Albert Almora
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2017Flyers00000000000000.0000.0000.000
2018Wranglers391461135167028280130.2400.2790.329
2019Firehouse481571540126027270000.2550.2870.331
2020Firehouse3416511000151000.0620.1180.062
2023Moose1342674301392000.1670.2220.310
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Mar 14 2024The Diamondbacks reassigned Almora to minor-league camp Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was brought into D-backs camp as a non-roster invitee and had an outside chance at winning a spot on Arizona's Opening Day bench, but he will end up missing the cut after going 4-for-22 with a homer and three RBI during Cactus League play. The 29-year-old outfielder will head to Triple-A Reno to begin the season.
Feb 23 2024The Diamondbacks signed Almora to a minor-league deal Friday that includes an invitation to spring training, Jesse Friedman of GoPHNX.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora last saw major-league action in 2022 when he played with the Reds while also splitting time in the minor leagues. He played 64 games with Cincinnati that season and slashed .223/.282/.349 with five home runs, 29 RBI and three stolen bases.
Sep 12 2022Almora was released by the Reds on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was designated for assignment Friday and will ultimately be let go by the Reds after clearing waivers. The 28-year-old appeared in 64 games for Cincinnati this year and slashed .223/.282/.349 with five home runs, 29 RBI, 26 runs and three stolen bases.
Sep 9 2022Almora was designated for assignment by the Reds on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora has a .223/.282/.349 slash line with five home runs, 29 RBI and 26 runs in 64 games for Cincinnati this year, but he's now been removed from the 26-man and 40-man rosters. The 28-year-old could report to Triple-A Louisville or elect free agency if he passes through waivers unclaimed.
Sep 6 2022Almora (shoulder) went 0-for-3 with a walk and a run scored in a 9-3 loss Tuesday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora hit second in the Reds' lineup and played center field in his first appearance since Aug. 19. He reached on a fielder's choice and scored in the first and walked in the fifth. Going into play on June 8, Almora had produced a .309/.325/.420 slash line in his first 23 games. Since then he has a .172/.258/.306 line and has seen his season OPS drop to .631. Almora has started at least 15 games at all three outfield spots but may struggle to find regular playing time down the stretch with Jake Fraley, Nick Senzel, TJ Friedl, Aristides Aquino and Stuart Fairchild all battling for playing time.
Aug 31 2022Almora (shoulder) reported to Triple-A Louisville on Wednesday to begin a rehab assignment. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer, Reds manager David Bell said that Almora will likely need around three rehab games to get ramped back up, so the veteran outfielder could be a candidate to return from the 15-day injured list later this weekend. Whenever he's activated, the righty-hitting Almora will likely serve primarily as a short-side platoon mate for one of the Reds' two lefty-hitting regulars in the outfield, TJ Friedl and Jake Fraley.
Aug 30 2022Reds manager David Bell said Tuesday that Almora (shoulder) will begin a rehab assignment soon, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Bell didn't specify whether Almora will head to the minors later this week or at some point next week, but the veteran outfielder at least looks to be progressing from the right shoulder contusion that landed him on the 10-day injured list Aug. 20. Jake Fraley and TJ Friedl have seemingly taken hold of regular roles in the corner outfield over the past couple weeks, so Almora will likely be limited to the short side of a platoon whenever he makes his way back from the IL.
Aug 20 2022Almora (shoulder) was placed on the 10-day injured list Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After making two impressive plays on defense in Friday's loss to Pittsburgh, Almora was diagnosed with a right shoulder contusion and placed on the IL. Almora is currently slashing .200/.357/.289 since August 1.
Aug 16 2022Almora will start in center field and bat fifth in Tuesday's game against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Nick Senzel (hamstring) sidelined again Tuesday, Almora will draw his third straight start in the outfield and his second in a row in center. Assuming Senzel's hamstring issue isn't anything that results in him landing on the injured list, Almora will likely move back into a fourth-outfielder role within the next few days.
Aug 9 2022Almora is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora finds himself on the bench versus a right-handed pitcher (Carlos Carrasco) for the second game in a row. The righty-hitting Almora looks as though he'll settle in as a fourth outfielder for the Reds behind Nick Senzel, Jake Fraley and Aristides Aquino, with most of Almora's starting opportunities likely to come against left-handed pitching moving forward.
Aug 8 2022Almora is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora will take a seat after going 5-for-19 with three doubles, four walks, a stolen base, three RBI and three runs while starting each of the Reds' first six games of August. Though the righty-hitting Almora should be a fixture in the lineup against left-handed pitching, it's less certain if he'll be able to play regularly against right-handers over the final two months of the season. Jake Fraley and Aristides Aquino will man the two corner-outfield spots Monday against Mets righty Chris Bassitt.
Aug 7 2022Almora will start in right field and bat seventh in Sunday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora will stick in the lineup for the sixth game in a row after he went 5-for-17 with three doubles, two walks, a stolen base, three runs and three RBI over the previous five contests. He's largely benefited from the Reds encountering a heavy stretch of left-handed pitching, but Almora could lose time against right-handed pitching to either Jake Fraley or Aristides Aquino moving forward. Almora will get the nod over Aquino against righty Corbin Burnes on Sunday, however.
Aug 1 2022Almora went 3-for-4 with two doubles, a run, two RBI and a stolen base in a 3-1 win over Miami on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was out for three weeks while on the COVID-19-related IL, but he showed no rust in his return to big-league action. The outfielder collected three of the Reds' eight hits in the contest, including both of the team's extra-base knocks. Almora may not be an everyday player moving forward, but he'll see plenty of playing time if he continues to produce as he did Monday.
Jul 27 2022Almora (illness) will begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Louisville on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was placed on the COVID-19 injured list July 12 but has been cleared to return to game action in the minors just over two weeks later. It's possible that the 28-year-old reclaims his fourth-outfielder role for the Reds as early as this weekend.
Jul 12 2022The Reds placed Almora on the COVID-19-related injured list Tuesday, C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stuart Fairchild was summoned from Triple-A Louisville to replace Almora, who had transitioned into a fourth-outfielder role for the Reds following Tyler Naquin's recent return from the injured list. For as long as Almora is unavailable, the righty-hitting Fairchild will likely serve as a short-side platoon mate in the outfield with the lefty-hitting Naquin.
Jul 5 2022Almora is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Tyler Naquin (quadriceps) returning from the 10-day injured list Tuesday and batting cleanup, Almora's time as the Reds' primary right fielder could be coming to an end. According to Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer, manager David Bell said that the Reds will take a "day-by-day" approach to center field now that Naquin is back in the mix, which suggests that Almora may be primarily competing with Nick Senzel for playing time rather than Naquin or left fielder Tommy Pham. Almora enjoyed a hot first month with the Reds following his May 4 promotion from Triple-A Louisville, but he's delivered a paltry .158/.179/.184 batting line over his last 10 games.
