Starting Pitchers
March 13, 2008
By: Chris Starbonell
Update! Writer
Generally, you don’t want to spend too high a draft pick on starting pitchers; the position comes with it share of injuries and up-and-down years. The past couple of season’s fantasy owners have looked at starting pitching as Johan Santana and then everyone else. Santana still heads the league at the position heading into 2008, but the disparity between the elite pitchers and, say, Scott Kazmir is slowly shrinking. Erik Bedard, Jake Peavy and Josh Beckett are all worthy of early-round picks with little-to-no risk. It’s possible that during this season Santana may be passed as the class of the starting pitching position by more than one player. That’s how good starting pitching looks for 2008. For your drafts, Update! presents the 2008 starting pitching ranks:
1. JOHAN SANTANA
New York Mets
2007 Stats: 15-13, 219 IP, 3.33 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 235 SO
Comment: Santana had an ERA above 3.00 and a WHIP above 1.00 for the first time since 2003. But that’s just nit-picking, he’s still the best pitcher to take following an “off-year.” He’s as reliable as they come and now that he’s on the Mets, it’s scary to think how great his numbers could be. The NL Cy Young feels like it’s his to lose.
2007 Stats: 15-13, 219 IP, 3.33 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 235 SO
Comment: Santana had an ERA above 3.00 and a WHIP above 1.00 for the first time since 2003. But that’s just nit-picking, he’s still the best pitcher to take following an “off-year.” He’s as reliable as they come and now that he’s on the Mets, it’s scary to think how great his numbers could be. The NL Cy Young feels like it’s his to lose.
2. ERIK BEDARD
Seattle Mariners
2007 Stats: 13-5, 182 IP, 3.16 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 221 SO
Comment: Had he been healthy all year, Bedard had a legit shot at the AL Cy Young award. Bedard averaged a staggering 10.93 strikeouts per nine-innings in 2007 while sporting a tidy ERA and WHIP. Don’t be worried about the strained oblique that forced the Orioles to shut him down late last season, Bedard is going to be at full health heading into 2008 and his value gets a boost now that he’s throwing for Seattle.
2007 Stats: 13-5, 182 IP, 3.16 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 221 SO
Comment: Had he been healthy all year, Bedard had a legit shot at the AL Cy Young award. Bedard averaged a staggering 10.93 strikeouts per nine-innings in 2007 while sporting a tidy ERA and WHIP. Don’t be worried about the strained oblique that forced the Orioles to shut him down late last season, Bedard is going to be at full health heading into 2008 and his value gets a boost now that he’s throwing for Seattle.
3. JAKE PEAVY
San Diego Padres
2007 Stats: 19-6, 223.1 IP, 2.54 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 240 SO
Comment: Peavy proved he’s back after a terrific 2007 by leading MLB in ERA, WHIP and strikeouts. The Padres appear serious about trying to win a World Series, as the additions of Tadahito Iguchi and Jim Edmonds suggest. If that’s the case, Peavy could notch 20 wins for the first time in his career. Petco Park is the most favorable pitcher’s park in baseball, so Peavy should turn in another successful season.
2007 Stats: 19-6, 223.1 IP, 2.54 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 240 SO
Comment: Peavy proved he’s back after a terrific 2007 by leading MLB in ERA, WHIP and strikeouts. The Padres appear serious about trying to win a World Series, as the additions of Tadahito Iguchi and Jim Edmonds suggest. If that’s the case, Peavy could notch 20 wins for the first time in his career. Petco Park is the most favorable pitcher’s park in baseball, so Peavy should turn in another successful season.
4. JOSH BECKETT
Boston Red Sox
2007 Stats: 20-7, 200.2 IP, 3.27 ERA, 1.14 ERA, 194 SO
Comment: The only 20-game winner in 2007 has a great shot at repeating his success from last season with the Red Sox offense behind him. Last season’s numbers were the best of his career and at age 27 (28 in May), he could turn in an even better campaign in 2008. There really is no hole in his fantasy game and Beckett should be productive again this season.
2007 Stats: 20-7, 200.2 IP, 3.27 ERA, 1.14 ERA, 194 SO
Comment: The only 20-game winner in 2007 has a great shot at repeating his success from last season with the Red Sox offense behind him. Last season’s numbers were the best of his career and at age 27 (28 in May), he could turn in an even better campaign in 2008. There really is no hole in his fantasy game and Beckett should be productive again this season.
5. BRANDON WEBB
Arizona Diamondbacks
2007 Stats: 18-10, 236.1 IP, 3.01 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 194 SO
Comment: Webb put together another gem of a season in 2007. He has gotten better in each of his last four years while pitching over 200 innings in each season since 2004. He missed out on the 200-strikeout benchmark by four strikeout’s last year, but he’s proving to be one of the trustworthiest aces in fantasy. The Diamondbacks are now a competitive team and 20 wins is a strong possibility.
