Josh Bard $6. Other bids $2, $1.
With neither Rob Johnson nor Adam Moore running with the catching job in Seattle, Josh Bard might wind up getting the majority of the AB behind the dish. He's been ridiculously hot as of late, and while he's nothing more than a career back-up, he's definitely worth riding while he's hot. He has gone on streaks like this before, and 8-10 HR isn't out of the question if Moore and Johnson continue to be non-factors.
Joe Saunders $6. Other bid $3.
After a terrible start, Saunders' owner understandably dropped him two weeks ago, only to see Saunders go out and post two great outings in the last two weeks against the A's and White Sox. He's a two-start pitcher this week against the Blue Jays (yuck) and the Mariners (yay!). Saunders' low whiff rate makes him kind of meh even in A.L.-only leagues, but he's definitely worth playing at least for the good match-ups, and there's certainly nothing wrong with trying to ride a possible hot streak.
Josh Wilson $6.
With Seattle's other J. Wilson on the DL, Josh has been getting significant playing time at SS. Wilson had a big week, but there's nothing in his Major or minor league track record that indicates future success is likely. If you can take a possible BA hit, I suppose Wilson is worth it, but there are middle infield options listed below that are all superior.
Jason Donald $4. Other bid $3.
Part of the Indians haul for Cliff Lee last year, Donald had a strong year at AA Reading in 2008 than struggled at AAA in 2009. Results at AAA Columbus this year were a mixed blessing. Donald's walk rate spiked, but he didn't show the power he displayed at AA and his Ks are high too. The most intriguing thing about Donald are his 10 SB, but the Indians are in the habit of being cautious on the basepaths with their young players when they first come up. Donald should get most of the AB at SS while Asdrubal Cabrera is out, but with Mark Grudzielanek playing well, Donald won't stick around for long if he struggles.
Trevor Plouffe $3.
Many in baseball had written Plouffe off after two disappointing campaigns in the minors, but the combination of a strong start this year and a J.J. Hardy injury brought him to the Majors to sub while Hardy's out. Plouffe's upside is probably about a .260 average with 10-15 HR, but his downside is a .220 BA with little to no power. He profiles more as a utility guy long term, but he's only 23 so maybe some further improvement is possible. It seems like the Twins will give him an honest shot with Hardy out, and given that the alternatives are Brendan Harris, Nick Punto, and Alexi Casilla, that doesn't strike me as a terrible idea.
Cla Meredith $3.
Alfredo Simon's injury is now looking like a day-to-day thing, but Meredith could get a save opportunity or two if the injury lingers. With Koji Uehara probably going back on the DL, Meredith could be a decent option this week. However, Meredith hasn't put up a WHIP lower than a 1.39 since his lights out rookie year way back in 2006 and probably is a long shot to close long-term. He's worth a gamble, but don't expect much.
Jeremy Reed $1.
This once-upon-a-time first round pick is up for the Jays as outfield depth with Travis Snider on the DL. Reed shouldn't expect to see much playing time unless there is another injury; he wasn't even putting up good numbers at AAA.
Michael Ryan $1.
Way back in 2002, Ryan put up a monster power season for the Twins Triple-A affiliate at the not-so old age of 24, making some think he might crack the line-up or least find his way into some sort of platoon. It didn't work out that way - Ryan bounced between Minnesota and Rochester the next three years before finally finding his way out of the organization. He's with the Angels now and is more of a last bat off of the bench type than a potential regular. At 32, it's unlikely he'll get another clean shot at a job.
Matt Treanor $1.
Despite the presence of Max Ramirez on the roster, Treanor continues to get a healthy chunk of AB behind the plate for Texas while they wait for Jarrod Saltalamacchia to get past his throwing yips. Treanor offers a little power, but will probably hurt your average. You shouldn't count on much here.
Darren Oliver Claimed by 12th place team.
Oliver continues to put up super strong numbers in middle relief for the Rangers. With Frank Francisco and Neftali Feliz pitching well in front of him, don't expect any saves, but the high Ks and strong ERA/WHIP make Oliver worth it in any one-league format.
Bill Hall Claimed by 7th (tie) and 4th place teams.
Unless versatility is a category in your league, Hall should be avoided right now. He's not hitting for power, has slumped most of the year, and with Jacoby Ellsbury back and Mike Cameron due back this week Hall should start seeing his playing time slashed.
Sergio Santos Claimed by 6th place team.
Santos continues to put up absurdly dominant numbers out of the White Sox pen. He's only been scored upon once all year, and while he's not in any serious discussions for saves, you should stash his name away as a less heralded closer of the future type in keeper leagues.
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