One of the most popular sleepers in fantasy leagues this spring is now expected to miss three to four weeks after suffering a hamstring injury. Monday’s MRI exam on the right hamstring of Rangers third baseman Hank Blalock revealed a partial tear, sending him to the disabled list for the foreseeable future. He received an injection of anti-inflammatory medication but is expected to miss at least three to four weeks, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Ramon Vazquez started the two games Blalock has missed thus far and is expected to see the majority of at bats while Hammering Hank is on the shelf. The big problem the Rangers face with the shift of Vazquez into the starting lineup is that it leaves them thin on the bench, particularly in terms of infielder depth.
It seems to suggest that they could recall someone, but few minor league infielders are healthy and/or performing well enough to justify a promotion. One guy to keep an eye on is outfielder Nelson Cruz, whose .538 on-base percentage leads all of organized baseball. Fantasy owners would be wise to keep an eye on if Cruz is promoted and take a chance on him in deep mixed leagues in the event that does occur. Meanwhile those left with a significant hole in their lineup due to Blalock’s absence will have to dig for options. Vazquez is an average one, and it seems unlikely that players like Joe Crede or Evan Longoria are still available in leagues. It’s possible that Scott Rolen was dropped in your league and he’d certainly be a viable waiver claim given the alternative.
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