Paul Sporer FanGraphs Chat – 5/27/15

by
May 27, 2015
12:03
Comment From Brian
Trade Axford for Burnett in Roto league?

12:03
Paul Sporer: Definitely
12:03
Paul Sporer: Hello everybody! I’m filling in for Dave. Trying to stay dry in Austin, Texas. And crushing some Drake: https://www.youtube.com/wat…
12:03
Comment From Graham
Would you trade Stanton for Harper?

12:04
Paul Sporer: Sure. They aren’t too far apart, even with Harper’s madness
12:04
Comment From Graham
Guess on when Correa gets called up?

12:04
Paul Sporer: June 18th
12:04
Comment From What You Eaton
Hi Paul. Big fan. I know you were high on Eaton coming into the year. See anything making you want to buy low? Will he run again?

12:05
Paul Sporer: Skills are in line with career norms, while BABIP is nearly 50 points below average. He’ll rebound.
12:05
Comment From Guest
Brett Gardner for Cole Hamels.. Non Keeper, which side do you prefer?

12:05
Paul Sporer: Hamels slightly, but it’s perfectly fair if the Hamels owner needs a quality hitter.
12:05
Comment From Fister? I barely knew her!
Do you make anything of Greg Holland’s reduced velocity? Down at least 2 mph in his last 2 appearances, and doesn’t match up with his previous injury’s timeline. Is this a new one to be concerned about?

12:06
Paul Sporer: He looks awful so far. Can’t find the zone with any regularity. THis would be a big deal on just about any other team, but they have like 28 replacements who will be as good or better than him if he continues to sputter.
12:06
Comment From A Point Break remake?!
Gregory Polanco is giving me fits. He won’t be a keeper in this league, and there are decent short and long term options available (hot hands, long term talents and short term injured). Incomplete list: Gose, Ethier, Pagan, Werth, K. Davis, Jackson, Arcia, Maybin, Burns, Tucker, Colabello. Is it safe/reasonable to move on?

12:06
Paul Sporer: That seems like a shallower league with some strong options available and since he’s not a keeper, yeah you can move on
12:07
Comment From Ryan
Hey Paul, wondering your thoughts on whether to cut bait on David Wright. I have Headley and picked up Guerrero earlier this year. With Uribe gone and more playing time for Guerrero, you think it makes sense to give up on Wright yet?

12:07
Paul Sporer: Are you just going to cut him? That seems rash regardless of league size. Can’t you just sit tight with him on the DL?
12:07
Comment From Houzer
Paul! I’ve got Josh Harrison as my 3rd OF’er, but both Yelich and Bruce are on my wire. What should I do?

12:08
Paul Sporer: Depends on needs, tbh. Bruce’s power is there (pacing toward 27-28 HRs). Wish he could just get to a .250 AVG, it’d be so much more palatable. I’d go for Bruce personally. I didn’t see the Yelich growth that others did
12:09
Comment From Bill
Heading to Detroit to check out the Tigers/Cubs in a couple weeks. I know you are a Tigers fan that lives out of state. Any tips on where to buy tickets/where to stay/go in area pre/post game?

12:09
Paul Sporer: Unfortunately, I’m not a great resource. I moved 19 years ago and I only go back in the winter for holidays (when the weather is pure garbage) so I haven’t been to Comerica for a game yet. Sorry
12:09
Comment From LarryA
If you faced 20 pitches from the worst MLB pitcher, would you be able to lay 1 fair bunt down?

12:10
Paul Sporer: LOL. I’m not so sure. The worst MLB player is SUUUUUUUUUUUCH an amazing baseball player in the grand scheme of things.
12:10
Comment From J-Dog
How concerned are you with David Ortiz? Really is starting to look old all of a sudden.

12:11
Paul Sporer: Always gotta be concerned at his age. We’ve seen him turn it around before, but he’s even older now of course so banking on that to happen is risky. I’d have real concerns if he were on any of my teams
12:11
Comment From Big Joe Mufferaw
What is the best site for Keeper leagues?

12:11
Paul Sporer: In terms of running them? They all have the capabilities. Most of my leagues are on CBS.
12:11
Comment From Patrick
Rank for the ROS: McCullers, Greene, De La Rosa, and DeSclafani

12:11
Paul Sporer: Greene, DLR, DeSclafani, McCullers
12:11
Comment From John
Sporer! Why are the brewers trying to screw me? Fiers has been awful enough on regular rest. Now they are starting him on short rest?

12:12
Paul Sporer: LOL I don’t think they’re targeting your team directly! I imagine it’s because his struggles aren’t fatigue related or anything so this shouldn’t have any bearing on him. I still think he can deliver a mid-3.00s the rest of the way.
12:12
Comment From Aaron
Belt or Napoli 5×5 weekly ROS? I am getting killed in BA every week, and moving away from caring about it…

12:15
Paul Sporer: http://www.fangraphs.com/fa… — complete with a David Ortiz update
12:16
Paul Sporer: Major thunderstorm here in Austin (AGAIN) so if I disappear, the power went out
12:16
Comment From Justin
Thoughts on Matt Carpenter batting in the 2-spot for the Cardinals after a few weeks? He’s hit a lot more homers, but is striking uncharacteristically more.

12:17
Paul Sporer: It’s working, though, so we’ll take it. I’d imagine that if it started to have negative effects, he’d change it back. He’s been unreal.
12:17
Comment From Krisp
Hey Paul. I need some outfield help. I have Longoria, Carpenter, and Kang as 3B. Need to trade one (Thinking Longoria). Is Pollock a good return for Longoria? 20 team dynasty. Thank you.

12:18
Paul Sporer: I wonder if you could get even more for Longo. I love Pollock, but it seems like a 1-for-1 is a touch light for Longo. I’d do it if that’s all that were available since you really need the OF and have a logjam at 3B, but make that the settling offer, not the initial one
12:18
Comment From Hoff
What are you thoughts on activating a guy from the DL right away? (when considering weekly lineup change leagues) Take Lucroy and Segura as examples. Lucroy has been out longer, but is the superior player. I always go back and forth on giving someone a week off before activation to shake the rust off.

12:19
Paul Sporer: I’m usually a start-em-right-away guy. Especially at the high end. Pitchers are more mixed, but hitters are always right back in for me.
12:19
Comment From Awake in Seattle
Is it time for the Carson Smith show in Seattle?

12:19
Paul Sporer: We have to be getting close. Rodney’s been SO bad.
12:20
Comment From High Cheese
Dealt Lincecum and Eury Perez for Jordy Mercer and Juan Jaime in 12 team NL keeper (no bench spots), how’d I do?

12:20
Paul Sporer: I feel like Lincecum should’ve brought more. Mercer has struggled and is losing PT to Kang. I’m good w/selling Lincecum, but just thought he’d net a little more
12:20
Comment From Graham
Which of these pitchers do you like more ROS: Rubby, Mike Wright, Jimmy Nelson, C. Wilson, Chris Heston or Lackey?

12:21
Paul Sporer: Lackey is still the best there, but I really like Rubby. I’m getting more and more interested in Wright, too. Might be writing about him soon
12:21
Comment From Lance
Should I trade Encarnacion for Kershaw? I can pick up Duda or V Mart as replacements for EE.

12:21
Paul Sporer: Yeah that totally works if you need SP
12:21
Comment From Houzer
Start or Sit for tonight .. Pineda in KC, Wood in LA?

12:22
Paul Sporer: Start, Sit. I know Pineda got worked by KC last time, but I could see him making adjustments to thwart them this time. I wouldn’t clown you for sitting him, but Pineda’s upside is so high that you start him v. everyone
12:22
Comment From Big Joe Mufferaw
Iwakuma + Cargo for Matt Harvey. Not in a keeper league, I need pitching. Fair trade?

12:22
Paul Sporer: Very fair. I feel like you’re getting a discount on Harvey bc of the dead arm issue. I don’t think this happens 2 weeks ago
12:22
Comment From Kris
Scoop up Eduardo Rodriguez? Expected to start tomorrow vs Texas

12:24
Paul Sporer: I’m intrigued. Liked him as a guy w/mid-rotation upside in Baltimore and he’s taken a jump w/Boston to where now mid-rotation seems very likely w/some fringe potential at being a frontliner down the line. Very young, though, so don’t get drunk on the potential for the short-term
12:24
Comment From J-Dog
Gomes and D’Arnaud are on the waiver wire. I have Russell Martin. Do I drop Martin for either of those guys? And if so, which one do I pick up?

