Paul Sporer Baseball Chat — 4/16/15

Paul Sporer: Hey everybody! Sorry for the late start. Had 12 central in my head. I’m filling in for Eno today, but hopefully not in an Erasmo-Ramirez-filling-in-for-Alex-Cobb-kinda-way.

Comment From Maxamuz
Better late then never, and you’re not even Eno are you.

Comment From GSon
Another Dave Cameron wannabe.. strolls into the chat about 20 or so minutes late..

Comment From Mark Canhaz Cheeseburger
Where is Eno? WE WANT ENO!

Paul Sporer: Off to a fantastic start!

Comment From JP
Tanaka or Richards?

Paul Sporer: Richards

Comment From Pop
Are you concerned with Iwakuma? Is he now a streamer in a 12 team mixed?

Comment From Maxamuz
Do you have a favorite Walt Whitman poem?

Paul Sporer: I think you want Cistulli’s chat

Comment From Maxamuz
Its usually good to try to answer more than 2 questions in 10 minutes.

Paul Sporer: Hot tip, brah.

Comment From DC
Should I drop Chris Hatcher for Brett Cecil?

Paul Sporer: As Cecil’s velo gets back on track, I think there’s a chance for him to reclaim the role, so I’m cool with that move.

Comment From Graham
Someone in my 12 team mixed dropped Oswaldo Arcia. Should I drop Brandon Belt for him?

Paul Sporer: Nah. I like Arcia just fine and he’ll catch fire at some point, but I don’t see him as better than Belt.

Comment From klof
chase anderson looked pretty hitable. are you still expecting a breakout?

Paul Sporer: Eno got me on Anderson and I don’t know if I see as big of a breakout as Eno, but I think there is still some upside. He’s still learning.

Comment From thorn
Taijuan is driving me nuts… but i have to hold onto him in my 15 teamer, right?

Paul Sporer: 15-teamer, yes. Understand the annoyance, though.

Comment From mtsw
How do you feel about Fiers vs STL today?

Paul Sporer: I’m starting him.

Comment From Alan
You buying this Peraza and Yankees talk? The Braves dealing a premium position prospect for a guy like Gary Sanchez doesn’t seem smart. You’d think Aaron Judge would have to be involved. Braves need young OFs, Yankees need young MIFs.

Paul Sporer: I think there could be a fit, but it’s just a rumor right now. Wouldn’t really go out and grab Peraza in AL only or anything

Comment From Johnny
Does Nelson Cruz break Griffey’s record for consecutive games with a dong?

Paul Sporer: No

Comment From adam
K-Rod is a valuable closer?

Paul Sporer: Yeah in most leagues

Comment From Harry Porter and the Voldemalts
No Iwakuma answer 🙁

Paul Sporer: Ugh, yes there was. Cover It Live driving me f’n batty right now. Benching him in 12-teamer. Not cutting.

Comment From Dallas
Travis Wood ?

Comment From klof
who hits a HR first this year, stanton or bryant?

Paul Sporer: Same as ever … slightly below league average

Comment From Bob
What’s up with Khris Davis?

Paul Sporer: Nine games.

Comment From Andy
J. Zimmerman a top 10 pitcher this yr?

Paul Sporer: Can be, but needs the Ks to at least stay at ’14 levels, if not improve

Comment From Patrick
Would you drop Paxton, Hutchison, or Shoemaker for DeSclafani?

Paul Sporer: Nah. I like him, but I prefer all three of those.

Comment From Houzer
Please rank’ em RoS … Souza / Eaton / Rusney Castillo

Paul Sporer: Eaton, Souza, Rusney.

Comment From Graham
When is Brandon Moss going to start mashng?

Paul Sporer: Nine games. Sit tight. He’ll be OK

Comment From Lindor Truffles
Paul,

I like what I’ve read about Nelson and his improved curve, so I’d like to make room for him on my roster. Who would you drop between Tajuan Walker and Miguel Castro? The rest of my staff: Price, Kluber, McHugh, Keuchel and Hahn as SP; Gregerson, Ottavino, Soria, Davis as RP. (12 team h2h w/ 5×5 scoring).

Paul Sporer: Castro. You’ve got plenty of closers and I think Castro has a tenuous grip on that role.

Comment From Shawn
Alex Cobb and Drew Smyly were both dropped in my 10 teamer. Even though he doesn’t have a timetable, Cobb is a must add right?