2007 Stats: 18-10, 236.1 IP, 3.01 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 194 SO
Comment: Webb put together another gem of a season in 2007. He has gotten better in each of his last four years while pitching over 200 innings in each season since 2004. He missed out on the 200-strikeout benchmark by four strikeout’s last year, but he’s proving to be one of the trustworthiest aces in fantasy. The Diamondbacks are now a competitive team and 20 wins is a strong possibility.
6. C.C. SABATHIA
Cleveland Indians
2007 Stats: 19-7, 241 IP, 3.21 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 209 SO
Comment: There’s a minor red-flag here considering how poor his postseason was (1-2 with 15 ER in 15.1 IP). Perhaps he was too worn out from pitching an MLB leading 241 innings; it was only second time he’s pitching over 200 innings in his career. Hopefully it doesn’t affect him heading into 2008. That being said, the beefy southpaw is entering a walk-year, so barring injury or fatigue, he should be in for another huge season.
2007 Stats: 19-7, 241 IP, 3.21 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 209 SO
Comment: There’s a minor red-flag here considering how poor his postseason was (1-2 with 15 ER in 15.1 IP). Perhaps he was too worn out from pitching an MLB leading 241 innings; it was only second time he’s pitching over 200 innings in his career. Hopefully it doesn’t affect him heading into 2008. That being said, the beefy southpaw is entering a walk-year, so barring injury or fatigue, he should be in for another huge season.
7. COLE HAMELS
Los Angeles Angels
2007 Stats: 15-5, 183.1 IP, 3.39 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 177 SO
Comment: Considering he pitches half his games at the bandbox that is Citizens’ Bank Park, Hamels’ 2007 numbers look superb. His strikeout potential is intriguing and the best is yet to come — he just turned 24. The Phillies offense is good enough to boost his win count and it would not be a shock if he finished a top five pitcher.
2007 Stats: 15-5, 183.1 IP, 3.39 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 177 SO
Comment: Considering he pitches half his games at the bandbox that is Citizens’ Bank Park, Hamels’ 2007 numbers look superb. His strikeout potential is intriguing and the best is yet to come — he just turned 24. The Phillies offense is good enough to boost his win count and it would not be a shock if he finished a top five pitcher.
8. JUSTIN VERLANDER
Detroit Tigers
2007 Stats: 18-6, 201.2 IP, 3.66 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 183 SO
Comment: While his ERA remained about the same in 2007 as it was in 2006 (3.63 in 2006), Verlander improved in every aspect of his game, garnering one more win and 59 more strikeouts. If not for a couple of hiccups in July and Aug., Verlander’s numbers would have been even better. Expect an uptick in strikeouts, a lower ERA and perhaps 20 wins with an improved Tigers team.
2007 Stats: 18-6, 201.2 IP, 3.66 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 183 SO
Comment: While his ERA remained about the same in 2007 as it was in 2006 (3.63 in 2006), Verlander improved in every aspect of his game, garnering one more win and 59 more strikeouts. If not for a couple of hiccups in July and Aug., Verlander’s numbers would have been even better. Expect an uptick in strikeouts, a lower ERA and perhaps 20 wins with an improved Tigers team.
9. JOHN LACKEY
Los Angeles Angels
2007 Stats: 19-9, 224 IP, 3.01 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 179 SO
Comment: Lackey enjoyed the best season of his career in 2007, and the signing of Torii Hunter vastly improves the Angels defense behind him. Hunter’s bat in the lineup will also lead to more run support. Expect big things from Lackey in 2008.
2007 Stats: 19-9, 224 IP, 3.01 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 179 SO
Comment: Lackey enjoyed the best season of his career in 2007, and the signing of Torii Hunter vastly improves the Angels defense behind him. Hunter’s bat in the lineup will also lead to more run support. Expect big things from Lackey in 2008.
10. A.J. BURNETT
Toronto Blue Jays
2007 Stats: 10-8, 165.2 IP, 3.75 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 176 SO
Comment: This is not some horrible typo; A.J. Burnett is going to be a fantastic pitcher this season. Before your heads explode, chew on this: Burnett is in a potential walk year thanks to his opt-out option after 2008 (and may be dealt mid-season to a contender) and he was absolute money in the second-half of 2007 (to the tune of a 3.01 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 102 SO in 84.2 innings). He knows that if he dominates this season, he’ll be in for a huge payday come this winter. Count on a great season from the hard-throwing right-hander this year.
2007 Stats: 10-8, 165.2 IP, 3.75 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 176 SO
Comment: This is not some horrible typo; A.J. Burnett is going to be a fantastic pitcher this season. Before your heads explode, chew on this: Burnett is in a potential walk year thanks to his opt-out option after 2008 (and may be dealt mid-season to a contender) and he was absolute money in the second-half of 2007 (to the tune of a 3.01 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 102 SO in 84.2 innings). He knows that if he dominates this season, he’ll be in for a huge payday come this winter. Count on a great season from the hard-throwing right-hander this year.