Jun 30 2022Almora isn't starting Thursday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora has been an everyday player for the Reds recently but will get a breather after he hit .150 with a double, three RBI, two runs and five strikeouts over the last five games. Max Schrock is taking over in right field and batting eighth.
Jun 23 2022Almora went 1-for-3 with a solo home run and a second run scored in Wednesday's 8-4 loss to the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He took Tyler Anderson deep in the fifth inning to tie the game at 4-4, but it was the last gasp for the Reds' offense. Almora has gone yard three times in the last five games to give him five homers on the year, and since returning from the restricted list in late May after not being allowed north of the border for a road trip to Toronto due to his unvaccinated status, the 28-year-old has locked down a starting spot for Cincinnati by slashing .294/.307/.529 with 11 runs and 21 RBI in 24 contests.
Jun 15 2022Almora (hip) will start in left field and bat seventh in Wednesday's game against the Diamondbacks, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was initially excluded from the lineup after manager David Bell noted that the 28-year-old was dealing with hip tightness, but the Reds evidently saw enough progress from Almora during his pregame workout to include him in the lineup. Kyle Farmer will instead take a seat in the series finale while Almora picks up his fourth start in five games.
Jun 11 2022Almora (shoulder) is in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was held out Friday after injuring his shoulder the day before, but he will not miss any further action. Almora will man right field and hit eighth in Cincinnati's batting order.
Jun 10 2022Almora (shoulder) is out of the lineup for Friday's game against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora suffered a sprained shoulder during Thursday's matchup with the Diamondbacks and will be sidelined for at least one game. However, manager David Bell said that Almora could be available off the bench Friday, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. Nick Senzel (back) is also out, leaving Tommy Pham, TJ Friedl and Aristides Aquino to start from left to right in the outfield.
Jun 9 2022Almora was diagnosed with a sprained shoulder after leaving Thursday's loss to the Diamondbacks, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora went 0-for-2 with a strikeout Thursday prior to exiting the game at the end of the fifth inning. However, his injury doesn't seem to be a significant concern. The 28-year-old will test the issue prior to Friday's series opener, and he's considered day-to-day.
Jun 5 2022Almora went 1-for-3 with a walk and a stolen base in a 5-4 loss Sunday against Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora swiped his second bag of the season in the first inning after singling. He added a walk in the eighth inning. The veteran has started 10 straight games for the Reds, going 13-for-38 with two homers and 11 RBI. Almora is experiencing a renaissance in Cincinnati, hitting .309 after struggling with a .216 average in 421 at-bats in the previous three seasons.
Jun 1 2022Almora will start in left field and bat sixth in Wednesday's game against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though he's getting the start at Tommy Pham's (calf) normal spot in left field, Almora may be in store for a full-time role in right field moving forward after the Reds placed Tyler Naquin (quadriceps) on the 10-day injured list Wednesday. While either Naquin or Pham sat out each of the last five games, Almora started every time and went an impressive 9-for-20 with a home run, seven RBI and four runs. Manager David Bell said he expects Pham to return to the lineup for Thursday's game against the Nationals, but Almora has performed well enough of late to receive the first chance to replace Naquin ahead of Aristides Aquino and T.J. Friedl.
May 29 2022Almora went 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBI during Sunday's 6-4 loss to the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Reds gave up a two-run lead in the top of the eighth inning Sunday, but Almora brought the team closer in the bottom of the ninth with a two-run homer. The 28-year-old has drawn four consecutive starts, and he has gone 7-for-16 with a homer, a double, seven RBI and four runs during that time.
May 23 2022Almora's contract was selected by the Reds on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 28-year-old filled in for the Reds while Nick Senzel (illness) was on the COVID-19 injured list, and Almora will remain with the major-league club after Senzel was activated Monday. Over nine games with Cincinnati, Almora has hit .296 with two doubles, four runs, an RBI and a stolen base, and he should serve mainly as a depth option in the outfield now that Senzel is healthy.
May 20 2022Almora (undisclosed) was placed on the restricted list prior to Friday's game at Toronto. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora is one of four players to be placed on the restricted list ahead of Friday's series opener in Toronto, which likely means they are all unvaccinated and unable to enter Canada. Aristides Aquino will join the big-league club as outfield depth for this weekend.
May 17 2022Almora is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While Tyler Naquin received two turns as the Reds' designated hitter and while TJ Friedl sat out Sunday's 1-0 loss, Almora picked up starts in center field in each of the final three games of the Pirates' weekend series in Pittsburgh. Both Naquin and Friedl are back in the outfield Tuesday and Tyler Stephenson (head) and Kyle Farmer (general soreness) are healed from their minor injuries coming out of Monday's off day, so Almora is expected to serve as a fourth outfielder moving forward. He'll likely lose his spot on the 26-man active roster whenever Nick Senzel (illness) is ready to return from the COVID-19-related injured list.
May 11 2022Almora is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Reds are giving Tyler Stephenson a start at designated hitter rather than behind the plate for Wednesday's series finale, which leaves no room for Almora in the outfield while Cincinnati goes with Tommy Pham, TJ Friedl and Tyler Naquin from left to right. As soon as Cincinnati returns Nick Senzel (illness) from the COVID-19 injured list, Almora will be a logical candidate to move off the 40-man roster and 26-man active roster.
May 10 2022Almora is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: TJ Friedl will draw a start in center field in place of Almora, who had been included in the lineup in four of the Reds' past five games. Almora will likely stick in a near-everyday role in the Cincinnati outfield until Nick Senzel (illness) is cleared to return from the COVID-19-related injured list.
May 9 2022Almora will start in center field and bat eighth in Monday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With four starts in the Reds' last five games, Almora appears to have settled in as the team's primary center fielder while Nick Senzel (illness) remains on the COVID-19-related injured list. Almora has done well in his limited action with the big club to date, going 4-for-12 with a double, a stolen base and two runs.
May 5 2022Almora went 2-for-4 with a run scored and a strikeout during Thursday's 10-5 loss to the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora had his contract selected from Triple-A Louisville on Wednesday after Nick Senzel (undisclosed) and Tyler Naquin (undisclosed) landed on the COVID-19 list. The defensive-minded outfielder only has 92 plate appearances in the majors since 2019, so he's expected to be sent back to Triple-A when Senzel and Naquin are cleared to return.
May 4 2022Almora had his contract selected from Triple-A Louisville on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran outfielder will join the Reds as a depth piece with Nick Senzel (undisclosed) and Tyler Naquin (undisclosed) landing on the COVID-19 injured list. Almora missed the first couple weeks of the season with Louisville due to a shoulder injury and has an .852 OPS through 11 games.
Mar 30 2022Almora (shoulder) was reassigned to minor-league spring training Wednesday, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was a long shot to make Cincinnati's Opening Day roster, and he'll be sent to minor-league camp a day after he was removed from a Cactus League game due to shoulder soreness. He went 3-for-5 with three runs, a stolen base, a walk and a strikeout across four appearances this spring.