Paul Sporer: Do you have any DL slots? How many reserves? My answer is yes for the most part, but if you’re running with no DLs and like 3 reserves then I understand why he’s out there

Comment From Tiny Dancer
If you could be so kind, please pick the best 3 SPs to target from the below list, as they are the best available for my first AL-only free agent bidding period: Ubaldo, Kelly, Simon, McAllister, M. Gonzalez, Karns. Thanks so much!

Paul Sporer: Simon, Karns, Kelly, McAllister, Gonzalez, my dog, an open spot, any hitter, and Ubaldo

Comment From Houzer
Taijuan Walker .. ouch. Demotion coming soon?

Paul Sporer: Could be. The M’s have designs on the playoffs. They can’t take too many more of these.

Comment From Yankee Doodle
Paul!!! How are you, kind sir? Thoughts on Eovaldi’s start last night?

Paul Sporer: I’m well, thank you! I still love Eovaldi and we’re seeing some progress. The 9 Ks are great. Let’s get a lock on that sixth inning, though, eh Nate? What I love: 8/1 K:BB ratio v. LHB. I’d see about buying in because the price is unlikely to have risen after these two starts

Comment From Earl
Traded Pujols and DeSclafani to get Freeman and Hahn in a keeper league where Freeman is really cheap long term and Pujols is not. I’m also competing this year but keeping an eye on the future. What do you think?

Paul Sporer: Yeah, you’re getting the best hitter and pitcher here. You improve short and long term.

Comment From Jeff
Which of these players can I cut first in a 16 team league — Chris Owings or Arismendy Alcantara?

Paul Sporer: Owings. I love AA and his flexibility

Comment From Nothin but shrugs…
Paul!!!!!! Love the articles and S&TB stuff. From the shrugs in Eno’s interview it seems like Choo plays hurt a lot. He’s got 7 K’s already. Wondering if his poor performance if going to keep up. Should drop him for Souza, Belt or Pollock in an OBP league?

Paul Sporer: Man, that’s tough because I love Choo in that format, obviously. I’m waiting, but I’d like to find a way to get some of those names on the club. Pollock and Belt, especially

Comment From meatballsfly
TJ House should get back to the middle with a start against the twins?

Paul Sporer: Yeah, most of the guys who got their clocks cleaned in their debut, rebounded in the second start (Graveman, Latos are two that jump to mind). House had a poor matchup and exacerbated it by pitching poorly, too. He’ll be fine.

Comment From rustydude
What’s your beer IQ, assuming Eno’s is around 140?

Paul Sporer: 6

Comment From Tom
I watched Collin McHugh’s start last night and was really impressed … but so many breaking balls. When is that arm going to explode?

Paul Sporer: I love him. Who knows? Ride it until it does. There is no rhyme or reason to pitcher injuries. I think we can say McHugh is a tick or two higher on the risk-o-meter, but he’s also really good so I’m perfectly fine with the risk. The breaking balls are why he’s any good, so I wouldn’t want him changing his mix.

Comment From Roger Dodger
Who should us vultures be targeting as Rodney’s replacement?

Paul Sporer: Carson Smif.

Comment From thorn
Is joe kelly legit?

Paul Sporer: It’s one start. I’m a fan, but one start. He’s thrown gems before.

Comment From Lindor Truffles
Bonus question: do you see Heaney providing fantasy value this year?

Paul Sporer: I do. I like the kid. And they traded a big piece (Kendrick) for him, so I doubt he languishes in SLC.

Comment From Graham
Sit Chris Archer in Toronto today?

Paul Sporer: I wouldn’t blame you, but I tend to trust my mid-tier guys that I think can breakout and Archer is part of that group. League type also matters, but I’m still using him.

Comment From Matt
How comfortable would you feel with this pitching staff in Points? SP: Greinke, Iwakuma, Gio, McCarthy, Porcello, Hutchison, Lackey, DeSclafani, Heston. I’m a top contender with an awesome lineup, but not sure how to feel about my starters.

Paul Sporer: It’s not unimpeachable. You need a breakout from those last five if it you’re going to be great with that staff as-is. I think you just need to stay diligent in-season and continue to improve. Don’t sell off that hitting to fix it, though. Leverage the wire

Comment From GSon
As usual.. the teams that were picked to be “in the mix” for their respective divisions, for the most part, are there or are getting there save for the Nationals.. HOW concerned should Nats and their fans be?

Paul Sporer: I started cooling on the Nats being a runaway winner when that rash of injuries hit them. I still think they’re v good and picked em to win the division without any reservation, but they aren’t winning 100+ games or anything.

