Weekly Fantasy Touts: July 3-9

By Michael Salfino

AMERICAN LEAGUE
Put 'em in

Adrian Beltre, 3B, Mariners: The Seattle third sacker has hit well over .300 with decent power since being moved up to the No. 2 spot in the batting order. On pace for 20-plus steals, Beltre can be safely started in all formats.

Ervin Santana, P, Angels: The subject of trade rumors with the Angles itching to roster phenom Jared Weaver, Santana has been very effective of late and gets two starts this week.

Bench 'em

Jon Lester, P, Red Sox: Gets just one start and is really putting up high pitch counts because of shaky control (six walks per nine innings). Like most rookie starters, Lester's been babied and suddenly find himself on pace for 200 frames.

Jamie Moyer, P, Mariners: He's a useful pitcher to roster even in mixed leagues. But this week, Moyer gets one start against a Angels team that will start five veterans with .300-plus averages versus him.

NATIONAL LEAGUE
Put 'em in

Mike Cameron, OF, Padres: Flashing the power and speed that his owners were anticipating on draft day. The batting average will continue to be a problem, but he's hot now.

Jake Peavy, P, Padres: He's piling up the strikeouts and has a clean bill of health. A breakout is coming and he gets two starts this week.

Bench 'em

Chuck James, P, Braves: Rookies like James should be active in mixed formats only when they get two starts or one really favorable one. This week, James' one start is against the Cardinals, which doesn't qualify.

Mike Gonzalez, P, Pirates: Had no saves for over two weeks thanks to the Pirates losing streak. He still walks too many (over five passes per nine innings) to add value when not closing.