We’ll round up notable changes and trends affecting the major fantasy baseball statistical categories. In pitching, we’ll focus on the major counting statistics (Wins, Losses and Saves) and the cumulative statistics (ERA and WHIP). In batting, we’ll similarly focus on counting statistics (HR, RBI, Runs and SB) and cumulative statistics (Avg).
Our intent is to provide you insight that allows you to identify waiver wire pickups or optimize your daily/weekly starting lineups.
Movers and Shakers, Counting Pitching Stats
The vultures are circling in Boston, as closer Joel Hanrahan continues to serve up meatballs in the ninth inning. Hanrahan has allowed six earned runs in 4.2 innings, while his velocity remains down after a down 2012 season. The Boston bullpen is crowded, with Andrew Bailey and Koji Uehara as capable replacements. If you own Hanrahan, I’d dump him quick in favour of Bailey; he’s the likely closer candidate as the Uehera has long been an eight inning reliever and will likely not be asked to switch roles, given his 8th inning effectiveness.
Last week we updated you on the Chicago Cubs’ closer situation, with Carlos Marmol out in favour of Kyuji Fujikawa. Well, just days into his closer stint, Fujikawa is off to the disabled list. Manager Dale Sveum will rely on a closer by committee in his absence, so there’s no clear favourite to pick up the bulk of the Cubs saves.
Movers and Shakers, Cumulative Pitching Stats
Cleveland Indians pitcherJustin Masterson seems to be back on a track similar to his 2011 after a rocky 2012. If he’s still available, pick him up, as he being gobbled up fast in fantasy leagues. After a complete-game shutout against the Chicago White Sox, Masterson owns a 0.41 ERA and three wins on the early season. These numbers are unsustainable (obviously), but if he manages to improve his performance against LHBs, he’s a good candidate to ride a strong defence behind him to a breakout 2013.
After a career-worst 2012 that led to an offseason trade to the Kansas City Royals, “Ervin Santana is back on track, confirming his reputation as a good pitcher in odd-numbered seasons. After allowing just two earned runs against the Blue Jays on Sunday, Santana has three quality starts on the season. In his Sunday outing, nearly 70% of his pitches were strikes - a good sign that his control problems are left in 2012. Santana is owned in just 24% of Yahoo! fantasy leagues, so there’s a good chance this quality starter is available and can help you with ERA, wins and SOs.
Winner of the St. Louis Cardinals’ battle for the fifth rotation spot, Shelby Miller remains available in a majority of Yahoo! Fantasy leagues. Miller is a highly touted flamethrower and is proving his worth early in 2013. He’s delivered two quality starts and has a tiny 1.46 ERA. Witha long minor league track record of SOs and Wins, he’s a great candidate to help you in alll counting pitching categories.