Comment From mtsw
I keep reading that ground ball hitters perform better vs fly ball pitchers and vice versa. Do we know why this would be and is there a good place with data on the magnitude of the effect?

Paul Sporer: Groundballs can’t go for home runs. That’s the simplest way to say it.

Comment From Brad
Tough shoes to fill. Eovaldi or Walker ROS? Thanks.

Paul Sporer: Eovaldi

Comment From Tony G.
Choo still has some fantasy game left in him, right? I know the season is just getting started, but I’m kind of nervous…

Paul Sporer: Yes. I understand your nerves, but sit tight. Let’s see at least 100 PA. AT LEAST.

Comment From Matt
You comfortable with a Boxberger-Grilli-Betances-Ottavino closer quarter in a 2 RP weekly points league?

Paul Sporer: Very.

Comment From klof
the cubs had wellington castillo and david ross fielding grounders at 3B yesterday in warmups. and yet they claim kris bryant needs to work on his defense. do you think this charade ends as soon as possible (friday) or do the cubs drag it out to make the 173 days of service time cutoff look less like the reason bryant had to hit his HRs in Iowa?

Paul Sporer: I could definitely see him up this weekend. He’s no lock to be great, though, and they have 200 catchers so I could see why they’re letting them get some looks at 3B. Perhaps David Ross just wanted to have some fun, though. I can’t imagine he’d play a game there

Comment From Maxamuz
Are you a Lucas Duda fan?

Paul Sporer: Great enough v. righties to hold pretty significant value despite ineptitude v. lefties. Didn’t Curtis Granderson start turning it around v. LHP with Kevin Long? Maybe he works the same magic for Duda and then we might have a fantasy superstar on our hands

Comment From NYHB
Hi Paul. What do you think of the Mets chances if Lucas Duda really has learned to hit lefties?

Paul Sporer: I picked em as my NL WC2 even under the assumption that he wouldn’t hit lefties, so it’d certainly help

Comment From Clay
What could the Yankee’s possibly offer the Braves for Pereza?? Just seems like a waste of their time to be scouting him this much, with that garbage farm of theirs.

Paul Sporer: Judge. Bird. Sanchez. Severino. They’ve got some stuff. I’ve teams acquire more with less.

Comment From Dead McCann Walking
Waiver question – 10 team H2H, hit categories: R, HR, RBI, SB, K, TB. Do I use my #1 waiver wire priority to pick up Joc Pedersen as my 4th OF/bench player dropping Rusney Castillo? Current starters Stanton, Marte, Corey Dickerson. Neither Joc or Rusney is keeper worthy in this league at this time. Thanks for the help

Paul Sporer: Yes. Joc has the chance to be a stud in short order and that chance is worth taking, especially over a DL’d Castillo (who I like, but seems a ways from even hitting the MLB)

Comment From GSon
Are you a fan of the emphasis on the in-division games during the first month of the season ?

Paul Sporer: Sure. Seems they stack the games early and late. I’m cool with it.

Comment From Matt Duffys cat
feed me

Paul Sporer: I’m missing a joke somewhere

Comment From Kyle
Should I be comfortable with Torii Hunter as my 5th OF in a 12-team mixed?

Paul Sporer: He’s replaceable. Fine for now, but I bet options already exist or will pop up real soon

Comment From Henry H
Drop Pearce for Duda??

Paul Sporer: Yes

Comment From The Dude
Starling Marte-slow start or something else?

Paul Sporer: Two 4-for-5 games would boost him to .282 just like that so I hesitate to call it a slow start when the numbers can be so drastically moved in short order.

Comment From Joe
Where do you think Greene’s K/9 will fall by the end of the year?

Paul Sporer: 7.9

Comment From Will in NJ
who wins: kenley jansen straight up for drew pomeranz fair in a keep forever league?

Paul Sporer: Kenley

Comment From Maxamuz

Comment From Los
No question…just wanted to point out that someone in my league dropped Adam Wainwright for Edinson Volquez. !2-team league that is fairly competitive too.

Paul Sporer: OMFG. Waino hasn’t even struggled yet, either.

Comment From ryN
Comfortable starting Jimmy Nelson tomorrow?

Paul Sporer: Depends on league type, but if you drafted him, then sure!

Comment From Timbo
Have Jansen and Doolittle on DL in 4×4 (no k’s) with Ottavino, Perkins, and Miguel Castro. When’s a good time to sell Perkins or Otto?

