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Jason Grey

  (2:59 PM)

Hey folks, you get another dose of me today with deadline stuff...for at least a little bit, special extended edition today. You get me for about 45 minutes, and then my partner in crime, Tristan, takes over for another 45 minutes after that. More chat goodness than you can stand! So let's get to it...

Mike (Dallas, TX)

For 2010, Granderson or Gallardo?

Jason Grey

  (3:01 PM)

As much as I love Gallardo, I always tend to go with the hitter when it's close, for risk as well as player pool reasons.

Bob (GA)

what do expect from E. Volquez when he returns?

Jason Grey

  (3:02 PM)

Hard to say until we get some rehab reports. What's his velocity? Is he throwing all of his pitches? Are they sharp? From what I've heard this next simulated game will be the first time he's let his fastball really go, so I'm pessimistic until he passes that hurdle.

Jason Grey

  (3:04 PM)

Everyone asking about a potential V-Mart to the Sox deal. I would expect he spells Lowell, Youkilis, Varitek and Ortiz regularly and starts five times per week across three positions (C, 1B, DH) with Youk's ability to go across the diamond the key. If it happens with maybe a slight bump in value for increased runs and RBI opportunities.

Ari (Miami)

Should I pick up Mike Adams as the closer if Bell gets moved?

Jason Grey

  (3:05 PM)

Adams is and has been my guess for the closer role there if that happens.

Ryan ((NYC))

Bartlett or Ramirez at SS in a keeper league? Thanks

Jason Grey

  (3:06 PM)

Good question - despite Bartlett being the better performer this year, I expect Ramirez to be better next year.

Coop (Orlando)

Does Price's erratic season make you weary of selecting him to be a keeper?

Jason Grey

  (3:07 PM)

No. Lots of great pitchers struggled in their first extended exposure to the bigs. Not everyone comes in like Tommy Hanson. He's good enough to get it figured out and take a leap forward next year.

Ashraf (DC)

Why isn't Bud Norris available for pickup yet?

Jason Grey

  (3:08 PM)

I believe he's in there now, and Tillman was added a couple of days ago.

Gifford (sent this at 8 a.m.) (Ocean NJ)

Soriano or BJ Upton rest of year?

Jason Grey

  (3:08 PM)

Upton due to the SB output.

Patrick (Boston)

Keeper league and I can only keep one, who has the brightest future? Sandoval, J Upton and N Cruz? Thank you!

Jason Grey

  (3:09 PM)

UPTON (caps for emphasis)

Jason Grey

  (3:10 PM)

Gammons reporting Masterson and Hagadone for Martinez.

Jason Grey

  (3:11 PM)

You would think LaRoche is headed somewhere where he would play every day again, so if he's been dropped in your league...

Mike (Tampa, FL)

Good Afternoon, Jason. I'm in the middle of some trade heat. I took Juan Rivera for a buck in my draft (keeper league), and his value is paying off big time. Needless to say, he's become quite desirable for teams that our out of it for this year. Would you let him go for the right price, or keep the value and hope he keeps it up for the next few years? Thanks, Jason!

Jason Grey

  (3:13 PM)

Flags Fy Forever. If I have a chance to win, I pull out all the stops necessary to do so, and worry about next year when it comes.

Jason Grey

  (3:14 PM)

For all the people saying, "Such-and-such place is reporting X" - I'm going to try and deal only with confirmed stuff. Lost of place supposedly had V-Mart deals earlier, but not confirmed, so I'm going with confirmed stuff.

Norman (Brooklyn NY)

Does the V-Mart trade effectively kill what is left of LaRoche's fantasy value?

Jason Grey

  (3:15 PM)

No, because I would expect another shoe could drop and there may be another deal in the works.

Lars (Oslo)

Hanson, Billingsley, or Nolasco as a keeper for 2010 and beyond?

Jason Grey

  (3:16 PM)

In that order - yes, I like Hanson that much.

Jason (NYC)

Keeper league, I already own Jordan Zimmerman. Do I pick up Bud Norris and try to keep both or just max out contract years on JZ?

Jason Grey

  (3:18 PM)

Issue with Norris is eventual role. I think he's a perfect future closer as opposed to a starter, they're both good enough arms that I'd like to have both and it's also a hedge on injury to either.

