Nicky Delmonico hits his first Major League home run

Nicky Delmonico hit his first Major League home run Thursday night, a three run shot off of Rick Porcello, in the White Sox  9-5 loss to Boston.  Delmonico also singled, scored twice, and struck out once in four at bats. He misplayed a routine Rafael Devers fly ball in left field in the second inning for an error, but redeemed himself on the same play by gunning down Hanley Ramirez at the plate.

Fantasy Implications: The 25-year-old third baseman played left field in his first three games with Chicago, after he was called up Tuesday from Triple-A Charlotte because of injuries to outfielders Avisail Garcia (thumb) and Willy Garcia (concussion).  Delmonico became property of the White Sox February 13, 2015 when he was released by the Brewers following a 50-game suspension for amphetamine use. He is not considered a significant prospect, and will be battling for playing time with Alen Hanson. He is not fantasy relevant, and most likely will be sent down to Triple-A when either Garcia is activated from the disabled list. 

James Pazos sharp in relief Wednesday night

James Pazos pitched 1.1 innings of scoreless ball Wednesday night in the Mariners 5-1 loss to the Rangers. He allowed one hit, a leadoff single to Carlos Gomez in the seventh inning. The former Yankee also struck out two and walked none. 

Fantasy Implications: Pazos struggled mightily in the month of July. In nine relief appearances, the 26-year-old lefty gave up 13 hits and seven earned runs through 6.1 innings of work to register an ugly 9.95 ERA and 2.68 WHIP.  Manager Scott Servais and pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre have encouraged Pazos recently to use his slider more frequently to set up his mid-to-upper 90's fastball.  His season's impressive 10.84 K/9 may be helpful in AL-only and deep mixed formats.