12:25
Paul Sporer: Hold Martin – http://www.fangraphs.com/fa…
12:25
Comment From CTW
8-team triple slash. Have Brandon Moss and Moose Tacos, with guys like Span, Choo, Aoki, Inciarte, Gose on the wire. Ok with dropping Moss/Moose for those guys? AVG and SB are my biggest offensive needs.

12:26
Paul Sporer: Attack your needs. Although Moose isn’t hurting your AVG one bit so hang onto him
12:26
Comment From James
Should Stephen Strasburg really be on the waiver wire in an 8-team half-season fantasy league where a team only rosters 5 starters?

12:27
Paul Sporer: No he shouldn’t be on the wire in any league. I know he’s struggled, but his upside is far too rich to be on the wire
12:27
Comment From Warren
Anything wrong with Adam Jones? or just a slump?

12:27
Paul Sporer: In the midst of his best season ever.
12:27
Comment From Maxamuz
12:27
Comment From hscer
Pretty soon are you going to be filling in for every chatter every day of every week? 😛

12:27
Paul Sporer: Who wouldn’t love that?!
12:27
Comment From Joe
12 team points league: I get Stanton and Paxton and give up Adam Jones and Bumgarner. Have Lester, Cashner, Kazmir, Liriano, Elias, Hughes in my rotation as well.

12:29
Paul Sporer: Love Stanton, but I think you’re getting smoked here. Jones has been incredible and I imagine he’s been on par w/Stanton depending on the scoring and even if Stanton has an edge, the difference isn’t Paxton to Bumgarner

12:29
Comment From Rags
H2H points league so there is some extra emphasis on pitching. I’ve been offered Anibal Sanchez ($18) and C. Dickerson ($5) for my Strasburg ($22). I am competing for this year but wouldn’t mind another bat. Thoughts?

12:30
Paul Sporer: Solid buy-low on Dickerson. Plantar fasciitis is annoying, but as a Dickerson backer myself, I prefer sitting now to see if it gets better as opposed to constantly trying to play through it and missing 1-2 days here and there
12:30
Comment From HesSoooooTaguchi
When does Buxton get the call?

12:31
Paul Sporer: Impossible to know, of course, but their competing in Minnesota probably helps his chances. Let’s see how they’re doing in a month. Buxton has no Triple-A experience and hasn’t been flawless in Double-A
12:31
Comment From jonathan
Give Votto get Pederson? Non-keeper league.

12:32
Paul Sporer: I still prefer Votto, but it’s a defensible trade for sure.
12:32
Comment From Raoul Duke
Is Alberto Callaspo enough of a return if the result is making Juan Uribe cry? I say no.

12:33
Paul Sporer: Right? I legitimately didn’t see them trading Uribe bc of how much he means to their clubhouse, but Guerrero and Turner have just been TOO good while Uribe has struggled mightily. So I imagine they told him something like we can send you somewhere where you’ll get full-time burn, but you are going to play if you stay here with us
12:33
Comment From Eduardo Rodriguez
Why am I still in AAA with Kelly and Wright in the Red Sox rotation?

12:33
Paul Sporer: You’re not. Check the news, bro.
12:33
Comment From Houzer
Lucroy+Yordana Ventura for Strasburg. Who wis?

12:33
Paul Sporer: No one. It’s a fair deal. No clear winner.
12:33
Comment From I Need Paul Sporers Help
Hi Paul. What a treat to have you on this fine Wednesday! I’m in an 11-team AL-only league. I’m about .20 back of the pack in AVG, and have far too many low average power hitters on my team. Can you be so kind as to name a few AL players I should trade for that will help raise my AVG, without costing me too much? Thanks so much!

12:35
Paul Sporer: Here are some guys you can buy now as they have a shot to improve their AVG substantially: Eaton, Encarnacion (though he’ll still be expensive), Betts, Beltre, Kiermaier, and Melky
12:37
Comment From Big Joe Mufferaw
What are your favorite Buy Low SPers? I need pitching, but I am in 1st place, so I dont want to rock the boat too much (I have Iwakuma and Tanaka on the DL)

12:39
Paul Sporer: Carrasco (will be CHEAPER, but not *cheap*), Gio, Quintana, Anibal, Colon, and Hutch
12:39
Comment From Mitch
Was offered Appel for my Lawrie in a dynasty. I’m lacking young pitching but Appel looks horrid. What do you think?

12:39
Paul Sporer: yeah, Lawrie isn’t exactly lighting it up, either, but I still prefer him
12:39
Comment From primantis
Will Jose Urena help my team in my deep NL only dynasty league this year and in the future?

12:39
Paul Sporer: No, probably not
12:41
Comment From Quinceleather
i need SB in an ottoneu roto do u think schaefer with the twins can be of use–there is NOTHING on the wire…….thx

12:42
Paul Sporer: If there’s really nothing, then I guess he could be something, but he’s just not good.
12:42
Comment From hscer
Denard Span with a .215 ISO after 132 PA. What??

12:43
Paul Sporer: Pretty bananas. The only real difference across his whole profile is a 16% HR/FB ratio… 5% career
12:43
Comment From High Cheese
Will the real Odrisamer Despaigne stand up? What is your forecast ROS?

12:44
Paul Sporer: LOL at that whole game yesterday. Both SPs were 6.00+ in ERA. I was surprised he was SO bad to this point, but the skills were pretty awful, too. Nice coupla efforts in a row, but the Angels have been anemic as can be against righties which takes some steam out of it. I think the best you can expect is like a 4.40 ERA
12:44
Comment From JJP
NL keeper, an owner is shopping overpriced Kemp, Holliday, and R. Zimmerman. I need power but these sources aren’t showing it. Which one should I target?

12:45
Paul Sporer: I could see Holliday getting hot and still reaching his 20-something.
12:45
Comment From J-Dog
12 team H2H Points league. My staff looks like this….Kershaw, Sale, Gio, Wood, Cashner & Lynn. One spot open for streaming. Thinking about dropping one for another streamer spot since everyone seems to pick up guys days in advance. Should I hold pat? Or if I was to drop one, which one?

12:45
Paul Sporer: I wouldn’t want to get rid of any of those. Maybe Wood, but the others need to stay
12:46
Comment From Hoff
In a keeper league, when is a good time to start offering bottom feeders trades for their studs?

12:47
Paul Sporer: When you have a clear need for yourself. Worst he can say is no. If I were a bottom feeder myself, I wouldn’t really start trading em off until June, but that’s just me
12:47
Comment From Maxamuz
ESPN has Harper projected 60 HR and Cruz 61. Could we see another McGwire / Sosa ’99?

12:47
Paul Sporer: that’d be ridiculously fun
12:47
Comment From I Choo Choo Choose Paul Sporer
Looks like you were right not to overly panic about Shin-soo. His reemergence has been a huge help to my fantasy squad!!!

12:48
Paul Sporer: How great has he been pretty much SINCE I wrote that? I’m not saying I had anything to do with it, but rather the coincidence of it all has been awesome
12:48
Comment From Saves Vulture
If Uehara went down tomorrow, are we looking at Tazawa or Ogando as his replacement?

12:48
Paul Sporer: Tazawa for me
12:48
Comment From Houzer
who finishes as the Top SS this year?

12:53
Paul Sporer: Brandon Crawford! Isn’t he #1 currently? I’m actually a big fan of his, but holding first will be tough. I’ll stick with Starlin Castro, my bold pick to do so this preseason
12:53
Comment From Eldridge Cleaver
When do you expect Carlos Correa to get called up to the majors? With him continuing to rake in AAA I have to imagine the Astros are thinking about it.

12:53
Paul Sporer: Really no idea. These things are impossible to predict because we can’t predict injuries or know the front office
12:53
Comment From Tim
Is Withrow legit or just a pipe dream as a future piece to a Braves bullpen? Control seems to be shaky.

12:54
Paul Sporer: I could’ve seen him closing to fill in for Jansen had he been healthy. Lots of live stuff, but erratic like many relievers. There’s something there.
12:54
Comment From Jake
Does Carter Capps delivery basically add height to him? Instead of the ball coming out of the hand of a 6’5 guy, because he jumps to the mound is it more like its coming out of the hand of a 6’10 guy?

12:55
Comment From Gary
I got Kipnis/Souza for Beltre in a deep AL only OBP. How’d I do man?

