The following article appeared on this site 11 years ago. Given some of the historical pieces I've written this year, and a related discussion posted recently on KFFL.com, I thought this was interesting to share during my week off. Enjoy.

Manny Machado called up by BAL, Brett Lawrie placed on DL, Tyler Greene traded to STL, and more...

Unfortunately it’s starting to be that time of year: any significant injury can be season-ending. Here are four current injuries that might be season-enders.

This NL Weekend Series Matchup column previews one four-game series and seven three-game series. The following analysis was compiled with the most up-to-date pitching info available, but circumstances can change, so refer to the Weekly Probable Starting Pitching Report for any updates. Within the series below, the scheduled starters are listed for both teams. These are up to date as of this writing, but always subject to change. Following each pitcher’s name, we’ve included their handedness, year to date BPV and last five PQS scores.

SAFE SO FAR: The White Sox head into this weekend still holding an edge on the Tigers in the Central. Chicago will host Oakland for three games beginning on Friday.

Duke, Garcia, and Rivero have put together great seasons for AAA-Syracuse and a promotion could help secure the Nationals playoff hopes.

Jim Henderson gets two saves in two days for Milwaukee, Franklin Morales gets another start in Boston, David Murphy is officially a regular in Texas, and more...

Fortune, not improved skills, propels Headley ... Among the names most rumored to be moved at the trading deadline who ultimately stayed put was Chase Headley (3B, SD). After a disappointing 2011, Headley has boosted his power while staying aggressive on the basepaths.

After watching Santiago Casilla (RHP, SF) blow five of his last nine save opportunities, followed by entering a tie game July 30 and taking the loss, Manager Bruce Bochy has decided he will use multiple pitchers in the ninth inning. Casilla was victimized by a 25% home run per fly ball rate and 52% hit rate in July, and his skills on the year (9.9 Dom, 114 BPV) suggest he is fit for any role. He figures to remain in the mix for saves, but his value certainly takes a hit with the news that he will split closing duties.

[free] A week removed from the trade deadline, what is the still-underappreciated fallout?

A look at all 30 closers--and then some.