Bourn to run

I’ve seen his stats. I’ve seen him zip around the bases. And I’ve seen his patience at the plate this year. Still, I’ve been reluctant to claim him or even recommend him to others. Astros outfielder Michael Bourn has made significant improvements over his troubling sophomore year when he hit .229 with an OBP of .288. Those stats are dismal for any player, but even worse for a leadoff hitter.

But his numbers this year prove he’s worth a look. Boasting an average right around .300 for most of the season, and his league-leading 25 swipes, the youngster is showing promise. Perhaps even more impressive is his discipline at the plate. Through Saturday’s game, his walk count totaled 34, compared to 37 passes issued all of last season.

With the abundance of producing outfielders, it’s easy to overlook Bourne, especially if you need power. But don’t overlook what he has to offer. Bourn is owned in 61 percent of Yahoo leagues. Take him while you can.

Here are a few other hidden gems you should consider:

Jake Fox – Has 10 hits in his last 28 at bats, including 2 HR and 9 RBI. Has struggled with poor defense his entire career, and really needs to play in the AL where he can DH. Fortunately for him, with the Cubs offense struggling, Manager Lou Piniella plans to play him as long as hit hot bat continues, despite the hole in his glove.

Joel Pineiro – Ignored by many because of his mediocre 6-9 record, but Pineiro is among league leaders with a 3.44 ERA and 1.18 WHIP. Doesn’t strike out many – 42 in 97.1 innings pitched. Still he gives you steady numbers in ERA, WHIP and IP. Owned in only 21 percent of Yahoo leagues.

Fernando Nieve – Owned in only 13 percent of Yahoo leagues, Nieve has yielded only four runs in 20.2 innings since being called up from Triple-A Buffalo for the injured John Maine. Mets manager Jerry Manuel says he plans to keep him in the rotation for now. Hard to demote a guy to the bullpen who is 3-for-3 in starts.

Russ Ortiz – Ortiz has quietly put together impressive statistics. In 26 innings, Ortiz has surrendered only 7 runs. His WHIP does remain questionable at 1.45, but Ortiz is showing signs he’s settling down. Owned in only 5 percent of Yahoo leagues.



Have a question? E-mail Erin at erskelley@yahoo.com.