Fantasy Baseball 2011: Weekend Warriors

Drew Pomeranz – The casual baseball fan has no clue that Pomeranz is alive, but when the Rockies moved Ubaldo Jimenez, Pomeranz was an integral part of that package. In his major league debut last Sunday, the rookie tossed five innings of shutout ball in a victory over the Reds. Pomeranz has the ability to be a dominant strikeout pitcher, as the 22 year averaged 10.63 K/9 while in the Indians Double A system this season. Pomeranz will likely be the number four starter in the Colorado rotation next season so it’s a name fantasy owners should get use to. For those in need of a win this weekend I recommend Pomeranz against the Giants on Saturday night and their pathetic .239 BA.

Rick Porcello - A trendy sleeper in the beginning of the season, Porcello hasn’t turned the page in 2011. While expectations haven’t been met for the 22 year old, he’s in the midst of a strong stretch that could be positive for the postseason as well as the 2012 season. In the month of September Porcello is 2-0 with a 2.77ERA and has become an essential part of the Tigers making the playoffs. While the Tigers are set for the post season, Porcello is still fighting to see if he gets a starts in the ALDS, so every start he makes is important.  In h2h leagues in need of a W, add Porcello who is getting hot at the right time of and has the lousy Athletics lineup in front of him.

David Murphy – Earlier this season Murphy was a must add when Josh Hamilton got hurt and once again with Nelson Cruz out of the lineup Murphy has stepped it up. Through 13 games in the month of September Murphy has a .407BA, 4HR, and 2SB. Yes, its possible Murphy will cool down soon, but he’s a legitimate fourth outfielder, who is hot at the right time of the year. Even headed to Seattle where the ball dies, Murphy is a solid option spot because of the potent Texas offense. With so many injuries at this time of the season, it’s a player like Murphy who is fantasy gold this late into September.