Strategic Spot Starters: Week Edition

At least in my ESPN league, this is the last week of regular seeding. The top three make the playoffs, and if memory serves me, I've clinched the top spot and a first round bye. For those of you less fortunate, this may be the most important week of your season, so consider these options carefully and opt for a no-holds-barred approach with regard to pickups.

Monday: My only "^" is Gil Meche, and he faces the Rangers which is a no go. However, after perusing the days probable's, Jeff Francis is a good bet provided he is unowned against San Fran. That's about it though.

Tuesday: Derek Lowe at Washington and Scott Olsen at Atlanta are a pair of those guys I consider among my "extended roster". Lowe is one of the best spot starts of the week, posting a gem the last time he faced the Nats (8 IP, 0 ER, 8 K). Most of the other pitchers getting the nod are up against tough offenses, though Greg Smith has a career 2.70 ERA against the Angels and last time they faced the young lefty went the distance, surrendering only one run. 

Wednesday: Greg Maddux has a career 2.44 ERA against Washington, which is absolutely meaningly considering the last time they faced was 2005, and I doubt more than two players on the roster are the same. Still, they represent a marginal pitcher vs. anemic offense that is always worth considering. Considering it is the only worthwhile start of the day, I like the pick.

Thursday: Clayton Kershaw is the final Dodgers' starter I'd spot, as he shut them down over six innings a few outings ago. Nick Blackburn went eight innings the last time he faced Oakland, giving up three runs. Not the worst line, but its likely to improve when he faces them at home where his ERA has been more than a point and a half better. Dana Eveland is on the other end of that match, and looked sharp in his first return post-demotion if you want to hedge your bets.