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Eric Karabell

  (3:02 PM)

Hello all and welcome to another fantasy baseball chat. Lots to get to today, so here we go...

Milton (Watertown, MA)

Fernando Tatis worth a pick up? or with the NYM turn to the guy they have in AAA?

Eric Karabell

  (3:03 PM)

A decision on whether Carlos Delgado has to hit the DL or not should come by Friday, but I think Tatis is good enough to man the position for the Mets, and he's not a guy I'd own in a 10-team league, but he's got some pop. I don't see the Mets making drastic moves to the offense. As for Delgado, I do not give up on him. I think he needs some rest and remember what he did the final half last season.

Greg (Thomas, Pa.)

Heyo EK! Jayson Werth just stole your fantasy chat, brew haha! Are you buying or selling? Thank you, sir

Eric Karabell

  (3:04 PM)

That was fun! I was at Citizens Bank last night to see Werth running wild, what a blast it was. The fans realized how special his accomplishment was, asking for a curtain call. Werth is a 20/20 guy. He'll knock in 90 or so runs because of lineup position, but he's not someone who will choose to steal 40 bases. He's a percentage basestealer, and the Dodgers weren't paying attention.

Ding (NYC)

Am I blinded by my love for the Yankees because I'm contemplating giving up Crawford, Lind, and Gallardo for Holliday and CC? Is that too much? I would still have Markakis, Kemp, and Hart for my 3 OF spots + 1 Util, and i definitely love me some CC

Eric Karabell

  (3:06 PM)

We'd all love to own CC, but yeah, that's a lot to give up. I think Crawford really wants to steal 75 bases, make a run for 100, and that is just so valuable in fantasy. I'm not really buying low on Holliday; sure, it gets better, but he won't run. And Gallardo might be a top-10 pitcher. I don't make that deal.

Todd (Philly)

In a keeper league, who's the better prospect pickup: Kyle Blanks or Nolan Reimold?

Eric Karabell

  (3:07 PM)

I think it's Reimold, easily. Blanks is a huge guy with power, but he has to learn to play the outfield, which normally takes time, and he'll strike out a ton and hit for a low average. Reimold isn't gonna be a superstar, but there's good all-around upside there. And opportunity is coming really soon.

Sean (Hoboken)

You may have covered this guy priorto but is Bonafacio worth holding onto in a deep keeper league ? Howie Kendrick is my other 2B and he is not the most durable chap. What are your thoughts longterm?

Eric Karabell

  (3:08 PM)

I don't see Bonifacio being a special player, for this year or the future. Even when he hit .500 and ran wild the first 10 days, I said he would steal around 20 bases, hit .275. Now I'm skeptical he can even do that. Kendrick looks good so far, but you can do better than Bonifacio if you want major upside.

Noah (Kalamazoo, MI)

Is Mauer's power legit? He nearly had two jacks last night.

Eric Karabell

  (3:09 PM)

First time in his career he's hit 4 homers in any 10-game span. I don't see him hitting 20 homers in 2009, but there's no question he's talented and at some point he should. Just enjoy this run. He might hit .340, but I don't think this is a sign he's a power hitter.

Felix (Queens, NY)

EK! would you take Joba for scherzer and street? im getting Joba

Eric Karabell

  (3:11 PM)

I think Joba will be the best player in the deal, yes, but I don't think he'll be marketdly better than Scherzer. Both are bigtime strikeout guys but injury prone. And Street could, I suppose, save 30 games. I doubt it though. Would I make this deal? I'd probably be the one dealing away Joba, and asking for more.

James (Houston)

Gotta clear up a space on the ole pitching roster, who's the weakest link: Meche, Dempster, Kershaw, Hanson? Thanks!!!

Eric Karabell

  (3:12 PM)

Well it's Hanson until he comes up, but after watching Kershaw's past few outings, I don't think he's going to be very consistent. The command is all over the place. I'd rank them Dempster, Meche, Kershaw and then Hanson, but I could be swayed to switch the final two guys.

Stack (NJ)

Coghlan: please discuss

Eric Karabell

  (3:13 PM)

Largely irrelevant for fantasy I think. Not much power, can run, but I don't think he's an outfielder and the Marlins aren't ready to sit Bonifacio. Coghlan could help the Marlins more than fantasy owners.

