Fantasy Baseball and MLB News, Rumors and Injury Updates

Weekly Transaction Analysis

March 31, 2006 @ 14:27:32

By KFFL Staff
Edited by Steve Ungrey

In this feature, we'll give you the straight scoop on weekly transactions made throughout MLB, ranging from players placed on or activated from the disabled list (DL), players optioned to the minors or recalled from the minors, trades, placement on waivers, etc. In the "Key Moves" section, we'll examine the implications when key fantasy players are involved, while you'll also be kept in the loop on the entire gamut of player movement in the "Additional Moves" section. In the latter section, we'll cover the remainder of all the weekly transactions, although those players will typically have little or no fantasy value.

Keeping on top of this type of information is vital for fantasy managers, as roster management is something that has to be accounted for all throughout the season. For example, when a player is placed on the disabled list fantasy managers need to get them out of the active lineup and (if roster space permits) place them on your league's disabled list and pick up another player. A significant number of transactions will be made each week by MLB clubs; by understanding the ramifications of these moves you'll be better prepared to dominate your league.

Note: For this opening segment, we'll include all notable transactions occurring in March and a few key ones from February as well. Future editions will focus solely on the preceding week.

AMERICAN LEAGUE

Baltimore Orioles

Key Moves: Penn and Loewen Sent Down

Analysis: Future stars SP Hayden Penn and Adam Loewen will open the year in the minor-leagues. Penn was optioned to Triple-A Ottawa while Loewen was sent to Double-A Bowie. Penn should make the more immediate impact and has some value in AL-Only leagues and in deep keeper leagues.

Additional Moves: Released RHP Ricky Bottalico and IF Luis Lopez. Optioned OF Val Majewski and SS Brandon Fahey to Triple-A Ottawa. Optioned OF Jeff Fiorentino, RHPs Marino Salas and Brian Finch to Double-A Bowie. Reassigned RHPs John Stephens, Winston Abreu, Ryan Keefer and Orber Moreno, LHPs Scott Rice and John Parrish, 1B Alejandro Freire, 1B-3B Andy Tracy, INF Leo Daigle, OF Keith Reed and Cs Brian Bock and Ryan Hubele to minor-league camp. Released RHP Ryan Jensen. RHP Brooks Kieschnick announced his retirement Feb. 15.

Boston Red Sox

Key Moves: Pena Acquired; Choi Claimed; Gonzalez Signed

Analysis: Slugging OF Wily Mo Pena was acquired from the Cincinnati Reds March 20 in exchange for SP Bronson Arroyo and cash. Pena likely won't get as many at-bats in Boston, as he will be used primarily in a platoon role with OF Trot Nixon in right field. However, he still has some fantasy value this year and even more in keeper leagues. The team also claimed 1B Hee Seop Choi off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers March 24. Choi will likely open the year with Triple-A Pawtucket but provides additional depth behind 1B Kevin Youkilis and 1B J.T. Snow. Finally, the team signed DH/OF Juan Gonzalez to a minor-league contract March 19, but by failing to report to camp he has seemingly given up on his chance at a comeback with the Red Sox. It seems he was disheartened by the team's acquisition of Pena.

Additional Moves: Optioned INF Alejandro Machado, LHPs Abe Alvarez and Jon Lester, RHPs Edgar Martinez, David Pauley, Jermaine Van Buren and Cla Meredith, and OFs Brandon Moss and David Murphy to Triple-A Pawtucket. Reassigned RHPs Matt Ginter, Jimmy Serrano, Tim Bausher and Franklin Nunez, LHPs Craig Breslow, Mike Bumatay and Phil Seiber, INFs Jed Lowrie, Rodney Nye and Josh Pressley, and OFs Ron Calloway, Luke Allen and Tyler Minges to minor-league camp. Signed C Javier Cardona to a minor-league contract. Returned Rule 5 RHP Jamie Vermilyea to the Toronto Blue Jays. Announced the retirement of C John Flaherty.

Chicago White Sox

Key Moves: Cintron and Thornton Acquired

Analysis: Chicago acquired INF Alex Cintron from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for RHP Jeff Bajenaru March 8. Cintron's value doesn't really change, as he'll continue to fill a super-utility role. In a more recent deal, the team added LHP Matt Thornton from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for OF Joe Borchard March 20. Thornton might help owners playing in leagues that count holds, but otherwise he won't be a fantasy asset. Meanwhile, look for RP Dustin Hermanson (back) to open the year on the DL. More on that will be coming next week.