12:55
Paul Sporer: It’s pretty freakin’ nuts. I imagine it helps, but saying so definitively is tough
12:55
Paul Sporer: Crushed it. I’m not even a huge Kipnis guy, either.
12:55
Comment From hscer
So to get to 40 HR Harper still needs to hit more (23) than he ever has in a full season before this year (22)…he still almost has to get there it feels like, doesn’t it?

12:56
Paul Sporer: Yeah I mean, nothing is out of the realm of possibilities for him. He’s that good. Of course after two straight years of first round drafting in LABR, Jason and I weren’t able to get him this year
12:56
Comment From guest
how likely is Shelby Miller to keep this pace

12:58
Paul Sporer: This pace? Not at all. No one can be predicted at that kind of level. But as a big time arm? Very good chance. He was excellent in 2013 and still not *that* bad last year despite the skills drop. I think his 2014 overly soured too many people
12:58
Comment From Brian
Trade Springer (22nd round keeper for two more seasons after this one) and Yelich for McCutchen in 10 team roto league?

12:59
Paul Sporer: I wouldn’t do that. Springer is killing it even with the weak AVG and at that cost, it’s too much to give
12:59
Comment From Houzer
Holds league and looking for a SP/RP to grab some points … Congrani or Maurer?

12:59
Paul Sporer: I like Maurer more
12:59
Comment From Pale Hose
When will Paul Sporer get a regular chat slot?

1:00
Paul Sporer: We’ve been talking about a regular Sunday evening since that’s usually transaction night in leagues, but we haven’t been able to get it going because of various things (holidays, my move). But we’re working on something!
1:00
Comment From Matt
I’ve been offered Torii Hunter, Martin Prado, and Carlos Rodon for Carlos Carrasco and Addison Russell. Am I crazy to not want to do that?

1:00
Paul Sporer: Not at all. I wouldn’t do it.
1:00
Comment From Tim
Freeman and Grilli for Meadows and Bell….Too steep a price for the Pirates?

1:01
Paul Sporer: Yes, that’s a lot.
1:01
Comment From Big Joe Mufferaw
Ellsbury or Gardner ROS?

1:01
Paul Sporer: I gotta take the healthier guy
1:01
Comment From Bob
Josh Donaldson was ridiculous last night.

1:01
Paul Sporer: He’s so good.
1:01
Comment From Reginald Denton III
Hey Paul! Thoughts on Buchholz’ start last night? I know he didn’t wow, but he was solid after the 1st inning. And the Twinkies have been tough lately.

1:02
Paul Sporer: Didn’t get a chance to check it out. I’m open to the idea that his skills this year may have some legitimacy, but I still don’t trust him upstairs. Until he can show that he’s mentally able to avoid the implosion start, I’m always going to be worried. There’s a lot of talent there and that’s become obvious, but I’m not sure he’ll ever maximize it.
1:03
Comment From JJP
I’ve got too many players possibly traded to the AL. Which one is the biggest risk to lose and thus should be traded: Cueto, Hamels, Revere, Tulo?

1:03
Paul Sporer: I’d imagine the Phillies are the most prone. Cincy will be reluctant fold, plus Cueto’s recent health scare. And trading Tulo is really difficult w/that contract, plus he’s sucking lately (though that won’t stop teams from wanting him… it could be more of an attitude than skills thing right now, tbh)
1:04
Comment From John Farrell
Should we be expecting to see Eduard Rodriguez called up in the relatively near future? When he does get called up, how high can his ceiling be going forward? Should I be excited to own him in my AL-only league?

1:04
Paul Sporer: He’s been called up.
1:04
Comment From Mr. Anderson
I have Tulo in a 20 man league and he is driving me nuts. Do you think I should hold onto him or push to move him?

1:04
Paul Sporer: Depends what you can get back. If you can fill three or four holes in such a deep league, then I can get behind it. But you’re selling low.
1:04
Comment From Big Joe Mufferaw
Fun Fact, Betances has thrown 2 no hitters this season (1 stretch where hitters went 0-27, and currently in a stretch of 0-28). He’s good

1:05
Paul Sporer: He’s amazing. I got a lot of heat regarding him in the Spring and early part of the season. My investments obviously won’t pay the expected dividends bc he’s not closing, but I got Miller in two of the leagues I draft DB so I’m good to go overall
1:05
Comment From Jack
What are your thoughts on Julio Teheran’s struggles thus far? Could he be the ace of a fantasy staff in your opinion?

1:06
Paul Sporer: He’s missing spots and badly. Sometimes good pitches are just getting hit and compounding the mistakes, but a lot of it is just Teheran’s own mistakes. There was some great analysis by Mark Mulder on the ESPN game last night
1:06
Comment From Pop
I just traded Shelby Miller and Cecil for Altuve. How did I do?

1:06
Paul Sporer: That’s pretty good. I like it for both clubs assuming the needs align with the acquisitions
1:06
Comment From Haymaker
12 team mixed w/3 starting OF slots: LF, CF, RF. Currently using R. Castillo and A. Either as CF options but D. Span was just dropped. I have the #1 waiver priority and am considering using it for Span (dropping Ethier). Enough of an upgrade to burn #1 waiver priority? Nice to have that in this keeper league because sometimes injured studs do get dropped and it’s nice to have first shot at them if they do.

1:07
Paul Sporer: Sucks to drop Ethier because he’s been so good, but I prefer Span by a lot.
1:07
Comment From metzwinston
Wondering if it’s silly to own Gattis, but keep Norris as security measure in 1 catcher, 10 team, OBP league? Have Rizzo, Sanatana, Brantley to compensate with the Gattis K’s? So many FA pitchers I am drooling over out there. Maybe trade Norris…hmmm.. *thinks*

1:08
Paul Sporer: I like Norris, espec. in OBP, but you can find a perfectly suitable replacement if Gattis goes down even if it’s not quite as good as Norris
1:08
Comment From Big Joe Mufferaw
who’s your favorite team?

1:08
Paul Sporer: Tigers
1:08
Comment From Hoff
How much FAAB would you spend on Charlie Morton?

1:09
Paul Sporer: That’s really vague. League type and budget really matter. I’d spend a few bucks. He’s solid, but unspectacular
1:09
Comment From Pop
Will the Blue Jays pen ever get a save chance?

1:10
Paul Sporer: Right? They steamroll or walk off in their wins or lose close
1:10
Comment From Jay (work)
About to run Carrasco out there vs. Rangers. As my SP4, is that wise?

1:10
Paul Sporer: Yeah, it’s fine. Texas is playing brilliantly, but Carrasco is a start-always guy, IMO. His skills are much better than the ERA.
1:11
Comment From ben
cutch for felix and denard span?

1:11
Paul Sporer: That’s a good deal
1:11
Comment From SF Dave
I’m here! I’m here! I love the last week of school, nothing to do but talk with you fine folks.

1:11
Comment From Miles
What do you think about Aaron Barrett for Washington? I’m in a deep league with lots of room for relievers

1:12
Paul Sporer: Impressive skills. ERA is up there w/6 ER allowed in his last 8 app., but he’s been pretty good. You might find better middle relievers out there w/a better shot to close since Storen is dominating.
1:12
Comment From Steve
What kind of stat line do you think Jorge Soler will put up ROS?

1:14
Paul Sporer: His current AVG and OBP seem right, but there’s gotta be more power coming! At least a .430-.440 SLG, I’d hope. So about 13-14 HRs the rest of the way unless he really turns the flyballs up and goes for power, then he could pop 18-20 rest of way
1:19
Paul Sporer: BRB guys, gotta take the dog out
1:22
Comment From Dewey
Is Cano/Gomez for Kendrick/Gardner/Casilla/Samardzija vetoable in a 5×5?

1:24
Paul Sporer: No. Cano is more name than performance and Kendrick/Gardner are more performance than name right now. I prefer the Gomez side, but it’s not an awful deal
1:24
Comment From Dave
After last nights game, i would once again like to thank Billy Beans for giving us Josh Donaldson, guy’s incredible 🙂

1:25
Comment From Colin
Didn’t realize you were in Austin. This rain is insane. Thoughts on Tomas going forward? In a shallow league and trying to decide if I should hold him or drop for Mous

1:25
Paul Sporer: drop for Mous immediately!!! how is Mous available?? the rain FINALLY stopped just a few minutes ago.
1:25
Comment From Carlos
His Harvey or my Arenado? 10 team mixed, H2H 5×5 w/OBP and QS

1:28
Paul Sporer: That’s a perfectly fair deal
1:29
Comment From Maverick
Fly me to the danger zone…would you trade Jones and Shield for Harper or maybe, Kershaw straight up?

