NL FAAB Factor: Waiver Pickups of the Week

NL FAAB Factor: Waiver Pickups of the Week

This article is part of our NL FAAB Factor series.

This is our weekly look at National League free agents. We have two goals for this article:

1. Identify likely free agents and discuss their strengths and weaknesses.
2. Estimate how much of your $100 starting free-agent budget you should bid on them.

This year, we're incorporating grids into the FAAB articles, so users can easily see at a glance how certain players stack up against others and how much they should command in a variety of formats.

The grids, which are sortable by column (click on the header), include a very basic "player grade" column. This serves as a reflection of a player's skills and role on an A-E scale. Dansby Swanson would have been an "A" grade player last year -- that mark will be reserved for similar high-impact prospects stepping into an everyday role.

As always, if there is a player that was not discussed in the article that you would like to know about, feel free to ask about the player in the comments.

PLAYER TEAM POS GRADE $ (12-Team Mixed) $ (15-Team Mixed) $ (NL-Only)
Lisalverto Bonilla CIN SP E No 0 2
Randall Delgado AZ SP E No 0 2
Zack Godley AZ SP D 8 16 Owned
Dinelson Lamet SD SP D 5 11 16
Brandon McCarthy LA SP C 14 Owned Owned
Tyler Pill NYM SP E No 1 4
Joe Ross WAS SP D 8 16 22
Antonio Senzatela COL SP D 11 22 Owned
Asher Wojciechowski CIN SP E No
This is our weekly look at National League free agents. We have two goals for this article:

1. Identify likely free agents and discuss their strengths and weaknesses.
2. Estimate how much of your $100 starting free-agent budget you should bid on them.

This year, we're incorporating grids into the FAAB articles, so users can easily see at a glance how certain players stack up against others and how much they should command in a variety of formats.

The grids, which are sortable by column (click on the header), include a very basic "player grade" column. This serves as a reflection of a player's skills and role on an A-E scale. Dansby Swanson would have been an "A" grade player last year -- that mark will be reserved for similar high-impact prospects stepping into an everyday role.

As always, if there is a player that was not discussed in the article that you would like to know about, feel free to ask about the player in the comments.

PLAYER TEAM POS GRADE $ (12-Team Mixed) $ (15-Team Mixed) $ (NL-Only)
Lisalverto Bonilla CIN SP E No 0 2
Randall Delgado AZ SP E No 0 2
Zack Godley AZ SP D 8 16 Owned
Dinelson Lamet SD SP D 5 11 16
Brandon McCarthy LA SP C 14 Owned Owned
Tyler Pill NYM SP E No 1 4
Joe Ross WAS SP D 8 16 22
Antonio Senzatela COL SP D 11 22 Owned
Asher Wojciechowski CIN SP E No 0 2
Brett Anderson CHI SP E No No 2
Homer Bailey CIN SP D 1 4 7
Brandon Finnegan CIN SP D 1 4 7
Jon Gray COL SP C 5 11 16
Junior Guerra MIA SP C 9 18 25
Jeff Locke MIA SP E 1 4 7
Seth Lugo NYM SP D 1 4 7
Steven Matz NYM SP C 11 Owned Owned
Jameson Taillon PIT SP B 7 14 20
Jeanmar Gomez PHI RP E No 1 4
Tyler Lyons STL RP E No 1 4
Carter Capps SD RP D 1 4 7
Koda Glover WAS RP C 30 40 50
Brad Hand SD RP C 18 25 Owned
Juan Nicasio PIT RP D No 1 4
Francisco Cervelli PIT C C 8 14 22/Owned
Andrew Knapp PHI C E 1 4 7
Travis d'Arnaud NYM C C 8 14 22/Owned
Tom Murphy COL C C 2 7 11
Jesus Aguilar MIL 1B D 2 7 11
Justin Bour MIA 1B B 40 Owned Owned
Lucas Duda PHI 1B C 30 Owned Owned
Daniel Descalso AZ 2B E No No 4
Logan Forsythe LA 2B C 11 18 Owned
Howie Kendrick PHI 2B D 2 7 11
Chase d'Arnaud SD SS E No No 2
Asdrubal Cabrera NYM SS C 7 11 Owned
Rio Ruiz ATL 3B D 7 13 18
Adonis Garcia ATL 3B D No 1 4
Aaron Hill SF 3B E No No 2
Franchy Cordero SD OF E 1 4 7
Adam Frazier PIT OF C 30 Owned Owned
Brian Goodwin WAS OF E No No 0
Destin Hood MIA OF D 0 1 4
Hunter Renfroe SD OF C 40 Owned Owned
Socrates Brito AZ OF E No No 2
David Dahl COL OF C Owned/4 Owned/9 Owned/14
Jose Martinez STL OF D No 1 4
Jarrett Parker SF OF D 1 4 7

