Diamondbacks Correspondent Report
June 15, 2003
Latest Team News
Friday May 29 the Diamondbacks made what so far was the biggest deal of the season, sending pitcher Byung-Hyung Kim to the Boston Red Sox for third baseman Shea Hillenbrand. The opinions on this trade are mixed but personally I like the trade for both teams. The Diamondbacks are in no need of young pitching, Take a look at the prospect report further down in this report if more info on the Diamondbacks young pitchers. However one of the Diamondbacks biggest needs was a hitter, Specifically a Third Baseman, and that is what they got in Hillenbrand who they believe will give the Diamondbacks the offensive boost they need.
The Diamondbacks have been slowly improving their record but to get back into the playoff race they need to go on a 7 or 8 game-winning streak. I am aware that it is early but still a winning streak would be a quick way to get back into the race.
The injury bug has hit the Diamondbacks hard this year, here is a look at the Diamondbacks Disabled. Junior Spivey is on the 15 day DL with a twisted ankle, Matt Mantei is on the 15 day DL with tendonitis on the right arm. They are expected back June 9th. Brandonn Webb is on the 15 day DL and is expected back June 8th. Craig Counsell is on the 60 Day DL with a dislocated thumb and is expected back in August. Randy Johnson is on the 15 Day DL and is expected back mid June. Bret Prinz is on the 60 day DL and is expected back around the All Star break.
Local Perspective
Although sad to see a player that has been with the team so long go, I think the fans in Arizona understand that it was in the best interest of the team to trade a pitcher for more offence.
One thing that will be affected by the Kim/Hillenbrand trade is the career of Matt Williams. Williams has been with the team since the start so naturally people are sad to see him go. Matt has been struggling for playing time since his injury in 2001 and wasn’t doing anything meaningful so management decided to let him go.
Player by Player
Elmer Dessens: Dessens has pitched decently but has not showed the amazing stuff he did in spring training. Until he does I really don't think that you should be starting him. FIC Spin: Watch
Brandon Webb: Webb has pitched lights out and gets my vote for NL ROY right now. He has dominated every game is quickly gaining respect around the league. I have him starting on my fantasy team: FIC Spin: Start
Curt Schilling: Schilling is out for 1 month with a broken hand. It might be a good time to try to get him in a trade. FIC Spin: Aquire/Hold
Randy Johnson: Randy is recovering well and is expected back sometime this month. He is expected to have a full recovery and pitch as well or better then he did before the surgery. FIC Spin: Aquire/Hold
Shea Hillenbrand: Hillenbrand has missed sometime due to a strained muscle but when he is healthy he is a solid fantasy performer. FIC Spin: Start
Luis Gonzalez: Gonzalez is quietly having a very solid season. If you look at his stats you see that he holds his own against all other outfielders. If you need a soild OF for a decent price Gonzo maybe a good option. FIC Spin: Aquire/Start
Questions
Do you ever have any baseball related questions that you want anwsered? If so feel free to e-mail them to me and I will anwser them in an upcoming report. Send them to diamondbacks@fantasyinfocentral.com
Local Reporter
Do you live in Arizona and have interest in helping cover the Diamondbacks? If so please e-mail me at diamondbacks@fantasyinfocentral.com