Additional Moves: Reassigned RHPs Tim Redding, Agustin Montero and Lance Broadway, LHPs Javier Lopez, Armando Almanza, Ray Liotta, Chad Bentz, Corwin Malone and Stephen Randolph, 3B Josh Fields, OFs Darren Blakely, Ben Grieve and Ryan Sweeney, INFs Tim Hummel, Andy Gonzalez, Robert Valido and Jorge Velandia, and Cs Carlos Lee, Donny Lucy, and Gustavo Molina to minor-league camp. Optioned RHPs Sean Tracey and Charles Haeger, LHP Paulino Reynoso, INFs Pedro Lopez and Casey Rogowski, OF Jerry Owens and C Chris Stewart to Triple-A Charlotte. Outrighted LHP Arnie Munoz to Triple-A Charlotte. Signed OF Ruben Rivera and 1B Bucky Jacobsen to minor-league contracts. Claimed LHP Rusty Tucker off waivers from San Diego and placed him on the 40-man roster Feb. 14, then optioned him to Triple-A Charlotte March 7.

Cleveland Indians

Key Moves: Peralta, Lee and Sizemore Signed

Analysis: The club guaranteed they'd continue to have the services of 23-year-old SS Jhonny Peralta for the foreseeable future after signing him to a five-year contract with a club option for 2011. He is a rising star and could be one of the league's premier shortstops before long. LHP Cliff Lee and OF Grady Sizemore were also inked to one-year contracts, but the team erased Sizemore's one-year deal by inking him March 29 to a six-year, $23.5-million contract. Both of these players' careers are on the upswing, and Lee's deal could provide extra motivation for big seasons.

Additional Moves: Optioned RHPs Jeremy Guthrie, Andrew Brown, Kazuhito Tadano, Fausto Carmona, Jake Dittler, Edward Mujica and Brian Slocum, LHP Jason Stanford, INF/C Ryan Garko, OF Franklin Gutierrez and INF Andy Marte to Triple-A Buffalo. Reassigned RHP Ben Howard, LHPs Tony Sipp and Jeremy Sowers, INFs Jose Flores, Lou Merloni and Jake Gautreau, Cs Armando Camacaro and Javier Herrera, INF/OF Joe Inglett, and OFs Ryan Mulhern, Ben Francisco, Todd Donovan and Trevor Crowe to minor-league camp. Optioned OF Brad Snyder, INF Michael Aubrey and LHP Rafael Perez to Double-A Akron. Traded 1B Andy Tracy to the Baltimore Orioles for a player to be named Feb. 18. Signed LHP Jason Stanford, RHP Matt Miller and SS/2B Brandon Phillips to one-year contracts.

Detroit Tigers

Key Moves: Pena Released, Ledezma Sent Down

Analysis: The Tigers unconditionally released 1B Carlos Pena March 26. He had hit just .160 in spring action, while the team has turned the position over to up-and-coming 1B Chris Shelton. Pena may be able to catch on with another club, but doesn't offer any fantasy value. LHP Wilfredo Ledezma, who began the 2005 season as a starter, was optioned to Triple-A Toledo. In camp, he first lost out on a chance at the rotation and then he fell short for a spot in the bullpen. He could return and has some fantasy value if he's able to throw his fastball for a strike with greater regularity as well as upgrade his curveball.

Additional Moves: Assigned RHPs Chad Durbin, Lee Gardner, Tim Crabtree, Colby Lewis and Kevin Hodge, Cs Brian Peterson, Mike Rabelo, Danilo Sanchez, INF Kevin Hooper, 1B Josh Phelps and OFs Ryan Ludwick and Reggie Taylor to minor-league camp. Optioned RHPs Eulogio De La Cruz, Preston Larrison, Humberto Sanchez and Jordan Tata, INFs Tony Giarratano and Kody Kirkland and OF Brent Clevlen to Double-A Erie. Released RHP Matt Mantei from his Triple-A Toledo contract. Optioned P Kyle Sleeth (elbow) to Class-A Lakeland so he could continue his rehab process in minor-league camp.

Kansas City Royals

Key Moves: Hernandez Placed on DL

Analysis: SP Runelvys Hernandez (stamina) was placed on the 15-day disabled list March 27 for a lack of stamina. Even worse, he lost his standing as the No. 2 starter in the rotation and is now considered just the fifth starter. Also, closer Mike MacDougal (shoulder) is expected to miss the first month or so of the season and will likely be placed on the DL. An update on that will come next week. Meanwhile, the Royals have named RP Ambiorix Burgos the interim closer, although left-handed RP Andrew Sisco may also see occasional save opportunities. If you've already drafted, go ahead and grab Burgos if he's still available. If you have a last-minute draft coming up, keep him in mind towards the end of the proceedings.

Additional Moves: Reassigned RHPs Kyle Snyder, Adam Bernero, Dave Elder, Bob Keppel and Joe Nelson, OFs Chad Allen and Kerry Robinson, INFs Chris Clapinski, Wilson Valdez, Benji Gil and Mike Coolbaugh, and C Paul Phillips to Triple-A Omaha. Optioned 2B Donnie Murphy, RHP Brian Bass and INFs Andres Blanco, Ruben Gotay and Justin Huber to Triple-A Omaha. Reassigned 3B Alex Gordon and C Matt Tupman to Double-A Wichita. Optioned SS Angel Sanchez and LHP Juan Cedeo to Double-A Wichita. Signed RHP Luke Hudson to a Minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training. Re-assigned 1B Chris Richard, RHP Luis Cota and RHP Ryan Baerlocher to minor-league camp. Signed CF David DeJesus to a five-year contract with a club option for 2011.