STARTING PITCHER

Lisalverto Bonilla, Reds - With most of the Cincy rotation on the DL, Bonilla, despite his so-so production, should remain one of the team's five starters. Bonilla, has given up at least one homer and walked at least two batters in all four of his appearances - three starts - for the Reds this season, resulting in a 16:11 K:BB ratio in 23.1 innings. But with available options, Bonilla will be run out there again Monday. Invest lightly and be prepared to abandon ship. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $0; 12-team NL: $2.

Randall Delgado, Diamondbacks - Delgado, who made a spot start Wednesday in place of the injured Taijuan Walker, will make his second start of the season Monday against the Pirates. Walker is on the 10-day disabled list with a blister on his index finger but is throwing and is expected back to start next weekend against Miami. Delgado allowed two runs (one earned) over four innings while throwing a season-high 61 pitches in his outing Wednesday, earning the second start. After this start, Delgado will move back to the bullpen when Walker returns. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $0; 12-team NL: $2.

Zack Godley, Diamondbacks - Shelby Miller's Tommy John surgery left a hole as the fifth starter in Arizona. Godley has made the most of his chance to fill that spot, excelling in his four starts, posting a 1.99 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 26:11 K:BB through 31.2 innings. He has benefitted from a ridiculous 4.64 GB:FB ratio and .240 BABIP, resulting in a 3.42 FIP, so expect some regression. Last season, Godley appeared in 27 games for the Diamondbacks, including nine starts in which he posted a 7.31 ERA, 1.67 WHIP and 34:17 K:BB in 48 innings. His stuff seemed to play much better out of the bullpen, but his strong starts have given him the upper hand for now over Braden Shipley, at least until the up-and-down Anthony Banda is ready. 12-team Mixed: $8; 15-team Mixed: $16; 12-team NL: owned

Dinelson Lamet, Padres - Lamet received the call this week and proceeded to dominate the Mets over five innings, allowing one run while striking out eight. His mid-90s fastball hit 98 Thursday, as he was amped for his MLB debut, while he also displayed a power, late-breaking slider and in-progress changeup. The development of that third pitch will determine if Lamet remains as a starter or moves to the bullpen. Prior to his call-up, Lamet posted strong numbers with Triple-A El Paso in eight starts (3.23 ERA and 11.54 K/9). He was filling in for Jered Weaver (hip), but given the latter's struggles this season, Lamet could stick in the rotation if he continues to pitch the way he did Thursday and able to reduce his BB/9, which has been an issue in his career. But his stuff should play well at this level. 12-team Mixed: $5; 15-team Mixed: $11; 12-team NL: $16 (increase bid if fully sold on him).

Brandon McCarthy, Dodgers - McCarthy is doing his best to retain his spot in the crowded Dodgers rotation. He has benefitted from a major uptick in GB:FB ratio from 0.96 in 2015 and 0.94 last year to 1.90 this year, more in line with his prior production. With Hyun-Jin Ryu now in the bullpen, McCarthy, who had a 3.08 ERA and 1.18 WHIP through 40.2 innings (seven starts) this season heading into Saturday's start, looks likely to remain in the rotation. He continued his fine pitching, tossing six shutout innings, allowing just two hits with six strikeouts, but left the game with knee tendinitis. Monitor the results of the MRI, as it could force McCarthy to the disabled list. If that happens, Ryu and Julio Urias, optioned recently to Triple-A, are the candidates to replace him in the rotation. 12-team Mixed: $14; 15-team Mixed: owned; 12-team NL: owned (depending on health).

