I can't keep up

I have 100 pages left in the Roger Clemens rags-to-riches-to-scandal book. And I had just purchased the Alex Rodriguez biography with a similar drugs, women and lies theme, when I heard the announcement: Manny Ramirez suspended 50 games for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance. I need at least a couple of months before that best-seller is released. I know this is bad for baseball, but honestly, I find these stories fascinating. Now I want to go back and read Jose Canseco’s tell-all book. It’ll be like reading a prequel.

As fun as the drama is, it’s not so fun for fantasy if it impacts you. The obvious loser in this debacle is the Manny owner who loses a roster spot for 50 games. There is no DL equivalent for players in this situation. I checked the league settings to make sure. And for the stat production you’ll get when Manny returns, dropping Manny is not an option.

Andre Ethier owners, like me, are also frowning. This means Ethier loses his protection. He doesn’t get as many good pitches, and doesn’t score as many runs. Thanks Manny. Of course, Ethier will still start on team Lil Bow Wow for me. But I will sulk, and blame Manny when Ethier has a bad week.


Replacing Manny

Juan Pierre is an obvious pickup. He’s good for average and stolen bases. Pierre doesn’t have power, nor RBI in the eight spot. Astros outfielder Michael Bourn is a prospect too. He’s more like Pierre and less like Manny. Justin Upton of Arizona is also a good replacement, and he brings more power (6 home runs) than Pierre and Bourn . Take a look at Philadelphia’s Jayson Werth too – solid stats with .290 average, 6 home runs and 21 RBI.


Other players to watch:

Russell Branyan – the Mariners first baseman has earned an everyday spot. Should boast respectable numbers in home runs, RBI and runs. In mixed leagues, he’s a good addition.

Jon Garland – in his last four starts, Garland is 2-0 with a 2.30 ERA, bringing his overall ERA down to 4.03. Could this be the old Jon Garland?

Brian Bannister – in only four starts this season, he’s undefeated at 3-0 and showing excellent form with a 1.48 ERA and a 1.19 WHIP.

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