Mar 29 2022Almora was removed from Tuesday's Cactus League game due to shoulder soreness, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora went 1-for-1 with a walk and a run scored prior to exiting Tuesday's exhibition versus the Rangers. The 27-year-old inked a minor-league deal with the Reds last week and is unlikely to make the Opening Day roster, even if he can quickly return from the shoulder issue.
Mar 20 2022Almora signed a minor-league contract with the Reds on Sunday that includes an invite to big-league camp. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora joined the Mets on a minor-league deal for 2021 and ended up playing in 47 big-league games, though he hit horribly with a .115/.148/.173 slash line in 54 plate appearances. He should provide organizational depth in the outfield this season, assuming he fails to make the Opening Day roster.
Sep 15 2021Almora was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse on Wednesday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although Almora was recalled at the beginning of September as part of the active roster expansion, he didn't start any games and went 0-for-5 with a run and two strikeouts during sporadic appearances off the bench. The 27-year-old should see more consistent playing time in Syracuse, while Jose Peraza (finger) will serve as utility depth for the major-league club after he was reinstated from the 10-day injured list.
Sep 1 2021The Mets recalled Almora from Triple-A Syracuse on Wednesday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: New York will use both of its extra spots on the expanded 28-man roster on outfielders, as Khalil Lee will also be joining Almora in making the move from Syracuse. The righty-hitting Almora could serve a short-side platoon mate for one of the three lefty-hitting regulars in the Mets outfield (Brandon Nimmo, Dominic Smith and Michael Conforto).
Aug 14 2021Almora was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse on Saturday, Justin Toscano of The Bergen Record reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora has shown very little in limited action this season, hitting .128/.163/.191 across 49 plate appearances. He's now hit just .219/.259/.346 over the last three years and looks like little more than organizational depth.
Aug 2 2021Almora was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse on Sunday, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almore spent the past month in the minors and hit .275/.333/.450 in 20 games for Syracuse. The Mets' outfield is in good health, so Almora should be fill a reserve role while in the majors.
Jul 4 2021Almora was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse on Sunday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was reinstated from the 10-day injured list in mid-June after he missed over a month with a left shoulder bruise, but he went 2-for-19 with two doubles and seven strikeouts across 12 appearances. He'll now attempt to sort things out in the minors after Jonathan Villar (calf) was reinstated from the injured list in a corresponding move.
Jun 19 2021Almora (shoulder) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Saturday, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora had been on the 10-day IL since May 12 due to a left shoulder bruise, but he recently joined the Mets for their road trip. He'll start in center field and bat eighth in Saturday's nightcap against the Nationals, and he could split time with Kevin Pillar in center field until Brandon Nimmo (finger) is cleared to return.
Jun 18 2021Almora (shoulder) is expected to be reinstated from the 10-day injured list Saturday, Justin Toscano of The Bergen Record reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora joined the Mets at Nationals Park on Friday, so it wasn't very surprising when manager Luis Rojas announced that the team plans to activate the 27-year-old Saturday. He appeared in eight rehab games with Triple-A Syracuse and could split playing time with Kevin Pillar in center field while Brandon Nimmo (finger) remains sidelined.
Jun 8 2021Almora (shoulder) will join Triple-A Syracuse on Tuesday to begin a rehab assignment, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Kevin Pillar (nose) came back from the injured list last week, Almora looks to be on track to become the next Mets outfielder to return from injury. Before going down with a bruised left shoulder in late May, the 27-year-old had seen limited action, logging only 22 plate appearances on the season. However, with two other everyday outfielders in Brandon Nimmo (finger) and Michael Conforto (hamstring) facing uncertain timelines to return from the IL, Almora could have the opportunity to pick up more work with the big club once he completes his rehab assignment. Almora boasts decent bat-to-ball skills and a lifetime .267 average, but even so, he hasn't offered a fantasy-friendly profile when given steady playing time at various points during his career.
May 28 2021Almora (shoulder) is ramping up baseball activities and could begin a rehab assignment within a week, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old had yet to resume swinging last week but appears to have made significant progress in his recovery. Almora's potential return will be a welcome sight for the Mets with Brandon Nimmo (finger), Kevin Pillar (nose) and Michael Conforto (hamstring) among the many players also on the injured list.
May 22 2021Almora (shoulder) is able to play catch but is not yet able to swing a bat, Deesha Thosar of the New York Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora is already gible to return from the injured list, but his bruised left shoulder is expected to keep him out for a while longer. Manager Luis Rojas said Saturday that he doesn't expect Almora to return during next week's homestand, which ends May 30.
May 12 2021Almora was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left shoulder bruise Wednesday, Tim Britton of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora crashed into the wall in center field during Tuesday's game against the Orioles, and his initial X-rays came back clean. With Brandon Nimmo (hand) also on the injured list, Kevin Pillar should continue to see most of the time in center field, while Khalil Lee was recalled by the Mets in a corresponding move.
May 11 2021Almora had X-rays on his shoulder and neck come back negative and will undergo more testing Wednesday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old is experiencing some posterior shoulder pain and is likely to undergo an MRI on Wednesday to determine the severity of the issue. Almora crashed face first into the wall in center field Tuesday while chasing down a fly ball, and it's unclear if he cleared the concussion protocol.
Apr 23 2021Almora has played in seven games so far this season but only has four plate appearances, going 1-for-4 with a run scored and two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old is very clearly the Mets' fifth outfielder right now, with Kevin Pillar getting the call to start instead whenever there's a vacancy in the outfield. Pillar's poor start at the plate could open the door for Almora to make his first start of the season this weekend if Brandon Nimmo (hip) is still on the mend, however.
Mar 10 2021Almora's chances of breaking camp on the big-league roster improved after Jose Martinez injured his knee, Tim Britton of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The last spot on the roster could still go to a pitcher, but if the Mets opt for another position player, Almora's track record against left-handed pitching (career .915 OPS against LHP) would give him an edge, and having another skilled defensive outfielder on the bench would also allow manager Luis Rojas to deploy Kevin Pillar a little more freely. Even if Almora does win a spot though, it's one that would have limited fantasy utility.
Feb 7 2021Almora agreed Sunday with the Mets on a contract, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Mets have been in the market all winter for a defensive-minded center fielder, and after Jackie Bradley's asking price proved to be too rich, the organization appears to have found its man in Almora. The 26-year-old was non-tendered by the Cubs in December after slashing .230/.270/.366 (62 wRC+) across the past two seasons, but he still graded out well defensively. If MLB decides to reverse course and allows the National League to use a full-time designated hitter in 2021, Almora would have a clearer path to a regular lineup spot. For the time being, he'll profile as a short-side platoon partner for Brandon Nimmo in center.
Dec 2 2020Almora was non-tendered by the Cubs on Wednesday, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This move was widely anticipated, as Almora was never able to break through with the Cubs despite being a former top prospect. He will catch on elsewhere as a reclamation project, but he may not get a fully guaranteed contract.
