BY ADAM RONIS
Dallas McPherson hit 42 home runs in the minors this season, but with the strong play of Jorge Cantu and the Marlins in contention, he didn't get the call until rosters expanded. He started at third base today and went 0-for-2 with a run, two walks and a strikeout. In 362 major league at-bats, he has 122 strikeouts. It's no secret he's trying to hit the ball over the fence all the time. I wouldn't expect much from him. His playing time could increase as the Marlins fall out of it. He might give you some home runs, but don't expect much more.
Alexei Ramirez is having a nice rookie season and boosting his value for 2009. He is hitting .306 and hit his 16th homer and has 62 RBIs. He has walked just 10 times, but only struck out 54 times in 395 at-bats.
I discussed the sick numbers put up new cleanup hitter Dustin Pedroia today on the Fantasy Bonus with Adam Ronis. He went 3-for-4 with two runs and his 17th homer. He is hitting .333 with 44 doubles, 17 homers, 76 RBIs, just 47 strikeouts and 41 walks. He is 17-for-18 in stolen bases.
Nate Schierholtz was called up when rosters expanded and should get the chance to play often. He went 4-for-5 with three runs and is a good addition in NL-only leagues.
If you need some power and speed, pick up Elijah Dukes. He stole his 13th base today and has only been caught once.
Ty Wigginton's home run surge continues. He hit his 22nd homer.
In a supposed down year, Carlos Beltran has scored 100 runs, stole 20 bases and has 22 homers and 96 RBIs. I'll take it on my team.
Yunel Escobar is day-to-day with a sore shoulder.