Paul Sporer: when someone offers you something that helps your roster. Ottavino’s stock is riding pretty high right now.

Comment From Planalp
You and Eno pod-casting today?

Paul Sporer: Si.

Comment From hoff
Is AJ Pollock’s PT expected to dwindle with Tomas arrival?

Paul Sporer: No, I think Peralta or Inciarte are in bigger trouble there

Comment From George Dub
How shallow of a league are you comfortable with Gregory Polanco being on the wire in?

Paul Sporer: 8 or 10

Comment From Vince
Dickerson or Braun ROS?

Paul Sporer: Dickerson

Comment From Maxamuz
Oh Paul you’re going to hate the Thursday afternoon crowd I feel.

Paul Sporer: Too late. 🙂

Comment From Alex
Hey Paul, what do you see Shane Greene’s realistic ceiling as this year? Low 3s ERA with some decent Ks and Wins?

Paul Sporer: That’s possible for sure. I was quite high on him coming into the season. I was hoping for like a 3.33 ERA kinda upside.

Comment From mtsw
What’s (even more than usual) wrong with Ryan Howard? Is he done even for fantasy purposes?

Paul Sporer: I’ve read nothing positive from various outlets, I’d be nervous

Comment From FAT ANDY
Got offered Strasburg for Gerrit Cole & Shane Green. Any thoughts?

Paul Sporer: That’s a good offer, but I’m sitting tight. Cole can realistically out-do Strasburg and then Greene is free at that point. Tell him good offer, but no thanks

Comment From Jack
Right rank for ROS saves: Grilli, Soria, Ottavino, Cecil, M. Castro, Clippard?

Paul Sporer: Soria, Ottavino, Grilli, Clippard, Castro & Cecil

Comment From mtsw
Twins offense: merely below average of potential trainwreck?

Paul Sporer: below avg. to start. they were p good last year, I could see em getting on track

Paul Sporer: More Walt Whitman:

Comment From Maxamuz
Well here is my favorite, “In our sun-down perambulations, of late, through the outer parts of Brooklyn, we have observed several parties of youngsters playing base, a certain game of ball…Let us go forth awhile, and get better air in our lungs. Let us leave our close rooms…the game of ball is glorious.”

Comment From Pale Hose
If things get weird, they are called ludes. We’re used to Eno on Thursdays.

Comment From CTW
Drop O. Arcia in a triple slash league for any of these guys: Moose Tacos, Butler, Gose, Ackley, R. Davis

Paul Sporer: Butler!

Comment From Cleon
Jimmy Nelson obviously generating a lot of buzz, but what’s the best case scenario for him? Does he have frontline starter upside?

Paul Sporer: Frontline seems high. I could see him with nice Ks and a 3.30ish ERA, though

Comment From Eno Harris
Please rank in terms of best temporary replacement for Gomes in an AL-only: R. Perez, Chirinos, Joseph, Hanigan. Thanks!

Paul Sporer: Chirino, Perez, Joseph, Hanigan

Comment From Keeper? I hardly know her
Trying to decide on an MI for a 12 team points league. Who do you think is the best of Semien, Jose Igelsias, DJ Lemaihu, and Guerrero?

Paul Sporer: Man, I wish Guerrero could get the PT bc he’s be #1. Semien, LeMahieu, and Iglesias. Although LeMahieu has nowhere to go but down!

Comment From klof
are you looking to buy any betances? cameron seemed to think he’d be fine. good buy low situation?

Paul Sporer: Yeah, I’d still buy low. I love the stuff.

Comment From Kris
In on AJ Burnett this year? Owned or streamed

Paul Sporer: Own in most formats. I trust Searage.

Comment From Evan
Own both Andrew Miller and Betances in a league with Saves but no holds. Hold tight or drop Betances?

Paul Sporer: I’m holding both in a lg where I got each

Comment From Steve
Who is a guy struggling right now that you would target in a trade since it’s only April?

Comment From Harry
drop smyly for wade davis, c.martinez?

Paul Sporer: What kinda league?

Paul Sporer: For Steve: Strasburg, Samardzija, Pineda… any single-digit round hitter who is hitting sub.200

Comment From Bryan
Could Wade Davis return to a starting role this season?

Paul Sporer: No, that ship has sailed

Comment From Harry
QS league 10-team

Paul Sporer: You can grab CMart. I hate to give up on Smyly bc I had high hopes, but you gotta be makin moves in 10-teamers. Too easy to fall behind

Comment From Nick
Would you trade Trevor Bauer for Segura in 12 team league? Need a SS and SB. Bauer is my 6th SP.