1:29
Paul Sporer: Who’d fill in for the second guy you’re dealing?
1:29
Comment From George is Curious
Please rank ROS: Miley, Gausman, Gibson, Pomeranz. Merci beaucoup!!!

1:38
Paul Sporer: Pomeranz, Miley, Gausman, Gibson… still worried about Gausman getting and holding a spot
1:38
Comment From A Sad Tulo Owner
tell me it’s gonna be alright ;_;

1:41
Paul Sporer: I think he wants out and it’s impacting his play. Just a guess and I know I’m playing into narrative a bit, but I think it’s viable
1:41
Comment From Carson
sigh…

1:41
Paul Sporer: What are you sighing about?
1:41
Comment From Johnson
How do you think playing time for the Dodgers shakes out for the rest of the year? Between LF and 3B, they’ve got Guerrero, Olivera, Crawford, Van Slyke, Turner and Seager waiting in AAA.

1:46
Paul Sporer: I’d bet on Guerrero and Turner right now. I don’t think Seager comes up unless one or two of those guys goes down
1:46
Comment From Houzer
Correa finishes as a Top 8 SS. True or False?

1:47
Paul Sporer: False. I realize it’s a low bar bc of SS, but we just have no clue when he’s coming and how he’ll perform
1:47
Comment From Kevin
Paul, Getting hammered with offers for Correa in a 20 team keeper league in which I’m middle of the pack. There have been a couple of maybe offers (lucroy). Is he the type of player you want to build your keeper team around?

1:48
Paul Sporer: I think you gotta hang on. While I would’t predict the Top 8 SS as asked above, I also don’t believe he’s unreasonable for suggesting it because the do-it-all profile of Correa is conducive to elite production
1:48
Comment From Colby
For det buy tickets on stubhub a few hours before. copa is a good park to roam so anywhere lower is awesome. Stick to the Arena distict to stay and greektown/foxtown area is good pre game. Also a little further out is corktown and mid town. Corktown has green dot stables and slows and midtown has Hopcat if you’re into beer

1:48
Comment From Shawn
Think better results are ahead for Anibal Sanchez?

1:50
Paul Sporer: Yeah, but he needs to tighten up the command. He’ll be cruising for 3 IP and then just lose it, leave a couple fatties over the heart and he’s down 5-0 in the blink after three perfect innings or something. It’s been that kind of back-n-forth and it’s been maddening. Skills are there, this is on him to sharpen up, though
1:50
Comment From Joe
So you’re just a construct of Carson Cistulli’s imagination?! EVERYTHING MAKES SENSE NOW.

1:50
Comment From Dan
My OF in a 12 team H2H is Trout, Brantley, Dickerson, Cargo, Span and Bruce we have 2 util spots. Who would you be looking to trade? I suld use a 1b as I have Carter and Napoli.

1:51
Paul Sporer: Trout, Brantley, and Span will likely get you the most because they’re healthy and crushing. Dickerson shouldn’t have plummeted in the market despite the injury, though, so you should still net a solid return for him
1:51
Comment From Jake
Pretty much time to cut bait on Gyorko even in deep keeper leagues right?

1:51
Paul Sporer: Never been in
1:51
Comment From Colin
Think Pedroia is just in a slump, or was the early season power a mirage?

1:52
Paul Sporer: That whole team is in a slump. I look at his work v. lefties and I can’t imagine he stays this bad. The numbers certainly suggest much better days ahead v. lefties
1:52
Comment From Colin
Thoughts on Billy Hamilton? His drop to the 9th spot in the lineup has really hurt his run production, but I am hopeful that he will run more. Assuming he ever gets on base

1:53
Paul Sporer: Hitting in the bigs is SO hard. I think he’s proof of that. And yet still a top 20 OF in ESPN’s Player Rater bc of that speed. Ya gotta hold, but it’s frustrating how modest his offerings are
1:53
Comment From Mike
Thoughts on Wade Miley? Seems to have turned the corner but ks are down and ground ball rate down from last year.

1:54
Paul Sporer: I really liked him coming in. I didn’t quite understand the complete meltdown so I’m not surprised to see him rebound. I still want to see the Ks return to be totally sold, but I think there’s something there
1:54
Comment From Ryan (D. Wright Question)
No DL spots in my league (12 teamer) and I have Wright, Dickerson, and Werth on the DL holding roster spots. You’re probably going to tell me to sit tight or cut Werth, no?

1:54
Paul Sporer: Yeah. Dickerson goes nowhere. You could move out on either of the others, but it seems tough to drop Wright yet even w/the bad news last week
1:55
Comment From John
booo! i hate CBS… we were on all star stats for years, they sold out to CBS and we get like none of the functionality we used to. We have been looking for new sites

1:55
Paul Sporer: I like CBS. Good app, too.
1:55
Comment From Lance
Paul, would you trade Encarnacion for Kershaw? I could pick up Duda or V Mart as a replacement for EE. Also Ortiz just hit my wire…Take Duda over him?

1:55
Paul Sporer: Yeah you can do that trade. I like Duda over Ortiz.
1:55
Comment From Hank
What are your thoughts long-term on Rougned Odor? Do you think he will come up and produce anything of value this year?

1:58
Paul Sporer: I understood the excitement with him. Super young and growth isn’t linear in players. Showing major life in AAA and I suspect he’ll return to Texas in ’15.
1:58
Comment From Ryan
Should I hold on to Norris? Expecting anything from him if he is called back up?

1:59
Paul Sporer: Daniel, I presume? League type matters most here. But I think I’m only holding in an AL right now
1:59
Comment From Jack Elliott
Glad to see Sporer dominating in Chat again. Do you think Ryan Howard has finally recovered from that Torn Achilles a while back? He’s hitting with power regularly again.

2:02
Paul Sporer: I bought in zero, but I’m glad he’s succeeding. It looks pretty believable, too. The BB% is way down, but everything else is strong.
2:02
Comment From Colin
Bauer , Anibal or Verlander in 6-cat that replaces W with QS and adds losses?

2:04
Paul Sporer: Man. That’s a tough trio. I’ll use JV’s injury to eliminate him here. I’ll go Bauer slightly over Anibal because Anibal’s HR issue is too much to ignore right now. These self-inflicted wounds must stop. Bauer is evolving nicely.
2:04
Comment From Dan
ROS Napoli, C.Carter or Laroche for a 12 team h2h?

2:04
Paul Sporer: http://www.fangraphs.com/fa…
2:04
Comment From Ben
10 tm mixed, got CarGo for essentially nothing and been holding him, is it safe to drop the former first rounder? I don’t understand how every site still has him as a top 40 OF

2:05
Paul Sporer: Yes it is. Just not striking the ball well enough to be successful. I can move on in a 10-teamer
2:05
Comment From L. Scott
Is Anibal Sanchez worth holding onto in a 12 team league? His velocity seems fine, what gives?

2:06
Paul Sporer: See previous discussions regarding him. Skills are still strong, but lots of self-inflicted damage w/the horribly missed spots resulting in homers
2:06
Comment From Shawn
Hutchison, Wood, RDLR, or Hahn ROS?

2:06
Paul Sporer: I’ll take ’em in that order
2:06
Comment From Gary
Carson Smith the closer?

2:06
Paul Sporer: Rodney’s leash is hella long, but he’s used most of it this year and Smith would have to get a shot.
2:07
Comment From Tony
You had David Price at the top of the non-Felix tier in March… Had he had much movement? GB% isn’t looking great. Still one of the elite?

2:08
Paul Sporer: It hasn’t been overwhelming skills-wise, but how can we complain about a 2.97 ERA and 1.17 WHIP? We should see a K jump rest of way. Still elite.
2:08
Comment From Haymaker
Which SP rest of season: A. Sanchez, P. Hughes, I. Kennedy?

2:08
Paul Sporer: That’s the order
2:08
Comment From Justin
Anthony Gose a poor-man’s Ellsbury for rest of season (considering Ellsbury’s lack of power this year & current injury)?

2:10
Paul Sporer: Yeah I liked him when the Tigers got him – https://twitter.com/sporer/… … Speed asset w/occasional pop and big runs thanks to that lineup w/more of a .280 AVG upside than the .338 we’ve seen so far
2:10
Comment From A+Point+Break+remake?!
A few of these guys have already come up, but a few haven’t, can you give me a rank ROS: Hahn, Anderson, Greene, Hutchinson?