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

Key Moves: Jeff Weaver Signed

Analysis: The team signed free agent RHP Jeff Weaver (Los Angeles Dodgers) to a one-year contract Feb. 15. Weaver joins the rotation and should be a viable fantasy option despite getting off to a slow start in spring training.

Additional Moves: Reassigned RHPs Matt Hensley, Thomas Mendoza, Alex Serrano, Dustin Moseley and David Austen, LHPs Tim Bittner, Dan Davidson, Nathan Bland and Jon Rouwenhorst, INF Brandon Wood, and Cs Bobby Wilson, Michael Collins and Ryan Buddewas to minor-league camp. Optioned INFs Erick Aybar and Howie Kendrick, and OF Tommy Murphy to Double-A Arkansas. Optioned OF Nick Gorneault to Triple-A Salt Lake. Acquired RHP Jason Bulger from the Arizona Diamondbacks for 2B Alberto Callaspo Feb. 28.

Minnesota Twins

Key Moves: None

Analysis: We're still waiting to see who wins the fifth spot in the rotation – is it SP Francisco Liriano or SP Scott Baker? The loser will likely be sent to Triple-A to continue to receive steady innings. The shortstop battle is also coming down to the wire, and SS Jason Bartlett (hamstring) has been hampered by injury recently. If he doesn't win the job outright, he'd likely be sent down to Triple-A.

Additional Moves: Released LHP Darrell May. Optioned RHPs Boof Bonser, J.D. Durbin and Pat Neshek, C Chris Heintz, OF Alex Romero and 1B Garrett Jones to Triple-A Rochester. Reassigned RHPs Matt Garza and Julio DePaula, LHPs Jason Miller and Glen Perkins, Cs Korey Feiner, Kyle Phillips and Kyle Geiger, INFs Jason Hart and Tommy Watkins, and OFs Josh Rabe, Andres Torres, Denard Span and Kevin West to minor-league camp. Optioned RHP Adam Harben, LHPs Errol Simonitsch, Justin Jones and Jose Mijares to Double-A New Britain. Announced the retirement of nonroster spring invitee LHP Gabe White. Released nonroster spring invitees RHPs Ryan Glynn and Pete Munro, and OF Tim Raines.

New York Yankees

Key Moves: Leiter Retires

Analysis: Veteran SP Al Leiter retired after the conclusion of the World Baseball Classic.

Additional Moves: Optioned RHP T.J. Beam to Double-A Trenton. Optioned OF Melky Cabrera, LHP Sean Henn, RHPs Matt DeSalvo, Jorge DePaula, Colter Bean and Jeffrey Karstens to Triple-A Columbus. Reassigned RHPs Philip Hughes, J. Brent Cox, Steven White, Darrell Rasner and Kris Wilson, LHP Frank Brooks, Cs Jason Brown, Jose Gil, and David Parrish, OF Chris Prieto, and INFs Danny Garcia, Marcos Vechionacci, Ramiro Pena, Eric Duncan and Mitch Jones to minor-league camp. Signed RHP Scott Erickson to a one-year minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training Feb. 16.

Oakland Athletics

Key Moves: Halsey Acquired

Analysis: Oakland acquired P Brad Halsey from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for P Juan Cruz March 26. The 25-year-old lefty hurler will provide insurance for the starting rotation and will pitch at Triple-A Sacramento. He has little to no value unless he's pitching as a starter in the big leagues.

Additional Moves: Optioned OF Javier Herrera, RHPs Matt Roney, Shane Komine, Chad Gaudin and Chris Mabeus, LHP John Rheinecker, C Jeremy Brown, INF Mike Rouse and OFs Charles Thomas and Matt Watson to Triple-A Sacramento. Reassigned RHPs Jason Karnuth, Adam Johnson, Alex Santos and Mac Suzuki, Cs Raul Casanova and Kurt Suzuki, OFs Hiram Bocachica, Danny Putnam and Doug Clark, and INFs Daric Barton, Cliff Pennington and Andrew Beattie to their minor-league camp.

Seattle Mariners

Key Moves: Borchard Acquired; Vina Released

Analysis: OF Joe Borchard was acquired from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for RP Matt Thornton March 20. It appears to have been a timely acquisition, because Mariners CF Jeremy Reed (wrist) was thought to miss a minimum of six weeks of action after a wrist injury March 23 when he collided with a wall in the outfield. It will still help out even though Reed's injury is now a sprained wrist and he will not miss the time. OF Matt Lawton could fill the void, but he'll have to start the season on the bench while he serves a 10-day suspension for testing positive for steroids last year. In the short-term, the team may use either Willie Bloomquist or Borchard in center field, or they could shift RF Ichiro Suzuki to center and start OF Mike Morse in right field. The team also released veteran 2B Fernando Vina, who had been in camp as a non-roster invitee.

