy questions to feature in my weekly Help Me Help You blog.
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