Jason Grey

  (3:20 PM)

That other shoe drops, as apparently LaRoche is headed to Atlanta. Hairston Jr. to the Yankees. Not 100% confirmed yet, but that's the buzz. Trying to balance rumor with reports

glenn (Providence)

The reports have been that milledge was expected up for the upcoming Nationals series, but there has been no word yet. I just traded Gutierrez under the assumption milledge would be back for the upcoming week. Did i act too soon?

Jason Grey

  (3:21 PM)

I wouldn't worry about it - last I heard last night was that he was definitely coming up this weekend and would be a regular.

Jim (Arizona)

Any word on Qualls getting traded?

Jason Grey

  (3:22 PM)

As of yesterday, heard the asking price was still a young starter because Qualls is still under control for another year and the D-backs think they can contend in '10. That may have changed in the last 24 hours, but that's what I heard.

Andrew W (Newps, CA)

C'mon you gotta address the new closer situation in BAL.Jim Johnson is a no-brainer pickup, no?

Jason Grey

  (3:23 PM)

I addressed it thoroughly in yesterday's chat. It's old news, now, we have fresh deals to discuss :-)He's been dialing it up to 97 mph and yes, he's a pickup.

Peter (North Carolina)

I just dropped Mags for Nyjer Morgan since he's been a beast after leaving Pittsburgh and Mags is going the wrong way. Am I going to regret this later?

Jason Grey

  (3:24 PM)

I don't think so, especially as Miggy's PT has been getting more and more sporadic due to the lack of power production.

Tim (New Orleans)

Can you explain the basics of how waiver trades happen? Can I drop any handcuffs (ie Rauch) after the 4:30pm deadline?

Jason Grey

  (3:25 PM)

Basically teams have to expose players to waivers free for any team to claim, and the teams will then pull them back from waivers if they so choose. If the player passes through (often for salary reasons) then he's free to be dealt. Chad Qualls for example, would never clear waivers. If he's not dealt by today, he's not going anywhere.

Jason Grey

  (3:26 PM)

But if Bell and/or Qualls do get dealt, Adams and Rauch are the plays.

Rob (NJ)

What about Ray closing in Baltimore? Any possibility?

Jason Grey

  (3:27 PM)

Probably third in line at the moment; wouldn't shock me to see Johnson take the ball and run with it.

Tim (Miami)

Should Washburn be owned?

Jason Grey

  (3:28 PM)

Even with the trade, I still can't figure out why he's unowned in as many leagues as he is, and fully agree with Eric's trade spin of the Tigers deal.

Jason Grey

  (3:29 PM)

Yes, the outfield defense was a part of it and the new park isn't as favorable, but there's also the new sinker, improved cutter, and even a split he throws 2-3 times a game that's new. Part environment, part defense to be sure, but also an improved pitcher.

Jason Grey

  (3:31 PM)

Masterson to the Indians: I expect he starts, but I don't know if there's value there in standard ESPN leagues right now. AL and deep mixed leagues are where I'd prefer to deploy him. I do like him for '10 though. I also wouldn't argue with a pickup in ESPN leagues if you need to take a chance and get lucky. Shouldn't take too long to get him stretched out.

Eric (DC)

Does the V-Mart trade pave the way for Carlos Santana to get the callup?

Jason Grey

  (3:33 PM)

I would expect both Santana and Marson stay in Triple-A until at least Sept, with Shoppach and Gimenez the tandem. No need to rush them. That seems to be the safer bet as to what will happen there.

Jason Grey

  (3:33 PM)

I would expect both Santana and Marson stay in Triple-A until at least Sept, with Shoppach and Gimenez the tandem. No need to rush them. That seems to be the safer bet as to what will happen there.

Rob (NJ)

Is Hanson a must start every outing? or offenses like LAD would you sit him?

Jason Grey

  (3:34 PM)

I'm starting him every time out. Of course, it always depends on your particular team's roster depth, but nine times out of ten, I start Hanson regardless of the offense he's facing.

Brody (MN)

Is LaPorta in the dog house or something??

Jason Grey

  (3:36 PM)

I'm guessing it's likely to delay things long enough for arbitration reasons. Just my speculation. The Crowe thing is certainly puzzling otherwise.

Johnny (Harlem)

So a rookie pitcher named Tommy H that isn't Tommy Hanson has been tearing it up so far. What are your thoughts on the Rangers' Tommy Hunter? Been GREAT, can he keep it up? Worth owning in a 12 team mixed?