11. CARLOS ZAMBRANO
Chicago Cubs
2007 Stats: 18-13, 216.1 IP, 3.95 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 177 SO
Comment: Zambrano suffered through an up-and-down season last year, but he’s going to be just 27-years old come June and now that this whole contract fiasco is behind him, he should be more focused on just baseball in 2008. Consider Big Z a terrific bounce-back candidate this season with the competitive Cubs.
2007 Stats: 18-13, 216.1 IP, 3.95 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 177 SO
Comment: Zambrano suffered through an up-and-down season last year, but he’s going to be just 27-years old come June and now that this whole contract fiasco is behind him, he should be more focused on just baseball in 2008. Consider Big Z a terrific bounce-back candidate this season with the competitive Cubs.
12. SCOTT KAZMIR
Tampa Bay Rays
2007 Stats: 13-9, 206.2 IP, 3.48 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 239 SO
Comment: If not for his team and the division he plays in, Kazmir might be a few spots higher on this list. Some say he regressed in 2007, but he just started off poorly. His second half stats were very impressive: 8 W, 2.39 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 124 SO in 94.1 innings. His strikeouts totals alone could buoy a fantasy pitching roster.
2007 Stats: 13-9, 206.2 IP, 3.48 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 239 SO
Comment: If not for his team and the division he plays in, Kazmir might be a few spots higher on this list. Some say he regressed in 2007, but he just started off poorly. His second half stats were very impressive: 8 W, 2.39 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 124 SO in 94.1 innings. His strikeouts totals alone could buoy a fantasy pitching roster.
13. ROY OSWALT
Houston Astros
2007 Stats: 14-7, 212 IP, 3.18 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 154 SO
Comment: Oswalt had his second worst ERA of his career in 2007 when he sported a (gasp!) 3.18 average. Seriously, if this is as low as it gets for one of baseball’s most consistent performers, then no one should have any qualms about drafting Oswalt in 2008. It would be nice, however, if he could improve on his 154 strikeouts from 2007.
2007 Stats: 14-7, 212 IP, 3.18 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 154 SO
Comment: Oswalt had his second worst ERA of his career in 2007 when he sported a (gasp!) 3.18 average. Seriously, if this is as low as it gets for one of baseball’s most consistent performers, then no one should have any qualms about drafting Oswalt in 2008. It would be nice, however, if he could improve on his 154 strikeouts from 2007.
14. CHRIS YOUNG
San Diego Padres
2007 Stats: 9-8, 173 IP, 3.12 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 167 SO
Comment: Yes, he was horrible after returning from a back injury, but he still finished with a crisp ERA and WHIP while striking out batters at a higher-than-expected rate. If he plays all season like he did before the injury, he could easily be a top 10 pitcher by the end of 2008.
2007 Stats: 9-8, 173 IP, 3.12 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 167 SO
Comment: Yes, he was horrible after returning from a back injury, but he still finished with a crisp ERA and WHIP while striking out batters at a higher-than-expected rate. If he plays all season like he did before the injury, he could easily be a top 10 pitcher by the end of 2008.
15. JOHN SMOLTZ
Atlanta Braves
2007 Season: 14-8, 205.2 IP, 3.11 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 197 SO
Comment: He’s turning 41 in May, but until he proves that he is running out of gas, you can’t avoid Smoltz on draft day. Smoltz actually owned a better ERA and WHIP in 2007 than he did in 2006. He’ll be counted on to front the Braves pitching staff as Atlanta tries to re-establish themselves in the NL East.
2007 Season: 14-8, 205.2 IP, 3.11 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 197 SO
Comment: He’s turning 41 in May, but until he proves that he is running out of gas, you can’t avoid Smoltz on draft day. Smoltz actually owned a better ERA and WHIP in 2007 than he did in 2006. He’ll be counted on to front the Braves pitching staff as Atlanta tries to re-establish themselves in the NL East.
16. DAISUKE MATSUZAKA
Boston Red Sox
2007 Stats: 15-12, 204.2 IP, 4.40 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 201 SO
Comment: Okay, so Dice-K didn’t exactly blow the competition away during his inaugural MLB season with Boston. But the 201 strikeouts last year are encouraging as is his presence on the win-friendly Red Sox. He had his share of dominant performances in 2007, but the switch to North American ball certainly affected his performance. He should definitely improve in 2008.
2007 Stats: 15-12, 204.2 IP, 4.40 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 201 SO
Comment: Okay, so Dice-K didn’t exactly blow the competition away during his inaugural MLB season with Boston. But the 201 strikeouts last year are encouraging as is his presence on the win-friendly Red Sox. He had his share of dominant performances in 2007, but the switch to North American ball certainly affected his performance. He should definitely improve in 2008.