Additional Moves: Released non-roster invitee RHP Dave Burba. Optioned LHPs Travis Blackley, Bobby Livingston and Cesar Jimenez, and OFs Shin-Soo Choo and T.J. Bohn to Triple-A Tacoma. Reassigned Cs Jeff Clement and Rob Johnson and INFs Asdrubal Cabrera, Rayon Lampe, Todd Sears and Matt Tuiasosopo, LHP Lindsey Gulin, C Andy Dominique and RHPs Rich Dorman and Chris Jaile to minor-league camp. Optioned RHP Yorman Bazardo, RHP Marcos Carvajal, INF Oswaldo Navarro and OF Wladimir Balentien to Double-A San Antonio. Released RHP Jeff Heaverlo. Added RHP Sean Green to major league camp as a non-roster invitee. Signed OF Raul Ibanez to a two-year contract extension. Signed INF Roberto Petagine to a minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training Feb. 21.

Tampa Bay Devil Rays

Key Moves: Young Optioned

Analysis: The talented Delmon Young was optioned to Triple-A Durham March 16 to ensure he receives regular at-bats. He could be back by the All-Star break, if not sooner, and could still have an impact on the AL Rookie of the Year race. He definitely has fantasy value and makes a nice late-round pick if you have room to stash him away on your roster.

Additional Moves: Signed RHP Al Reyes to a minor-league contract. Optioned INFB.J. Upton, C Shawn Riggans, LHPs Chris Seddon and Jon Switzer, RHPs Carlos Hines, Brian Stokes and Jason Hammel to Triple-A Durham. Sent LHP Jon Switzer outright to Triple-A Durham. Optioned RHP Jeff Niemann to Double-A Montgomery. Reassigned C Josh Arhart, RHPs Jack Cressend, J.B. Miadich, Tony Peguero, Jose Rodriguez and Travis Driskill, C Ryan Christianson, INFs Fernando Cortez and Kevin Witt, and OFs Elijah Dukes and Darnell McDonald to minor-league camp.

Texas Rangers

Key Moves: Durazo Released

Analysis: The Rangers released 1B/designated hitter Erubiel Durazo March 27. He became expendable due to the success Rangers DH Phil Nevin has enjoyed this spring. Nevin hasn't hit for a high spring average (.229) but he's shown sufficient power with four home runs and 10 RBIs. Durazo (elbow) is still trying to recapture his game after undergoing Tommy John surgery, but has been unable to play at first base. He has no fantasy value at the moment, but could resurface with another team. Also, Rangers OF Gary Matthews Jr. (ribs) may have to open the year on the DL due to a strained right ribcage muscle. Rangers OF David Dellucci would likely receive extra at-bats during that timeframe.

Additional Moves: Optioned OF Jason Botts, INF Joaquin Arias and RHP Wes Littleton to Triple-A Oklahoma. Optioned RHP Armando Galarraga and INF Aarom Baldiris to Double-A Frisco. Reassigned RHPs Nick Regilio, Ryan Bukvich and Rick Bauer, LHP Kevin Walker, Cs Nick Trzesniak, Taylor Teagarden and Mike Nickeas, OF Ruddy Yan and INF Travis Metcalf to minor-league camp. Assigned LHPs Ron Mahay and John Danks, and RHPs Thomas Diamond and Jayson Durocher to minor-league camp. Sent LHP Clint Brannon to the Chicago Cubs to complete the Nov. 16, 2005 trade for RHP Jon Leicester.

Toronto Blue Jays

Key Moves: Molina Signed

Analysis: Toronto shored up their catching situation when they signed free agent C Bengie Molina (Angels) to a one-year deal with an option for 2007 Feb. 6. He is a viable fantasy option at a relatively thin position. Heads up: it appears the Blue Jays will place SP A.J. Burnett (elbow) on the 15-day disabled list to open the season, but he's expected to return by the second or third week of the season. The team said he may miss as much as two starts.

Additional Moves: Optioned RHPs Dustin McGowan, Brandon League, Ryan Houston, Shaun Marcum, Francisco Rosario, Josh Banks and Ty Taubenheim, OF John-Ford Griffin, SS Sergio Santos, 2B Ryan Roberts, 3B John Hattig and 1B Robert Cosby to Triple-A Syracuse. Optioned OF Miguel Negron, RHP Vince Perkins and RHP Ismael Ramirez to Double-A New Hampshire. Reassigned RHPBen Weber, LHPs David Purcey and Ricky Romero, and Cs Robinzon Diaz and Erik Kratz to minor-league camp. The Boston Red Sox returned Rule 5 pick RHP Jamie Vermilyea.