Tyler Pill, Mets - Pill, who was dominating at Triple-A, was called up Friday. A soft-tossing righty, who relies on location and pitches to contact, Pill was dominating Triple-A hitters to the tune of a 1.96 ERA and a .234 BAA in seven starts with the 51s. It's unclear where he'll slot into the rotation, although Tuesday's game in Milwaukee seems like a logical choice, though he did pitch in relief and take the loss Saturday. For now, Pill is in the bullpen, but he could start Tuesday, especially since neither Steven Matz (elbow) nor Seth Lugo (elbow) is quite ready to come off the DL. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4

Joe Ross, Nationals - Ross opened the year in the minors but was called up to start April 19 when Washington needed a fifth starter. He was solid in that first outing but struggled his next two and was demoted to the minors, as he had allowed 20 hits, including five homers, over 15.2 innings. Ross was an impressive 7-5 with a 3.43 ERA in 19 starts for the Nationals last season but shoulder issues cost him 10 weeks over the summer. He uses a 93-mph fastball, excellent slider and work-in-progress changeup to retire hitters, but it's lack of a good off-speed pitch that allows lefties to tattoo him, as they hit .356 against Ross. It's that issue and health concerns that make Ross at times a risky bet. At Triple-A Syracuse, Ross worked on his mechanics, raising his arm slot, and he got better each of his three outings. Promoted back to the majors last week, Ross allowed just one run on five hits and six strikeouts over a career high-tying eight innings. If he truly has fixed his mechanical issues, Ross should hold onto the fifth spot in the Nationals' rotation. 12-team Mixed: $8; 15-team Mixed: $16; 12-team NL $22.

Antonio Senzatela, Rockies - Senzatela continued his magical early season run, shutting out the Cardinals for eight innings Saturday. He is now 7-1 with a 3.19 ERA but he could be due for a regression given his 4.54 FIP and 4.55 xFIP. Senzatela has a mid-to-upper-90s fastball and developing swing-and-miss slider, but he has posted just a 37:18 K:BB ratio in 62.0 innings. In addition, he entered this year with just 34.2 innings above High-A. If you are already on the bus, maintain the course, but if he is available and you are bidding on him, use some caution, but I can't blame you if you put all your chips in, since he doesn't looked to be phased pitching at Coors Field. 12-team Mixed: $11; 15-team Mixed: $22; 12-team NL owned.

Asher Wojciechowski, Reds - Wojciechowski will start in place of the injured Amir Garrett (hip) on Tuesday. He excelled in five starts with Triple-A Louisville this season, posting a 1.40 ERA, 0.87 WHIP and 10.4 K/9 in that time, but Wojciechowski has been working out of the bullpen since his promotion. Cincy, due to a rain out, could have skipped the fifth starter spot altogether Sunday. But instead, Woj will slot into the rotation, but he is to be moved back to the bullpen when Garrett is healthy. Woj is worth a flier due to his strong Triple-A numbers despite his poor track record. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $0; 12-team NL: $2

Injury activation/updates:

Brett Anderson, Cubs - Anderson, sidelined since his May 6 start with lower-back stiffness, headed to extended spring training to continue his rehab. No timeline has been provided for his return. Anderson struggled mightily before being sidelined and Eddie Butler has been good enough as the fifth starter, so Anderson may be relegated to bullpen duty whenever he returns. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $2.

Homer Bailey, Reds - Bailey, limited to just eight starts the last two seasons due to elbow and other arm woes, continued his rehab Monday, tossing an inning in extended spring training. That "outing" comes on the heels of a 48-pitch bullpen session last Friday, his longest session to date. As he works back from surgery to remove bone spurs from his elbow, Bailey will basically follow a spring training schedule from now on, pitching every five days and extending his outing by an inning each time as part of a minor-league rehab assignment in preparation to make his 2017 debut sometime in mid-to-late June. Bailey has had setbacks the last two seasons, so tread lightly until he shows that he is really ready to return to action. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7 (same early spec return bid as prior, increase as he gets closer if no setbacks)