Aug 31 2020Almora was optioned to the Cubs' alternate training site Monday, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora saw limited playing time recently as he struggled at the plate once again in 2020 with a .167/.265/.200 with one RBI and nine strikeouts over 30 at-bats. He'll attempt to get into a rhythm in South Bend and should be one of the Cubs' first callups if injuries occur in the outfield. Almora's removal from the 28-man roster makes room for newly-acquired Cameron Maybin.
Aug 26 2020Almora is starting in center field and batting ninth in Wednesday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora enters the lineup with Ian Happ shifting over to left field. This will be Almora's first start since Friday and just his second start since Aug. 17, though he has appeared off the bench multiple times as a defensive replacement. For the season, Almora is slashing .174/.296/.174.
Aug 22 2020Almora went 2-for-3 with two singles in Friday's 10-1 loss to the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was one of the few Cubs to get anything going at the plate in the lopsided loss. It was also his first start in four days and only his fourth total start of the season. Ian Happ has taken the reins in center field with a strong start to the year, and Almora simply isn't playing enough right now to be much of a fantasy factor.
Aug 17 2020Almora will start in center field and bat eighth Monday in the first game of the Cubs' doubleheader with the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll step in for Ian Happ, who is getting a breather in the front end of the twin bill. Almora has previously appeared in 15 of the Cubs' 19 games, but he's started just twice before Monday.
Jul 26 2020Almora is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Ian Happ picks up his third straight start in center field to begin the season, so it would appear that Almora is truly a reserve option at this point. He offers good defense in center and should still get some playing time, but he may need Happ to slip up at the plate to become a fantasy factor in 2020.
Jul 24 2020Almora isn't in the Cubs' Opening Day lineup Friday against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Ian Happ gets the nod in center field, with Kyle Schwarber in left and Victor Caratini serving as the designated hitter. Exactly how the playing time breaks down at those positions may take a few games to sort out.
Jul 19 2020Chicago manager David Ross said he's been impressed by Almora at the plate and on the bases during summer camp, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora popped a home run against Jon Lester in an intrasquad game Friday and has stolen three bases during the team's summer scrimmages. "I think Albert had one of the best quarantines that you could have," Ross said. "Everybody comes in here a little bit differently after that long break. Almora did a phenomenal job of staying ready." The 26-year-old will probably split some time in center field with Ian Happ, but with National League teams now able to use a designated hitter, Happ could see some time there, allowing the superior defender Almora to get more time in the field.
Jul 12 2020Almora (ribs) looked good to manager David Ross Sunday and should be a full go moving forward, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora crashed into the center field wall in an intrasquad game Friday and bruised his ribs. He was able to stay in that game, so it didn't appear his injury was too serious, and this report confirms it.
Jul 10 2020Almora (ribs) was able to return to Friday's intrasquad matchup, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora was diagnosed with bruised left ribs after running into the center field wall Friday, but he returned to hit and play the field later in the game after being examined by medical personnel. The team may exercise caution as it monitors the issue over the coming days, but his return to the game signals that he's unlikely to be too limited by the injury.
Apr 22 2020Almora could work in a rotation with fellow outfielders Ian Happ and Steven Souza, and all three would likely benefit if MLB adopts a universal DH for the 2020 season, Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Before spring training was cut short due to the coronavirus pandemic, Almora and Happ were competing for the primary role in center field, and that battle will likely continue into the regular season, whenever it is able to begin. The league has been mulling some ways to condense the schedule with games being held in just a few sites, and a universal DH idea has popped up as well. The latter development would bode well for Almora by giving him one more way to slot into the everyday lineup, but its far from certain it comes to fruition.
Mar 6 2020Almora (illness) is starting in center field and batting sixth in Friday's Cactus League game against the White Sox, LaMond Pope of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old was unavailable for Thursday's contest against the Rangers due to the illness, but he'll make a quick return to the field Friday. Almora is competing with Ian Happ for the Opening Day job in center field.
Mar 5 2020Almora isn't available for Thursday's Cactus League game against the Rangers due to an illness, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Teammates Yu Darvish and Jason Kipnis were scratched ahead of the game with flu-like symptoms, so Almora might have fallen victim to the bug as well. As long as he's able to make a full recovery from the illness within the next couple of weeks, Almora's availability for Opening Day shouldn't be impacted. Almora has been battling Ian Happ for the top job in center field this spring.
Mar 1 2020Almora went 1-for-3 and hit his second home run of the spring in Sunday's Cactus League game against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora has been scorching hot to start spring training, as he's now batting .583 through five Cactus League games with those two home runs, six runs scored and six RBI. The 23-year-old showed up to camp with a reworked swing and it certainly looks to be making a difference in the early going. Almora is competing with Ian Happ for playing time in center field and is making a strong case for himself.
Feb 24 2020Almora reworked his swing over the offseason, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora needed to do something after hitting .236/.271/.381 last season, easily the worst line of his four-year big-league career. In his first game of the spring, he was noticeably more upright with less of an open stance. He also reduced his leg kick. It's too early to say whether or not the changes will help, but it gives at least some reason to believe he'll return to the more respectable numbers he posted early in his career.
Jan 10 2020Almora agreed to a one-year, $1.575 million deal with the Cubs on Friday, avoiding arbitration, freelance baseball writer Robert Murray reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was Almora's first of three seasons as an arbitration-eligible player. He should once again serve as a part-time outfielder on the North Side.
Sep 27 2019Almora exited Friday's game against the Cardinals due to an apparent knee injury, Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Almora appeared to suffer the injury while running to first base on a fielder's choice, and Javier Baez was then called on to pinch run. the extent of Almora's injury is unknown at this time.
Sep 1 2019Almora was recalled from Triple-A Iowa on Sunday and is starting in center field and batting sixth versus the Brewers.
Aug 3 2019Almora went 3-for-3 with a go-ahead solo home run and two RBI against the Brewers on Saturday.
Jul 31 2019Almora is not starting Wednesday against the Cardinals.
Jul 30 2019Almora isn't starting Tuesday's game against the Cardinals.
Jul 28 2019Almora is not in the lineup for Sunday's game at Milwaukee.
Jul 28 2019Almora is not in the lineup<\/a> for Sunday's game at Milwaukee.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 27 2019Almora is not in the lineup Saturday against the Brewers.