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Arizona Diamondbacks

Key Moves: Cruz Acquired; Drew Sent Down

Analysis: Arizona acquired hard-throwing RHP Juan Cruz from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for LHP Brad Halsey March 26. Cruz, who features an upper 90s fastball and nasty slider, will likely open the year in the bullpen, but has the talent to succeed as a starter or reliever. He had been hot in spring action with Oakland, fanning 13 batters in 10.3 shutout innings. Cruz has some fantasy value now, but should see his value increase if he can win a starting job or be thrust into closing situations. For now, the trade mostly benefits Arizona SP Claudio Vargas, who had been competing with Halsey for the fifth rotation spot, as now the job is his. The team also sent highly regarded SS Stephen Drew to minor-league camp. He has tremendous upside and might find himself back in Arizona by the All-Star break. When given the chance to play every day, he should produce solid offensive numbers.

Additional Moves: Optioned RHPs Brian Bruney, Edgar Gonzalez, Tony Pena, Mike Schultz, Dustin Nippert and Enrique Gonzalez, LHP Doug Slaten, OFs Chris Young and Scott Hairston and 2B Alberto Callaspo to minor-league camp. Assigned LHPs Neal Musser, Felix Heredia, and RHP Kevin Jarvis, INF Chris Carter and C Miguel Montero to minor-league camp. Reassigned SS Justin Upton, OF Jarred Ball, OF Marland Williams, LHP Bill Murphy, RHP Mike Koplove, C Juan Brito and 3B Brian Barden to minor-league camp. Acquired RHP Jeff Bajenaru from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for INF Alex Cintron. Signed OF Jeff DaVanon Feb. 7 to a one-year contract with a conditional player option for 2007.

Atlanta Braves

Key Moves: None

Analysis: There is imminent talk of a trade that would send SP John Thomson, or perhaps SP Jorge Sosa, elsewhere in return for bullpen help. The team has the luxury of doing so thanks to the development of SP Kyle Davies.

Additional Moves: Optioned RHPs Anthony Lerew and Brad Baker, and INF Scott Thorman to Triple-A Richmond. Optioned INFs Luis Hernandez and Martin Prado, and OF Josh Burrus to Double-A Mississippi. Optioned RHP Jose Ascanio to Class A Myrtle Beach. Reassigned RHPs Chad Paronto, Wes Obermueller, Sean White, Travis Smith, Kevin Barry, INFs Jonathan Schuerholz and Cesar Crespo, OFs David Kelton and Michael Ryan, and Cs Clint Sammons, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Steve Pyzik to minor-league camp. Signed RHP Peter Moylan and LHP Damian Moss to minor-league contracts. Signed RHP Carlos Almanzar to a one-year minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training Feb. 16; because of a pre-existing medical condition, the Braves voided the minor-league contract that had been signed by RHP Jeff Bennett.

Chicago Cubs

Key Moves: Pie Sent Down

Analysis: Future star OF Felix Pie was optioned to Triple-A Iowa March 26. He has tremendous value in keeper leagues but likely won't be able to contribute much this year at the big-league level.

Additional Moves: Optioned C Geovany Soto to Triple-A Iowa, and C Jose Reyes, RHP Carlos Marmol, and INFs Scott Moore and Brian Dopirak to Double-A West Tenn. Returned LHP Les Walrond and RHP Randy Wells, and INFs Casey McGehee and Augie Ojeda to Minor-league camp. Reassigned RHPs Bryan Corey, Bobby Brownlie and Brian Boehringer, LHP Carmen Pignatiello, INF Brandon Sing, OFs Buck Coats and Adam Greenberg, and Cs Jake Fox and Dennis Anderson to minor-league camp. The St. Louis Cardinals returned Rule 5 Draft pick, RHP Juan Mateo, to the Cubs. Acquired LHP Clint Brannon from the Texas Rangers to complete the Nov. 16, 2005 trade for RHP Jon Leicester. Voided the contract of RHP Jason Simontacchi March 3.

Cincinnati Reds

Key Moves: Arroyo and Ross Acquired

Analysis: The Reds bolstered their rotation by acquiring SP Bronson Arroyo from the Boston Red Sox in return for slugging OF Wily Mo Pena. In a separate deal, the Reds brought in C David Ross from the San Diego Padres in exchange for RHP Bobby Basham, with the idea of him grabbing a share of at-bats previously reserved for the two-headed combination of C Jason LaRue and C Javier Valentin. Ross should be able to contribute immediately. LaRue (knee) had surgery to fix torn cartilage in his right knee March 27 and was expected to be out of action from 10 days to two weeks. No decisions had been made yet whether or not he would have to go on the 15-day disabled list. In the interim, Valentin is expected to perform most of the catching.

Additional Moves: RHP Jason Standridge accepted his outright assignment to Triple-A Louisville after being designated for assignment. Signed OF Alex Sanchez to a minor-league contract. Optioned LHP Mike Gosling, RHPs Justin Germano and Elizardo Ramirez, OF Chris Denorfia, and INF Ray Olmedo to Triple-A Louisville. Optioned RHP Travis Chick, LHP Phil Dumatrait, C Miguel Perez and 1B Joey Votto to Double-A Chattanooga. Reassigned LHPs Jung Keun Bong, Ben Kozlowski and Tommy Phelps, RHPs Homer Bailey, Josh Hall and Jimmy Journell, C Ryan Hanigan, INFs Aaron Herr, Derek Wathan, Aaron Holbert and Earl Snyder, and C Steve Torrealba to minor-league camp. Released OF Tuffy Rhodes and RHPs Bubba Nelson, Allan Simpson, Luke Hudson and non-roster RHP Josh Hancock. Claimed INF Matt Kata off waivers from the Phillies. Signed 1B Adam Dunn Feb. 13 to a two-year contract through the 2007 season with a club option for 2008.