2:11
Paul Sporer: Hutch, Greene, Anderson, Hahn … pretty tight bunch talent-wise, though
2:11
Comment From Lou Brown
Do you see a major uptick in PT for Alex Guerrero now? What kind of arm(s) would it take to land him would you say?

2:12
Paul Sporer: Yes, I do. I think it pained them to deal Uribe, but Guerrero and Turner have just been too good. Maybe like a Bauer-type? I think it’d take someone pretty good as his owner likely understands the upside potential with increased PT
2:12
Comment From Mike
Jason Heyward or Rusney ROS?

2:13
Paul Sporer: Rusney…. show me something Heyward, I’ve been on the Heyward Train from the start and I’m not completely jumping off, but at some point I need more. Rusney can do Heyward’s 2014 the rest of way (11 HR, 20 SB)
2:13
Comment From Reginald Denton III
Are you buying Ubaldo Jimenez? Or should we avoid him like the plague?

2:14
Paul Sporer: I’m not, no. He’s talented, no doubt, but the mechanics offer such little room for error that if he falls off, he’s headed all the way back down. Remember, he had a tremendous run w/Cle to end his tenure there
2:14
Comment From Brad
How many Anibal Sanchez questions are there going to be?

2:14
Paul Sporer: Lots it seems.
2:14
Comment From Elliott
Is Hundley or Swihart an adequate replacement for Mesoraco?

2:14
Paul Sporer: Yes, espec. given what Meso had been doing (nothing)
2:14
Comment From MSW
Buying low on Shoemaker?

2:14
Paul Sporer: You could, but it really depends on format. Command needs to pinpoint or HR-fest starts up.
2:14
Comment From Reef
Dozier or Cano, ROS?

2:14
Paul Sporer: Dozier
2:14
Comment From Salasaga
Justin Turner a good roster addition, since multiple position eligibility?

2:15
Paul Sporer: In a lot of leagues, yes. Probably still not 10 teamers even w/the Uribe move, but everything else
2:15
Comment From there are those who call me tim
Plouffe or Santana at 3B rest of the way in a 16-team OBP redraft league?

2:15
Paul Sporer: Santana, but I’m a Plouffe fan
2:15
Comment From Justin
Mous for Gio?

2:15
Paul Sporer: Fair.
2:15
Comment From Dan
Simple question: Ian Kennedy or Jimmy Nelson ROS?

2:15
Paul Sporer: Nelson.
2:15
Comment From Kris
colby lewis lol

2:15
Paul Sporer: We knew it was coming

2:15
Comment From RISP In Peace
Hey Paul!

2:15
Paul Sporer: Hola!
2:15
Comment From Reef
Is Eduardo Rodriguez worth a pick up in mixed 12 team leagues?

2:16
Paul Sporer: Lots of E-Rod questions, too. I’d have to be pretty ransacked pitching-wise in a 12-teamer, but I’d go for him in every other format for sure.
2:16
Comment From Curtis
Will a defensive stat ever be common in a 5×5 ? if so, which one?

2:16
Paul Sporer: No, I can’t see it
2:16
Comment From Steve
Who would you rather have in 2016 – $19 Brett Gardner or $1 Dalton Pompey?

2:16
Paul Sporer: Still Gardner.
2:16
Comment From ROS:Liriano, Bauer, Salazar, Nelson, Greene, Syndergaard
ROS:Liriano, Bauer, Salazar, Nelson, Greene, Syndergaard

2:17
Paul Sporer: I think off the top of my head — Liriano, Bauer, Syndergaard, Salazar, Nelson, Greene… Nelson gets the edge w/more Ks and the easier NL over Greene, but they’re close.
2:17
Comment From Shawn
Are you concerned at all about Tulo or do you think he starts Tuloing?

2:17
Paul Sporer: Slightly concerned, yes. But I think it’s more attitude than skills.
2:17
Comment From Eric Weinstein
If you had Tulo, would you trade him for Danny Salazar?

2:17
Paul Sporer: No
2:18
Comment From Colin
Think Choo can keep up his level of production from the last month?

2:18
Paul Sporer: Yes, I do. I think when healthy, he’s still near-elite.
2:18
Comment From Damon
In roto keeper league where I’m last in Ks would you give a $2 Keuchel for a $25 Strasburg?

2:18
Paul Sporer: Ooh that’s really tough. I think Keuchel-Stras straight up is question so factoring in the $ leans me toward Keuchel, tbh, even with the Ks need
2:18
Comment From hscer
Over at B-R, Jason Kipnis just became the second position player to reach 3.0 WAR. Bryce Harper has 4.1. I have no question here.

2:18
Comment From Jake
Eduardo Rodriguez called up to face the Rangers. Any thoughts on him?

2:19
Paul Sporer: Lots, scroll up! 🙂
2:19
Comment From Mike Fiers
Starting me today?

2:19
Paul Sporer: Yeah, if I have you, you’re in my lineup still
2:19
Comment From Houzer
2 part question : Better finishing line this year- Butler or VMart? And … which whiskey should Dombrowski be drinking to wash away his sorrows on his decision?

2:20
Paul Sporer: Butler gets the edge just bc of the PT advantage while VMart is out, but I’m still interested in VMart upon return. I don’t drink anymore so I don’t have any good answers here. Is the drunk Mila Kunis hocks a whiskey? That one.
2:20
Comment From John
whats wrong with eddie butler? he both gives up entirely too much contact and nibbles off the edges. How are both things possible? I thought he was a groundball pitcher, just throw in the zone

2:21
Paul Sporer: As if it’s that easy to just throw it in the zone! Not sure there’s anything *wrong* so much as it is that baseball is EXTREMELY hard, especially for a rookie pitching in Coors. Give him some time. Not on your fantasy roster necessarily, but just overall
2:21
Comment From mike
Polanco is sitting against another righty today! Time to move on in an 11-team roto or is still a hold?

2:21
Paul Sporer: Non keeper without a speed need, I can move off in that format
2:21
Comment From Adam
What do you make of Preston Tucker?

2:23
Paul Sporer: I like him a decent bit. Tried to get him everywhere upon arrival. I think he’s a pure hitter. Never got prospect acclaim bc he was a college kid who was old for his levels and can’t really play any D. But he’s a hitter. Could see a 120ish wRC+ rest of way
2:23
Comment From Justin
How many more bad outings for Rodney before Carson Smith gets the job?

2:23
Paul Sporer: I can’t imagine many. We’ve hit the Rodney/Smith deal a good bit so far, sorry if you missed it. I like Smith a lot.
2:23
Comment From Pale Hose
Thoughts on Mad Men finale?

2:24
Paul Sporer: I really liked it. Those expecting some grandiose out-with-a-bang episode clearly never understood the series. I wasn’t the least bit surprised that the penultimate ep had more drama and excitement. Great finale, brilliant series.
2:24
Comment From Curtis
Who is your favorite under the radar hit you pulled so far this year? someone you gambled on and has paid off big so far…

2:25
Paul Sporer: Brandon Crawford. Got him in four leagues http://www.fangraphs.com/fa…) and recommended him as a sleeper (http://www.fangraphs.com/fa…)
2:25
Comment From Rags
Heyward for Polanco straight up?

2:25
Paul Sporer: Still riding Heyward there
2:25
Comment From ryN
Is Prince for deGrom fair or is he worth a better arm?

2:26
Paul Sporer: No that’s really fair. Both very good. I prefer the hitter in those situations, but it’s good for the Prince owner if his O is crushing and he needs an impact arm
2:28
Comment From mtsw
Please, quickly talk me out of starting Josh Hamilton in DFS (batting 5th, very reasonable price) in DFS today.

2:28
Paul Sporer: LOL, too late now obviously. Did you do it?
2:28
Comment From Biggy
Addison russell or Carlos Correa in a keeper? Should I take either over Starlin Castro?

2:29
Paul Sporer: Russell over Correa barely, but Castro over both for me, still
2:29
Comment From G
Any chance Gallo comes up this year? Is Hamilton any sort of road block?

2:30
Paul Sporer: I wouldn’t bet on it, but I can’t in good conscious rule it out because we just don’t know. Hamilton is sort of a block, but let’s see how he hits. Beltre, Moreland, and Fielder are blocks, too. As three of the corners and DH are where he can legitimately play
2:30
Comment From Jack
Velasquez, Farmer, Nola, Hoffman, Reyes – Who in order would you stash for help this year and early next?