Tim (MD)

Time to deal Adam Jones? ESPN writers seem split whether he will regress or not.

Eric Karabell

  (3:14 PM)

Well, he won't hit .363 and continue his pace for 41 homers and 181 runs scored. I think he's an obvious sell, but overall I could a strong season with 30 homers, 15 steals, maybe he hits .290.

Vic (Brooklyn, NY)

EK, I would love to see what the screen is like on your side of the computer. Is 100 questions per minute about right?? I just offered Youkilis for Gallardo. Do you think i can do better than that???

Eric Karabell

  (3:15 PM)

No, I think that trade seems pretty fair. Anyone trading Youkilis right now, while he's on the DL, doesn't understand timing. He's a top-30 player, and you absolutely deal for him, but Gallardo might be a top-10 pitcher, and worthy. I think maybe you can get more when Youk comes back.

Matt (Austin)

Dontrelle Willis worth a flier? Also, what are your thoughts on Nolasco and the Big Unit? Thanks!

Eric Karabell

  (3:17 PM)

No chance I'd use Dontrelle as an active pitcher tonight. How many people got burned by Luke Hochevar last night? How embarrassing. I do hope Willis pitches well, it's a shame how his career turned and he is fun to watch. I'd need two or three starts to form an opinion on him. As for Nolasco, absolutely buying. Check 2008. He needed two months as well. And Unit worries me. Velocity is down. He'll get his K's and win 10 games, but I don't think he will have a banner season.

Bernard (Princeton, NJ)

I need to know by 3:45, do I start Zito today vs Washington?

Eric Karabell

  (3:17 PM)

At home. He has pitched well at home this season, so yes.

Tommy Hanson (ATL?)

Jo Jo got shelled today! Pulled in the 3rd after giving up 5 earned on 4 hits and 3 BBs with ZERO K's! Am I getting on a plane today?!?

Eric Karabell

  (3:18 PM)

No. I doubt the Braves panic this early in the season. But I do recommend those in NL-only leagues and deeper mixed ones own Hanson just in case.

Mike (Cuse)

I bought low on Nolasco by trading Justin Upton for him (I have a deep outfield) but should I start him tonight?

Eric Karabell

  (3:18 PM)

Start Nolasco every night he pitches. Watch how much better his luck becomes and the numbers look.

brad (new york)

Is Ian Stewart the new Dan Uggla?

Eric Karabell

  (3:19 PM)

I don't think he'll strike out near the same rate, but the power is there, and he should hit 50 points higher than his current mark. That said, Clint Barmes shouldn't be playing.

Asher (Gray, MD)

Erik I always enjoy your chats! You are a scholar and a gentlemen! Should i trade alexei ramirez for max scherzer if i need the pitching? Thanks!

Eric Karabell

  (3:20 PM)

Thanks! I am giving Alexei another few weeks. You have to. Look at his 2008. He's going to be streaky. I'm not a big Scherzer fan, so I guess it depends on need. But I'd think you can move Ramirez for more. Wait until he has a good game. It's been a while.

Gary (L.A.)

ANY thoughts on Jimmy Rollins? Is he still a top 3 SS?

Eric Karabell

  (3:22 PM)

It's a weak season for shortstops, so Rollins remains my No. 3 at the position, but he's not in my top 25 anymore. I think he will hit and run at some point, but now I'm hoping for 10 homers and 30 steals with a .275 average. At this point I'd take that. Is that enough to rank ahead of Michael Young, Bartlett, Jeter and every SS not named Hanley or Reyes? Probably.

Mike(NJ)

Who would you drop to pick up Laporta? Coghlan or E.Burriss? And Why?

Eric Karabell

  (3:23 PM)

I don't think any of those three are great pickups right now. Burriss can run, I suppose, and he's the only one getting guaranteed playing time. LaPorta has the most upside, no question. My question is will he get to play enough to matter. He needs to get 5 starts a week, and right now I don't see it.

Antman (Sactown)

INTELLIGENT QUESTION ALERT!!! I have Chase Utley in a keeper league and his cost represents about 10% of my total team salary with 30 players on the team. I kept him this year without signing him to a long-term contract, but next year will have to make a decision ? option him, release him, or sign long-term. Do you feel Utley is worthy of a long-term contract at this stage of his career? If so, how long do you think he keeps up his current pace?