Colorado Rockies

Key Moves: None

Analysis: The biggest question may be how soon 3B Ian Stewart makes the show after his amazing spring (.396-5-14, 2 steals and 14 runs scored). While Stewart will likely be one of the last cuts, OF Choo Freeman appears to have an excellent shot at making the club after hitting .370 in spring play, but he doesn't have much fantasy value.

Additional Moves: Optioned RHP Mike Esposito and OF Jeff Salazar to Triple-A Colorado Springs. Optioned RHP Ubaldo Jimenez, RHP Ramon Ramirez, RHP Eduardo Sierra and INF Jayson Nix to Double-A Tulsa. Optioned RHPs Manuel Corpas and Juan Morillo to Single-A Modesto. Assigned RHPs Nate Field, Bret Prinz and Keiichi Yabu, LHPs Steve Colyer and Randy Williams and C Dan Conway to minor-league camp. Reassigned RHPs Jim Miller, Sandy Nin and Judd Songster, LHPs Justin Hampson and Zack Parker, C Chris Iannetta and INF Troy Tulowitzki to minor-league camp. Purchased the contract of OF Eli Marrero from Triple-A Colorado Springs; Placed RHP Chin-hui Tsao (shoulder) on the 60-day disabled list March 2. Acquired INF Jamey Carroll from the Washington Nationals in exchange for cash considerations Feb. 11.

Florida Marlins

Key Moves: Bowyer, Stokes and Andino Sent Down

Analysis: Hard-throwing closer candidate Travis Bowyer, 1B Jason Stokes and SS Robert Andino were optioned to Triple-A Albuquerque. Bowyer lost out to veteran Joe Borowski, who had pitched well. Bowyer remains a sleeper candidate for saves later in the season. Stokes received consideration for playing time at first base but will have to wait until later this year to swing his powerful bat in the Marlins' lineup. Andino lost the shortstop battle to Hanley Ramirez and has no fantasy value at the moment.

Additional Moves: Optioned RHPs Nate Bump, Logan Kensing and Yusmeiro Petit, and LHP Renyel Pinto to Triple-A Albuquerque. Optioned LHP Adam Bostick, RHPs Anibal Sanchez and Scott Tyler to Double-A Carolina. Optioned RHP Jesus Delgado, Harvey Garcia and RHP Jose Garcia to Class A Jupiter. Reassigned RHPs Ryan Rupe, Eddie Gaillard, Nic Ungs and Buddy Carlyle, LHPs Taylor Tankersley, Jimmy Anderson and Josh Stewart, Cs Ryan Jorgensen, Brad Davis and Brett Hayes, OF Mark Little, and INFs Mickey Lopez and Scott Seabol to minor-league camp. Terminated the contract of INF Pokey Reese March 5.

Houston Astros

Key Moves: Bagwell to DL

Analysis: Houston 1B Jeff Bagwell (shoulder) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Saturday, March 25. He's considering surgery as a last-ditch effort to save his career. He gave it a go this spring, but encountered too much shoulder pain to continue on. As a result, the plan to shift Lance Berkman to first base goes into full swing, which means the outfield is now set with LF Preston Wilson, CF Willy Taveras and RF Jason Lane. The biggest beneficiary is Taveras, who might have had to open the year in the minors if Bagwell were healthier, but now gets to retain his starting job.

Additional Moves: Reassigned RHPs Ezequiel Astacio, Joe Valentine and Dave Borkowski, OFs Josh Anderson, Charlton Jimerson and Luke Scott, INF Danny Klassen and C Hector Gimenez to the minor-league camp. Optioned RHPs Matt Albers, Felipe Paulino, Jason Hirsh, Jimmy Barthmaier and Juan Gutierrez, and LHP Mark McLemore to Triple-A Round Rock. Reassigned RHP Jared Gothreaux and Cs Alan Zinter and J.R. House to minor-league camp.

Los Angeles Dodgers

Key Moves: None

Analysis: N/A

Additional Moves: Optioned LHP Tim Hamulack, RHPs D.J. Houlton and Jonathan Broxton, and OF Andre Ethier to Triple-A Las Vegas. Reassigned RHP Takashi Saito, LHP Kelly Wunsch, INF Tony Abreu, OF Tydus Meadows and 3B Chris Truby to minor-league camp. Optioned 3B Andy LaRoche and LHP Greg Miller to Double-A Jacksonville.

