EXPOS- 05/09/03
May 09, 2003
LATEST TEAM INFO:
The Expos got off to a really quick start this season, but have cooled off lately to sit with a record of 21-13, good enough for second place in the very tough National League East. Earlier on the Expos relied heavily on their starting pitching to get them victories as Javier Vazquez, Tony Armas Jr., and Zack Day all got off to great starts. Livan Hernandez has also been pretty solid in the early going. Rocky Biddle seems to have taken over as the team's closer and has been pretty good, only blowing one save in eight opportunities, despite his 4.42 ERA. Joey Eischen has also been an early season savior for the club as he has only given up one earned run in 17 appearances thus far.
Not to be outdone, the offence has picked it up as of late as most of the team's regulars are enjoying solid stats in the young campaign. Jose Vidro and Brad Wilkerson both have batting averages over .300, superstar Vladimir Guerrero has caught fire as of late after a slow start, Orlando Cabrera seems to have returned to his 2001 form, and young Endy Chavez is doing a great job in centrefield. All in all things are looking up for this good, young team.
On the downside, Michael Barrett has been horrible, Jeff Leifer is looking like a big time bust, and Tomo Ohka has not looked like the promising young starter we saw towards the end of last season. The Expos will need these players to perform if they expect to contend for a playoff spot.
INJURIES:
Orlando Hernandez is due back from the DL anytime now after pitching in his third rehab start while recovering from a partially torn rotator cuff. El Duque pitched 7 and 1-3 innings while giving up only one run on two hits and striking out 10.
Tony Armas Jr., is on the 15-day DL with a strained rotator cuff. The Expos are uncertain as to when he'll return, but expect them to take is slow as they have a lot of depth on their pitching staff so there is no need to rush him.
MOVES TO MAKE
Add:
OF Brad Wilkerson - He could turn into a superstar this season.
SP Zack Day - As long as he stays in the rotation he will have some fantasy value.
Drop:
C Michael Barrett - He could very well lose his starting job.
1B Jeff Liefer - If you took a chance by drafting him, it's time to give up.
Hold:
SP Tomo Ohka - He still has tons of potential and I expect him to break out soon.
SP Tony Armas - It looked like this may be his year before he got hurt. Hold on to him and see if he bounces back well from this injury.
OVERVIEW
I think this team has finally proved that it is not a fluke and that it is a serious contender for a playoff spot come October. Orlando Hernandez has looked good while rehabbing his arm and his return will add even more depth to an already very good Expos pitching staff. This final season in Montreal looks like it will be one for the ages.