17. TIM LINCECUM
San Francisco Giants
2007 Stats: 7-5, 146.1 IP, 4.00 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 150 SO
Comment: If GM Brian Sabean had really went out and traded Lincecum earlier in the off-season as was rumored, every Giant fan alive would probably call for his head. Lincecum is a rare-talent with amazing strikeout ability. He went through a few expected rough patches in his rookie season, but he struck out over a batter-per-inning in 2007 and is capable of being a dominant pitcher in the National League. The guy can flat out pitch. He just needs to work on his control a bit. And while Giants are not a good team to rack up wins, Lincecum has the tools be a top-10 pitcher if everything falls into place.
2007 Stats: 7-5, 146.1 IP, 4.00 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 150 SO
Comment: If GM Brian Sabean had really went out and traded Lincecum earlier in the off-season as was rumored, every Giant fan alive would probably call for his head. Lincecum is a rare-talent with amazing strikeout ability. He went through a few expected rough patches in his rookie season, but he struck out over a batter-per-inning in 2007 and is capable of being a dominant pitcher in the National League. The guy can flat out pitch. He just needs to work on his control a bit. And while Giants are not a good team to rack up wins, Lincecum has the tools be a top-10 pitcher if everything falls into place.
18. FAUSTO CARMONA
Cleveland Indians
2007 Stats: 19-8, 215 IP, 3.06 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 137 SO
Comment: There’s a reason to worry only because another young Indians pitcher named Jeremy Sowers also had a ridiculous second-half in 2006, only to endure a horrendous 2007. Carmona seems like he has too much poise to suffer the same fate, but teams are now on notice about his stuff, so expect adjustments to be made by opposing hitters. He has the talent and run support to improve on his 2007 stats, but it won’t be easy.
2007 Stats: 19-8, 215 IP, 3.06 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 137 SO
Comment: There’s a reason to worry only because another young Indians pitcher named Jeremy Sowers also had a ridiculous second-half in 2006, only to endure a horrendous 2007. Carmona seems like he has too much poise to suffer the same fate, but teams are now on notice about his stuff, so expect adjustments to be made by opposing hitters. He has the talent and run support to improve on his 2007 stats, but it won’t be easy.
19. ROY HALLADAY
Toronto Blue Jays
2007 Stats: 16-7, 225.1 IP, 3.71 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 139 SO
Comment: Halladay does not necessarily look like an elite has-been, but he was much more of a marginal pitcher in 2007 than in seasons past. He’ll never be a big help to your strikeout numbers, but if he comes back strong in 2008, Halladay will be a major factor in the WHIP and ERA categories.
2007 Stats: 16-7, 225.1 IP, 3.71 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 139 SO
Comment: Halladay does not necessarily look like an elite has-been, but he was much more of a marginal pitcher in 2007 than in seasons past. He’ll never be a big help to your strikeout numbers, but if he comes back strong in 2008, Halladay will be a major factor in the WHIP and ERA categories.
20. DAN HAREN
Arizona Diamondbacks
2007 Stats: 15-9, 222.2 IP, 3.07 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 192 SO
Comment: Haren was in a weird spot last year; he had a Jekyll and Hyde type 2007 by having an ERA well under 3.00 in each month of April, May and June before having an ERA of over 4.00 during the months of July, August and September. He looked like a dominant ace half the year before turning into a so-so pitcher. With Arizona, Haren slots in nicely as a great No. 2 behind team ace Brandon Webb. A move to the NL could help his numbers spike upward.
2007 Stats: 15-9, 222.2 IP, 3.07 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 192 SO
Comment: Haren was in a weird spot last year; he had a Jekyll and Hyde type 2007 by having an ERA well under 3.00 in each month of April, May and June before having an ERA of over 4.00 during the months of July, August and September. He looked like a dominant ace half the year before turning into a so-so pitcher. With Arizona, Haren slots in nicely as a great No. 2 behind team ace Brandon Webb. A move to the NL could help his numbers spike upward.
21. FELIX HERNANDEZ
Seattle Mariners
2007 Stats: 14-7, 190.1 IP, 3.92 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 165 SO
Comment: King Felix disappointed, again, when he failed to put together the elite, top-five type starter numbers everyone projected him to have from day one. But whether or not he busts out in 2008, you can at least count on solid strikeout numbers and 14-17 wins. His upside obviously makes him a candidate for huge rewards, but temper your expectations.
2007 Stats: 14-7, 190.1 IP, 3.92 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 165 SO
Comment: King Felix disappointed, again, when he failed to put together the elite, top-five type starter numbers everyone projected him to have from day one. But whether or not he busts out in 2008, you can at least count on solid strikeout numbers and 14-17 wins. His upside obviously makes him a candidate for huge rewards, but temper your expectations.
22. AARON HARANG
Cincinnati Reds
2007 Stats: 16-6, 231.2 IP, 3.73 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 218 SO
Comment: He’s still pretty underrated despite posting back-to-back 200-plus strikeouts and 16 win seasons. Whether it is lack of name recognition or the fact that he plays for the lowly Reds, Harang seems to be an afterthought. He is the unquestioned ace of this pitching staff and has established himself as a reliable starting pitching option.