Brandon Finnegan, Reds - Finnegan had an excellent first start, lousy second one and pitched one inning in his third start before getting pulled with a strained shoulder muscle. Tuesday, Finnegan was scheduled to throw from a mound for the first time. He was expected to throw 20 pitches, and after a few days off, he was advance to 35 pitches Saturday. If Finnegan progresses as expected, he could be back in the Reds' rotation somewhere from June 19 and 24. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7 (early spec return bid)

Jon Gray, Rockies - Gray suffered a stress fracture in his left foot about a month ago during the best of his three starts to open the season. The bone scan on his foot showed solid healing and Gray has been throwing bullpen sessions while wearing his walking boot. Gray has ditch that boot and is expected to throw a bullpen session without the boot Sunday with the hope that he will be back in about three weeks. His next step will be to begin a rehab assignment, during which likely will make at least three starts prior to returning to the rotation. 12-team Mixed: $5; 15-team Mixed: $11; 12-team NL: $16 (slightly increased early spec return bid, will increase more as he gets closer)

Junior Guerra, Brewers - Guerra, who injured his right calf in his first start of the season April 3, was activated and started Friday against Arizona, allowed one run on three hits and three walks with five strikeouts in 5.2 innings. He compiled a 3.97 ERA with 10 strikeouts in 11.1 innings in his two rehab starts and will try to repeat his surprising success of a year ago, when he had a 2.81 ERA with 100 strikeouts in 121.2 innings. (Just an FYI as still should be owned in all formats, if not, $9/$18/$25, if a believer in what he did last year.)

Jeff Locke, Marlins - Locke, out with a shoulder tendinitis, pitched six shutout innings Thursday for Double-A Jacksonville in his fourth rehab start and is close to joining the Marlins' rotation. In those four games games, including two for High-A Jupiter, Locke has allowed four runs in 20.1 innings while striking out 22 and walking two. Locke was a starter in his six seasons with the Pirates but profiles as a long reliever with the Marlins. But with Wei-Yin Chen and Tom Koehler on the disabled list and Adam Conley in the minors, which has resulted in Justin Nicolino and Vance Worthy in the rotation, Locke will get a shot at starting shortly. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7

Seth Lugo/Steven Matz, Mets - Lugo (partial UCL tear) and Matz (strained flexor tendon) each made their second rehab appearance this week, though each struggled. Matz allowed five runs on five hits over four innings at Triple-a Las Vegas while Lugo surrendered seven runs (six earned) over just three innings at High-A St. Lucie. Each will receive at least one more rehab start - Matz at Triple-A and Lugo at Double-A on Sunday - before returning from the 10-day disabled list. Lugo likely is to be used as a swingman out of the bullpen while Matz should move back into the starting rotation as the only lefty in the Mets' starting five. However, there is a possibility that Lugo ends up starting as well with Robert Gsellman struggling and Zack Wheeler's innings to be managed, depending on how Tyler Pill is deployed. Lugo - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7 (increased early spec bid based on his starting); Matz - 12-team Mixed: $7 (early spec bid); 15-team Mixed: owned; 12-team NL: owned.

Jameson Taillon, Pirates - Taillon, profiled last week, gets another mention, as he will begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Altoona on Sunday. After landing on the disabled list May 6 with groin discomfort, Taillon underwent surgery for testicular cancer two days later. Less than a week later, Taillon was cleared to play catch and resume light cardio drills and threw 25- and 35-pitch bullpen sessions this past week. Prior to being sidelined, Taillon had been scuffling, allowing 11 earned runs on 18 hits and six walks with 14 strikeouts in 15.1 innings covering his last three starts. Taillon posted a 85:17 K:BB as a rookie and registered a 3.38 ERA and 1.12 WHIP in 104 innings relying on a 12-to-6 curveball and pinpoint accuracy with his low-90s fastball. He likely will need a handful of rehab starts and could be back with the Pirates by the third week of June, if not earlier. 12-team Mixed: $7; 15-team Mixed: $14; 12-team NL: $20 (if waived, increased bid from last week)

RELIEF PITCHER
 
John Brebbia/Jeanmar Gomez/Adam Liberatore/Tyler Lyons/Hoby Milner/Felix Pena/Josh Smoker/Matt Wisler -
This week's key middle reliever call ups/activations, as well as expected call-ups, were/will be in St. Louis, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, St. Louis, Philadelphia, Chicago, New York and Atlanta. None save for Gomez and Lyons has substantial value. Gomez could factor into the back-end of the bullpen and earn holds and a few saves while Lyons might pitch as a swing-man, enabling him to post some counting stats. All except for Gomez and Lyons - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $0; Gomez and Lyons - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4.