Milwaukee Brewers

Key Moves: None

Analysis: N/A

Additional Moves: Sent 2B Zach Sorensen outright to Triple-A Nashville. Optioned RHP Chris Demaria, LHP Dana Eveland, and OFs Tony Gwynn, Jr. and Nelson Cruz to Triple-A Nashville. Assigned OF Brad Nelson to Triple-A Nashville. Optioned RHP Carlos Villanueva and LHP Manny Parra to Double-A Huntsville. Optioned RHP Mike Jones and INF Hernan Iribarren to Class A Brevard County. Assigned LHPs Jason Kershner, Wilfredo Rodriguez, Zach Jackson and Justin Thompson, RHP Allan Simpson, C Michael Rivera and INF Brent Abernathy to minor-league camp. Returned non-roster invitees C Carlos Corporan and LHP Mitch Stetter to minor-league camp. Reassigned RHP Jerome Gamble to minor-league camp. INF Brian Dallimore announced his retirement Feb. 24.

New York Mets

Key Moves: Boone Retires

Analysis: Veteran 2B Bret Boone announced his retirement March 1, which left second base open to Kazuo Matsui, Anderson Hernandez and Jeff Keppinger. Matsui (knee) is currently sidelined and will likely be ready to return about 10 days to two weeks into the season. Hernandez will be the likely starter at second in the meantime, but his best asset is his defense, meaning he has little fantasy value.

Additional Moves: RHP Mitch Wylie refused his outright assignment to Triple-A Norfolk and became a free agent. Placed RHP Juan Padilla (elbow) on the 60-day disabled list March 23, recovering from March 2006 Tommy John surgery. Optioned RHPs John Maine, Anderson Garcia and Steve Schmoll to Triple-A Norfolk. Optioned RHP Henry Owens to Single-A St. Lucie. Assigned RHPs Mike Pelfrey, Bartolome Fortunato and Jeremi Gonzalez to minor-league camp. Reassigned RHPs Alay Soler, Matt Lindstrom, Rafael Cova, Jeremy Hill, Jason Scobie and Tim LaVigne, LHPs Matt Perisho and Mike Venafro, Cs Jesus Flores, Drew Butera, Andy Wilson, and Aaron Hathaway, OF Julio Ramirez and INF Brett Harper to minor-league camp. Sold the contract of LHP Dae-sung Koo to the Hanwha Eagles of the Korean League. Signed RHP Jose Lima to a minor-league contract Feb. 14 and invited him to spring training.

Philadelphia Phillies

Key Moves: None

Analysis: N/A

Additional Moves: Optioned RHPs Yoel Hernandez and Aquilino Lopez, LHP Daniel Haigwood, OFs Josh Kroeger and Michael Bourn, and C Carlos Ruiz to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Optioned RHP Scott Mathieson and RHP Zack Segovia to Double-A Reading. Reassigned OF Peter Bergeron, RHPs Aaron Myette, Jeremy Cummings, Ryan Cameron, Clay Condrey, Travis Minix and Brian Sanches, LHPs Cole Hamels, Gio Gonzalez and Matt White, 1B/OF Shawn Garrett, Cs John Vanden Berg and Jason Jaramillo, and INFs Bobby Scales and Joe Thurston to minor-league camp. The Cincinnati Reds claimed INF Matt Kata off waivers March 15. Signed free agent INF Alex S. Gonzalez to a one-year contract Feb. 8.

Pittsburgh Pirates

Key Moves: Eldred Sent Down

Analysis: Pirates 1B Brad Eldred was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis. He received quite a bit of playing time last year but now finds first base blocked by 1B Sean Casey. Eldred has no fantasy value at the present time.

Additional Moves: Optioned RHP Jonah Bayliss, LHPs Sean Burnett, Mike Johnston and Tom Gorzelanny, INF Yurendell DeCaster and OF Rajai Davis to Triple-A Indianapolis. Optioned RHP Josh Sharpless, INFs Javier Guzman and Craig Stansberry to Double-A Altoona. Reassigned non-roster invitees RHPs Marty McLeary, Matt Peterson, and Jorge Vasquez, C Paul Chiaffredo, INF J.J. Furmaniak and OF Ray Sadler to minor-league camp. Reassigned OF Andrew McCutchen, Cs Carlos Maldonado and Steve Lerud, and INFs Jason Alfaro and Gookie Dawkins to minor-league camp. Agreed to terms with SS Jack Wilson Feb. 28 on a three-year contract extension (through the 2009 season) with a club option for 2010. Unconditionally released RHP Joe Roa Feb. 14. Roa was a non-roster invitee.

San Diego Padres

Key Moves: None

Analysis: N/A

Additional Moves: Released RHP Brian Sikorski and INF Bobby Hill. Sent RHP Jason Anderson and 1B Walter Young outright to Triple-A Portland. Optioned RHP Tim Stauffer, 1B/OF Paul McAnulty, OF Freddy Guzman and C Pete LaForest to Triple-A Portland. Optioned RHP Jared Wells, LHP Sean Thompson and C George Kottaras to Double-A Mobile. Reassigned RHPs Seth Etherton, Kenny Baugh, Cesar Carrillo, Mike Thompson and Jon Adkins, LHPs Ryan Meaux and Erick Burke, INFs Ricky Gutierrez and Matt Bush, OF Jack Cust and IF/C Jason Hill to minor-league camp. Purchased the contract of LHP Alan Embree from Triple-A Portland. Acquired RHP Bobby Basham from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for C David Ross.

