Roto Riteup: August 15, 2015

The Seahawks played against the Broncos last night, so this Roto Riteup author feels comfortable in announcing the start of the football season.

On today’s agenda:
1. Various news and notes
2. Streaming Pitcher Options

Various news and notes
Miguel Cabrera has been activated from the DL by the Tigers without going on a rehab assignment after missing about six weeks worth of games. Detroit is out of it and are likely to be careful with their star slugger, but there’s no real place for him outside of first base unless they want to sit Victor Martinez, so expect Miggy to get a few extra days of rest as the season starts to come to a close.

Jaime Garcia turned in another outstanding effort last night, making it into the ninth inning against the Marlins without allowing a run. Garcia struck out six and walked one while bringing his 2015 ERA to 1.57 over 11 starts. It should be too late to add Jaime everywhere, but marveling at a man returning from some serious injuries is good enough for me.

Speaking of the Cardinals, they will face Mike Leake in his return from the disabled list next Tuesday. It will be Leake’s second start as a member of the Giants.

Chris Coghlan continues doing interesting things, hitting two homers against Jeff Samardzija yesterday. Coghlan now has 13 homers on the year with a .247 average and 11 steals. Coghlan appears to be Joe Madden’s new toy with his ability to play multiple positions. If all holds, the former Rookie Of The Year has now put together back-to-back 2+ WAR seasons in his age 29 and 30 seasons.

Drew Smyly will be returning to the Rays tomorrow against the Rangers, taking Matt Moore’s vacant spot in the rotation. Yes, Moore was demoted after his start on August 1, but the Rays have had appropriately placed off days this month and have been able to get away with a four-man rotation until now. Smyly looked excellent in his three starts earlier this season, but it’s been awhile since we’ve seen the way candles light his face.

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Streaming Pitcher Options
If you enjoy streaming pitchers or play DFS, tune into the Roto Riteup for recommendations each and every day.

A pitcher for today: Jonathon Niese vs PIT (Charlie Morton)
Niese isn’t nearly as available or cheap as he has been, but he’s worth the extra price you may have to pay today.

A pitcher for tomorrow: Henry Owens vs SEA (Vidal Nuno)
The Red Sox can do some hitting against LHP, so Owens may get some run support. If things are working, his changeup can help keep Trumbo and Cruz at bay, and his slider can keep Seager and Cano off the plate.