Paul Sporer: Yessir

Comment From Harry
who should I drop (targeting nelson,c.martinez,desclafani,wade davis)…. kiermaier, odor, miguel castro, grandal, or khris davis?

Paul Sporer: Without knowing your offensive situation (or league type), I’d say Castro. All of those hitters have some value in my opinion

Comment From Elliott
Please rank ROS: Burnett, Pomeranz, Bradley, Hughes

Paul Sporer: Hughes, Burnett, Pomeranz (REALLY close b/w AJ & Pomy) Bradley

Comment From Nate
should I be holding Alex Gordon or trying to move him?

Paul Sporer: Obv depends on league type, but generally speaking, yes, I’m trying to hold him

Comment From Bojack Horseman
In a 5×5 redraft, would you rather have Wright or Bryant?

Paul Sporer: With Wright’s injury, I think I flip to Bryant even though I don’t necessarily see him setting the league ablaze for the whole season like most do. Rookies struggle, that’s just what they do and Bryant will have his struggles, but Wright can’t stay healthy

Comment From Tim
Sample size is real small, but legitimate concerns about Kershaw yet?

Paul Sporer: How do you boot someone from a chat?

Comment From DC
take a deep breath man

Paul Sporer: Pardon?

Comment From Ron Swanson

Gregory Polanco…when is this going to happen??

Paul Sporer: Everyone wants to roster the shiny new toy, but no one wants to have patience with them. He’s 23 and hasn’t yet played 100 games. Your expectations were simply too high to begin with (as they are for all top prospects by virtually all fantasy players)

Comment From jt
thoughts on selling high on arod and devon travis?

Paul Sporer: How high can you really sell? It’s easy to say, harder to do. (as I’m writing today for Rotographs)

Comment From Dude
Better stash- Salazar or Rodon?

Paul Sporer: Rodon

Comment From Cornelius
Wade Miley – just one poor start, or was there anything concerning about how he’s looked?

Paul Sporer: Struggled with command, but nothing I’m freaking out about. I like him this year.

Comment From Dude
Next closer to lose the gig? Melancon? Rodney?

Paul Sporer: I think both have pretty long leashes. But I’d say Rodney. Melancon’s velo is down, but he only has the one bad outing against the best offense in baseball out his four total. Rodney is the other way, he has just one clean outing out of four

Comment From Mike T
Is Pearce a one hit wonder, or just bad slump? Leaning towards slump.

Paul Sporer: he started 5-for-31 last year (he’s 7-for-31 currently). i wouldn’t even lean toward slump.

Comment From DC
Boot me? what i meant was sorry cover it live was being frustrating.

Paul Sporer: LOL, no I was referring to the guy asking about Kershaw 🙂

Comment From Guest
why do you chat so slow

Paul Sporer: I don’t.

Comment From Maxamuz
Who are you trying to boot out?

Comment From Owen S
Click the boot from chat button

Paul Sporer: Was just clowning on the guy asking if Kershaw was a problem

Comment From Chet
McGee comes back – is he the closer..mcgee owner who is now nervous. What if I could sell now for 80 cents on the dollar?

Paul Sporer: I think Boxy keeps it all year, tbh

Comment From Harry
I traded Lo.Cain for S.Castro (needed tulo insurance)

Comment From Harry
My offensive situation is pretty outstanding. OBP league, I have Posey, Goldy, Tulo, Abreu, DIckerson, Carpenter, Mookie, Yelich, Devon Travis…

Paul Sporer: I put those in the wrong order. I’m OK with that trade. Love Castro this year. Big Cain fan, too, but I worry his all-out defensive style will hamper him over the course of the six months

Comment From Mike T
Lorenzo Cain is the man right now

Paul Sporer: SMASHED that pitch. I would love for him to have a huge breakout, but as I mentioned above, I worry that his primary asset (the defense) will be his offensive downfall

Comment From Schmesh
Pineda/McCarthy for Lance Lynn in pts league. Which side would you want? Btw, your podcast is by far the best one out there.

Paul Sporer: I want the pair. Thank you so much. New episode out later today!

Comment From Maxamuz

Comment From Guest
Would you say Mcgee has been “Boxed” out? I’ll show myself out

Paul Sporer: No, you can stay. I like it!

Comment From Matt
Hey Paul, Lance Lynn: same guy just off to a good start or do you see anything to suggest real improvement? Still not throwing his change-up much despite the preseason talk.