Jason Grey

  (3:37 PM)

Flyball pitcher, tough home park, occassional control issues - I'd say the odds are against him and this is just a good short-term run. His stuff isn't plus.

Steve (Boston)

5x5 with OPS. Fowler or Milledge? Steals and runs needed the most. Thanks

Jason Grey

  (3:37 PM)

Then Fowler, especially given the leadoff spot in PIT is already occupied.

Noman (DC)

Should I make a trade with the manager right in front of me if it will help both of us?

Jason Grey

  (3:40 PM)

Very good question because most owners are generally dismissive of this. I had a person in one league (we're both battling for first place) refuse to deal Bobby Abreu to me for Justin Verlander (I have a tonf of pitching, in the standings context it makes sense and I'd have to overpay for a bat the way the trade market is working out) instead sending him off for James Shields because he didn't want to help me, and he really needed a SP with K's. In general, I want the best talent I can add to my roster...

Jason Grey

  (3:41 PM)

...I will do my due diligence and see how the trade would likely affect both teams in the standings, and as long as you are coming out with more net points in your analysis I have no problem trading with another contender.

JC (OH)

Tell me polite persistence pays off...PLEASE HELP (caps for emphasis) assuming Bell stays put...Would you move HUnter Pence and Heath Bell for Markakis (remainder of this year and next), picked up Jim Johnson off the waiver wire to hedge the loss of saves...Thanks Jason!

Jason Grey

  (3:42 PM)

Seems like a lot to give up, even if you're back-filling the saves.

Jason Grey

  (3:43 PM)

Latest - Nick Johnson could be to the Marlins, Scott Rolen to the Reds. If so, no Gaby Sanchez value this year, but at least it gets Bonifacio out of the lineup.

Rob (NJ)

What are your thoughts on Cecil? Spot SP?

Jason Grey

  (3:44 PM)

Spot in 12-team mixed and above and AL-only.

Murph (Prospect CT)

Jay Grey- choose one: snell or vandenhurk

Jason Grey

  (3:44 PM)

Interesting....hmmm...

Jason Grey

  (3:45 PM)

Well has to be RVH for now simply because he has a job, and Snel is going to Tacoma, but when Snell is back up that could be a good situation for him, so I'd go Snell when he returns.

Jason Grey

  (3:48 PM)

Again, Johnson and Rolen not confirmed. Some people saying Johnson not happening, and I would expect Rolen has to waive the no-trade I believe he has.

Bob (NY)

PLEASE rank going foward. Milledge, McCutchen, or Luke Scott? Thank You

Jason Grey

  (3:48 PM)

McCutchen, Milledge, Scott

Jason Grey

  (3:50 PM)

Shoppach questions: Hard to see a .207 hitter as a must-start at the moment, even understanding his numbers last year. in standard ESPN play I can find 10-12 catchers I still probably put ahead of him for now.

Jason Grey

  (3:51 PM)

WIth that, let me pass this one over to Tristan, and he'll take you home and contradict everything I just said. Thanks for all the interest guys.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (3:53 PM)

Ha! Thanks, Jason, and yes, I absolutely dispute that your last name is spelled "Grey" and not the more commonly accepted "Gray." Anyway, let's keep things rolling with the trade deadline just about here...

Rob (NJ)

please don't tell me the Yankees traded Austin jackson for Hairston, Jr.!!!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (3:55 PM)

Yes, I did hear that rumored report and we've got nothing official confirming that. I don't buy it, and we'll keep you posted on the details (if there are any). As for Jerry Hairston Jr., if he indeed lands with the Yanks, I can't see much more fantasy interest in him than Eric Hinske has generated. Hairston is a good fit for this team because of his versatility, but he's not the hitter he was in 2008. Or close to Hinske's level with the bat, either, and we all know about Hinske's track record.

Tony (Sarasota)

Would you trade Greinke for Texiera in a keeper league?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (3:57 PM)

Yes, but I also will always keep the hitter over the pitcher. My feeling is that Yankee Stadium is always going to slant towards hitters, especially lefties, and Mark Teixeira sure loves to play there, not to mention he's in the prime of his career. I think he's a great keeper.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (3:58 PM)

We've got confirmation on the Adam LaRoche deal -- straight up for Casey Kotchman. Apparently Kotchman is higher regarded as a bench bat for the Red Sox, but LaRoche should now start in Atlanta, back where he began his career. LaRoche owners will be happy. Kotchman owners, not so much.

