The Balk is half Larry's rambling thoughts on baseball and half fantasy baseball thoughts.
The Counselor is IN:
Larry's Ramblings:
Has the luster of Interleague games worn off? I have heard some commotion about getting rid of these games between the leagues. Often this is from the "traditionalists" that cry out for Major League baseball to head back to the way baseball used to be played. Of course these same traditionalists don't want us to go back to the days of underhand pitching, a best of 9 game World Series, or using metal polls instead of bases. No they want baseball to be the way it was when they were children. I know it is fond memories of a simpler time when baseball players were more human and less diva. It could be argued that the divas were not as exposed to fans as they are today.
For me, the luster of Interleague play has not worn off. I still find myself intrigued by the match ups of teams in different leagues. I know that it may be less dramatic when the World Series comes around in October if the teams have faced each other. But I think each Interleague Series can be almost that intense.
I watched most of the Cardinals/Royals game from Wednesday night and loved it. I love the rule differences and how the visitors have to adjust. I am fascinated with the American League pitchers batting in the National League parks and the National League pitchers having to face another big bat in the American League parks. It is part of the fun. I hope it becomes something the traditionalists of the future fondly remember.
Fantasy Section:
2nd Half Players/ Studs
Here is a list of players that may play well in the second half of the season. Historically many of them are better after the All Star game than before. Trading for these guys could benefit your team.
--1B Mark Teixeira - you may be able to make a good trade for him. Someone may be willing to part with him since he is batting a mild .266. But he also has 10 homers so it will still cost you something of value. He is starting to get hot. You should get him now if you can.
-- 1B Richie Sexson- Richie always plays better in the second half and it is a good chance he will be on a new team. Rumors are that the Mariners will drop him very soon. His .220 BA is not helping. He could be a source of cheap power off of the waivers but be cautious.
-- OF Carlos Beltran- He is a traditional second half stud. He is currently batting a good .273 BA with 10 homers and 10 SB. I think he will find his power stroke in the summer months and move the homer total closer to 30 while inching the BA to .285.
-- OF Jermaine Dye- Another player who is known for strong second halves. He is already batting well with 12 homers and a .286 Batting Average. You will have to make a sweet deal to steal him away from a team but I think he will pay off for you.
-- Pitcher Johan Santana- Yes everybody wants Santana and it will be almost impossible to trade for him. I owned Santana in my
The Counselor is OUT:
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