Paul Sporer: I don’t think he’s much different. He’s a good pitcher who can get really hot, but usually has a few duds in there, too. I’d like to see some real progress v. lefties before thinking he’s taking another step

Comment From Evan
Do you think Doolittle will reclaim closer role when back from DL?

Paul Sporer: I do think he will get the role back

Comment From Evan
Where da TINSTAAPP at?? Having withdrawals.

Paul Sporer: Sorry man, I’m pretty loaded up on pods now. Doug also has a new pod himself.

Paul Sporer: I haven’t posted every chat yet?

Comment From Jays Fan II
What in the blue blazes happens with Josh Hamilton when he’s ready to come off the DL?

Paul Sporer: your guess is as good as mine. i can’t even begin to try and sort that out

Comment From Jon
Hey Paul! Can you get behind this 10-team staff (QS, IP, K/9): Kershaw, Carrasco, Richards, Bauer, Greene, Hutchison.

Paul Sporer: Yeah. I definitely can, especially with Richards returning and CC escaping severe danger on that comebacker

Comment From adam
yimi garcia, real deal or good start?

Paul Sporer: Real deal. Was a beast RP coming up, too

Comment From JD
Trevor Bauer – He’s dominating but will he start walking less at least the clip he walked last year?

Paul Sporer: I wouldn’t necessarily bet on it. I’m a Bauer guy, especially long-term, but I just don’t think we’re seeing anything all that different from his past. He had a two-start run with 15 Ks and 8 BB in 11.7 IP with a 0.00 ERA in late-August, too. He has the stuff to be nasty regular, but he’ll run into spots where teams take advantage of those walks.

Comment From Conrad V.
Is it time to drop Michael A. Taylor in shallow leagues? Kid has sick tools, but that OF is about to get crowded.

Paul Sporer: Yeah you can move on with Werth back and Span close, especially if you really like someone on the wire right now

Comment From Bruce
Buying or selling Chris Heston?

Paul Sporer: Sorta, yeah.

Comment From Art Vandelay
Is Walker droppable yet if I really need a streaming spot?

Paul Sporer: Yeah, I imagine if you’re streaming, it’s a shallower-type league so you can move on. He’s got all the talent, but he’s still putting it together. It’s almost as if the Spring Training performance didn’t mean much 🙂

Comment From Nick
If I ask a question and it doesn’t get answered should I be patient because it’s buried in the queue? or am I just out of luck because there were better questions? Also how concerned are you with Michael Brantley’s back?

Paul Sporer: Patience is the key. I’m more behind than normal bc I had Cover It Live issues early AND was 11 minutes late bc i had 12 central in my head like a clown. So I’ve been bouncing between the top and bottom of the queue. Usually, I try to clear the whole queue in my chats. I’m not too concerned about it. It’s annoying, but not a MAJOR issue right now

Comment From Dude
Alex Wood has been ok so far, but control is a little off. Based on his delivery and what that could be would you look to sell for someone comparable?

Paul Sporer: I was really impressed w/his ’14, but yeah, those mechanics make a repeat suspect. Maybe try to buy Richards before he returns? deGrom, Cashner, Arrieta. Could probably get one of those four.

Comment From Alen
Drop M.Castro for SP? I have ottavino, gregerson, soria already. Need some sp depth. thoughts>

Paul Sporer: Yeah, you’re good on saves. Could you trade some saves for SP depth?

Comment From Guest
what time do you wake up in the morning, and if it’s early how do you do it because i just keep hitting snooze

Paul Sporer: Try to get up at 6:30 with the gf, but sometimes go back to sleep until 8 or so after she goes to work.

Comment From Johnny Drama
Picking up SPs to stream over the weekend: Rank J. Nelson, CJ WIlson, Paxton, D. Norris, and C. Heston

Paul Sporer: Paxton, Nelson, Heston, Norris, and Wilson

Comment From David
thoughts on jonathan schoop in an 12 team OPS league?

Paul Sporer: Wondered aloud to myself last night if I messed up on him this year. I recognize the flaws, but he dropped 16 bombs as a 22-year old and he is a specimen. He cost nothing, too. Should’ve gambled, bc if he can hit .250, he’s a 20-HR guy

Comment From Harry
I have Posey. Should I drop grandal to address thin S

Paul Sporer: SS? Yeah, you can. I like Grandal a lot, but sounds like 1 C league so his value is mitigated

Comment From Fantasy guy
Traded Ryan Zimmerman for Corey Dickerson..Did I do well?