Josiah (Hollywood)

Is Milledge going to essentially be Alex Rios from here on out?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (3:59 PM)

It's amazing that's not as ludicrous a question as it might sound, but I do like Lastings Milledge and he'll get a fair share of playing time looking forward. I do think higher of Rios, naturally, but he has disappointed and Milledge is more talented than most give credit.

Mike (CA)

What time is the trade deadline?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (3:59 PM)

It's in about 30 seconds by the clock on my computer. But deals do trickle in after the break, because they're reported to the commish's office but not the press right away.

Michael (Portland, ME)

Fighting for the top spot with my brother! Trade Ryan Franklin for Wainwright?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:00 PM)

I'd do that but I'm a huge Adam Wainwright fan. And his value gets much more of a boost with Matt Holliday's arrival in St. Louis than does Franklin, because the run support to the starter is greater than what it does for the closer.

Patrick (Syracuse)

when is the chat deadline?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:01 PM)

I'm here for a bit longer Patrick, at least through 4:30. Will try to get you through all the deals that roll in.

Keith (Danbury CT)

Assuming Masterson starts in Cleveland, who do you prefer, him or Latos?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:03 PM)

I prefer Justin Masterson, but those who know me know my opinion of Masterson. He's already good against righties, and he generates ground balls. Think a Chien-Ming Wang/Fausto Carmona type, which sounds terrifying right now, but those guys have been really, really good when they're on. And of course, they've been really, really awful when they're not. Kind of demonstrates the kind of fantasy appeal Masterson has now, that is, if he's in the Cleveland rotation. I bet he will be, because it's a better long-term role for him in my mind, and if so AL-only owners sure need to grab him.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:05 PM)

Peter Gammons reports Nick Johnson is Florida-bound. I guess this means Emilio Bonifacio's time is officially over.

Marc (Jersey City)

with no new closer news how do you see the situation playing out for the Marlins?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:06 PM)

Assuming no last-minute deal for a Heath Bell or Chad Qualls, I guess it's Matt Lindstrom after all. He's due back in a couple of days and will be eased back in, so I'd look to him as the favorite for saves, not that he's close to a top-shelf fantasy talent.

Rick (LA)

How do you see Jim Johnson fitting in as the new closer in Baltimore, and would you grab him as insurance for Bell, who could get dealt to a non closer role?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:07 PM)

I've said in past chats that I'm not a big fan of him in the role, because I think he's better suited in a setup role based on the type of pitcher he is, but that said, I don't really doubt his talent will translate to the closer gig. Yes, he's a must-add.

Joe (Taunton, MA)

Tillman (Baltimore) or Anderson (Oakland) for the rest of this year? Next year? Beyond?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:09 PM)

I'm feeling right now like Brett Anderson is the safer choice of the two for this year, but I'd take Chris Tillman for the long haul, i.e. 2010 and beyond. Three primary differences: Four months' big-league experience; ballpark differential; division talent differential.

Jason Varitek (Implication Nation)

My feelings are hurt.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:09 PM)

Why? You're going to play. I see Victor Martinez getting the majority of his starts at first base, and he rotates around between catcher and DH otherwise based on who needs a rest. Varitek's not taking a seat, not entirely.

Tim (GA)

Cueto just got dropped in my league, I know his last month has been bad but would you drop Smoltz or Rzepczynski for him?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:11 PM)

I'm concerned about Johnny Cueto, but with his talent I'd take him over John Smoltz. Smoltz hasn't looked any better lately.

Brad (Beantown)

So you think Lowell is the one that should have his feelings hurt?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:12 PM)

No, because I don't think he's 100 percent healthy. It's a tough injury he's working his way back from. And all that matters, really, is that the team is better for its playoff run, right? At least as a player's "feelings" are concerned, I mean. For fantasy, yes, I think Mike Lowell loses the most value.

Blue Jay Nation (Great White Dome)

Uh, are the phones still ringing?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:12 PM)

If you believe the rumors that the Angels were still pursuing a big deal leading into the deadline, and that it might have been Halladay. I'll believe it when I see it.