2007 Stats: 16-6, 231.2 IP, 3.73 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 218 SO
Comment: He’s still pretty underrated despite posting back-to-back 200-plus strikeouts and 16 win seasons. Whether it is lack of name recognition or the fact that he plays for the lowly Reds, Harang seems to be an afterthought. He is the unquestioned ace of this pitching staff and has established himself as a reliable starting pitching option.
23. CHAD BILLINGSLEY
Los Angeles Dodgers
2007 Stats: 12-5, 147 IP, 3.31 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 141 SO
Comment: Ex-Dodgers manager Grady Little foolishly used Billingsley out of the bullpen to start the 2007 season. He performed admirably in the role, but when he got his shot in the rotation, he showed he deserved to be in the starting staff. A future fantasy force, Billingsley could make the leap sooner than anticipated if everything falls into place in 2008.
2007 Stats: 12-5, 147 IP, 3.31 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 141 SO
Comment: Ex-Dodgers manager Grady Little foolishly used Billingsley out of the bullpen to start the 2007 season. He performed admirably in the role, but when he got his shot in the rotation, he showed he deserved to be in the starting staff. A future fantasy force, Billingsley could make the leap sooner than anticipated if everything falls into place in 2008.
24. JAVIER VAZQUEZ
Chicago White Sox
2007 Stats: 15-8, 216.2 IP, 3.74 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 213 SO
Comment: A top-10 in the pitcher in the American League in strikeouts, WHIP, innings pitched and strikeout-to-walk ratio (4.26). He’ll be counted on to anchor the White Sox pitching staff in 2008 with Jon Garland gone to Los Angeles and Jose Contreras’ rapidly fading game. Vazquez is turning 32 in July, but he could build on his strong 2007 as long as the White Sox don’t play as horribly as they did last season.
2007 Stats: 15-8, 216.2 IP, 3.74 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 213 SO
Comment: A top-10 in the pitcher in the American League in strikeouts, WHIP, innings pitched and strikeout-to-walk ratio (4.26). He’ll be counted on to anchor the White Sox pitching staff in 2008 with Jon Garland gone to Los Angeles and Jose Contreras’ rapidly fading game. Vazquez is turning 32 in July, but he could build on his strong 2007 as long as the White Sox don’t play as horribly as they did last season.
25. CHIEN-MING WANG
New York Yankees
2007 Stats: 19-7, 199.1 IP, 3.70 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 104 SO
Comment: This talented sinker-ball pitcher has won 38 games over the past two seasons, but while he is of big help in the win department, his strikeout numbers leave something to be desired. There’s a good reason to be excited about 2008 — he’s supposed to be working on a change-up this off-season and if he comes armed with a good one, it’ll make his sinker-ball that much more devastating and likely result in more whiffed batters.
2007 Stats: 19-7, 199.1 IP, 3.70 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 104 SO
Comment: This talented sinker-ball pitcher has won 38 games over the past two seasons, but while he is of big help in the win department, his strikeout numbers leave something to be desired. There’s a good reason to be excited about 2008 — he’s supposed to be working on a change-up this off-season and if he comes armed with a good one, it’ll make his sinker-ball that much more devastating and likely result in more whiffed batters.
26. OLIVER PEREZ
New York Mets
2007 Stats: 15-10, 177 IP, 3.56 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 174 SO
Comment: Perez looked both brilliant and awful in 2007, depending on which starts you watched. Perez will be 27 in July and is set to be a free agent following this season. If the Mets don’t step-up and offer him a contract, lots of teams will be showing interest in Perez if he puts together a great 2008.
2007 Stats: 15-10, 177 IP, 3.56 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 174 SO
Comment: Perez looked both brilliant and awful in 2007, depending on which starts you watched. Perez will be 27 in July and is set to be a free agent following this season. If the Mets don’t step-up and offer him a contract, lots of teams will be showing interest in Perez if he puts together a great 2008.
27. TIM HUDSON
Atlanta Braves
2007 Stats: 16-10, 224.1 IP, 3.33 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 132 SO
Comment: Strikeouts continue to be a weakness in his fantasy game, but Hudson turned in a productive season in 2007. He’s now made it back-to-back seasons with 200-plus innings pitched, which is encouraging for his health. The Braves appear to have a weaker offense heading into 2008 without Edgar Renteria and Andruw Jones, so that might affect his win totals. But Hudson should be a solid pitching option for fantasy rosters this year.
2007 Stats: 16-10, 224.1 IP, 3.33 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 132 SO
Comment: Strikeouts continue to be a weakness in his fantasy game, but Hudson turned in a productive season in 2007. He’s now made it back-to-back seasons with 200-plus innings pitched, which is encouraging for his health. The Braves appear to have a weaker offense heading into 2008 without Edgar Renteria and Andruw Jones, so that might affect his win totals. But Hudson should be a solid pitching option for fantasy rosters this year.
