Fantasy Baseball: Friday’s Roto Roundup

The Phillies did not need their bullpen in shutting out the lowly Astros on Friday night 8-0 behind J.A. Happ, but they did get some good news with closer Brad Lidge who is apparently ready to make a rehab appearance on Saturday.

Cardinals outfielder Ryan Ludwick batted second in front of Albert Pujols, but that didn't stop him from going 0-4 with 3 strikeouts. His teammate, Matt Holliday, picked up the slack going 3-4 with a HR and 2 RBI. Holliday is starting off where he left off last season.

Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano gave up 3 runs i 6 innings of work, but gave up 4 hits and 5 walks while striking out only 3. Not as dominating as he was in spring training.

Rangers outfiielder Nelson Cruz went 3-4 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI, and hit his 3rd HR of the season. He is well on his way to prove last year was not a fluke.

Phillies outfielder Raul Ibanez went 3-4 with 3 RBI. I am of the opinion that he doesn't even come close to hitting 34 HRs in 2010.

Rafael Furcal had 3 more hits on Friday night, to go along with his 3rd SB of the season. Can Furcal steal 25 bases in 2010?

Speaking of SBs, Dodgers first baseman James Loney stole his 2nd base of the season. I have read that he lost some weight in the offseason, and looks better on the basepaths. Can Loney steal 10+ bases in 2010?

Reds outfielder Drew Stubbs went 2-4 with a HR, a grand slam, and 4 RBI. How soon before the Reds deal outfielder Chris Dickerson?

Rockies starter Jorge De La Rosa struck out 9 in 7 innings giving up 1 hit and 1 walk, a dominating performance over the Padres. JDLR may be ready to break out in 2010.

Yankees starter Javier Vazquez is back to his old AL ways as he gave up 8 runs in 5.2 innings on Friday vs the Rays. He gave up 8 hits, 3 walks and struck out 5.

Rays starter David Price threw 7+ strong innings vs the Yankees on Friday night, giving up 3 runs on 7 hits, 3 walks and 7 strikeouts.

Both Rod Barajas and Jeff Franceour hit 2 HRs apiece on Friday night to lead the Mets to an 8-2 win over the Nationals. Is it possible the change of scenery is the difference in Franceour? Or am I drinking the Kool-Aid?