Michael Young, the All-Star third baseman for the Texas Rangers, will miss approximately two weeks due to a strained left hamstring. Initially fearing that the injury was going to keep him out the rest of the season, Young was thrilled to hear the 14-day outlook.
“For them to tell me there’s a good chance I’ll be available the last two weeks,” said Young, “that’s great news to me.”
Arguably the best player on the Rangers, Young has hit .322 with 22 homers, 67 RBIs and 76 runs this season. The loss of Young goes beyond the numbers.
“There’s no way to replace Michael,” …read more

In 2009 fantasy baseball, third base is the home of a few surprises at the top of the rankings. Here are the ExpertFantasy third baseman rankings for this fantasy baseball season so far:
1) Evan Longoria, Tampa Bay Rays
Only in his second year, Evan Longoria is quickly making a case for being the best third baseman in all of fantasy baseball. He already has 34 RBI, 21 runs and eight homers on the season.
2) Michael Young, Texas Rangers
Prior to the season, Michael Young didn’t sound too happy about moving over to third base. Now that he’s playing at the hot corner, …read more

The Major League Baseball All-Star Game was an epic contest — for those who kept their eyes open for the duration of the game. The 15 inning affair lasted past 1AM EST. Finally, Michael Young hit a winning sacrifice fly to score Justin Morneau. The American League All-Stars is now undefeated in their last 12 games against the National League All-Stars.
JD Drew was named the MVP of the game, in large part due to his game-tying two-run homer. Even though Albert Pujols was on his side, Brad Lidge gave up the winning sacrifice fly. Here …read more

While doing some housecleaning over at Ducksnorts, I came across an article I wrote in October 1999. That year, several top prospects played in the California Fall League, the successor to the old Hawaii Winter League. Here are a few of my thoughts back then on players who are now in the big leagues:
The guy who really impressed was Reds left fielder Ben Broussard. A 1999 draftee, Broussard has a quick bat and showed power to all fields. He appears to see the ball well, as he was able to wait until the very last moment before committing himself to …read more