Paul Sporer: Yes you did

Comment From Nick
Hey Paul, I offered Harper and Fister for Soler and Sonny Gray in a head to head points league. It was rejected, and I’m actually kind of relieved that it was. Should I feel better about just hanging on to Harper?

Paul Sporer: Yeah, I prefer Harper. I don’t think you would’ve had to go in panic mode had he accepted, though.

Comment From Reginald Denton III
What do you see Archie Bradley doing? I dropped TJ House for him after his horrendous first start.

Paul Sporer: I’m completely fine with that drop. I see ups and downs for Bradley. He still walks too many to really be consistent and have that HUGE season.

Comment From Steve
Is Hamels someone worth targeting with the idea he gets traded? Thanks.

Paul Sporer: I’d just target him because he’s great. I wouldn’t try and predict trades.

Comment From J
Did you see Morrow’s start last night? What are your thoughts?

Paul Sporer: Haven’t seen it yet. He’s on my list to go back and watch.

Comment From Elliott
PS – Trying to acquire G. Cole, would offering Britton and Morneau be trying to buy too low? Was also toying with the idea of Hughes and Britton…

Paul Sporer: Doubt that gets it done. A lot of Cole believers see ace upside (myself included), so you’re unlikely to pry him on the cheap

Comment From Guest
AJ Burnett or Brandon Morrow, have to go with the health, right?

Paul Sporer: It’s close, but go for Morrow’s upside while he’s upright

Comment From Alen
I’d drop m.castro for the likes of Nelson, Desclafani, Burnett, Paxton

Paul Sporer: That’s fine.

Comment From Guest
*how* sporer, *how*

Paul Sporer: How what? Sorry, but I can’t remember every thread we’re working with here.

Comment From Joe
STAR WARS TRAILER STAR WARS TRAILER STAR WARS TRAILER

Paul Sporer: I’ve never seen Star Wars. Spock is my favorite Star Warer. Him or Thor. Or Spiderman. Who can choose, amirite?

Comment From Steve
Rank ROS: Vogt, Norris, Montero. Thanks!

Paul Sporer: Norris, Vogt, Montero

Comment From Pop
Holds League, Y Garcia or E Marshall?

Paul Sporer: Gimme Yimi

Comment From Lindor Truffles
Schoop or Asdrubal as a MI?

Paul Sporer: Base it on team need – raw power or a little bit of everything? Former is Schoop, latter is Asdrubal

Comment From Reginald Denton III
Paul, you’ve been a great addition to the FG staff. What’s your background prior to coming over?

Paul Sporer: Why thank you sir! I came from BP – http://www.fangraphs.com/fa…

Comment From Guest
does the idea of star wars 7 make your force awaken

Paul Sporer: It will be the age of ultron. I just hope that Katniss can defeat Darth Vader for the Mockingjay Crown

Comment From Dallas
I’ll bet you and Eno a beer that Travis Wood will out-perform Alex Wood this year. (not a Cubs fan either)

Paul Sporer: Yeah I mean, I’ll take that on principle bc you’re giving such great odds

Comment From Evan
Will you still be posting DFS recos anywhere this year?

Paul Sporer: I’m doing a Monday Morning report at RG – https://rotogrinders.com/ar…

Comment From Bob the Builder
Looking to pick up a 2 start pitcher to stream next week?

Comment From Rick Grimes
Burnett, Miley, Eovaldi, or morrow for next week 2 starts

Paul Sporer: Any of those would work, Bob.

Paul Sporer: Actually check that. Don’t love Eovaldi or Morrow bc they have at Det and at Col respectively which basically erases the two-start status since they’re unlikely to excel in those. Burnett, Miley, Eovaldi and then Morrow

Comment From JP
Are you out on Cobb at this point? I have the opportunity to trade JD Martinez in a deep AL only (pitching is really scarce), and I’m struggling with it. Leaning toward nyet, have any thoughts?

Paul Sporer: I still like Cobb a lot as a pitcher, but the situation for ’15 is very murky. And no way in hell I’d trade JD for him right now

Comment From Rated Rookie
Bryce Harper striking out a fair bit so far this season. You see any reason behind this and any reason to anticipate different results going forward?

Paul Sporer: It’s still early, even for something like K rate which stabilizes quickly

Comment From klof
russell martin got bumped for cervelli. this won’t last, right?

Paul Sporer: Toronto got Cervelli?