28. RICH HILL
Chicago Cubs
2007 Stats: 11-8, 195 IP, 3.92 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 183 SO
Comment: Hill started off the season in dominant fashion, with a 3-1 record and 1.77 ERA in the first month of the season. He slowed down considerably after that with an ERA over 3.95 in every month after April. If he can cut down on the implosions and 27 HR allowed, he could be a great No. 2 fantasy starting pitching option.
2007 Stats: 11-8, 195 IP, 3.92 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 183 SO
Comment: Hill started off the season in dominant fashion, with a 3-1 record and 1.77 ERA in the first month of the season. He slowed down considerably after that with an ERA over 3.95 in every month after April. If he can cut down on the implosions and 27 HR allowed, he could be a great No. 2 fantasy starting pitching option.
29. MATT CAIN
San Francisco Giants
2007 Stats: 7-16, 200 IP, 3.65 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 163 SO
Comment: The Giants offense isn’t going to offer much in terms of run support, but Cain’s ERA and WHIP should continue to improve. The 23-year old pitcher still has come inconsistencies to work through (his 2007 month-to-month ERA jumps up and down from bad to great), but he could really break out in 2008. It’s a shame he could have a hard time reaching double-digit wins with San Francisco.
2007 Stats: 7-16, 200 IP, 3.65 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 163 SO
Comment: The Giants offense isn’t going to offer much in terms of run support, but Cain’s ERA and WHIP should continue to improve. The 23-year old pitcher still has come inconsistencies to work through (his 2007 month-to-month ERA jumps up and down from bad to great), but he could really break out in 2008. It’s a shame he could have a hard time reaching double-digit wins with San Francisco.
30. JAMES SHIELDS
Tampa Bay Rays
2007 Stats: 12-8, 215 IP, 3.85 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 184 SO
Comment: Shields broke out in 2007, showing the world that the Tampa Bay Rays had pitching talent beyond Scott Kazmir. His 184 strikeouts were great, but his WHIP last season is the real cause for excitement as he was third in the category amongst all American League starting pitchers. Expect an even better 2008.
2007 Stats: 12-8, 215 IP, 3.85 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 184 SO
Comment: Shields broke out in 2007, showing the world that the Tampa Bay Rays had pitching talent beyond Scott Kazmir. His 184 strikeouts were great, but his WHIP last season is the real cause for excitement as he was third in the category amongst all American League starting pitchers. Expect an even better 2008.
31. FRANCISCO LIRIANO
Minnesota Twins
2007 Stats: Out All Season
Comment: He had Tommy John Surgery in Nov. of 2006, effectively killing his chances of playing in 2007. But all indications point to Liriano being back at full strength by the end of spring training. Remember, before succumbing to elbow troubles, Liriano was the best pitcher in all of baseball (pitching even better than teammate Johan Santana). While one would normally advise against going after someone who has been out of game action roughly a year-and-a-half, Liriano’s talent is just too incredible to pass up on come draft day. He could pay major dividends to fantasy owners willing to take a chance on him.
2007 Stats: Out All Season
Comment: He had Tommy John Surgery in Nov. of 2006, effectively killing his chances of playing in 2007. But all indications point to Liriano being back at full strength by the end of spring training. Remember, before succumbing to elbow troubles, Liriano was the best pitcher in all of baseball (pitching even better than teammate Johan Santana). While one would normally advise against going after someone who has been out of game action roughly a year-and-a-half, Liriano’s talent is just too incredible to pass up on come draft day. He could pay major dividends to fantasy owners willing to take a chance on him.
32. BRAD PENNY
Los Angeles Dodgers
2007 Stats: 16-4, 208 IP, 3.03 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 135 SO
Comment: Brad Penny finally didn’t choke completely after the All-Star Break in 2007. Okay, so a 3.84 ERA in the second-half isn’t spellbinding, but considering he had ERA’s of 6.25 and 4.48 in the second-halves of the 2006 and 2005 seasons, it is a big step forward for Penny. Still, it might not be a bad idea to trade him after the first-half comes to a close in 2008.
2007 Stats: 16-4, 208 IP, 3.03 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 135 SO
Comment: Brad Penny finally didn’t choke completely after the All-Star Break in 2007. Okay, so a 3.84 ERA in the second-half isn’t spellbinding, but considering he had ERA’s of 6.25 and 4.48 in the second-halves of the 2006 and 2005 seasons, it is a big step forward for Penny. Still, it might not be a bad idea to trade him after the first-half comes to a close in 2008.
33. JOHN MAINE
New York Mets
2007 Stats: 15-10, 191 IP, 3.91 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 180 SO
Comment: Maine’s slim 2.71 ERA in the first-half made it seem as if Maine was on the fast track to superstardom. But a 5.53 ERA after the All Star break derailed what could’ve been a special season. Take him as a starting pitcher to round out your fantasy rotation with the potential to pitch like a No. 2.
