We missed this item about a month ago, but it’s nice to see former big leaguer Phil Nevin moving up in the coaching ranks. After spending the last three years managing the Arizona Diamondbacks’ Triple-A squad in Reno to a 227-205 mark, he was hired as the new third base coach by the San Francisco Giants. It’s great to witness the former college punter/placekicker (yes, that’s right) getting closer to taking a run at a big league managerial position with this move.

After limiting the Cards to three hits over eight shutout frames while fanning eight and walking one, Lester now has a nine-start run during which he’s pitched 61 2/3 IP, giving up 39 hits, seven earned runs, three homers and 12 walks while fanning 61. His ERA over this stretch? Oh, it’s 1.02. His runs allowed by start over this run: 0, 2, 2, 1, 1, 0, 1, 0, 0. Lester is now tied for the NL lead in wins, while leading the way in winning percentage. He’s second in ERA, third in WHIP and fourth in complete games. Like we said, there’s a case here for some hardware. The problem Lester had with homers earlier in the season is clearly a thing of the past and that’s made all the difference as he’s on track for the best ERA of his career.

Yes, Chisenhall will mostly sit against lefties (so bear that in mind in daily move leagues), but the fact he still qualifies at third base is a nice bonus, for the rest of the season anyways. Despite starting the year on the DL, he’s seen more action and has responded with a slugging percentage more fitting for a corner outfielder. Chisenhall seems to have found his niche as a solid platoon player, and the fact that he’s on the strong side of it gives him some value.