You ruined my blog

I had planned to start my blog introducing Phillies lefty Antonio Bastardo, and his third consecutive solid performance since his promotion from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. I would point out his low ERA, his thoroughbred physique, and his veteran-like confidence on the mound. I would also humbly highlight my ability to discover such talent within the cluster of substandard pitchers available.

But Saturday happened.

Bastardo completely vandalized fantasy baseball stats across the country. Every painful pitch sent impressive weekly ERA and WHIP stats into mediocrity. Bastardo showed no command, walking three batters, and surrendering a Mike Lowell double and Jason Bay homer. Out of 38 pitches, only 17 were strikes, two of which he’d like to take back.

A rain delay stopped the game after the Red Sox offensive pouring in the first inning, and Bastardo would remain on the bench. It’s difficult to predict if he would have settled down, or if he’d continue to struggle. But the damage was done in just one inning.

I will eventually forgive him for ruining my blog and my stats. In fact, despite infecting my fantasy pitching statistics, I plan on keeping him. But with a watchful eye. Hopefully this was just a little blemish. And you should do the same. If he was recently dumped in your deep league, you may want to give him a chance, assuming you would drop someone else under-performing. And if you’re in a keeper league, then pick him up quickly before someone else does. This kid has major potential.

Here are a few other young prospects to consider:

Vin Mazzaro – Impressive career debut shutting out the White Sox and Orioles in his first two games, going 6.1 and 7.1 innings respectively. His scoreless streak came to an end Friday, losing 3-0. Mazzaro’s ERA is still intact at 1.37. He is just one more promising young pitcher on Oakland’s staff. Owned in only 12 percent of Yahoo leagues.

Andrew McCutchen – This speedy outfielder has big time potential, posting 12 hits in his first five games. Currently boasts a .304 average with seven runs and seven RBI. Makes losing Nate McLouth a little easier in Pittsburgh. Fantasy owners have already noticed, as he’s owned in 66 percent of Yahoo leagues. Get him if you can.

Matt Maloney – The Cincinnati Reds pitcher gave a notable debut going six innings, surrendering only 2 runs to the Cubs. His followup was underwhelming, but ok, yielding four earned runs over six innings. Still, someone to watch, especially in mixed leagues. Owned in 5 percent of Yahoo leagues.

Barbaro Canizares – Has a hit in each of his three games since earning a promotion from Triple-A Gwinnett where he led nearly every offensive category. Currently batting .308. Almost no one owns him in Yahoo or any fantasy league, so no need to act quickly, but keep your eye on him.

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