Jul 27 2019Almora is not in the lineup<\/a> Saturday against the Brewers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 24 2019Almora went 2-for-4 with a solo home run Wednesday against the Giants.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 15 2019Almora is not starting Monday<\/a> against the Reds.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 14 2019Almora went 1-for-1 with a pinch-hit solo home run and walk in an 8-3 victory against the Pirates on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 14 2019Almora is out of the lineup<\/a> for Sunday's game versus the Pirates.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 6 2019Almora is not in the lineup<\/a> Saturday against the White Sox.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 4 2019Almora went 1-for-5 with a solo home run and two runs scored Thursday against the Pirates.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 30 2019Almora is out of the lineup<\/a> for Sunday's game against the Reds.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 29 2019Almora went 2-for-3 with an RBI in Friday's 6-3 loss to the Reds.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 27 2019Almora is out of the lineup<\/a> for Thursday's game against the Braves.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 24 2019Almora is not in the lineup<\/a> Monday against Atlanta.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 16 2019Almora went 3-for-4 in Sunday's 3-2 loss to the Dodgers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 15 2019Almora went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts in Friday's 5-3 loss to the Dodgers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 4 2019Almora sits for the third straight game<\/a> Tuesday against Colorado.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 3 2019Almora will sit Monday<\/a> against the Angels.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 2 2019Almora is out of the lineup<\/a> for Sunday's series finale with the Cardinals.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 27 2019Almora went 1-for-4 with a solo home run and two runs scored in Monday's 6-5 loss to the Astros.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 26 2019Almora is not in the lineup<\/a> for Sunday's game against the Reds.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 25 2019Almora went 1-for-2 with a walk, a solo homer and a pair of runs scored in Saturday's win over the Reds.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 22 2019Almora went 1-for-4 with a grand slam in Wednesday's 8-4 win over the Phillies.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 20 2019Almora went 3-for-3 with a pair of doubles, a walk and two runs Sunday in the Cubs' 6-5 win over the Nationals.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 17 2019Almora went 2-for-5 with a two-run home run and two runs scored Friday against Washington.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 15 2019Almora went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and two runs scored in Wednesday's 6-5, 10-inning loss to the Reds.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 12 2019Almora will start in center field and bat eighth<\/a> Sunday against the Brewers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 7 2019Almrora went 2-for-5 with a solo home run and two runs scored in Tuesday's 5-2 win over the Marlins.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 22 2018Almora is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Cardinals.After starting one of the team's two games on Saturday, Almora will head to the bench with tough righty Miles Mikolas on the hill for St. Louis. Almora's playing time can be occasionally frustrating for fantasy owners, but he has produced when he's been in there, posting a .318/.357/.434 slash line with 49 runs scored in 90 games to date.
Jul 21 2018Almora is out of the lineup against the Cardinals during Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader.Almora will take a seat on the bench after going 2-for-5 on Friday. In his spot, Ian Happ will man center field and bat second.
Jul 19 2018Almora (personal) was reinstated from the Family Medical Emergency List prior to Thursday's game against the Cardinals, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports.As expected, Almora will rejoin the club after being placed on leave before the Cubs' final game of the first half last weekend. He will not be in the starting lineup, but should be available off the bench. Across 86 games this year, Almora has slashed .319/.357/.438 with four home runs and 28 RBI.
Jul 19 2018Almora (personal) is not in Thursday's lineup against St. Louis.Almora has yet to be activated from the Family Medical Emergency list, though it's been expected that he will join the club prior to Thursday's contest. Look for him to be available off the bench if he does return before the series opener.
Jul 19 2018Almora (personal) is expected to be activated from the Family Medical Emergency list ahead of Thursday's game against the Cardinals, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports.Almora left the Cubs prior to the team's most recent game last Sunday in order to be with his family. As expected, he'll be ready to rejoin the big club with the All-Star break coming to a close, though it's not known if he'll immediately slide back into the starting nine for the series opener with St. Louis. Expect Almora to be officially activated a few hours prior to the 7:05 p.m. EDT first pitch.
Jul 15 2018The Cubs placed Almora on the Family Medical Emergency List on Sunday.Almora, who didn't play in Saturday's 11-6 win over the Padres, will leave the team a day before the All-Star break commences to tend to the family matter. The expectation is that Almora will rejoin the club for its first game out of the break Thursday against the Cardinals. Utility man David Bote was recalled from Triple-A Iowa to take Almora's spot on the active roster.
Jul 14 2018Almora is not in the lineup Saturday against the Padres.Almora has worked his way into a regular role for the Cubs, but he's still subject to manager Joe Maddon's rotation policy. Ian Happ will start in center field in his place Saturday.
Jul 11 2018Almora is out of the lineup versus San Francisco on Wednesday.Almora will get a breather following seven straight starts, including an 0-for-4 showing with a pair of strikeouts Tuesday. In his absence, Ben Zobrist will start in right field while Jason Heyward mans center field.
Jul 8 2018Almora is starting in center field and batting leadoff Sunday against the Reds.Almora was out of the starting lineup Saturday but he entered the game when Jason Heyward left with a groin issue. Almora is slashing a solid .324/.365/.453 and he's scored 46 runs as a tablesetter for a strong Chicago lineup.
Jul 7 2018Almora is not in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Reds.Almora went 1-for-4 with an RBI Friday but he will sit out Saturday as the Cubs roll with Kyle Schwarber, Jason Heyward and Ben Zobrist across the outfield. Almora has been great this year with a .328/.369/.458 slash line, but Chicago has a lot of mouths to feed in the outfield, so the 24-year-old will continue to see regular days off moving forward.
Jul 3 2018Almora (leg) is starting Tuesday against the Tigers.Almora left Saturday's game against the Twins with leg cramps and did not start Sunday's contest, though he did appear off the bench. He'll lead off and play center field Tuesday.
Jul 3 2018Almora went 1-for-4 with a walk, a double, a run scored and an RBI in Tuesday's win over the Tigers.Almora left Saturday's game against the Twins with leg cramps, then didn't start Sunday, though he did appear as a pinch hitter. It was good to see the 24-year-old outfielder back in there and productive, and it appears he should be fine moving forward.
Jul 1 2018Almora (leg) is not in the starting lineup Sunday against the Twins.Almora exited Saturday's victory over Minnesota due to leg cramps, and will stay on the bench for the series finale. It's unclear if this is precautionary in advance of a team day off Monday, or if Almora was simply due for a regular day off after starting four consecutive games in center field. Regardless, Jason Heyward will take over in center for the afternoon matchup, while Ian Happ bats atop the order.
Jun 30 2018Almora left Saturday's win over the Twins with leg cramps, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports.On an afternoon in which the heat index was well over 100, Almora wasn't the only player affected by the heat as three Twins exited with heat illness. Almora made an impact before leaving, going 3-for-3 with a run scored and two RBI, his third consecutive multi-hit effort. The 24-year-old should be considered day-to-day but it wouldn't be surprising to see him held out of Sunday's lineup with the off day on tap for Monday.
Jun 30 2018Almora went 3-for-5 with a double and two runs scored in Friday's win over the Twins.As he's done all year, Almora provided a spark from the leadoff spot. He's slashing a robust .324/.363/.454 this season and has scored 43 runs as the primary tablesetter for a strong Chicago offense.
Jun 28 2018Almora went 2-for-5 with a solo home run, two runs scored and two RBI in Thursday's 11-5 win over the Dodgers.Almora has played in all but four games this season, and he's making a difference at the plate. He has 21 extra-base hits and 41 runs scored with a .318/..359/.446 in 233 at-bats. As long as he continues getting on base, he should keep scoring in a potent Cubs lineup.
Jun 26 2018Almora is not in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Dodgers.Almora tallied three hits Sunday but none in four at-bats Monday, so manager Joe Maddon decided it was his turn to sit out Tuesday night. Ian Happ will cover center field in Almora's place.