2:31
Paul Sporer: Farmer, Velasquez, Nola, Reyes, Hoffman
2:31
Paul Sporer: Duda is such a beast.
2:31
Comment From Pale Hose
Can you outline a brief basic approach for DFS beginners?

2:32
Paul Sporer: That’s really tough in a chat. Hit up this pod – https://rotogrinders.com/po…
2:32
Comment From Biggy
Danny Salazar over Yordano Ventura? Both are very frustrating, seem to be inconsistent. Is Yordano a big tease?

2:33
Paul Sporer: Yeah, prefer Salazar. I have a ceiling on his ERA bc of his HR issues, but the K numbers make up for it
2:33
Comment From Joe
Preston Tucker has been absolutely killing it. What do you think of him?

2:33
Paul Sporer: Scroll up not too far
2:33
Comment From Billy
How long til the twinkies call up Pinto???

2:33
Paul Sporer: He isn’t exactly crushing Triple-A and making a case
2:33
Comment From Billy
Is billy burns for real or should I sell high??

2:34
Paul Sporer: He’s a legit speed asset so if that’s your need, hang on. Otherwise, you can move him to a speed-starved team for a decent return
2:34
Comment From Ben
Do you think we see Steven Matz or Kyle Schwarber anytime soon?

2:35
Paul Sporer: No, they’re already doing a 6-man rotation so it’d require injury. And where would Schwarber play? So I can’t see him moving up either, not without Triple-A experience
2:35
Comment From hscer
Will Trout ever post a .432 OBP again?

2:35
Paul Sporer: Probably
2:35
Comment From mtsw
You buying Mike Wright as a guy who’ll stick in the Orioles rotation? Looked great so far but feels very fluky when coming in his rep was as a AAAA/bullpen type arm.

2:36
Paul Sporer: Yes, I quite like what we’ve seen. Big velo spike from minor league reports has me believing.
2:36
Comment From Linny
Which one do I drop? Hahn, Pomeranz, Fiers, D. Norris, McCullers?

2:36
Paul Sporer: Norris
2:36
Comment From pirates hurdles
Need SP badly due to an uneven autodraft in a NL only, Harper, Puig for Bryant, Cole, Burnett, Morton?

2:36
Paul Sporer: That’s not too bad. Why three Pirates? I mean, Cole is an ace and Burnett is pitching like one. Bryant covers the Harper loss. Morton solid. Good deal, even though it’s hard to deal Harper
2:36
Comment From Linny
20 team 15 keeper league

2:37
Paul Sporer: for what? I don’t remember what this is in reference to, sorry
2:37
Comment From Coach
Is Billy Burns rosterable for OF help? Or is his OPS drag too much to overcome for the speed he offers?

2:37
Paul Sporer: See above
2:37
Comment From Biggy
Pitcher question: LIncecum, Burnett, Roark? what order?

2:37
Paul Sporer: Burnett, Roark (if Fister goes down long-term), Lincecum
2:37
Comment From seth0310
What is a fair return for Chapman? Keep forever head to head, 6X6 OBP, Hlds . Team is on the brink of being out of it and I am looking to just punt saves in hopes of winning a few other categories each week.

2:37
Paul Sporer: Should net a pretty big return. He’s as elite as it gets
2:37
Comment From Jay (work)
What are your thoughts on Allen and the closer situation in CLE? McAllister or Shaw a possibility, not that either have been great?

2:38
Paul Sporer: That’s the thing, no one is pushing him. McAllister is a sneaky choice, though. I think he plays up in the pen (as everyone does). I wasn’t buying the velo spike as a reason to roster him as SP this Spring, but I’m on board w/him as an elite RP
2:38
Comment From Graham
Worth dropping Tanner Roark or Harang for Eduardo Rodriguez?

2:39
Paul Sporer: Nah. I’d be surprised if he matched Harang. That’d be a win for Boston
2:39
Comment From Abe
Is there anything worse than CBS locking the entire roster when the first game of the day starts? How hard could it be for them to change to individual lock times?

2:39
Paul Sporer: Yeah that definitely sucks. It’s not perfect (like any site), but that’s my biggest annoyance. Much worse when an early NL game locks my AL roster.
2:39
Comment From Steve
5×5 14 team dynasty league w/ OBP and TB instead of AVG and HR. Would you rather have Gallo or Addison Russell in 2016?

2:39
Paul Sporer: Russell
2:39
Comment From Bold
My Donaldson, Carpenter and King Felix for Harvey and Freddie Freeman in a keeper league with no salary or restrictions – just keep 6 players every year. I also have Jose Fernandez, Gerrit Cole, Rizzo, Altuve, Dickerson, Lucroy. Thoughts on selling soon-to-be 30 year olds for 26 Harvey and 25 Freeman?

2:40
Paul Sporer: I think you’re giving too much, tbh. The long-term thinking around Harvey is inflating his value. He and Felix are equals and then you’re looking at the two 3Bs for Freeman which is just too much
2:40
Comment From Miles
Will Javy Baez hit .200 in the majors this year?

2:41
Paul Sporer: Yeah he definitely can. Still lots of skill, too soon to say he’s THIS and can’t change
2:42
Comment From dude
Sorry, I’m new at this. I was looking at Panda’s numbers. He has 0.0 Off and -2.0 Def, so it would seem he has provided negative value, but he has 0.4 WAR. Where is does the difference come from?

2:42
Paul Sporer: Fair question. I don’t really know. Anyone in the chat have any ideas there?
2:42
Comment From pirates hurdles
In a dynasty h2h format, Stroman for Alex Wood? I’m contending this year.

2:42
Paul Sporer: That’s not a bad return, but I love Stroman.
2:42
Comment From hscer
Howard had 572 RBI from 2006-09. That doesn’t matter at all and yet seems hugely impressive somehow.

2:44
Paul Sporer: It does matter. Just because RBI counts aren’t talent meters doesn’t mean RBIs as a whole are completely unimportant. My only backlash on them is when they’re used as the defining reason to suggest someone is good or better than another player bc they’re SO context dependent
2:44
Comment From BC
Have you looked closely at DeShield’s numbers? Dude stole 100 bases in the minors not long ago with great OBPs. He seems to be carrying both skills over to the majors, yet there is no hype? Thoughts on DeShields?

2:46
Paul Sporer: Yeah, I’m a fan. My only reservation coming into the season was his being blocked by Martin (whom I love, but obviously is struggling mightily). I wrote in the Rangers OF write up that he was someone to watch and you shouldn’t ignore him just bc his Rule 5 status. the BB% is gold w/his kind of speed. Imagine if BHamilton could walk like that?!
2:46
Comment From Jingle Bells
Thoughts on Jose Ramirez? I’m forced to roll him out as my SS right now, and there are literally no better options available on the waiver wire. Is he in immediate danger of losing his starting gig, or will he hang on to the starting gig for awhile longer? Also, will he remember how to hit some time soon?

2:47
Paul Sporer: Eno likes him more than I do. I don’t see too much there, but he’s obviously better than a .499 OPS. But I’m not sure he’s much more than a .660 OPS the rest of the way
2:47
Comment From Biggy
Traded Votto and Salazar for Jose Abreu, OBP counts in this league. Feel like Votto has peaked, and selling as high as possible. Good trade?

2:48
Paul Sporer: Well I love Votto so there’s that. I think it’s a perfectly defensible trade, especially given your feelings on Votto. Probably wouldn’t have had to give Salazar back in late-April when Votto was totally peaking, but you’re unlikely to super-regret this deal even if Votto does as I suspect
2:49
Comment From RYan
Traded Kang for Bucholz in a 16 team dynasty. Am i crazy to keep betting on his FIP?

2:49
Paul Sporer: That’s not a bad deal, though I like Kang and would prefer to be on the other side of that deal. I worry about Buchholz mentally. He can’t avoid the implosion start
2:49
Comment From John
i jumped on the frias bandwagon… hard thrower, good rates… padres KILLED him last start. just a blip or just not a good pitcher

2:50
Paul Sporer: Two of his starts have been historically bad these last two years. Not sure what happens there when a guy just takes it on the chin. I still buy a lot of the good we saw prior to the meltdown
2:50
Comment From Chris
I dropped Kendall Graveman for Eduardo Rodriguez. Our league is K-BB for pitchers as opposed to just K’s. Decent gamble?

2:50
Paul Sporer: That’s totally fine
2:50
Comment From Brad
Encarnacion for Hosmer and Soler?