Eric Karabell

  (3:25 PM)

I think Utley has another three or four years at this level of power output and double digit steals. I don't think he's injury prone. That said, I don't know how his price compares with others in your league, but it seems to me a star at a weak position is worth it.

Garrett, (florida)

Matt Holliday had a solid game yesterday. Is he breaking out, and will his final numbers be like?

Eric Karabell

  (3:26 PM)

I could see 20-25 homers and 90 RBIs, with a .280 average and maybe, at best, 10 steals. Not quite what we all signed up for, and this is all best case scenario. I'd take the under on all those numbers across the board.

Eric (Pittsburgh)

I know Gamel cant field, but when do you think they bring up his bat? They cant keep him down forever!

Eric Karabell

  (3:26 PM)

Sure they can. He can't field. He can hit, but the Brewers need someone at third base who can field. We saw how much better they were with Ryan Braun in left field than at 3B. Defense matters in real life.

Foz(Toronto)

Last night at the Jays game, Arod hit a foul ball. I dropped it and the bozo next to me threw it back on the field. I am devastated so please boost my self esteem and answer a question. Do you seem Strasburg pitching at all for the Nats this season?

Eric Karabell

  (3:27 PM)

Very nice! No. I think Boras will make it difficult for Strasburg to officially sign before Christmas.

Eddie, NYC

Eric: Serious power shortage on my NL-only team. Can a package Lowe or Gallardo with Duncan to get someone like Soriano?

Eric Karabell

  (3:28 PM)

Beats me what someone in your league will fall for. Try it first, moving Lowe instead of Gallardo. I think there's a large difference between those pitchers.

Ray St. Louis Mo.

Ek love the show, little advice please, I am a Frank Francisco owner, he might be headed to the DL. Who should I grab off the FA list to fill in with the best chance to get some saves? Thanks.

Eric Karabell

  (3:30 PM)

Thanks, Ray. For those who do not know, I host the Baseball Today daily podcast, which can be found on the podcenter page off ESPNradio.com. I also co-host the Fantasy Focus internet show a few days per week. Anyway, I'm hoping Francisco avoids the DL. Juan Cruz of KC is the obvious pickup, available in 86 percent of ESPN leagues. I'd think CJ Wilson is the Texas fill-in.

Johnny, Harlem

Kevin Slowey looked pretty good last night, though he did still give up a homer. With his great K:BB rates, and Mauer back, is he turning it around? Do you like him better than other struggling guys like Lester or Garza?

Eric Karabell

  (3:31 PM)

All the Twins pitchers are turning it around. You saw Baker's last outing. Mauer makes a big difference to pitchers. Yes, I like Slowey. He walks nobody. I still like him third when compared to Lester and Garza, but all three should improve.

Bob (KC)

You starting Washburn against the Rangers tonight Eric?

Eric Karabell

  (3:32 PM)

Yes. Only one bad outing, and no reason to believe he's the same guy as 2008. I know most people think I'm wrong on Washburn, but when you add a new pitch, pick up some confidence, have a good closer behind you, it changes a lot.

AP (Chicago)

Elvis Andrus hasn't been too bad...do you think he turns it up offensively as the season continues? Or are we seeing what we should expect? Thanks!

Eric Karabell

  (3:33 PM)

I could see him hitting .250 this season with 6 home runs and 20 steals. Probably not what you were thinking, eh?

Terrence (NYC)

Who would you rather have at 3B, Chipper or Lowell?

Eric Karabell

  (3:34 PM)

Definitely Chipper. When he plays, he really hits. Another big game today. Lowell should knock in more runs because he plays more, but I expect Chipper to play 125 games, hit .330, go maybe 25-85. Lowell can do the power.

Marcus (Florida)

Fukudome and Tulo for Teixeira?

Eric Karabell

  (3:35 PM)

If you can acquire Teixeira that cheap, good for you. That's robbery. And I like Fukudome and Tulo.

Sam (Dallas)

Who do you believe in more for this year Ricky Romero or Washburn?

Eric Karabell

  (3:36 PM)

Washburn. Romero can be useful though.

