AL Central News and Notes: Hosmer, Avila, Brantley

Hosmer among baseball’s best at first base - KansasCity.com
Rookie Eric Hosmer didn’t join the Royals until May 6, but he ranks among the American League leaders in scoops by a first baseman in analysis compiled by Baseball Info Solutions video scouts for the Fielding Bible.

Avila becoming Detroit's iron man | tigers.com: News
Alex Avila has taken more than his share of beatings from foul tips and pitches in the dirt this year, enough that manager Jim Leyland says he can't remember a catcher taking more bumps and bruises in a season. That explains, in part, why Avila could shrug off Monday's foul tip off his collarbone and neck.

Brantley to remain out until at least Friday | indians.com: News
Michael Brantley's sore right wrist isn't improving, and it'll cost him more time away from the diamond.

Pierzynski stays on course with wrist rehab | whitesox.com: News
The comeback plan for A.J. Pierzynski and his fractured left wrist hasn't changed: take more flips on Wednesday, day off Thursday, batting practice and catching a bullpen session this week and then joining Triple-A Charlotte for injury rehab work Monday.

The Problem with Gordon Beckham | August
Sometimes, top prospects turn into busts. A lot of people are calling Beckham just that, a bust, but he's still young (24) and did put up very good numbers in his rookie season. While it might be hopeful to look back upon that 2009 season, the fact is that he's regressing in some of the most crucial areas of a player's offensive game.

Nick's Twins Blog: Rocky Rotation
The wide array of issues circling the Twins' rotation creates plenty of questions, but also makes three things crystal clear as we look ahead to next year.