Major League Baseball

MLB Quick Hits: Strasburg gets rocked again

Published May. 24, 2015 3:12 p.m. ET

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One of the worst things a fantasy owner can do at this point of the year is prematurely panic. It's an awfully long season, and most starting pitchers barely have a quarter of their starts out of the way. A guy can turn it around pretty quickly, just like Corey Kluber has in Cleveland.

And while that all sounds nice and good, it's easier to preach patience than practice it. Washington Nationals ace Stephen Strasburg has owners everywhere freaking out, and for good reason. Strasburg hasn't made it past the fifth inning in any of his last four starts, and he's allowed 15 earned runs over his last three. While the control hasn't been a major issue, Strasburg just isn't deceiving hitters right now whatsoever, and his strikeout numbers are dwindling. In three of his last four outings, Strasburg has failed to record more than three strikeouts.

Don't get crazy and cut him loose, but if you want to shop him aggressively and let him be someone else's headache, I wouldn't blame you.

In other news...

It could be worse, Strasburg owners. CC Sabathia was chased in his last start against the Rangers, as they dropped a 10 spot in the third inning. Oof.

Mike Napoli of the Red Sox finally woke up his bat. Napoli has four homers and three multi-hit games over his last five. He's still below the Mendoza line for the season, but he's owned in just 7.7 percent of FOX Sports leagues and could help if you're desperate for power.

If you're looking for the next big thing to come out of the minors, Ryan Fowler has a strong list of candidates here.

It's time to go get Indians catcher Yan Gomes off the wire. Gomes was activated Sunday and is owned in only 57.9 percent of leagues. Remember, Gomes hit .278 with 21 HR last year and he should occupy a spot in the middle of Cleveland's lineup.

If you want to take a flier on Josh Hamilton, now is the time to do it. He'll be back with the Rangers on Monday.

Foreign substances everywhere! Brian Matusz joined Will Smith on the list of pitchers ejected for having too much gunk on their arms. Now we just need a clever name (that ends in gate) to refer to this madness.

It's time to worry about David Wright. He was diagnosed with a spinal issue and has been shut down for at least a week, but don't be surprised if it's longer than that. Spinal stenosis has forced multiple players to retire, and Wright has a lot of miles on the odometer.

Very quietly, Pirates ace A.J. Burnett has been one of the best and most consistent pitchers in baseball this season. After outdueling Matt Harvey, Burnett lowered his ERA to a tiny 1.37.

Phillies rookie Maikel Franco came in with high expectations, and he's delivered thus far with an .885 OPS in his first nine games. He's owned in just 6.3 percent of FOX Sports leagues and might be worth a speculative add if you need help at the hot corner. 

Thanks for reading, and check back Monday for more Quick Hits. 

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