Will (St. Louis)

C. Duncan or D. Lee at 1st? I'm debating leaving Lee on the wire.

Eric Karabell

  (3:36 PM)

I expect a DL stint for Lee by this time next week. Not to be negative, but he's clearly not healthy.

Lenny (Pittsfield, MA)

So you're saying you knew for a fact Washburn lacked confidence AND Putz was a bad closer? So basically this really comes down to one new pitch? Not buying it...

Eric Karabell

  (3:38 PM)

Not at all. It's just my opinion. But learning a new pitch is a really big deal. It changes Washburn's entire repertoire, how hitters attack him, and how he feels. And look at the numbers, Putz was not good in 2008. He's not all that great now, either. Check today's game. And no, I'm not saying I knew this. I wouldn't have drafted Washburn. But we all adapt when we see things. I could see Washburn finishing the year with an ERA around 3.50. Who wouldn't take that?

Jeff ( san diego)

ONE TIME!! come EK help me out. Soria was just dropped and im a fan, i want to drop K. Wood or Scott Downs, or fuentes. who would you drop?

Eric Karabell

  (3:39 PM)

Can't do it. Those other three are all closers today. And should be the rest of the season. I'd buy low on Soria, but saves are still just saves.

Aaron (Chicago)

So DLee to the DL? Micah Hoffpaur has shown he can hit...worth a pickup if/when DLee hits the shelf?

Eric Karabell

  (3:40 PM)

Just my prediction that it happens. The Cubs have said little. How often did Lee strike out last night? I think Hoffpauir would be Chris Duncan right now if he played regularly.

Steve (Toronto)

Hi Eric, I see from above that your down on Kershaw. I might have a chance to trade him for Volquez. Thoughts? Thanks.

Eric Karabell

  (3:41 PM)

Oh yeah, I'll take Edinson Volquez over Kershaw. Easily.

Joe (I Don't Like Anybody)

Hi Eric, love the Podcast. A lot of the fantasy experts here on ESPN are in the camp that Lester will turn things around. At what point does his workload from last season become a concern? Maybe he WON'T turn it around?

Eric Karabell

  (3:41 PM)

I think Lester will be fine. Certainly 6 starts isn't enough time to evaluate and assume previous workload is a problem.

Nathan

Hey EK, have you ever won a league with a filthy, nasty offense and a weak SP?...H2H league so I have been streaming SPs...not pretty but not illegal...

Eric Karabell

  (3:43 PM)

Pretty much every h2h team I've ever had is weak with pitching. And it generally works out just fine. Nothing wrong with streaming pitchers if the rules allow it. Every day there are numerous unowned pitchers about to pitch well for that day.

Nick (Atl)

Is Zimmerman the #4 3B now? Would you trade Wright for him and Joba?

Eric Karabell

  (3:44 PM)

I might make that deal. Wright runs, but in terms of power, Zimmerman appears to be right with him. Not a huge Joba guy, but the trade is fair.

Mikey J (Monterey, Ca.)

C'mon have some pity I'm at home with a sick son and wife. Just one answer, please Parra for Wolf, De La Rosa for Wolf? or just stick with Wolf?

Eric Karabell

  (3:45 PM)

The wife is sick, too, or just the son? Anyway, stick with Wolf. Parra's a WHIP killer. Sick stuff, but WHIP killer.

Matt (Tennessee)

EK - Greinke for Pujols...who wins?

Eric Karabell

  (3:46 PM)

Let's not get crazy here. Check out our new rankings this week, staff and individual, and you won't see Greinke at No. 1.

Frank (Boston)

Armando Galarraga - Three bad starts - Is it time to bench him or is this just a rough patch?

Eric Karabell

  (3:46 PM)

Probably both. In deeper leagues you wait it out. He's not as good as his first few starts, nor as bad as the past three. Should end up with an ERA around 4.20.

Gary (L.A.)

Care to share your thoughts on Chris Ray? I see you've got him ranked top 40 in your RP rankings...

Eric Karabell

  (3:48 PM)

Yes, a new Relief Efforts was posted today. Check it out! Ray is not doing well, and deep down I think Danys Baez is the guy who should close, but Ray is probably next in line and it is supposed to be a committee. Ray's rank is predicated on getting save chances.

Mike (NY)

Whats wrong with Ichiro he was caught stealing for a third time last night, he had four CS all last year?