Jun 24 2018Almora went 3-for-5 with a solo home run in Sunday's game against the RedsHis third home run of the season came in the seventh inning off righty Jackson Stephens. Almora's .323 average now ranks ninth among qualified big-league hitters and fifth among qualified outfielders, behind Mookie Betts (.342), Mike Trout (.327), J.D. Martinez (.326) and Nick Markakis (.326).
Jun 18 2018Almora went 2-for-4 in Sunday's 5-0 loss to the Cardinals.Almora had no help in this one, as the Cubs mustered just four total hits as a team against Jack Flaherty and a series of St. Louis relievers. The 24-year-old outfielder did reach third base in the third inning but was left there when Kris Bryant struck out to end the frame. Almora is now slashing a solid .325/.372/.440 this season.
Jun 16 2018Almora went 3-for-5 with a double, two RBI and two runs in Friday's win over the Cardinals.Almora hit a sacrifice fly in the fourth and later slashed an RBI double -- his 15th two-bagger of the year -- in the fifth. This was Almora's second three-hit game in his last four contests, and he's now hitting .321 with two home runs, 19 RBI and 38 runs on the year. The outfielder has been a consistent hitter throughout the year, as he's hit above .300 in April, May and June.
Jun 16 2018Almora is out of the lineup for Saturday's game against the Cardinals.Almora will hit the bench for the fourth time in the last seven games, despite a 3-for-5 effort Friday with two runs and two RBI. Ian Happ earns the start in center field and bats eighth Saturday at St. Louis.
Jun 13 2018Almora is not in Wednesday's lineup against the Brewers.Ian Happ will start in center field for the series finale while Almora takes a seat following two straight starts. Since the beginning of June, Almora is hitting .325/.372/.400 with four RBI and three extra-base hits.
Jun 10 2018Almora is not in the lineup Sunday against the Pirates.Almora will sit for the second consecutive game as the Cubs close out their weekend series against Ivan Nova and the Pirates. Despite opening the game on the bench Saturday, Almora slapped a double in his lone pinch-hit appearance, bringing his season average up to a shiny .318 mark. Ian Happ will patrol center field Sunday.
Jun 9 2018Almora is not in the lineup versus Pittsburgh on Saturday.Ian Happ will get another start in the outfield as Almora receives a day off for the first time this week. Over the past seven games, Almora is hitting .321 with two doubles and two RBI.
Jun 7 2018Almora went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored in Thursday's win over the Phillies.Almora has been solid at the plate all season, as he's now batting .314 with an even .800 OPS. He's also been a steady source of runs with 35 to date. The main thing holding Almora back from really taking off has been playing time, as manager Joe Maddon has kept players like Ian Happ and Ben Zobrist heavily involved, often at the expense of Almora. However, the 24-year-old outfielder has been a good fantasy contributor when he's been in the lineup.
Jun 2 2018Almora (undisclosed) is starting in center field and hitting seventh Saturday against the Mets.He seemingly exited Friday's game with an undisclosed injury, but it was obviously minor, if indeed he was banged up. Almora doesn't quite play every day, but he has been producing when he's out there, hitting .407/.441/.574 with one home run and just eight strikeouts over his last 54 at-bats.
Jun 1 2018Almora exited Friday's game against the Mets early with an undisclosed injury, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports.Almora went 3-for-4 and scored a run prior to being replaced. The Cubs removed him as a precaution after he got "dinged up a little" during the first game of their weekend series with New York. He'll be considered day-to-day moving forward as it doesn't appear to be anything serious.
May 27 2018Almora went 3-for-5 with a pair of doubles, two runs and an RBI to help the Cubs to an 8-3 victory over the Giants on Sunday.Almora continues to produce, as this three-hit performance pumped his slash line up to .326/.377/.457 through 138 at-bats. The on-base percentage is perhaps the most intriguing part of that profile, as he would offer fantastic upside as a source of runs should he continue to get opportunities atop the order and reach base at that clip. He doesn't run as much as a typical leadoff hitter, however, as he's only swiped one bag over 223 career games at the big-league level, and he also has been sharing playing time with Ian Happ despite his robust numbers at the plate.
May 19 2018Almora is starting in center field and batting leadoff for Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader against the Reds.This will be Almora's fourth start in the team's last five games, as his .295/.358/.420 slash line and strong defense in center seem to winning him more playing time. Still, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him on the bench for Saturday's second game, as Cubs manager Joe Maddon is known to juggle his lineups.
May 19 2018Almora is not in the lineup for Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader against the Reds.Almora went 2-for-5 with a walk, a run scored and two strikeouts in the Game 1 defeat. Jason Heyward will start in center field for the Cubs after Almora started four of the previous five games.
May 18 2018Almora is not in the lineup for Friday's game against the Reds.Almora had made four straight starts in center field for the Cubs, but will cede the position to switch-hitter Ian Happ as right-hander Homer Bailey takes the mound for the Reds. Almora has been productive at the plate this season, with a .297/.355/.423 slash line in 122 plate appearances.
May 14 2018Almora went 3-for-4 with a two-run home run, his first of the season, in Monday's loss to the Braves.Almora has been productive at the plate all season, as he's now hitting .298, but it's nice to see him finally contribute in the power department. The 24-year-old figures to continue splitting time with Ian Happ in center field, though he could wrestle away additional playing time if he has more outings like this one.
May 13 2018Almora is not in the lineup Sunday against the White Sox.After going hitless Friday and Saturday, Almora will head to the bench as the Cubs close out their weekend series against Lucas Giolito and the White Sox. Ian Happ will take over in center field and bat eighth in his stead.
May 12 2018Almora is starting in center field and batting seventh in Saturday's game against the White Sox.Almora was on the bench for Friday's series opener against the White Sox, but he'll slot back in there on Saturday, though he won't be hitting leadoff like he has much of the year. This is the first time Almora will hit seventh this season. He enters the contest batting .289/.343/.392.
May 11 2018Almora is not in the lineup Friday against the White Sox.Almora had an 11-game stretch in late April in which he started every game in center field. Since that point, both he and Ian Happ (who starts Friday) have started four times. For the season, Almora is hitting a solid .295/.350/.400, though he has just one homer and no steals.
May 9 2018Almora went 3-for-4 with a walk and three runs scored in Wednesday's win over the Marlins.Almora did not start on Tuesday, but he returned to the starting lineup with a flourish in this one. The 24-year-old consistently set the table from the leadoff spot in a 13-run outburst by the Cubs and raised his season batting average to .295 in the process.
May 8 2018Almora is not in the lineup Tuesday against the Marlins.Almora will head to the bench as the Cubs give Ian Happ another start in center field following his two-homer performance Monday. The 24-year-old Almora is hitting a respectable .278/.330/.389 through 28 games this season.
May 6 2018Almora is out of the lineup Sunday against the Cardinals.Almora conceded center field to Jason Heyward in Saturday's game, and will give way to Ian Happ for the series finale. Since snapping a nine-game hitting streak April 29, Almora is just 3-for-17 at the plate, without an extra-base hit.