Carter Capps, Padres - Capps, returning from Tommy John surgery, threw a bullpen session Friday and could face hitters as soon as next week. He had started a rehab assignment in late April, but mechanical issues prompted the Padres to pull him back in early May. Once Capps is back, he could begin his role as Brad Hand's and Brandon Maurer's setup man. However, Capps has elite stuff, mixing his high-90s fastball, nasty slider and pitching motion that draws major ire since he doesn't stay on the rubber when he releases his pitches, making him a closer in waiting. The only questions are how long will that wait be and will he replace Hand and/or Maurer? The answers will determine what you will be. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7 (same as before he was shut down).

Koda Glover, Nationals - Manager Dusty Baker has anointed Koda "Chrome" Glover the Nationals' closer. After finishing second or third in the closer race this spring training and sharing the role for a bit, Glover now is the main man in the bullpen. That announcement came Wednesday after Glover finished each of the last four games he pitched, earning a save and striking out four across four scoreless innings. Washington still might make a move for an established closer, but for now, it's Glover's job, and he notched saves Friday and Saturday. 12-team Mixed: $30; 15-team Mixed: $40; 12-team NL: $50.

Brad Hand, Padres - Hand was dominant last year for San Diego after he was picked up on waivers from Miami, racking up a career-high 111 strikeouts over 82 relief appearances. The movement away from his curveball and changeup and reliance on his fastball/slider combination made hand one of the best lefty relievers in baseball last season. Hand got off to a strong start this year and with Brandon Maurer's recent struggles closing games, manager Andy Green turned to Hand to close out Wednesday and Thursday's games. He earned the save in each, but was shaky, loading the bases with no out Wednesday and allowing a run Thursday. Maurer has been a bit unlikely, seen in his 6.63 ERA and 2.60 xFIP, which is below Hand's 3.20, but for now, each are in the save mix. Also, keep in mind that Hand, making $1.375 million and controllable until 2010, is reportedly drawing heavy interest around the league, making it likely that he's dealt before the July 31 trade deadline. 12-team Mixed: $18; 15-team Mixed: $25; 12-team NL: owned.

Juan Nicasio, Pirates - Nicasio, who pitched well out of the bullpen last year after struggling as a starter, has excelled in that role this season. As a starter, Nicasio lasted only 12 games, compiling a 5.05 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 63:25 K:BB in 62.1 innings. As a reliever, he registered a 3.88 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 75:20 K:BB in 55.2 innings. This season, Nicasio has only given up four runs with a 19:7 K:BB in 21.2 innings. He is seeing sporadic work, but if he can maintain those solid numbers, Nicasio could be a nice flex player for your lineup in a reliever spot. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4.

CATCHER
 
Francisco Cervelli, Pirates -
Cervelli got off to a slow start but he has really picked up his play over the last month. Through Thursday's game, Cervelli was 22-for-76 with a home run, 12 runs scored, 14 RBI and a 16:10 K:BB ratio the past 30 days. That has improved his slash line to a solid .258/.336/.417 for the season, and there should be more success on the horizon for Cervelli if he continues to hit the ball as he has throughout 2017. Cervelli, like Cameron Rupp last year, has a top-five hard-hit ball rate among catchers along with 21 percent line-drive rate, which should result in a uptick in BA and production. Add in the fact that he is getting regular at-bats behind the dish and you have several reasons why he should be on your team if on waivers. 12-team Mixed: $8; 15-team Mixed: $14; 12-team NL: owned (if not, $22).

