Matt LaPorta
Since being recalled to fill the first base slot for the Indians, LaPorta has gone off. The former top prospect may finally be reaching his potential. Over the past week he has hit .300 with three runs, three home runs and five RBI's. LaPorta is worth an immediate look in deeper mixed formats because of his immense potential. Give a one or two week trial to see if he can maintain his current pace; he may just turn into a fantasy starter for the second half.
Cody Ross
Ross, typically a fringe option in mixed formats, has been on fire for the past two weeks. During that period he has maintained an 11-game hitting streak. On the year he is hitting .293, and he should be getting more fantasy attention. Part of the reason he is still unowned in 50 percent of fantasy leagues is because his streak has been overshadowed by that of teammate Gaby Sanchez. Like I did with Sanchez, I recommend Ross as a sleeper option for this week who could develop into a starter if he continues hitting well.
Cliff Pennington
This guy has been in the midst of a breakout season. Though he may not be the best option in mixed formats, he is a serviceable shortstop. He has been especially hot over the past two weeks, batting .490 with four stolen bases. Despite his limited power potential, Pennington can be used in most mixed formats as a stopgap middle infield option.
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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