Jay (NorCal)

Who's a better keeper - Latos or Mazzaro?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:13 PM)

There's an instance I'd prefer Matt Latos, even in a bad organization. The ballpark will ease his transition and his ceiling is a lot higher.

Joba Chamberlain (Bronx)

Is now the time to sell high on me?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:14 PM)

If only because instead of the old starter-versus-reliever debate from earlier in the year, in the next several weeks we're going to hear this absurd "innings-cap" debate with Joba. There's so much talk already that the Yankees will shift Joba to the bullpen once he gets into the 160-170 inning range, which hurts his value the rest of the year, but that said, with their rotation in the state it's in I can't see that move making sense. Then again, what I've felt and wanted to see has not been what has happened with Joba, so sure, I'd hunt a nibble.

Jason (MD)

What are the chances that a closer (Qualls, Capps, Bell) gets dealt after the deadline via wavers?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:16 PM)

Good question, Jason, in that I bet this year is about the easiest one I've ever seen in which players will squeak through waivers. Finances are a real concern in baseball these days and I sincerely doubt any team is going to put in a claim on a big contract it can't afford, and a lot of teams can't afford to add much payroll. I'd be a little surprised if Chad Qualls of those three doesn't get floated around in August, if he wasn't dealt just under the gun.

Dan (NYC)

Whats the point of Braves/RedSox swapping first baseman?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:17 PM)

Apparently the Red Sox believe that Casey Kotchman is better suited to coming off the bench than Adam LaRoche. Which actually makes a little bit of sense because Kotchman is a good defender, so he could be used quite a bit as a defensive replacement.

SAM (indy)

just heard edinson volquez left his simulated game early!!!!? this cant be good!!!!!he is done for the year and what can we expect next year?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:18 PM)

Heard that report as well but no confirmation yet, but as many setbacks as Volquez has endured this year I'm skeptical he'll be of much use the rest of the year. I wasn't much of a fan of his in 2009, as many remember, though I think with a winter's rest he might bounce back in 2010. Good talent, just such an up-and-down guy, and I don't like at all how Dusty used him last season.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:20 PM)

Joe Beimel traded to the Rockies for minor leaguers Ryan Mattheus and Robinson Fabian. Snore (for fantasy). Beimel's a decent specialist, but those don't matter much for fantasy. Scary how George Sherrill and Beimel might not be much different fantasy pitchers from today forward, though.

Gregg (VA)

What are your expectations for Tim Hudson upon return? Does he have a spot in the rotation?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:22 PM)

I addressed the Hudson topic in a chat a couple weeks back, and haven't changed my stance much: I think he has a greater chance of contributing as a reliever than starter. Unless the Braves want to bump someone like Kenshin Kawakami from their rotation, because I don't see anyone else going. I don't think there's much to Hudson in 2009, but I'll be examining him closely next spring.

Jon (Jacksonville, Florida)

THC, what does the recent Sox trade do for Lars Anderson's value next year?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:23 PM)

Interesting question, Jon. Victor Martinez could shift to catcher, I suppose, though Kevin Youkilis' long-term role might yet be first base. I don't think the trades really change Anderson's outlook; he'll be a candidate to spend time with the team next year but I don't think he's the favorite to be in the Opening Day lineup.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:24 PM)

Sounds like Heath Bell isn't going anywhere. Bell owners rejoice!

Tom (PA)

4:00 trading deadline, what is the reporting to th press deadline? When can I take roster actions?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:24 PM)

I've seen trade reports roll in as late as two hours after the deadline passes. A lot of paperwork, I suppose.

Gavin Floyd (Chicago)

Last night's performance: 7.2IP, 1ER, 4H, 10K a sign of things to come?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:25 PM)

The umps had a fairly generous strike zone in that game on both sides, so that's something that has me taking the strikeout number with a grain of salt. That said, Floyd has pitched remarkably well for the past several weeks, so I'd be somewhat optimistic looking forward.

Jason Marquis (Colorado)

Are you still expecting a drop-off?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:27 PM)

I'm only monitoring the reports of blister issues, Jason. But I wrote in a recent "Out of the Box" that you're a legitimate candidate for 18-plus wins, so I believe to a certain extent.