Andrew Knapp, Phillies - Cameron Rupp is still the Phillies' starting catcher, but manager Pete Mackanin said this week he expects to use Knapp in an expanded role. Knapp has impressed both at and behind the plate, earning him additional playing time. Jorge Alfaro is believed to be the team's catching of the future, but the switch-hitting Knapp took a major step forward at Double-A in 2015 and has raised eyebrows again this season, possibly delaying Alfaro's ascension. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

Injury activation/updates:

Travis d'Arnaud, Mets - D'Arnaud, out since May 3 with a right wrist bruise, was activated off the 10-day DL on Wednesday and started Thursday. Rene Rivera did yeoman's work filling for TdA and has earned additional playing time thanks to his strong performance. D'Arnaud won't initially regain his starting job but if he hits and Rivera reverts to his norm, TdA should garner most of the action behind the plate. 12-team Mixed: $8; 15-team Mixed: $14; 12-team NL: $22 (if not owned).

Tom Murphy, Rockies - Murphy, who opened the season on the 10-day disabled list after he fractured his right hand when it made contact with Kris Bryant's bat March 11, could begin a rehab assignment next week. It's been a slow healing process for Murphy, but he seems to have finally turned the corner. Once Murphy is back, he will at a minimum platoon with Tony Wolters, who just returned Tuesday from a concussion, and likely should end up garnering most of the playing time behind the plate, though that might not be until sometime in mid-to-late June. 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11.

FIRST BASE
 
Jesus Aguilar, Brewers -
Aguilar might see more work at first base with Ryan Braun (calf) back on the 10-day disabled list. Milwaukee is using several, including Eric Thames, in left in place of Braun, and when Thames is there, Aguilar starts at first, as he did Saturday, when he homered. Keep in mind; Thames may stay at first with Hernan Perez playing left, leaving Aguilar pinch-hit duty once again. Aguilar batted.452/.521/.855 with seven home runs and 19 RBI in 62 spring training at-bats, but Thames' strong April relegated him mainly to the bench that month. Thames' injury woes and May slump has afford Aguilar some additional at-bats in May, which will continue with Braun sidelined. 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7, 12-team NL: $11.

Justin Bour, Marlins - If you missed getting on the Bour train a few weeks ago when he was last profiled, it's possible your chance may have passed. Bour has been on an absolute tear, hitting nine homers in his last 15 games - and five in his last seven - along with 13 runs and 15 RBI over that overall stretch. More impressive has been his production against lefties, as he already has four home runs and .300-plus average against southpaws, against whom he usually struggles. That output has enabled Bour to remain in the lineup daily, contributing to his recent hot streak. 12-team Mixed: $40; 15-team Mixed: owned; 12-team NL: owned.

Lucas Duda, Mets - After an injury-plagued and poor 2016, Duda was off to a steady start in his first 13 games as well, slashing .238/.360/.571 with four home runs and seven RBI. But a hyper-extended elbow sidelined Duda for several weeks, as he was just activated off the disabled list May 12. Duda has yet to fully regain his power stroke, but he did blast a home run Thursday and Saturday and has driven in eight runs in his last five games while also displaying a strong K:BB ratio. Look for Duda to take off the next few weeks. 12-team Mixed: $30 (in case not owned); 15-team Mixed: owned; 12-team NL: owned.

SECOND BASE
 
Daniel Descalso, Diamondbacks -
One look as Descalso's games played ledger tells you all you need to know about him. He can fill in all over the place, seen in his playing first, second, short and the outfield this year. Look for him to likely get into a few games at third as well, giving him some value in single leagues. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $4

Injury activation/updates:

Logan Forsythe, Dodgers - Forsythe landed on the disabled list with a fractured toe after getting hit-by-a-pitch on April 18. Original speculation was that Forsythe could miss up to six weeks but that timeframe was dialed back. The fracture has healed and Forsythe had resumed baseball activities but was shut down May 3 with hamstring tightness. He resumed game action two weeks ago and was activated off the DL on Tuesday. Chase Utley, Chris Taylor, Kike Hernandez and Foysthe are manning second and third base with second Justin Turner out with a Grade 1 hamstring strain, but Forsythe should be in the lineup almost daily, especially since Taylor is seeing time in the outfield with Joc Pederson out with a concussion. 12-team Mixed: $11; 15-team Mixed: $18; 12-team NL: likely still owned.

