Twitter: @RobShawSports and @BloombergSports

 

Bloomberg Sports Anchor Rob Shaw answers questions from Twitter about managing fantasy baseball roster changes:

 

Question: I need to free up a roster spot. Should I drop Colby Lewis or Mat Latos? Who has better potential of bouncing back?

Answer: Colby Lewis doesn’t really need to bounce back. He is 4-4 with a 3.50 ERA and 1.13 WHIP, which so far is beating expectations. He will give you a solid WHIP, comparatively high ERA due to the ballpark, and more than 12 wins for the Rangers. His weakness is that he gives up a lot of bombs. He has already allowed 14 home runs this season, including five in one game. 

On the other hand, Reds hurler Mat Latoshas struggled a bit despite a 4-2 record.  His 4.91 ERA and 1.40 WHIP suggest it’s been a tough transition to Cincinnati. Like Lewis, he has given up a ton of home runs — 12 so far this year. Each year, Latos’ walks and hits have gone up, but he now has to pitch in the hitter-friendly Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati rather than in the pitcher haven Petco Park. 

Ultimately, Colby Lewis is the safe bet since he does not allow many runners on base and has an incredible offense behind him, but Latos has greater potential because of his youth and past numbers. I’d try to trade Latos and keep Lewis. 

 

Question: I really need a new backup catcher on my fantasy teams. Suzuki is struggling and Mauer is day-to-day right now. Do you have any suggestions?

Answer: Rockies catcher Wilin Rosario has been an excellent pickup. He hit his ninth home run Monday night and now has three in his last seven games with nine RBI during that stretch.  If he’s still available, he’s the hitter to target.  If he’s already been taken, Chris Iannetta will return soon for the Angels and is another good option.  He offers a low average but solid on-base percentage and power.  Finally, for the Nationals, Jesus Flores has some pop and also hits for the highest average of the bunch.  

 

Question: Is it worth keeping Bryan LaHair in my outfield anymore? Dexter Fowler is available.  

Answer: I would rather have Dexter Fowler than Bryan LaHair.  However, dropping LaHair would be a mistake.  Look to package the Cubs .300 power hitter for your roster’s weakness.  Fowler is the complete package in mind, with more power than the speed you expect from him.  LaHair is a fine hitter, but not nearly as well-rounded a fantasy performer. 

 

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