Jon (Jacksonville, Florida)

THC, any word on what prospect the Yankees sent to the Reds? I cannot find it anywhere.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:27 PM)

I haven't gotten official word on the prospect, but all indications are that it's a minor one, probably not even worth concerning yourself with.

Ben (SF)

Mauer or Wieters in a keeper??

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:28 PM)

Well, see, that depends so greatly on your league's keeper criteria. Are there prices? Limits on years you can keep the player? Does one cost a different rate than the other? I want Joe Mauer, more proven, in his prime, in most cases. But if he's at a premium price and Matt Wieters is dirt cheap, that swings the pendulum the other way. Impossible to answer that in a vaccuum.

Steve (ND)

Yanks gave up catcher Chase Weems.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:29 PM)

That's the name I'm hearing now too. Glad it wasn't Austin Jackson. That's why you shouldn't leap at the first rumored report, folks!

Joseph (NYC)

Can you give more specifics on Bell staying put? Safe to drop Adams?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:31 PM)

Peter Gammons just said on ESPNews, that the Padres were working the phones but nothing went down. So yes, I'd say that's a safe move from now unless you've just got nothing else out there on the waiver wire better and can afford to wait in the event of a post-deadline waiver deal.

Orlando Cabrera (Minnesota)

Will my numbers drop, stay the same, or go up now?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:32 PM)

I'd say stay the same, but maybe the runs improve if Cabrera bats second in the Twins' lineup, which seems a reasonable estimation. Not much of an overall impact.

Jacob (NC)

More holds the rest of the way: Sherrill or Troncoso?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:32 PM)

I think it's gotta be George Sherrill. Ramon Troncoso is a rookie, less experienced and has been worked fairly hard thus far.

John (Work)

Can you explain how post-deadline waiver deals work, I'm very confused!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:33 PM)

It's a long thing to explain, but teams can plop I think seven players on waivers that they can pull back if the guy gets claimed. If there's a claim, they can pull the player back, work a deal out with the claiming team or just let the claiming team have the player (and his contract). If the player doesn't get claimed he's fair game to be traded anywhere.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:34 PM)

White Sox have acquired Jake Peavy, just went over ESPNews.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:35 PM)

Incidentally, re: Peavy, no idea when he's coming back from the DL. He's no guarantee to be back this year at all. And I was terrified by the idea he was Chicago bound the first time; now I want no part of him. Way too much risk with the league and ballpark switch, if he pitches again in 2009.

Nick (NY)

Think there is anything to this Halladay to Angels rumor?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:36 PM)

I bet we'd have heard something by now if so. Don't get your hopes up.

John (Work)

What do you think the chances of A Gonzalez being put on waivers are?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:37 PM)

Good. I bet most any marketable player is put through waivers. Chances of him clearing waivers? Nil to nil. I think he's in San Diego for the year.

Jason (Chicago)

Would you rather have Liriano or Washburn for the rest of the season?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:38 PM)

Jarrod Washburn is my gut instinct. I worry a little about Francisco Liriano's recent forearm trouble ... and understand I've been a Liriano fan for much of the year up to now, faithful he'd turn this around.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:38 PM)

Roy Halladay will not be traded. Sorry to those in NL-only leagues holding your FAAB dollars for him.

Ryan (East Lansing)

Rumors of Poredo and Richard going to Petco. You like them in a deep 14 team mixed league?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:39 PM)

Weren't those the guys reported in the original Jake Peavy deal that was rejected by him? If Aaron Poreda's in the deal I'd be intrigued by him if I played in an NL-only league. Even Clayton Richard has some sleeper potential.

John (Work)

So then would you say trading A Gonzalez for Ubaldo would be a fair trade for both sides?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:39 PM)

How does that follow? That'd be nuts.

Brandon (Toronto)

Positions neglected, which 2 of these 6 will have the most value for the rest of the year? Kubel, Scott, Milledge, Uggla, Span, O. Cabrera. THANKS ALOT.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:40 PM)

Jason Kubel just leaps off the page for me. And for the second, hmmm. I'm going Luke Scott.

Matt (FL)

One word answer: Huff-Beltre-Peralta GO

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:41 PM)

Close in value, but I'll go Aubrey Huff.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (4:41 PM)

OK everyone, time to wrap things up for today. Thanks for all your questions, and keep tabs on the fantasy pages, we'll have all the news for you in spins as it breaks. Have a great weekend!