Howie Kendrick, Phillies - Kendrick, out since April 15 with a strained oblique, is expected to appear in four games during his rehab stint with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, which began Wednesday. Manager Pete Mackanin is having Kendrick see reps at left field, first base and third base during the rehab stint before he's likely activated from the 10-day disabled list early next week. Kendrick had seen most of his action in left field prior to suffering the oblique injury, but with Aaron Altherr having since solidified himself as a mainstay at that position, Kendrick likely will become a utility player, with most of his action in the infield. 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11 (presuming he plays 3-4 games a week).

SHORTSTOP

Chase d'Arnaud, Padres - The Padres claimed d'Arnaud off waivers Sunday. He started at shortstop Thursday, against the Mets and his brother Travis, but likely will be a utility infielder while in San Diego. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $2.

Injury activation/updates:

Asdrubal Cabrera, Mets - Cabrera, who was sidelined with a sprained joint in his left thumb, was activated Thursday. The injury was original reported as a tear, then revised to sprained joint. If the injury is truly the latter, then the 10 days off may have been sufficient. If it is a tear, then Cabrera will be playing through an injury that needs more time or surgery to heal. Jose Reyes and Wilmer Flores have each hit well lately, so Cabrera may get more days off than he did last year. 12-team Mixed: $7; 15-team Mixed: $11; 12-team NL: owned.

THIRD BASE

Rio Ruiz, Braves - With Adonis Garcia (Achilles) and Freddie Freeman (wrist) landing on the disabled list last Tuesday, Ruiz, who was slashing .262/.305/.447 across 37 games with Triple-A Gwinnett, was summoned from the minors. In 2016, Ruiz hit 10 home runs, 62 RBI with a .755 OPS over 133 games at Gwinnett to earn a September promotion. Ruiz has impressed during his brief time with Atlanta, going 8-for-25 (.320) with a home run and four RBI, which may earn him the starting job at third even when Garcia returns. 12-team Mixed: $7; 15-team Mixed: $13, 12-team NL: $18.

Injury activation/updates:

Adonis Garcia, Braves - Garcia, sidelined with a strained Achilles, is scheduled to play in rehab games with Triple-A Gwinnett over the weekend. Barring any setbacks, the hope is that Garcia will rejoin the big club Monday or Tuesday in Los Angeles for the Braves' series with the Angels. However, whenever Garcia comes back, the starting third base job may no longer be his due to the strong performance of Rio Ruiz coupled with Garcia's struggles at the plate. Ruiz may play against all righties and sit versus southpaws for Garcia. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1, 12-team NL: $4.

Aaron Hill, Giants - Hill, sidelined since April 24 with a strained right forearm, kicked off his rehab assignment with High-A San Jose last Tuesday. Activated Friday, Hill is resuming his role as a backup at second and third base as well as in the outfield. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No, 12-team NL: $2.

OUTFIELD

Franchy Cordero, Padres - Cordero was called up to replace Manuel Margot, who is sidelined with a strained soleus muscle. Manager Andy Green handed the 22-year-old the reins in center field over Matt Szczur, who should also still factor into the position mix. Cordero has slashed .289/.349/.520 with seven homers and eight stolen bases at Triple-A El Paso this season. Those numbers continue his strong performance from 2016, when his solid numbers at both High-A Lake Elsinore and Double-A San Antonio resulted in a cup of coffee at Triple-A, leading the Padres to add him to their 40-man roster following the season for Rule 5 protection. Margot will likely miss a few weeks at a minimum, giving Cordero a chance to display his wares. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4, 12-team NL: $7.

Adam Frazier, Pirates - The beat rolls on for Frazier, who shows no signs of slowing at the plate. With his three-run, home run Thursday, Frazier went 20-for-48 through the 13 games since he was activated from the disabled list, with two home runs, 13 RBI, two stolen bases and 11 runs during that stretch, though he did go 1-for-9 on Friday and Saturday, Frazier is now leading off for the Bucs, due to his strong OBA and he has been a godsend for the team following Starling Marte's 80-game suspension. The only thing that would have been better is if he had played three more games at second last year, giving him eligibility there in most leagues. 12-team Mixed: $30; 15-team Mixed: owned, 12-team NL: owned.

