Mauer, any viable solutions?

As I am currently looking for a temporary replacement for Joe Mauer (DTD, Heel, but ESPN reporting that Gardenhire has suggested it is more likely a week to week status), I have taken a close look at stats for the top backstops in the league, and here are some viable options for us Mauer (C,DH, MINN) owners.

Jorge Posada (C, NYYANX), looks solid so far. checking in with a .299 avg, 5 taters and 12 driven, the 38 year old still puts up impressive numbers. Even hitting in the 6 slot, bear in mind the offensive power of the Yankee lineup top to bottom.

How about cross-town at Citi Field? Rod Barajas (C NYMETS), was brought to NY apparently to work with the pitching staff, but has put up some offensive numbers early. (despite his base running blunder Sunday night) In his 11th season at age 34, Rod has managed a 243 avg with 6 dingers, and 13 driven in. With half of his home run total coming over the last 7 days, and a .429 avg over that span, it is feasible that his hot bat could continue until Mauer returns.

The hitter friendly confines of Coors Field have been kind to Migel Olivo (C, COLROCK) thus far in the season.  Currently batting 30 points over his career average and with 5 homers and 13 driven in, he is off to a better than average start. Interesting note on Olivo, he passed a kidney stone during Monday nights game vs Arizona, and immediately resumed his position behind the plate!!  Nice to see guts like that in the world of millionaire crybabies!!

Of course, you always have the Molinas, Yadier (C STLOUIS) is averaging .247 with 13 ribs on 2 long balls, and has proven to be consistent, even if the numbers are less than stellar. Bengie (C SFGIANTS), has improved his avg. to .343, but is struggling in the power categories with only 2HR and 9 RBI.

These numbers are far from Maueresque, but we will have to monitor the Twins catcher too see how long he is expected to be out. Lets all hope for a full and speedy recovery!! Interesting to note that Wilson Ramos, the call up replacement for Mauer went 4 for 5 in his debut.

Didn’t fare too badly this week, took a massive Friday night lead in h2h, only to get crushed on Saturday by some of the best fantasy numbers I’ve seen so far this season, and fell 4-6-0, in a close battle. On the upswing I took over first place on both roto leagues (ESPN and Yahoo), posting 81 and 91 points respectively. Lets hope that streak continues!!

That’s it for this week, good luck on your catcher replacement, score big, and most of all have fun!!

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