Hughes and Buchholz are two very popular and talented youngster, but what value do they have coming into the 2nd half of the season? Well, not much if you ask me. Hughes, it appears, is set to remain in the NY bullpen for the remainder of the year. The final straw, the Yanks have slated Serigio Mitre as the 5th starter with Wang on the DL. Of course, another injury or two and they could be forced to put Hughes back as starter, but given his great success out of the pen and it appears unlikely. Hughes does have some value as a reliever of course, he has been light out recently, but unless you are content using him in that role for the remainder of the season I wouldn’t advise holding out for any greater production, not this season anyway.
Buchholz is a different story, but, unfortuantely, appears to have even less fantasy value for the 2nd half than Hughes. Despite his gaudy minor league numbers, mlb no-hitter, and solid start on Friday (5 2/3 inn, 4 hits, 1 run, 3 bb, 3 K’s), he has already been sent back down to Triple AAA. There are rumours that the Sox may trade their elite pitching prospect, but I just do not see it happening. He appears mlb ready, is cheap, and with Penny on the way out, Smoltz not a long-term fix and Dice-K somewhat of a question mark, the Sox could certainly use Clay next season so trading him at this juncture would seem foolish and out of character for the Sox who highly value young talent.
So, my advice, keep an eye on these top notch prospects but don’t hold your breath for any help from either of them during the second half (outside of quality RP numbers from Hughes). Big prospects that should certainly be kept in mind for next years draft, but if you’re looking for guys to help with a playoff push, set your sites elsewhere.
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