2:50
Paul Sporer: Really fair.
2:50
Comment From Will in NJ
Porcello getting absolutely shelled right now in MIN. What’s his long-term outlook in a keep forever dynasty league?

2:51
Paul Sporer: Well, I’m a long-term believer. I really wish he’d have stayed w/Detroit as I love his groundball approach w/Iglesias and Kinsler, but he’s gotta away from it in Boston for some reason. I still think he has big potential, but I’m lowering my percentages on him reaching it
2:51
Comment From Will in NJ
Thoughts on Shoemaker ROS? He looked good last night vs SD

2:52
Paul Sporer: Needs to command his stuff to be good otherwise it’s REALLY bad. There isn’t much in between
2:52
Comment From Jack
Gotta be new record for length of chat! Thanks! B. Hamilton BABIP .240 & OBP is .257. Last year BABIP .304. All other peripherals look like last year. Does that mean he can be a .317 OBP ROS?

2:53
Paul Sporer: I’ve done much longer! Yes he can be. He’ll probably start getting more infield hits, too. But I wouldn’t expect much more than that .317 barring some real skills development
2:53
Comment From Chris
ROS: Dee Gordon vs. Jose Altuve

2:54
Paul Sporer: Tie? Do I have to pick? Both elite. Love both. If forced, gimme Altuve by a hair rest of way, but really have a hard time splitting these two
2:54
Comment From Oz
Looks like the Bucs are saving Cole from a tough lose. Early season Cy Young candidate

2:54
Paul Sporer: Loving it. The ace transformation is happening. Was between he and Wacha for my NL Cy since I was trying to avoid chalk Kershaw
2:54
Comment From Brad
If the Jays would get some save opportunities then Cecil would be out and Osuna in as closer by now.

2:55
Paul Sporer: Maybe, but Cecil has a 1.29 ERA and 9 Ks in 7 IP this month. He’s been v. good
2:55
Comment From hscer
Is the difference in value between tv w/blackouts and radio w/out blackouts really 75 bucks a year?

2:55
Paul Sporer: I guess so?
2:56
Comment From SB
BTW, thanks for always chatting for so long! Really appreciated.

2:56
Paul Sporer: No problem. I enjoy chatting.
2:56
Comment From Joe
Javier Baez gonna get the call sometime soon?

2:56
Paul Sporer: Where’s he going to play?
2:56
Comment From BC
Billy Burns or DeShields in OBP League ROS?

2:56
Paul Sporer: DDS
2:56
Comment From Oz
Do you expect a full bounce back for Yan Gomes

2:57
Paul Sporer: More or less, yeah. I have him 7th rest of way, more bc of risers like Grandal, Martin, and Vogt as opposed to disbelief in him returning (had Gomes 3 to start season) http://www.fangraphs.com/fa…
2:57
Comment From Jeff in Allston
Better $1 Keeper in a 5×5 AL only, Pomeranz or Kiermaier?

2:57
Paul Sporer: Kiermaier
2:58
Comment From Joe
Send Bauer, Liriano, or Salazaar for Gattis? Too much?

2:58
Paul Sporer: All should get it done by themselves. Not sure it’s too high, especially if you believe Gattis will be better rest of way. I’d prefer to deal Salazar most of the three.
2:58
Comment From andrew
what are your thoughts on guys like Kemp, Heyward and Yelich? Think any of them end up having the year we hope they do? thanks.

3:00
Paul Sporer: I wasn’t too high on Kemp coming in as I bought into the concerns around the hips. I’d love to be wrong and see him dominate, but it’s not looking good. Also didn’t see the power surge many saw for Yelich, but I think he can at least be his ’14 self rest of way (prorated obviously). Heyward is maddening. I’m still a believer, but really need to see some results soon or the love will wane
3:00
Comment From Miles
Javy Baez Javy Baez Javy Baez. Dingers

3:00
Comment From Tony
I would have lost so much money on so many bets if someone had offered them to me prior to the season about the Twins performance thus far. (And I’m a Twins fan!) Is there any explanation for them so far? I just don’t get it.

3:00
Paul Sporer: Right?
3:01
Paul Sporer: That was one of the few teams I was certain was bad. I’m still entirely unsold on the rotation as it’s led by Pelfrey and Gibson. However, if Hughes continues to get better and Santana returns as himself, they could cover the regression for the other two. Berrios could be the game-changer they need. Pitching is why I’m super skeptical, but there is a path to remaining relevant
3:01
Comment From pirates hurdles
FYI, Brad Hand is a LHP, thus Polanco sits

3:01
Paul Sporer: Forgot it was Hand. Just took whomever said that re: him sitting at their word
3:02
Comment From Reef
Need a SS, who would you take ROS? Segura, A. Escobar, J. Turner, Andrus, or D. Santana?

3:02
Paul Sporer: Segura is coming back this week I believe and he’s the best bet probably
3:02
Comment From Salasaga
Corbin and Matt Moore. Ready to stash?

3:03
Paul Sporer: Maybe in super-deep, but I’m not expecting much
3:03
Comment From Mike
Eno Sarris wrote about Hahn’s improved change up. He looks impressive. Also a top 25 pitcher as far as FIP. Think he can finish better than Ian Kennedy??

3:04
Paul Sporer: He can, yes. Kennedy is just too much of a HR machine. Pretty much always has been and as his stuff wanes, his margin for error with the HRs shrinks considerably.
3:04
Comment From Not Buck Farmers Mom
Thoughts on Buck Farmer starting tomorrow?

3:06
Paul Sporer: Could be solid. Got a little MLB taste last year. Not a huge prospect, but throwing well at Triple-A. I’m intrigued. Deep league consideration (15+ teams). Wait and see in shallower ones
3:06
Comment From Coach
What kind of bat do you think Familia can return?

3:06
Paul Sporer: Depends how much need there is for saves, but he’s been fantastic so it should be a pretty good bat. I’d try for like a Charlie Blackmon
3:06
Comment From bb
Is Matt Kemp hurt? Petco doesn’t steal that many homers

3:06
Paul Sporer: I can’t imagine he’s at 100% That’d be scary.
3:06
Comment From Pop
AL only drop Adam Warren for Rodgriguez?

3:07
Paul Sporer: Yeah, you can do that. E-Rod might not be better than Warren if he proves to not be ready, but there is a real chance he exceeds Warren so it’s a good gamble
3:07
Comment From Brian
Do you think Cishek will ever get the closer job back?

3:07
Paul Sporer: I dunno, man. Ramos could be a stud.
3:07
Comment From JJP
Is Utley buy low in an NL only?

3:08
Paul Sporer: Yeah, should still be able to, too, despite a .345 AVG and .919 OPS in his last 17 games. Just couldn’t be as bad as we saw in April/early-May barring major injury that he was hiding or something. Just seemed impossible that he was 100% toast
3:08
Comment From TheTinDoor
Thoughts on CarGo ROS? I just bought low b/c I’m near the bottom and looking for that hail mary

3:08
Paul Sporer: Not a bad Hail Mary, but I think it’s going to go unanswered
3:08
Comment From Adam Osborn
Should I try to sell Doolittle before he plays a game?

3:09
Paul Sporer: That’s not a bad strategy at times, but you already waited it out and unless you’re getting big value in return, I’d just wait.
3:09
Comment From Vinotinto
Does it worth waiting for Marisnick or should I trade him? Target?

3:09
Paul Sporer: http://www.fangraphs.com/fa…
3:09
Comment From hscer
On Uribe-Callaspo: https://s-media-cache-ak0.p…

3:09
Comment From CTW
re: Moss/Moose question: I also have Ortiz in this triple slash, but I feel I can’t cut him even in an 8-teamer. Would you try to trade Ortiz based on name value? maybe package with an overachieving pitcher (Odorizzi) for an high-end SP?

3:10
Paul Sporer: yes, try that. Otherwise, you can cut him if no one bites. Moose and Moss are just better right now.
3:10
Comment From MSW
Sandoval or Plouffe ROS?

3:10
Paul Sporer: Plouffe
3:10
Comment From J-Dog
Alex Wood worth rostering in a a 12 team H2H Points league?

3:10
Paul Sporer: Do you have distinct SP/RP slots and you can slot him in RP to get extra starts over the rest of the league? If so, sure. If not, you could maybe stream him, but I’m not so high on him
3:11
Comment From Justin
ROS, McCutchen vs Jones

3:11
Paul Sporer: Cutch
3:11
Comment From Coach
Kang, Colabello or Burns today only?

