By Rob Steingall
CSNChicago.com
Dee Gordon, Dodgers: After a rough start to the season, Gordon appears to be turning things around, posting a .260-plus average with nine steals during the past month. Those numbers aren't going to make you jump out of your seat, but they are useful, especially the steals. He hit .345 with 15 steals after the All-Star Break last year, so he could just be starting to heat up.
Tony Campana, Cubs: This guy is nothing short of amazing, especially when you look at how productive he is on the bases in his limited amount of playing time. Over the past month, Campana has amassed only 61 at-bats, but during that time, has collected an eye-popping 15 stolen bases. With 24 already on the season, he could land somewhere in the 40-50 range when all is said and done. You won't get much more from him, but he could help you win the steals category.
Coco Crisp, Athletics: After returning from his annual trip to the disabled list, Crisp appears to be turning his season around, evident by the .316 average and two steals he's posted during the past week. He's sitting at .263 during his past two weeks, so the average is slowing coming around. He's a great buy-low candidate if you need to make up ground in the steals category.
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Juan Pierre, Phillies: The legendary speedster is batting .325 on the year, and with four steals in the past week, he's entering the circle of trust of many fantasy owners in need of speed. He should begin scoring runs at an ever greater clip when Ryan Howard and Chase Utley return, setting him up for a highly productive second half.
Alcides Escobar, Royals: Still a highly recommended option, despite his poor spot on the batting order. Escobar has posted a .381 average, while swiping three bags during the past week. His plate discipline isn't ideal for a leadoff hitter, but it wouldn't be crazy to see the Royals give him a shot while he's running hot. With 12 steals already on the year, he looks poised to top his career high of 26 he posted last year.