Around the Horn: Feb 24, 2010

(1) Russell Branyan to start at 1B for Indians sending Matt LaPorta to left field and Michael Brantley to Triple-A.

(2) Cliff Lee throws for first time since minor foot surgery.

(3) Astros to have 9th inning competition between Brandon Lyon and Matt Lindstrom. You can read my thoughts in Breaking Down: Lyon/Lindstrom.

(4) Josh Hamilton injures shoulder.

(5) Livan Hernandez signs with Nationals for $900,000 plus incentives.

(6) Hank Blalock to Marlins/Rays as left-handed power bat off bench?

(7) Chad Qualls undervalued on draft day with an ADP of over 200.

(8) Olympic anguish with ice hockey being taped delayed. You can witness my frustration at USA Olympic Hockey Delay.

By Ray Flowers

Around the Horn: Feb.11, 2010

(1) Is Johnny Damon nearing a deal with the Tigers? White Sox and Braves still in the mix.

(2) Elijah Dukes signs 1-year deal with Nationals.

(3) Looks like Giants and Tim Lincecum will go to arbitration on Friday.

(4) Stephen Strasburg says his knee is healthy, ready to go for Nationals.

(5) Chad Qualls healthy, a sleeper closing option in 2010.

(6) Who will close for Astros – Brandon Lyon or Matt Lindstrom? You can read more about this battle at Breaking Down: Lyon/Lindstrom.

By Ray Flowers