Arizona Diamondbacks Cody Ross outfielder is expected to be out 2-3 weeks due to a lower leg strain in his left leg. He’ll continue to throw and take batting practice, but will not perform any running. He’s expected to be ready for Opening Day. If not, there’s no rush to get him back because they have Gerardo Parra who could easily be a starting outfielder for half the teams in the league.
David Ortiz is still experiencing pain in his right Achilles tendon. Recently, he started feeling pain in both legs, which is completely independent from the Achilles injury. With Opening Day 3.5 weeks away, Ortiz availability is up in the air. Other than Yahoo leagues, Ortiz only qualifies at DH. I’ve never liked owning a DH only player, but if you decide to draft him I wouldn’t get him until the 14th round in a 12-team league.
Brett Lawrie is out 2-3 weeks with a strained left rib cage. The club expects him to be ready for opening day. He suffered a similar injury last season and missed more than month of the season before returning to the lineup in September. As of now, his draft status should not be altered.
Reports out of Twins camp is Aaron Hicks could start the year as their starting center fielder. This takes all the value from deep speed sleeper Darin Mastroianni. Let’s talk about Hicks. He is an above average defender with a plus arm and plus speed; basically he has the athletic tools to be a first-division center fielder. However, his hit tool, which is fringe average, is the roadblock to reaching his ceiling. This is extremely important because the hit tool will allow his above average power to play-up. The Twins aren’t going anywhere this season and I would prefer for Hicks to begin the year in Triple-A to continue his refinement. If he begins the year in the Majors he’ll probably hit .240 with 10 home runs and 15+ stolen bases.
Aramis Ramirez sprained his left knee a couple of days ago sliding into second base. There’s no structural damage to the knee but he’ll miss 1-3 weeks. As of now it looks as though he’ll be ready for the opener.
