MLB Fantasy Fixer-Uppers July 30th

The end of July is rapidly approaching and that can only mean one thing in the baseball world. The trading deadline. That's right. Tomorrow at midnight marks the end of when players can be traded without first passing through waivers. This can help or hurt your fantasy team. Some players might get a boost in value with a trade. Others might lose some. Some players might gain value because someone else on their team is traded away. Let's analyze some possible movers and shakers in this week's edition.

Brandon Beachy, SP, Atlanta Braves (52% owned ESPN leagues)

Beachy was a popular add as he made his season debut last night against the Colorado Rockies. His line? Ugly to say the least; 3 2/3 IP, eight hits, seven ER and a walk in a no decision. He did strike out five which is encouraging but that's about all. Beachy was leading the National League with a cool 2.00 ERA last year before he went down and required Tommy John surgery and I am willing to bet it takes him until next year to resemble the pitcher he once was. Most pitchers need some time to find themselves again after that kind of surgery. That is why I say pass on Beachy for now. I don't think the risk outweighs the reward for the rest of 2013. And this is coming from a Braves fan.

Jose Cisnero, RP, Houston Astros (18% owned)

The Astros traded away Jose Veras who was serving as the team's closer this year so that means someone else will be given the ball in the ninth inning in the Lone Star state. That could very well be Cisnero. He doesn't have overwhelming numbers with a 3.48 ERA and a 1.48 WHIP but he could be given the opportunity to get the save whenever the Astros actually hold a lead. Cisnero has been a little wild lately surrendering eight runs in his last 10 appearances but if you are desperate for saves you should give him a look.

Bud Norris, SP, Houston Astros...for now (4% owned)

Two Astros on the list you say? Well, one is almost certain to be a former Astro which almost boosts his value on its own doesn't it? Norris has arguably been Houston's best pitcher this year and rumors have him landing on a National League team. Heading back to the Senior Circuit should also help Norris as he won't have to face a DH every night out. Every little bit helps right? Anyway Norris was scratched from his start tonight in anticipation of him being traded and he is a solid number three in most rotations. He is definitely worth taking a flyer on to see which team lands him.

Brian Wilson, RP, Los Angeles Dodgers (1% owned)

Fear the beard! Wilson is back pitching in the weak National League West but he is no longer a member of the San Francisco Giants. Wilson has signed with the rival Los Angeles Dodgers and will go on a rehab stint to work up to game speed. He could make his debut in two weeks. Like Beachy , Wilson is also coming off of Tommy John surgery. Unlike Beachy, Wilson will only be called upon for an inning or so each time out. That leads me to believe he has a chance to be the more effective pitcher the rest of the year. When healthy Wilson was a force out of the bullpen and led all of baseball in saves from 2008-2011. He may not be given the closer role outright but manager Don Mattingly trotted Brandon League out there for weeks at the beginning of the season which made sense to no one. Don't be surprised if Wilson is closing in LA by year's end.

Cody Asche, 3B, Philadelphia Phillies (0% owned)

Mired in an eight game losing streak it appears as if the Phillies are finally ready to wave the white flag. I expect them to trade away veteran Michael Young and the fact they called up Asche is a good indicator they are thinking the same thing. Asche has thrived in the minors this year hitting .295 with 15 homers and 68 RBI in 104 games. The future at third base in Philly is here now and I see no reason why he can't contribute down the stretch this year. Expect a .275 BA with five to eight long balls and a decent amount of RBI. That is, if Young is actually traded in the next 27 hours.