3:11
Paul Sporer: Sorry, way late on this, I presume. I played Kang in DFS
3:11
Comment From Biggy
Dump Heyward for Alex gordon in a keeper? Just soooooooo ready to move on

3:12
Paul Sporer: You can. Like I said, I love Heyward and I remain on the train, but I understand the frustration and honestly Heyward might end up just being another Gordon which is so far from bad it’s not even funny, but it’s also not elite so it will be seen as disappointing. Take the guy actually playing at Alex Gordon levels right now
3:12
Comment From MSW
Better DL stash, Gausman or Morrow? Think Gausman starts?

3:12
Paul Sporer: Morrow for now. Still a Gausman believer long-term, but it’s so uncertain right now
3:13
Comment From Pennsy
Who sits in the Nats infield when Anthony Rendon returns?

3:13
Paul Sporer: Both Yunel and Espinosa take a hit
3:13
Comment From David
I just traded Reyes for Trumbo fair value?

3:14
Paul Sporer: Speed for power. That’s fine. You have backup SS so you’re good
3:14
Comment From BC
Teheran is going to be fine right? His peripherals seem to have fallen off a cliff.

3:15
Paul Sporer: A lot of this is on him. This isn’t just a stud arm getting unlucky or anything. He’s not pitching to his ’14 level. Missing spots. Getting in bad counts. Just very inconsistent right now and tough to figure out. I can’t go cutting him or anything, but I’m concerned and he’s moved down the ladder for me
3:15
Comment From Biggy
How far has Rendon and Puig’s stock fallen in a keeper league? Rendon has significant injury history, and Puig has hd one every year. What do you think?

3:16
Paul Sporer: they both have taken a hit for sure. neither have their skills in question, but skills are only good if they’re being used. i still like these types, though, because you’re only some health away from superstar seasons so i’ll still bet on these types over the guys who have the skills potential but need 2-3 things to develop or even that one missing piece.
3:16
Comment From marichal
Matz make an impact this year?

3:16
Paul Sporer: Doubtful. Already running six out there. Would take some injuries, but that’s not out of realm given SPs
3:16
Comment From marichal
Jake Peavy, Jaime Garcia, or Patrick Crobin ROS?

3:16
Paul Sporer: That’s the order
3:16
Comment From Tony
Is Tolleson for real? I’m thinking of offering Doolittle for Paredes (Wright on my bench)? Thoughts on both questions?

3:18
Paul Sporer: Tolleson’s skills are really strong and believable. I think he can hold this the rest of the way. You’re buying high on Paredes, but I think he can be an .800 OPS the rest of the way so that’s still pretty good.
3:18
Comment From hscer
A misunderstanding from 12:30 gets posted at 3:10. Love chats!

3:18
Paul Sporer: I’m going as fast as I can
3:18
Comment From Andrew
Turner or Zobrist ROS?

3:18
Paul Sporer: Z
3:18
Comment From Maxamuz
I just came back from break and you’re still chatting. You’re now my 2nd favorite chatter behind only Eno.

3:18
Paul Sporer: Wooo!!!
3:18
Comment From Brad
Good time to buy low on Puig right now?

3:19
Paul Sporer: Probably won’t get much lower, so yeah
3:19
Comment From Pale Hose
Answer to Sandoval WAR question is league and replacement adjustments.

3:19
Comment From BC
Hughes or Lohse ROS?

3:19
Paul Sporer: Still Hughes, but I think Lohse will be “himself” or very close to it for the rest of the way. Looked like he was on the track before getting crushed again. Needs fewer meltdowns (they both do, really). Bottom line is they’re closer than they were to start the season as Hughes has moved down my list (after starting REALLY high…)
3:20
Comment From Taylor B
Need to move one. Who do you like ROS: Ian Desmond or Brandon Crawford? Do we see significant regression to the mean on either?

3:21
Paul Sporer: I think Desmond will get better, but I’m buying the Crawford surge. He’ll drop some, but I don’t see him cratering. They’re much closer than they were to start the season. My real concern on Desmond is the speed. Without that, he’s not the prime asset I thought he was.
3:22
Comment From MSW
Fangraphs just tweeted out an ICYMI for your chat…

3:22
Paul Sporer: As if it’s done?
3:22
Comment From Abe
Fangraphs just tweeted the ICYMI link to this chat.

3:23
Comment From hscer
Bryce Harper has more NL ASG votes than anyone and is also the only National in the top 5 in any position

3:23
Comment From Another Guy
Thoughts on what Moncada could be? What position he will be at?

3:24
Paul Sporer: Really tough to say right now. The ceiling is sky-high, though. I’d lean on the prospect guys there. My bandwidth is such that I don’t really start paying attention until Double-A when it comes to in-season. I can only really dedicate to MLB and Triple-A with some strong Double-A knowledge. In the offseason, I study the really low minors prospects, but in season, I lean on the prospect folks
3:24
Comment From Brett
Is Steven Matz worth the speculative add in 12-team non-keeper roto, or waiver wire the better play? Need SP

3:24
Paul Sporer: Nah. Where’s he gonna pitch? 7-man rotation?
3:24
Comment From Reef
Does Jaime Garcia stay healthy through June?

3:25
Paul Sporer: I’d bet against just because the odds are probably -2000 that he gets hurt. I hate to predict that for someone, too
3:25
Comment From Christian
What would Haren cost in a trade? Mariners could sure use some pitching depth. I’m assuming Seattle qualifies under Haren’s strong desire to play on the west coast. Would a B level prospect get it done?

3:25
Comment From Jerry
Preston Tucker? I can make a hat, a broach, a pterdacktyl….

3:25
Paul Sporer: I don’t get that
3:25
Comment From Oz
Looking for saves going forward should I target Doolittle

3:25
Paul Sporer: I can’t imagine it’d take even that.
3:25
Paul Sporer: I think you can. I’m a big fan. Velo needs to tick up from minor league rehab, but it’s early in his season so I’m not worried. I think he’ll be great
3:25
Comment From Another Guy
Moncada or Wong/Hechavarria in a Dynasty?

3:26
Paul Sporer: Gimme the duo. Moncada is so far from delivering.
3:26
Comment From Guest
Adam Warren.. You Buying?

3:27
Paul Sporer: Not much to buy, tbh. Been league average results-wise with weak component numbers. Sell.
3:27
Comment From Brad
Angel Pagan, Joe Panik, Pompey, or Grichuk? Which one do I drop in a 20 teamer keeper league?

3:27
Paul Sporer: Pompey. Other three are all playing. Pompey showed he wasn’t ready and isn’t exactly ripping through Triple-A. Tough to let go, but you need to focus on the now
3:27
Comment From MSW
Who of these fellows do you like ROS, Hendricks, Shoemaker, Folty, Jaime Garcia?

3:28
Paul Sporer: That’s probably the order. Folty has some big upside if the command jumps forward, but I’m betting on more inconsistency throughout the year
3:28
Comment From Bah-Stun
Price, Greinke, Gio, Lackey, Hutchison, Pomeranz, Chavez, McCullers & Morton….drop any for EdRo?

3:28
Paul Sporer: Nah.
3:28
Comment From Currently on a Raft
Hey Paul, big fan of these chats. Thanks for your time. Was wondering what your opinion was on Yoan Moncada. Since he is so raw and a bit aways he is a tough player to value right now. I own Moncada in a Dynasty league and have been offered Wong/Hechavarria for him. Take the current value? Or keep the potential star?

3:29
Paul Sporer: Be careful on your raft. Check out my thoughts on Moncada just a little above this question. Too far out to get tooo psyched about just yet
3:29
Comment From Elliott
And I know I’m splitting hairs, but would rather own Blackmon or Bruce as your third outfielder? Also any thoughts about taking a flyer on P. Tucker?

3:29
Paul Sporer: Blackmon. Like tucker, but not over these guys. As a bench option, sure
3:29
Comment From Reginald Denton III
Thoughts on Kyle Hendricks? Streamer or rosterable in a 10 team mixed?





 

Carson Cistulli has published a book of aphorisms called Spirited Ejaculations of a New Enthusiast.

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Jeff
8 years ago

I want to roster all of these in a standard 10 team roto non keeper. Mccullers, Folty, Roark, Bauer, Carlos Martinez, buck farmer and now Eduardo Rodriguez. First in ERA and Whip, so i can take on the risk. can you rank for me?

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