San Francisco Giants

Key Moves: Winn Locked Up; Hennessey Sent Down

Analysis: The team signed OF Randy Winn to a three-year contract extension Feb. 28. If he continues to hit the way he did last year after coming over from the Seattle Mariners, it will be money well spent. SP Brad Hennessey was optioned to Triple-A Fresno March 27. He had been in contention for the fifth starting spot, but it went to SP Jamey Wright.

Additional Moves: Optioned C Justin Knoedler and OF Nate Schierholtz to Triple-A Fresno. Reassigned LHPs Michael Tejera and Jonathan Sanchez, RHPs Jeff Miller, Billy Sadler, Pedro Liriano, Matt Anderson, Brian Wilson, Brian Cooper and Matt Kinney, SS Tomas de la Rosa, INF Derin McMains, OF Adam Shabala and Cs Yamid Haad and Todd Jennings to minor-league camp. Optioned RHP Kelyn Acosta, LHP Jon Coutlangus, LHP Jesus Reina, RHP Alfredo Simon, LHP Erick Threets, INF Travis Ishikawa and OF Fred Lewis to minor-league camp. Sent RHPs Joe Bateman and Justin Hedrick, Cs Brian Munhall and Guillermo Rodriguez, INFs Brian Buscher, Pablo Sandoval and Jake Wald, and OFs Brian Horwitz, Clay Timpner and John Bowker to minor-league camp.

St. Louis Cardinals

Key Moves: Reyes Optioned

Analysis: Promising rookie SP Anthony Reyes was optioned to Triple-A Memphis March 21 after losing the battle for the fifth rotation spot to veteran SP Sidney Ponson. Reyes is still highly regarded and should be the team's first option if any injuries occur around the rotation. Also, OF Larry Bigbie (ankle), who was in the mix for playing time in left field, was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his left foot and will take it easy for the remainder of spring training. He could start the year on the disabled list.

Additional Moves: Optioned RHP Anthony Reyes, LHPs Carmen Cali, Tyler Johnson and Chris Narveson, and C Michel Hernandez to Triple-A Memphis. Released RHP Jeff Nelson. Returned Rule 5 selection RHP Juan Mateo to the Cubs. Optioned INF Travis Hanson and INF Brendan Ryan to the minor-leagues. Reassigned RHPs Blaine Neal, John Riedling, Andy Cavazos, Dennis Tankersley, Brad Voyles and John Webb, LHPs Randy Leek and Rich Rundles, INFs Brian Daubach, Kit Pellow and Dave Berg, OF Prentice Redman, and Cs Bryan Anderson, C Jason Motte, Brian Esposito and Ikar Franco to minor-league camp. Optioned OF Reid Gorecki to minor-league camp.

Washington Nationals

Key Moves: Five Players Placed on DL; Astacio Signed

Analysis: The Nationals placed RP Luis Ayala (right elbow), SP Ryan Drese (right shoulder), SP Brian Lawrence (right shoulder), C/1B Robert Fick (right elbow) and SS Cristian Guzman (right shoulder) on the 15-day disabled list March 27, retroactive to March 24. Ayala and Lawrence are out for the season, while Drese has been making some progress recently and has been able to throw off a mound and appear in a minor-league game. Fick has missed all of spring training but could be back by mid-April. Guzman may need surgery on his shoulder, although it has been getting stronger of late. Veteran SS Royce Clayton will play shortstop while Guzman is out. The loss of Lawrence was a painful one - the team signed Pedro Astacio to fill the void. He's had a rough spring, but is in no danger of losing his rotation spot.

Additional Moves: Optioned LHP Billy Traber, OF Tyrell Godwin, 1B Larry Broadway and INF Bernie Castro to Triple-A New Orleans. Optioned LHP Michael Hinckley and 3B/OF Tony Blanco to Class A Potomac of the Carolina League. Reassigned RHPs Kyle Denney, Anastacio Martinez, Saul Rivera, Steve Watkins, Santiago Ramirez, Andrew Good and Francis Beltran, LHPs Mike Bacsik, Micah Bowie, Joe Horgan, Jim Crowell, Cs Mike DiFelice, Brandon Harper and Erick San Pedro, OFs Mike Vento, Kenny Kelly, Frank Diaz, Ruben Mateo, Cristian Guerrero, Alex Escobar and George Lombard, INFs Josh Labandeira and Kory Casto, and SS Ian Desmond to minor-league camp. Released LHP Valerio De Los Santos per his contract. Sold the contract of INF Jamey Carroll to the Rockies Feb. 11 for $300,000.