There was plenty of news on several big name players in the past 24 hours, so let’s take a look at the latest:
Mat Latos – San Diego Padres
According to the San Diego Union-Tribune (via Twitter), “GM Jed Hoyer says Mat Latos will open the season on the disabled list.” Obviously this is a bit concerning, as many speculated that he was an injury risk given the innings load he worked in 2010.
However, until we get a little bit more information I wouldn’t push the panic button. Latos has already said that he felt much better after getting treatment (including a long toss session today) and it makes sense that the Padres take it cautiously with their prized possession. With three off days in the first week, the team doesn’t need five starters at the outset, so it all adds up to a cautious approach.
Just move him to your bench and monitor the news, but I’d be cautiously optimistic at this point that he’ll hit the mound in early-to-mid April. Obviously that could all come tumbling down, but for now, given the news we’ve heard, it appears that owners may have dodged a bullet.
Kendry Morales – Los Angeles Angels
According to Mike DiGiovanna (via Twitter), “1B Kendrys Morales took BP today for first time in a week … Will resume agility drills and defensive workouts Tuesday.” That’s great news, but we still have no idea when he may be able to take the field. Mark Trumbo, who continues to rake (.309, 6 HR, 20 RBI), may allow the Angels to be cautious with Morales.
If Trumbo produces early, the Angels could be backed into a corner when Morales is ready. They already have four outfielders for three spots (with Bobby Abreu being bumped to the DH role). If Trumbo hits, Peter Bourjos could ultimately be the causality. Keep that in mind, despite the fact that he has the potential to be this season’s Drew Stubbs (10 HR/30 SB).
Chase Utley – Philadelphia Phillies
The quote on mlb.com (click here for the article) speaks volumes on his condition. When asked if he would be back for the All-Star Break Utley simply answered, “That would be a goal, yes.”
That certainly shouldn’t make owners very confident as to when exactly he could return. The bottom line is that no one really knows. All that we do know is that he’s going to be out for the first few weeks and potentially a whole lot more.
For now, it appears that Luis Castillo is going to start the year at 2B, but how long can that really last? If Utley appears that he is going to be out for a significant length of time, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them make another move.
Carlos Beltran – New York Mets
There have been a few reports that Carlos Beltran, who has seen limited action this spring, will actual travel with the team and open the season on the active roster. Obviously, he’s a huge question mark at this point and figures to often very little of the speed that once made him a fantasy stud.
Of course, his bat is still there and if he is healthy enough to play he could be a real steal for those in five-outfielder formats. He’s available deep into your draft and certainly is worth the flier.
Brian Wilson – San Francisco Giants
According to Chris Haft of mlb.com (click here for the article), manager Bud Black said, “I’ll be honest — I think it’s less than 50-50”. Obviously that’s not what we want to hear, but we should be more comfortable since the injury is to his oblique and not his arm. Even if he were to miss a week or two to open the year, he’s one of the elite in the game and shouldn’t fall down draft boards.
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