May 5 2018Almora is out of the lineup against the Cardinals on Saturday.Ben Zobrist will receive another start in the outfield, which will send Almora to the bench for the matinee. During Friday's series-opening loss, Almora went 2-for-4 with one run scored. Expect the 24-year-old back in the lineup for Sunday night's contest.
May 5 2018Almora went 2-for-4 with a run scored in Friday's loss to the Cardinals.Almora batted sixth in this one for just the second time this season. He had served as the leadoff hitter the last 12 times he was in the lineup, but Ben Zobrist got a start at second base and hit first Friday. Cubs manager Joe Maddon is known to juggle his lineups often, so Almora's move to sixth is likely just a temporary thing. The 24-year-old outfielder will probably return to the leadoff spot in the near future.
May 1 2018Almora is not in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Rockies.Almora is hitting a solid .289/.341/.421 through 23 games this season, but he'll head to the bench for a breather after starting 11 straight contests in center field. In his stead, Ian Happ will patrol center field and hit eighth.
Apr 20 2018Almora went 4-for-6 with a double, an RBI and four runs scored in Friday's 16-5 win over the Rockies.Almora's first career four-hit game set the tone from the leadoff spot for the Cubs' offensive explosion. With Ian Happ expected to see reduced playing time as he deals with some struggles at the plate, Almora could secure regular playing time if he plays well. Performances like this one certainly help that cause, and the 24-year-old's fantasy value seems to be trending upward in a hurry.
Apr 19 2018With Ian Happ expected to see his role reduced somewhat due to early-season struggles, according to Jesse Rogers of ESPNChicago.com, Almora could get more time in center field and as the Cubs' leadoff hitter.In spring training, manager Joe Maddon talked about splitting leadoff duties between Happ and Almora, but Happ seized a lion's share of the role with a good Cactus League showing. To date, Happ has received 49 at-bats to 29 for Almora, though it seems like Almora will get more run moving forward. The left-handed outfielder has a solid .276/.344/.517 slash line and could see his fantasy value go up with increased playing time. However, Maddon didn't seem to completely write off Happ, so he could wrestle back some playing time if he makes adjustments at the plate.
Apr 14 2018Almora went 1-for-2 with a walk, a solo home run and a second run scored in Saturday's 14-10 win over the Braves.A late addition to the lineup card, Almora came through with his first homer of the season. The 24-year-old now has a robust .276/.344/.517 slash line through 11 games, and if he keeps delivering at the plate, his excellent defense in center field could make him a relative fixture in the Cubs' outfield.
Apr 14 2018Almora (illness) will play center field and bat second against the Braves on Saturday.Almora was initially left out of the Cubs' starting nine for Saturday's game but the club make a late swap, removing Victor Caratini from the lineup to make room for the outfielder. Caratini was slotted to play first base, which will now be manned by Ben Zobrist, with Ian Happ shifting over to left field.
Apr 14 2018Almora (illness) is not in the lineup Saturday against Atlanta.Almora was scratched from Friday's game due to illness, and though he may be available for Saturday's tilt, manager Joe Maddon elected to go with Ian Happ in center even though a left-hander in Sean Newcomb is on the mound for the Braves. Consider Almora day-to-day heading into Sunday's series finale.
Apr 13 2018Almora was removed from the lineup against the Braves on Friday due to illness.In his place, Ian Happ will get the nod in center and bat atop the order. Almora has been receiving a smattering of playing time as of late, and had his best showing of the year against Pittsburgh on Wednesday, going 3-for-5 with a double. He should be considered day-to-day while recovering from this ailment.
Apr 11 2018Almora went 3-for-5 with two runs scored in Wednesday's win over the Pirates.Almora batted leadoff with Pittsburgh starting lefty Steven Brault, and he continued his strong performance against southpaws. Almora slashed .342/.411/.486 against lefties last season and he's a good play in fantasy anytime a lefty is on the hill for the opponent.
Mar 30 2018Almora is leading off and playing center field Friday against the Marlins.Almora is in the lineup in place of Opening Day leadoff hitter and center fielder Ian Happ as the Cubs' face the left-handed Caleb Smith. Happ, a switch-hitter, doesn't necessarily need to be platooned, but Cubs manager Joe Maddon likes to rotate his lineups and keep everyone involved. Almora has crushed lefties in his career (131 wRC+) but has struggled against righties (84 wRC+), though his strong glove will likely see him play occasionally against righties as well.
Mar 21 2018Ian Happ will be the Cubs' primary leadoff hitter, though Almora could still see some opportunities there, Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune reports.Happ has outperformed Almora this spring, so this announcement doesn't come as much of a surprise. Almora could still get occasional time in the leadoff spot, particularly when the Cubs face left-handed starters. The 23-year-old slashed .342/.411/.486 against lefties last year compared to .271/.291/.420 against righties
Mar 13 2018After starting spring training hitless in his first 13 at-bats, Almora is 6-for-18 with two home runs over his last six games.Almora and Ian Happ were tabbed as candidates for the leadoff job at the beginning of camp, but Almora likely fell behind with his cold start, which coincided with a strong start for Happ. It's good to see Almora begin to hit better, but he likely will only share leadoff duties at best. In that scenario, Happ would likely get the nod against righties, while Almora would probably bat first against lefties after slashing .342/.411/.486 against them last season.
Mar 6 2018In five Cactus League games, Almora is 0-for-13 with two strikeouts.It's been a rough start for Almora, particularly considering that he's auditioning for the leadoff spot. His primary competition for the role, Ian Happ, has burst out the gates 8-for-17 with four home runs. It's still early, but Almora likely needs to show life soon if he wants any chance to snag leadoff duties. The team could also split those duties, with Happ still the favorite to get the most time atop the lineup.
Mar 1 2018Almora and Ian Happ are leading candidates to win leadoff duties during spring training, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports.In the early going this spring, the two have shared duties. Manager Joe Maddon said a platoon could develop moving into the regular season. "We'll make up our mind during camp," Maddon said. "There's a chance we'll play one against righties, one against lefties." The right-handed Almora would figure to see the smaller share in that rotation, but he could deliver decent fantasy value in the right matchups. Almora slashed .342/.411/.486 against lefties last year compared to .271/.291/.420 against righties.
Oct 1 2017Almora went 1-for-2 with a solo home run in Sunday's loss to the Reds.Almora came off the bench in this one, and after grounding out in his first at-bat, touched up Reds closer Raisel Iglesias in the ninth. He missed time earlier in the week with a bruised shoulder after colliding with the outfield wall in St. Louis. The 23-year-old is a strong defender and he puts bat to ball with consistency, but it seems like a stretch to think Almora's role will grow significantly in 2018.
Sep 28 2017Almora said he felt discomfort in his back when he tried to swing, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports.Almora suffered a shoulder contusion after colliding with the outfield wall Tuesday. The issue isn't thought to be anything overly serious -- X-rays came back negative -- but he's apparently still dealing with some soreness and should be considered day-to-day. If he fails to improve in the coming days, it could possibly affect his status for the playoffs.
