Roto Riteup: August 25, 2020

Not what the manager was thinking when he told him to “use his head!”

Here is another breakdown of this….(headbutt?) because TBH we all need it. @Dbacks pic.twitter.com/AP9nnPh5Yv

— FOX Sports Arizona (@FOXSPORTSAZ) August 25, 2020

On the Agenda:

1. COVID Issues
2. Closer Chaos
3. Trade Rumors!
4. Quick Hits
5. Various News and Notes
6. Streaming Pitchers

 

COVID Issues
The Mets are expected to resume playing on Tuesday after missing last weekend’s games due to COVID issues. They will play a doubleheader on Tuesday against the Marlins and then doubleheaders on Friday and Sunday. According to Joel Sherman, the Mets have not had any new positive test results since last week.

 

Closer Chaos
Jordan Romano got his second save of the season in the victory over the Rays on Monday. Anthony Bass has struggled and while Ken Giles is reportedly working his way back, he won’t be ready for a little while, if at all this season. Romano is widely available and should be picked up in all formats.

Daniel Bard had a clean ninth inning for the Rockies to get the save in the victory over the Diamondbacks on Monday. It has been over a week since the Rockies last won and two weeks since the Rockies last save, but that was Bard as well. It looks like Bard is the guy for now in Colorado, but we all know that it could be short lived.

 

Trade Rumors!
According to Bob Nightengale, the Angels are taking offers on some of their players and have had a number of teams express interest in Dylan Bundy. Bundy is under contract through next season, so he should net more than a contract year player would. With more playoff spots available for teams, it seems like this is a seller’s market. Bundy has been fantastic this season, but been a little bumpier in his last two outings.

According to Jon Heyman, the Blue Jays have interest in Chad Kuhl and Trevor Williams. The Blue Jays are struggling with rotation depth issues with Trent Thornton, Nate Pearson and Matt Shoemaker recently hitting the IL. The Blue Jays could also be players for Dylan Bundy as well.

 

Quick Hits
The Angels/Astros game that was scheduled for Thursday has been moved to being part of a doubleheader on Tuesday due to an approaching tropical storm. Starters for the Angels will be Jose Suarez and Julio Teheran. The Astros will start Lance McCullers and the other starter has not been announced as of writing.

Randall Grichuk left Tuesday’s game with back stiffness. This is disappointing as Grichuk has been hot and hit a three run homer in the contest before leaving. Consider him day-to-day for now.

Kevin Kiermaier left Tuesday’s game with a foot issue. Kiermaier has struggled to stay on the field for a few years now. X-rays were negative following the game. Consider him day-to-day for now. Manny Margot will take over centerfield duties for him in his absence.

Merrill Kelly was a late scratch on Monday with a shoulder issue. He was placed on the IL shortly thereafter. Kelly had been pitching fantastically, so this is disappointing for fantasy managers who were looking forward to a two-start week.

Charlie Blackmon was a late scratch on Monday due to a leg issue. Consider him day-to-day for now.

George Springer left Monday;s game with an elbow injury on Monday after being hit with a pitch. X-rays were negative following the game, so consider him day-to-day for now.

 

Various News and Notes
Rumors are flying that Ian Anderson could make his Major League debut on Tuesday against the Yankees. Anderson is the top pitching prospect for the Braves with three above average pitches and good command. He dominated AA last year before being promoted to AAA and struggling in his last five starts of the season. He is worth picking up in most formats, but should stay reserved for this first start.

Jose Aguilar went 3-for-5 with three RBIs, a run scored, and a walk in the victory over the Nationals on Monday. Aguilar made a change to his batting stance this year and the results have been notable, hitting .291/.326/.488 with four home runs and 19 RBIs. He may be a popular trade candidate if the Marlins decide to sell.

 

Streaming Pitchers (Under 50% in CBS)
Pitcher for Today: Elieser Hernandez at NYM
Hernandez has looked great this season and as long as the Mets play this week, he is a good streaming option.
High Risk Options: Alex Young vs COL

Pitcher for Tomorrow: None

High Risk Options: Brandon Bielak vs LAA, Trevor Williams at CHW