Brian Goodwin, Nationals - This week's fourth and fifth outfielder callups/activations, as well as expected call-ups, or those potentially to see a slight uptick in playing time was only in Washington. Goodwin has little value, as he will back up Michael Taylor and could be replaced by Ryan Raburn. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $0.

Destin Hood, Marlins - Hood, who received a cup of coffee last year, has been on fire at Triple-A New Orleans. He had seven homers and 14 RBI in his last nine games through Friday. Hood has a .266/.347/.544 slash line through 46 games at Triple-A this season with 13 home runs and 36 RBI, and if the Marlins are sellers heading into this year's trade deadline, Hood could see solid playing time in the majors toward the end of 2017. 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1, 12-team NL: $4 (early spec bid).

Hunter Renfroe, Padres - Renfroe, through Thursday's contest, had raked the prior 14 games, batting .313/.431/.708 with four home runs, 10 runs and 11 runs batted in. Strikeouts are still a concern, but he posted a 12:10 K:BB ratio in that stretch, which is a step in the right direction. Renfroe received a game off Friday but should be in right field almost daily. If he can continue to make strides in his eye and plate discipline, 25 home runs would appear to be reachable for him. 12-team Mixed: $40; 15-team Mixed: owned; 12-team NL: owned.

Injury activation/updates:

Socrates Brito, Diamondbacks - Brito, whose chances of winning a reserve role in the outfield ended early in spring training after he underwent surgery to repair a dislocated finger on his left hand back in March, began a rehab assignment at Triple-A Reno this week. If Yasmany Tomas' hip injury lands him on the DL, Brito is one possible option to replace him. But Brito may just be activated and optioned to Reno. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $0.

David Dahl, Rockies - Dahl, sidelined with a stress reaction in his sixth rib, took batting practice Tuesday and Wednesday and should receive a rehab assignment in the near future. He likely will need several rehab games to find his batting eye and stroke due to the amount of time he has missed. Even if he is able to return in the next few weeks, Dahl is not a lock to get more than a handful of starts per week as long as Mark Reynolds remains hot at the plate and continues to earn starts at first base, which has been pushing Ian Desmond to left field lately. In addition, there is also a possibility Dahl could be optioned to the minors, but that seems remote at this time. (Just an FYI as should be owned in all leagues, but if not, the bids should be $4/9/14.)

Jose Martinez, Cardinals - Martinez, sidelined with a Grade 2 groin strain, kicked off his rehab stint at High-A Palm Beach on Friday. He can spend a maximum of 20 days in the minors on his rehab assignment, during which he will also play first base, possibly paving the way for Martinez to be the back up for Matt Carpenter with Matt Adams dealt to Atlanta. Prior to being sidelined on May 5, Martinez looked to be in position to play almost every day with Stephen Piscotty landing on the disabled list. But with Piscotty back and Tommy Pham filling in nicely in the outfield, it remains unclear if Martinez will have a reserve role in the Cardinals outfield upon his activation. However, given his .313/.353/.458 slash line through his first 52 plate appearances this season and possibility of time at first base, Martinez likely will be back with St. Louis. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4.

Jarrett Parker, Giants - Parker, on the 60-day disabled list after breaking his right clavicle April 15, took on-field batting practice Saturday for the first time since his injury. In addition, he also ran the bases and made throws in the outfield. Barring any setbacks, Parker likely will progress to a minor-league rehab assignment with the hopes of returning to the big club in a little over two weeks. When he does return, Parker, who mashes righties, could once again start in left field, with Eduardo Nunez shifting back to third base, replacing the slumping Christian Arroyo. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jan Levine
Levine covers baseball and hockey for RotoWire. He is responsible for the weekly NL FAAB column for baseball and the Barometer for hockey. In addition to his column writing, he is master of the NHL cheat sheets. In his spare time, he roots for the Mets and Rangers.
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