2007 Stats: 15-10, 191 IP, 3.91 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 180 SO
Comment: Maine’s slim 2.71 ERA in the first-half made it seem as if Maine was on the fast track to superstardom. But a 5.53 ERA after the All Star break derailed what could’ve been a special season. Take him as a starting pitcher to round out your fantasy rotation with the potential to pitch like a No. 2.
34. YOVANI GALLARDO
Milwaukee Brewers
2007 Stats: 9-5, 110.1 IP, 3.67 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 101 SO
Comment: Gallardo’s mid-season call-up came with its share of fanfare, but his talent was worth the hype. This season, he’ll be leaned on more in the rotation and if his tremendous Sept. last season is any indication (1.36 ERA with 31 SO), he’ll deliver in 2008. He may be turning 22 in Feb., but that does not give you a reason to shy away from him.
2007 Stats: 9-5, 110.1 IP, 3.67 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 101 SO
Comment: Gallardo’s mid-season call-up came with its share of fanfare, but his talent was worth the hype. This season, he’ll be leaned on more in the rotation and if his tremendous Sept. last season is any indication (1.36 ERA with 31 SO), he’ll deliver in 2008. He may be turning 22 in Feb., but that does not give you a reason to shy away from him.
35. ADAM WAINWRIGHT
St. Louis Cardinals
2007 Season: 14-12, 202 IP, 3.70 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, 136 SO
Comment: Wainwright allowed an appalling 35 earned runs in 56.1 innings during the first two months of the season. But after that rough patch, Wainwright looked terrific, failing to post an ERA higher than 3.70 in any month after May and finishing with a 2.17 ERA in the second-half of 2007. If he starts off hot in 2008, watch out.
2007 Season: 14-12, 202 IP, 3.70 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, 136 SO
Comment: Wainwright allowed an appalling 35 earned runs in 56.1 innings during the first two months of the season. But after that rough patch, Wainwright looked terrific, failing to post an ERA higher than 3.70 in any month after May and finishing with a 2.17 ERA in the second-half of 2007. If he starts off hot in 2008, watch out.
36. PHIL HUGHES
New York Yankees
2007 Stats: 5-3, 72.2 IP, 4.46 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 58 SO
Comment: Hughes’ regular season numbers are okay, but anyone who saw his performance in the post-season (1-0, 5.2 IP, 1.59 ERA, 0.53 WHIP, 6 SO) saw a potential star-in-the-making. Hughes flashed a developing change-up in the ALDS and has been working on it this off-season. If he has one in his repertoire for 2008, his impressive fastball and devastating curve ball will become more deadly.
2007 Stats: 5-3, 72.2 IP, 4.46 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 58 SO
Comment: Hughes’ regular season numbers are okay, but anyone who saw his performance in the post-season (1-0, 5.2 IP, 1.59 ERA, 0.53 WHIP, 6 SO) saw a potential star-in-the-making. Hughes flashed a developing change-up in the ALDS and has been working on it this off-season. If he has one in his repertoire for 2008, his impressive fastball and devastating curve ball will become more deadly.
37. PEDRO MARTINEZ
New York Mets
2007 Stats: 3-1, 28 IP, 2.57 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 32 SO
Comment: Pedro has pitched just 160.2 innings in the last two seasons combined, but the Mets are hoping they get something out of Pedro, who is in the final year of a four-year pact, in 2008. When he’s playing, he’s still capable of being a top-of-the-line NL pitcher. He should be healthy heading into Spring Training, but then again, this is Pedro Martinez we’re talking about. A DL-stint is just a sore toe away.
2007 Stats: 3-1, 28 IP, 2.57 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 32 SO
Comment: Pedro has pitched just 160.2 innings in the last two seasons combined, but the Mets are hoping they get something out of Pedro, who is in the final year of a four-year pact, in 2008. When he’s playing, he’s still capable of being a top-of-the-line NL pitcher. He should be healthy heading into Spring Training, but then again, this is Pedro Martinez we’re talking about. A DL-stint is just a sore toe away.
38. KELVIM ESCOBAR
Los Angeles Angels
2007 Stats: 18-7, 195.2 IP, 3.40 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 160 SO
Comment: Serviceable numbers from the veteran who now has back-to-back 30 start seasons with an ERA under 3.65. Escobar isn’t going to dominate the fantasy world in 2008, but with the Angels, he should once again be a solid player in your fantasy rotation.
2007 Stats: 18-7, 195.2 IP, 3.40 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 160 SO
Comment: Serviceable numbers from the veteran who now has back-to-back 30 start seasons with an ERA under 3.65. Escobar isn’t going to dominate the fantasy world in 2008, but with the Angels, he should once again be a solid player in your fantasy rotation.
