Weekly Fantasy Touts: July 10-16

By Michael Salfino

AMERICAN LEAGUE
Put 'em in

Mike Napoli, C, Angels: Who could have seen this coming? Napoli (11 bombs in his first 131 Angel ABs) flashed good power in AA last year, but he was old for the league and K'ed 140 times.

Randy Johnson, P, Yankees: The glass is half empty for disappointed Johnson owners. But lower your expectations and you'll see he still projects as a solid, mixed-league starter the second half.

Bench 'em

Mike Sweeney, 1B, Royals: He's allegedly beginning a rehab assignment soon. First, he gets an epidural. That's fine if you're birthing twins, but not if you plan on swinging a bat in anger a few hundred times this summer.

Javy Lopez, C, Orioles: Will lose his DH spot once Jay Gibbons comes off the DL. Nick Markakis is punch and judy, but is now entrenched as an OF because he's hot and has youth on his side.

NATIONAL LEAGUE
Put 'em in

Jeff Weaver, P, Cardinals: Yes, I touted him a couple of weeks ago when he was designated for assignment. But he had a 22:2 K/BB ratio in his AL finishing kick. He'll help you now that he's in the NL. Honest.

Eddie Guardardo, P, Reds: He's just about finished and has a torn labrum, but he's closing. Wait for him to reel off a couple of saves and then trade him.

Bench 'em

Morgan Ensberg, 3B, Astros: Just five ribbies the last month. I like him long-term, but he's been moved down in the lineup and should be reserved in mixed leagues.

Paul Lo Duca, C, Mets: The worst all-star this side of Mark Redman. He's now 34 and has always regressed in the second half. Lo Duca no power and offers little defensive value, so his playing time should diminish.