Who is Scott Diamond? Mr. Diamond was not on the fantasy radar of even the most dedicated experts this season. His 2011 numbers were nothing to brag about with only 19 strikeouts in 39 innings and a bloated earned run average of 5.08 with a 1.74 walks-plus-hits per inning pitched (WHIP). His 2012 season has been a complete 180-degree turn as he has 12 quality starts in 17 outings with a current streak of three in a row. On Monday night, he earned his 10th win of the season as Minnesota routed Cleveland, 14-3. With an earned run average under 3 and low WHIP, he is definitely a “diamond in the rough” for fantasy owners this year.
It was a tough week in the Fantasy Sports Trade Association’s Experts League. For the first time in several weeks, the Sharks’ bats tanked! Joe Mauer, Mark Trumbo, Ryan Roberts, Gordon Beckham, Nelson Cruz, Justin Ruggiano, Josh Willingham and Cameron Maybin hit below the Mendoza Line for the week. That is quite a few key players all struggling during a particular week, so I will be optimistically hoping for a rebound this week. Surprisingly, pitching was decent with four wins earned, and only Felix Dubrount struggled. Although I sit in sixth place, I peaked earlier in the week at third and am still very close.
Juan Pierre - With Shane Victorino gone and Philadelphia serving as sellers with the trade deadline, Pierre’s job should be more secure. With only six at-bats last week, Pierre stole four bases. He should be in line for a week full of starts this week so grab him if you are in need of steals.
Steve Cishek - The Miami Marlins’ closer situation is more difficult to solve than a Rubik’s cube. Signs are pointing towards Cishek as the favored closer with four saves in the last two weeks. He can be a source of saves for you in the short term, but do not be surprised if Miami sticks Heath Bell back in the role sooner than later.
Adam Wainwright - Wainwright seems to finally be “right.” The St. Louis Cardinals ace has thrown four quality starts in a row with at least five strikeouts in each. He seems to have worked off the rust finally, but still may get hit hard every now and then. Wainwright is worthy to be owned and started with confidence.
The trade deadline is behind us. It’s time to make strides up the ranks as we approach the home stretch. Good luck this week!
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