Eric Karabell

  (3:48 PM)

Old men slow down eventually. He'll be fine, say 30 steals.

kyle

Thoughts on Chris Young for the rest of the season? He's been good in all but 2 outtings.

Eric Karabell

  (3:48 PM)

I'd rather own Chris Young the pitcher than the outfielder at this point.

George (NY)

Still unconcerned with Alexei? I agreed with the patience approach and passed up chances for A Hill and Hudson so now its go down with the ship for next few weeks right.

Eric Karabell

  (3:49 PM)

Mildly concerned, but at this point I think you have to wait longer. If this mess is still there June 1 I will probably change my mind.

Steve (MA)

Hardy or Asdrubal?

Eric Karabell

  (3:50 PM)

Hardy...still a 20-80 guy.

Joe (Philly)

Dude, KRod is in again? Is he getting paid by the inning? I guess the Mets want to destroy their pen by the end of the month.

Eric Karabell

  (3:51 PM)

As a Phillies fan, fine with me. With Putz struggling, this might be a lot different than 2008, eh? No worries on K-Rod. It's not like the Mets rented him. They have a stake in his future.

ethan (memphis)

EK does figgins hit .280 this year with 45 steals, or do you see a decline from last year?

Eric Karabell

  (3:52 PM)

Decline is well under way. How about .260 with 30 steals.

Justin Upton

Real deal or a high seller? That is all I am asking......

Eric Karabell

  (3:52 PM)

Real power certainly. Could hit 30 soon.

Bernie (w/e @)

EK! Relief Efforts was great today! Let me ask you this, RE: Dan Bard, is he trade bait or an integral piece of the squad? Paps can walk after this year - will Bard change his mind about where he is hurling in 2k10? Are the sox checking in on their insurance policy or garnering interest? You opinion is greatly appreciated!

Eric Karabell

  (3:53 PM)

Thanks. Sox called up Bard because he throws 100 and knows where it's going. He's ready to be a dominant setup guy. And yes, they know Pap can walk and Bard is next in line long term. But he's up because they need the help, and he's ready. Not to push Paps.

Dianne (Detroit)

Handsome projections for JJ Hardy Eric! Might that ultimately rank him above Drew, Tulo and Alexei? Thanks for the informative chat!

Eric Karabell

  (3:54 PM)

It probably does rank Hardy over all those guys, but again, the potential for Alexei to go 20/20 is still there. And he's so talented he could do this in only four months. Giving up on him now is a risk.

Carl (Tegtmeier, NY)

Hey EK! First time/long time. David hasn't had the "Wright" stuff for me all year long. In fact my leaguemates are being proven right for telling me that selecting him with the #1 overall pick was brutal. How long until my man crush turns it around, and would you rather have him or Braun the rest of the way?

Eric Karabell

  (3:56 PM)

Wright ends up at 25 homers and 20 steals, with 100 RBIs and 100 runs. Maybe not worthy of the top pick (over Pujols and Hanley, really?), but still in my top 10. And who cares what your leaguemates think? Will you care if you beat them?

Vin (Southside!)

Tristan said he could see Gordon Beckham at 2B on the southside by the all-star break. What do you think? I love, love, love the potential there!

Eric Karabell

  (3:56 PM)

Totally agree, because Getz, Nix and the other guys aren't the answer. I could also see Beckham playing SS if Alexei doesn't start to hit.

JJ Hardy

I won't steal 15 bases. 20/20?

Eric Karabell

  (3:57 PM)

Hardy should be 20 homers and 80 RBIs. That's what I meant.

Tom (NY)

What do you think of Sandoval? He's been swinging a good bat recently! Can he finish top 5 as a catcher?

Eric Karabell

  (3:57 PM)

I'll say no, but I could see a 18-80 season, certainly a top-10 catcher if you league has him eligible.

Craig Stuart (Victoria, BC)

When will your new rankings be released?

Eric Karabell

  (3:58 PM)

This week....so check 'em out!

Eric Karabell

  (3:58 PM)

OK, that seems like a wise note to end on. Yes, lots going on here at ESPN Fantasy. Thanks for checking in and sending in many, many questions. There are more chat sessions tomorrow, and every day! Have a good one...