Astros' Sampson Gets 2nd Save

Former starting pitching prospect, Chris Sampson, has picked up his 2nd save of the season in the Houston Astros 6-4 win over the Brewers.

Sampson is now 2-0 with 2 saves and a 2.13 ERA.

With Jose Valverde on the DL and LaTroy Hawkins (hip) banged up, Sampson got the call.

He is worth a look, as all possible closers are, but his low k-ratio combined with his temporary closer status (about two weeks) makes Sampson a pick up only if you are carrying dead weight.

His value is a bit more if you get points for holds plus he qualifies as a RP and SP.

Sin City Scout

Jose Valverde placed on the D.L.

The Houston Astros placed closer Jose Valverde on the 15 day D.L. today with a strained calf. This is not a serious injury it just needs some time to heal.

Latroy Hawkins will fill in for the Astros until Valverde is ready to return. Hawkins is only owned in 13% of Yahoo leagues so pick him up if you can.

The Bay State Scout

Valverde Earns Save; May Miss Time With Calf Injury

Despite earning his second save of the season on Sunday, Jose Valverde may miss up to a week due to a calf injury. Valverde reportedly felt pain with every pitch he threw on Sunday as he worked through lingering calf soreness. He originally suffered the injury while closing out Houston's win over the Dodgers on April 21st. He has struggled in two appearances since then, blowing a save on Saturday, then fighting through pain Sunday. Right now it appears that Valverde will be back towards the end of the week, but this is a situation to monitor. LaTroy Hawkins makes for a good speculative add, as he is next in line for saves in Houston.