It’s a bit early for my annual lessons learned from injuries and recoveries for the 2012 season as the disabling of Johan Santana triggered this column. The purpose of this column is two-fold. One it’s a review for me as an exercise in reviewing the way I evaluate player injuries. I try not to get stuck in a rut saying so-and-so will be out 36 days because that’s what my injury database says. Focus on the player, and then situation and medical information then use the database as a guide. Two, my hope it helps you garner more knowledge with selected injury situations.

While Denard Span (OF, MIN), David Ortiz (DH, BOS) and Jose Bautista (OF, TOR) returned to action after lengthy absences, Dexter Fowler is among those sidelined by injury. Span was 2-for-5 with two SB in his August 23 return, his first action since suffering a bruised clavicle on August 12. Miguel Cabrera (3B, DET) continues playing through injury, though limited to a DH role.

As we enter the homestretch of the 2012 season, teams will be able to expand their rosters to 40 players beginning next week. Some September call-ups will have little fantasy or real world impact, but there are some top notch prospects that could help clubs as they make a push towards the playoffs or start to rebuild for 2013 and beyond. Savvy fantasy owners will need to keep an eye on these call-ups, many of whom offer both risk and reward. This week we look at possible impact call-ups in the NL.

Rob Gordon, BHQ Minor League Analyst on young players being called up for the stretch run...

Nova, Darvish, Pujols and Bourjos on the mend; Brown taking advantage of PT ...

Here's a chance to share your passion with 150 of your closest friends at First Pitch Arizona.

The LIMA Plan is almost 15 years old. It's time to for a reboot.

John Axford is back as the closer in Milwaukee, Bartolo Colon is suspended, and Randy Wolf is released...

Dexter Fowler (OF, COL) has been viewed as a five-tool threat since his early years in the Rockies farm system. But inconsistent play has frustrated owners still waiting on him to break out. Finally, there seems to be progress with Fowler batting over .300 with double-digit steals and home runs.

This NL Midweek Series Matchups column will cover one four-game series and seven three-game sets. The following analysis was compiled with the most up-to-date pitching information available, but circumstances can and will change, so refer to the Weekly Probable Starting Pitching Report for any updates. Within each series below, the scheduled starters are listed for both teams. Following each pitcher's name, we've included their handedness, year-to-date BPV, and last five PQS scores.

Josh Hamilton and the Rangers are 5-1 against the Twins this season and are averaging 5.5 RPG at home. This weekend Texas will host Minnesota for four games.