CLEVELAND INDIANS
If this were the middle of the season, I would say, “watch out for the Indians”, however it is the end of the season and no chance for a team that was projected to be in contention for the playoffs. Cliff Lee became the first 20-game winner this season. Lee is also the first Indian to win 20 games since Hall of Famer Gaylord Perry pulled in off in 1974.
The team is expecting the return of both Victor Martinez and Travis Hafner. The team would love to play spoiler to the Chicago White Sox as they host a three game series with them this week. They will get one more chance again Sept. 26-28 when they visit the White Sox to finish out the season.
SEATTLE MARINERS
Adrian Beltre gave Mariners fans a treat tonight as he joined Alex Rodriguez, Jay Buhner, and John Olerud in the Cycle Club for the Seattle ball club. Ryan Rowland-Smith continues to impress both fans and the organization as he had another solid performance this week. Rowland-Smith started out the 2008 season out of the bullpen, invested some time in the closer’s role when J.J.Putz was on the disabled list, and was then sent to the minor leagues to be stretched out for a starting pitcher’s position. Since rejoining the staff, Rowland-Smith is 2-1 in five starts, averaging six innings, maintaining a 3.56 earned run average and striking out 19 batters as a starter. Pay attention, keeper league managers, as he could be a great, low-budget starter for the 2009 season.
NEW YORK YANKEES
With little talk of the Yankees this playoff season, fans may be able to discuss the return of Joba Chamberlain to the active roster. Rumor has it that Chamberlain will return Tuesday, September 2nd, however, he is likely to be assigned for bullpen duty. It is clear that he will eventually be inserted back into the rotation, but with the season all but wrapped up, it is smart for the organization to use caution on such a talented young arm. Until the end of the season, expect Chamberlain to be setup man to future Hall of Fame closer Mariano Rivera.
BOSTON RED SOX
With news of Josh Beckett and J.D. Drew’s most recent issues, the team is ready for some good news. It appears that Mike Lowell is nearing his return, which could come as soon as this Friday. The Red Sox recently picked up Mark Kotsay to replace Drew in the lineup, although he is not generating much talk across the web because of his disappointing play in Atlanta. In addition, Sean Casey has rejoined the walking wounded, as he has been assigned to the 15-day disabled list.
TORONTO BLUE JAYS
The team appears to be conceding yet another disappointing season as they have elected to trade shortstop David Eckstein to the Arizona Diamondbacks for minor-league right-hander Chad Beck. From all indications Eckstein was acquired to replace Orlando Hudson at second base. In other news, J.P. Ricciardi has stated that they are unlikely to go on a major spending spree this season, instead turning to young Adam Lind or Travis Snider.
TAMPA BAY RAYS
The watch is still on for the likely call up of their left-handed phenom, David Price. Unfortunately for Tampa Bay fans (all three of them) and all fantasy managers, we will keep on waiting as the organization has announced his next start in Triple-A.
In other disappointing news for Tampa Bay Rays fans, it appears that rookie third baseman Evan Longoria will not be ready for the three game series against the Yankees. No true timetable has been set but all updates are positive and indicate a return soon. The news appears the same for veteran closer Troy Percival. Both players are expected and needed prior to the playoffs to give this team the best chance to compete for a shot at the World Series.
BALTIMORE ORIOLES
Loaded with young and emerging talent, the Baltimore Orioles could play a huge part in the playoffs…before the playoffs begin. Starting with tonight’s game (4-7 Loss) with Boston, and continuing through till Wednesday, the team could impact the distance between Tampa Bay and Boston. In addition, they host a three game series with Minnesota starting on the 12th. A week later, they will host the division-leading Rays (22nd-24th). It appears that Baltimore can still have an impact, putting quality games under their young belts and potentially playing the part of playoff spoilers.