Sep 26 2017Almora -- who exited Tuesday's game early -- was diagnosed with a right shoulder contusion.X-rays on Almora's shoulder came back negative after he was forced to exit Tuesday's contest following a collision with the outfield wall. He fortunately avoided a serious injury but is dealing with some soreness and should be considered day-to-day moving forward.
Sep 26 2017Almora exited Tuesday's game against the Cardinals early with an apparent injury, Bruce Miles of the Chicago Daily Herald reports.Almora slammed awkwardly into the center field wall at Busch Stadium while attempting to track down a hard-hit ball in the fifth inning. Manager Joe Maddon and the team's trainer came out to meet with Almora following the play and ultimately removed him from the game. It appeared to be a shoulder injury, but we'll have to await word from the Cubs with regards to the exact injury diagnosis.
Sep 23 2017Almora is in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Brewers.Almora will start Saturday for just the seventh time in September, but he will get the nod as manager Joe Maddon loads up on right-handed hitters against Brewers southpaw Brent Suter. Almora, who has 14 RBI this month despite the limited opportunities, will man center field and hit fifth in the Cubs' batting order.
Sep 13 2017Almora entered Wednesday's win over the Mets off the bench and went 2-for-2 with a triple, a homer and six RBI.With those two at-bats in the seventh and eighth innings, Almora mightily rewarded fantasy owners who had him in their starting lineups even though the Cubs didn't. His playing time has been a bit sporadic, especially lately, but Almora's shown plenty of promise this season -- the 23-year-old's solid contact ability has earned him a .290 average, though his power and speed numbers leave something to be desired.
Sep 9 2017Almora is starting in center and batting fifth in Saturday's lineup against the Brewers.Almora did not start Friday but received one at-bat as a pinch hitter. The 23-year-old doesn't play enough to move the needle in most fantasy settings, but he's an appealing option in daily leagues whenever he's in the lineup due to his .287 average and the strong Cubs hitters around him.
Sep 8 2017Almora went 1-for-2 with a two-run home run during Thursday's win over Pittsburgh.Almora isn't receiving enough playing time to move the needle in most fantasy settings, but his keeper/dynasty value is on the rise in cavernous settings. Additionally, the 23-year-old outfielder sports an impressive .927 OPS and .397 wOBA against lefties this year, so he's a potential low-priced flier in daily contests when the Cubs face a southpaw.
Sep 6 2017Almora went 2-for-5 with a run scored in Tuesday's loss to the Pirates.Almora is enjoying a strong season, as he's now slashing .286/.332/.397. However, the 23-year-old finds himself in a crowded Cubs outfield. The return of Addison Russell in a few weeks could shift Ben Zobrist to the outfield more often as well, which would further muddy the waters. Almora is a talented player, but he will continue to find himself on the bench on a fairly regular basis as manager Joe Maddon looks to get a number of players at-bats.
Aug 20 2017Almora went 2-for-4 with a three-run triple in Sunday's 6-5 win over the Blue Jays.Almora's big hit in the third inning provided all of Chicago's offense until a three-run outburst in the bottom of the 10th turned a 5-3 deficit into a walkoff extra-inning win. The center fielder was lifted for pinch-hitter Ian Happ in the ninth inning, and often plays only parts of games due to his inability to hit right-handed pitching.
Aug 19 2017Almora went 2-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored in Friday's win over the Blue Jays.Almora has primarily batted lower in the order this season, but he batted leadoff for the second time in a week. The 23-year-old has a solid .285/.335/.404 slash line, and while his playing time might not be consistent enough to satisfy standard league owners, Almora is someone to look at in daily leagues whenever he's in the lineup.
Aug 10 2017Almora went 2-for-3 with a solo home run in Wednesday's loss to the Giants.Almora supplied all of the Cubs' offense in a 3-1 loss. The youngster isn't playing everyday, which limits his value in standard leagues, but he's been fairly effective when he's in the lineup, posting a .278/.332/.406 slash line.
Jul 15 2017Almora went 2-for-5 with a homer, a steal and two RBI on Saturday against the Orioles.Almora opened the scoring for the Cubs in the third inning of a road victory by crushing his fourth homer of the campaign. Since he doesn't get enough starts in the crowded Chicago outfield to confidently use in weekly fantasy lineups, his .280/.344/.406 slash line makes him a player to look at in daily leagues.
Jul 4 2017Almora is out of the lineup Tuesday against the Rays.Almora was held out of Sunday's lineup as well, making that two games in a row the outfielder will sit in favor of Ian Happ. With the activation of Jason Heyward on Tuesday, there's one less outfield spot to go around, and Almora could be the primary victim. He had started nine of 11 games prior to Sunday, but don't look for that pattern to keep up much longer.
Jul 2 2017Almora is out of the lineup Sunday against the Reds.Almora made his fourth start in a row in Saturday's contest, but recorded his third straight game without a hit to drop his batting average down to .259. He'll give way to Ian Happ in center field for the afternoon series finale.
Jun 25 2017Almora is out of the lineup Sunday against the Marlins.Almora has made four straight starts in center field, but will head to the bench Sunday while Ian Happ gets the assignment. Almora has started nine of the last 11 games overall, and owns a .812 OPS since the beginning of June.
Jun 18 2017Almora will start in center field and bat fifth Sunday against the Pirates.The recent placement of Ben Zobrist (wrist) seems to have indirectly opened up a semi-regular spot in the lineup for Almora, who will pick up his fourth start in five games. Almora is valued mostly for his strong defense in the outfield, but he's performed admirably at the dish this season, too, slashing .283/.336/.402 across 138 plate appearances.
Jun 6 2017Almora went 2-for-3 with a solo home run in Monday's win over the Marlins.The blast was Almora's third this season, and it gave the Cubs a 3-0 lead in a game they won 3-1. The likes of Jon Jay, Ian Happ and Jason Heyward have all cut into Almora's playing time, but he's usually fairly productive whenever he is in the lineup, making him an attractive option in daily leagues.
May 24 2017Almora will start in center field and bat second Wednesday against the Giants.Manager Joe Maddon also deployed Almora in the No. 2 spot in the series opener Monday, when lefty Ty Blach started for the Giants. Almora recorded a base hit in three at-bats during the contest and is now slashing .315/.367/.589 for his career against lefty pitching. With another southpaw on the mound Wednesday in Matt Moore, Almora may carry some intrigue in DFS contests.
May 22 2017Almora will start in center field and bat second Monday against the Giants.After failing to leave the bench during the Cubs' two-game series with the Brewers over the weekend, Almora will swap in Monday for Ian Happ. The righty-hitting Almora will earn a favorable spot in the lineup with southpaw Ty Blach toeing the rubber for the Giants and could make for an interesting salary-relief option in the outfield for daily contests. Almora owns a .314/.368/.600 career line against lefties.