Comment From Maxamuz
Allow me to answer half the questions for you today Paul, “April.”

Paul Sporer: I know it’s boring and not particularly helpful, but it’s the truth. Too many sweeping judgments being made or trying to be made after 9 games

Comment From George is Curious
Any under-the-radar American League relievers catch your eye early on that could provide value similar to what Davis and Miller did last year?

Paul Sporer: I’m planning a piece on just that very soon (probably next week). Haven’t gotten my full list of names yet, but I’ll give ya Carson Smith for now

Comment From Anthony
Is Adam Lind’s hot start the real deal? In other words, would you rather have him or Justin Morneau?

Paul Sporer: Had a very similar start in his first nine games last year (1.016 OPS compared to 1.027 this year). I think he is what he is: a beast v. RHP; suspect v. LHP and likely to lose some – if not most – of the time against them as a result. it’s REALLY close between these two. Great environments, great righty-mashers. Lind by a nose because of current health status

Comment From klof
correa/stroman or soler/schwarber?

Paul Sporer: I’ll take the Cubbies

Comment From Kris
Currently have Cody Allen, Ottavino and Castro from TOR. Any need to roster Joel Peralta?

Paul Sporer: Nah

Comment From FL
Greene obviously won’t keep this pace up, but with an improved change-up to use against left-handed batters, does he have a chance to become a solid #2 type pitcher?

Paul Sporer: #2-type might be a little high (and no one is higher on Greene than myself). It would take *everything* breaking right to be a #2 type this year. I’d plan for a #4 type and take the rest as pure bonus, which is pretty good from your sixth or seventh drafted SP.

Comment From Bobby Blownilla
I’m assuming your advice to most Strasburg panic questions is to wait and trust, yes?

Paul Sporer: Yeah, I’m still calm on him. Even though I took his first start on the chin in DFS

Comment From Donnie Sadler
If you could only add one… Nelson, DeSclafani or Morrow?

Paul Sporer: Nelson

Comment From Dallas
Who is/are your favorite Baseball teams, Paul?

Paul Sporer: Are you just making fun of me? I’m a diehard Tigers fan. Apparently the last writer with fandom for a team, too. It seems a lot of my colleagues find themselves losing their love for their team. I’m actually going the other way. I’m MORE into my Tigers than ever now that baseball is my life

Comment From mcf1417
Start Aaron Sanchez today or keep him on the bench?

Paul Sporer: Yeah, start him. If you have him rostered and you don’t wanna start him here, where will you start him? TB’s offense isn’t scary

Comment From in re Choo
What about Choo vs. Moss, OBP league?

Paul Sporer: Moss

Comment From Larry David
I literally just traded Wainwright and Melancon for Kluber in a dynasty points league. How about that.

Paul Sporer: I like it. Got the best player in the deal. I have Waino lower than most. And if there’s one position I can get behind selling a little early on, it’s RP bc of how volatile it is. I still have faith in Melancon, but the velo drop is at least a little concerning

Comment From Chet
Is Adam Ottavino the next great closer in MLB? That guy is NASTY!

Paul Sporer: He is filthy! Obviously hate his home park, but I think he can be a stud closer

Comment From Heyo
Hey, Paul! Think I ought to drop O. Arcia or R. Castillo if I need pitching help? Thinking about grabbing Eovaldi and/or Carson Smith.

Paul Sporer: You can move on from Castillo. I imagine it’s a relatively shallow league with Eovaldi on the wire. I like Castillo a lot, but he’s on the minor league DL so he’s a long way from delivering right now

Comment From mtsw
Is Trevor Bauer legit? Looks great so far but is it sustainable?

Paul Sporer: I don’t think he’s much different from last year just yet. Some teams are going to punish him for the walks. Electric stuff that is VERY enticing, but still going to be inconsistent IMO

Paul Sporer: OK guys, I gotta wrap up. I’m sorry I left so many in the queue this time around. I got off to a horrible start because of my own time flub (had 12 central on the brain) and then Cover It Live wasn’t cooperating at all. I gotta get ready for the podcast and finish my piece for today. I’ll be back on my normal day (Sunday) and if you have a pressing question that just can’t wait, hit me up on twitter @sporer. Thanks!

Comment From Hold the Pickles
Yo, Paul. I’m desperate for a starter tmrw. Adam Warren @ TB or David Phelps @ NYM?

Paul Sporer: Warren.

Paul Sporer: OK that’s it for real now. Take care, y’all!

Comment From Guest
bye paul