Ted Lilly – Lilly finished strong in Los Angeles in 2010, and while 2011 has been dismal thus far, I foresee a turn around. Since the midsummer classic Lilly has become fantasy relevant again throwing 16 strikeouts in two games. Throughout his career Lilly has been dominant second half pitcher, posting a 3.17 ERA from 2008-2010. For this weekend specifically, I like Lilly in his match up with the Nationals as he’s 4-3 with a 2.49 ERA in eight career starts. While Lilly has broken your heart this season, I would recommend scooping up the veteran before he goes on his second half tare.
Josh Collmenter - Coming into the season the Diamonbacks rotation outside of Daniel Hudson and Ian Kennedy was questionable/pathetic. To the surprise of many, Collmenter has solidified that 3rd spot in the rotation while making a case for National League Rookie of the Year. Making his first start since the all-star break on 12 days rest, Collmenter dominated Milwaukee tossing eight innings of three hit seven strikeout ball. The Detroit native now has 12 starts under his belt to o with a 2.65ERA and 0.94WHIP making him a must own in 12 team Mixed Leagues as well as NL Only Leagues. Owned in less than 40% of standard leagues, scoop up Collmenter for his duel with the Rockies Saturday evening.
Kyle Kendrick – It’s easy to get overlooked in the Phillies rotation with Cliff Lee, Roy Halladay and Cole Hamels pitching every fifth day, but Kendrick has been a solid contributor all season. Kendrick is currently sporting a 3.34 ERA and has now allowed one earned run in three of his last four starts. Fortunately for Kendrick the Padres and their .233 BA come to Citizens Bank Park this weekend in what should be a low scoring affair. Spot start Kendrick in head to head leagues as he looks to improve on his 2.89 ERA at home.
Michael Martinez – While Martinez isn’t your average rookie (28 years old), he is clearly impacting the pennant race in the National League East. With 12 RBI in the month of July, Martinez ranks second amongst rookies sitting behind Braves standout 1B Freddie Freeman. Over the past 14 days Martinez has a .379BA, six runs scored and three SB’s, as he’s filled in nicely for injured Placido Polanco. With eligibility in Yahoo at 2B, 3B, SS and OF, Martinez is an asset to any team with players who could have long DL stints. Between AA and AAA in 2010 Martinez hit 11HR and 56RBI, so it’s possible the Phillies found a diamond in the ruff at an older age. Play Martinez this weekend against Padres this weekend as me makes a play for rookie of the month.