As discussed the last time I crawled out from under the big straw hat there are factors that influence the outcome of pennant races. This time I'll take a look at some of the factors that could impact the races in the National League.
Troy Glaus has played both left field and first base in his rehab starts. The Cardinals are seriously considering using Glaus in left when he returns to St. Louis. Concerned by throwing issues from the injury, the Cards feel Glaus is a good enough athlete to play the outfield. We know he won't be playing first.
Lance Berkman has been suffering from a Grade 2 strain in his left calf. The injury has limited his mobility and it has forced him to pinch-hitting duties. If the pain persists, he may have to miss extended time, taking a major bat out of the Astros lineup. Darin Erstad is hurt as well. Chris Coste at first base?
Ryan Dempster is close to returning to the starting rotation for the Cubs. That addition will be more than welcome as the Cubs are fighting for every win they can get. Kevin Hart, normally a reliever, has been used in the rotation.
Kosuke Fukudome has assumed the leadoff position in the Cubs lineup. That change is major, as it lowers Alfonson Soriano in the order and allows Fukudome to slap the ball for a single as opposed to swinging for the fences. Fukudome won't get many bases on balls, but he may be a good table setter. It's significant that Cubs fans are lobbying for the team to bring back the hustling, energetic Sam Fuld. Not yet.
The Braves Garret Anderson's bat is heating up. With Tommy Hanson in the starting rotation and improved offense, watch out for the Braves. They could climb or spoil.
Pedro Martinez threw to 20 minor league hitters, striking out 6 in his first tune-up as a Philly. He is currently on the Philadelphia disabled list with an eye to being ready to help the club in early to mid-August.
Brett Myers could return to the Philly rotation as early as mid-August following surgery on his right hip. If that happens and if Martinez is ready to pitch, the Philadelphia rotation will be strengthened for the stretch drive. Reports remain that the Phillies really want...Roy Halladay. Get in line.
The Giants Rich Aurilia has gone on the disabled list with a right big toe infection. That becomes significant because of the lack of offense on the Giants. Aaron Rowand was hit by a pitch from Tommy Hanson and he, too, may miss some time.
The Marlins are in the hunt for a starting outfielder with pop and a closer. It's been reported that Chad Qualls of the Diamondbacks and Kerry Wood of the Indians are high on many team's trade wish lists.
Seth Smith is quietly doing a nice job both offensively and defensively for Colorado. He's hitting .304 playing in left field. A solid Smith can help the Rockies close the gap on San Francisco for the wild card. Jim Tracy has really made a difference for the Rockies. The team is really playing well.
The Brewers filled a need with the arrival of 2B Felipe Lopez from the Diamondbacks. Without giving up very much, the Brewers got themselves a solid hitter who plays well when motivated by a pennant race. In his first start for the Brew Crew, Lopez went 4X4 with a walk. Not bad!
AL update- Matt LaPorta has been playing first base at AAA Columbus in the indians organization. In my profile of LaPorta on Rotowire.com I spoke of the potential for the Tribe to trade Ryan Garko and use LaPorta at first in 2010. Could be.
Those are my thoughts. I'd be interested in yours. Comment below or email me at thebigstrawhat@aol.com