39. IAN SNELL
Pittsburgh Pirates
2007 Stats: 9-12, 208 IP, 3.76 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 177 SO
Comment: Snell continued his development in 2007, improving in walks, WHIP, ERA, strikeouts and HR allowed from his 2006 totals. Unfortunately, his stats would have been better overall had he not had struggled in the second half (2-7 with a 4.83 ERA). Considering he owned a 2.93 ERA in the first-half of 2007, Snell may become one of the more effective pitchers in 2008 if he stays consistent all season.
2007 Stats: 9-12, 208 IP, 3.76 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 177 SO
Comment: Snell continued his development in 2007, improving in walks, WHIP, ERA, strikeouts and HR allowed from his 2006 totals. Unfortunately, his stats would have been better overall had he not had struggled in the second half (2-7 with a 4.83 ERA). Considering he owned a 2.93 ERA in the first-half of 2007, Snell may become one of the more effective pitchers in 2008 if he stays consistent all season.
40. MARK BUEHRLE
Chicago White Sox
2007 Stats: 10-9, 201 IP, 3.63 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 115 SO
Comment: Buehrle pitched to the tune of a 3.03 ERA in the first-half of 2007 before twirling a 4.43 ERA after the All Star break. His off-season workout program (which he planned on starting two months earlier than in 2007) is credited with helping Buehrle bounce back after a sub-par 2006 and if he builds more strength for 2008, perhaps it will help him stay strong all throughout the season.
2007 Stats: 10-9, 201 IP, 3.63 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 115 SO
Comment: Buehrle pitched to the tune of a 3.03 ERA in the first-half of 2007 before twirling a 4.43 ERA after the All Star break. His off-season workout program (which he planned on starting two months earlier than in 2007) is credited with helping Buehrle bounce back after a sub-par 2006 and if he builds more strength for 2008, perhaps it will help him stay strong all throughout the season.
41. DUSTIN MCGOWAN
Toronto Blue Jays
2007 Stats: 12-10, 169.2 IP, 4.08 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 144 SO
Comment: McGowan was an after-thought to fantasy owners heading into last season but after an impressive second-half of 2007 (7-6, 3.67 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 87 SO), he revealed some potential. McGowan’s turning 26 in March and at the very least he should improve on his numbers from last year.
2007 Stats: 12-10, 169.2 IP, 4.08 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 144 SO
Comment: McGowan was an after-thought to fantasy owners heading into last season but after an impressive second-half of 2007 (7-6, 3.67 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 87 SO), he revealed some potential. McGowan’s turning 26 in March and at the very least he should improve on his numbers from last year.
42. JERED WEAVER
Los Angeles Angels
2007 Stats: 13-7, 161 IP, 3.91 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 115 SO
Comment: Weaver failed to follow-up his impressive rookie season with a strong showing in 2007. He wasn’t awful, just disappointing. That 1.39 WHIP last year was especially disconcerting considering he had a 1.03 WHIP in 2006. But since he’s 25, it may have just been a letdown season. Hopefully he settles in comfortably in 2008.
2007 Stats: 13-7, 161 IP, 3.91 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 115 SO
Comment: Weaver failed to follow-up his impressive rookie season with a strong showing in 2007. He wasn’t awful, just disappointing. That 1.39 WHIP last year was especially disconcerting considering he had a 1.03 WHIP in 2006. But since he’s 25, it may have just been a letdown season. Hopefully he settles in comfortably in 2008.
43. DEREK LOWE
Los Angeles Dodgers
2007 Stats: 12-14, 199.1 IP, 3.88 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 147 SO
Comment: Ever since signing with Los Angeles before the 2005 season, Lowe has had an ERA under 4.00. That kind of consistency makes him an ideal No. 4 or No. 5 fantasy starter. One who can help you in every category. He’s turning 35 in June, but unless he falls apart in 2008, expect another useful season.
2007 Stats: 12-14, 199.1 IP, 3.88 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 147 SO
Comment: Ever since signing with Los Angeles before the 2005 season, Lowe has had an ERA under 4.00. That kind of consistency makes him an ideal No. 4 or No. 5 fantasy starter. One who can help you in every category. He’s turning 35 in June, but unless he falls apart in 2008, expect another useful season.
44. RANDY JOHNSON
Arizona Diamondbacks
2007 Stats: 4-3, 56.7 IP, 3.81 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 72 SO
Comment: Johnson looked like he might be headed to a career renaissance in 2007 before succumbing to a herniated disc that required surgery. This season, the Big Unit looks to help stabilize a burgeoning Arizona team. If healthy, he has a shot of making a fantasy impact. Of course, health at this stage of his career is a big “if.”
2007 Stats: 4-3, 56.7 IP, 3.81 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 72 SO
Comment: Johnson looked like he might be headed to a career renaissance in 2007 before succumbing to a herniated disc that required surgery. This season, the Big Unit looks to help stabilize a burgeoning Arizona team. If healthy, he has a shot of making a fantasy impact. Of course, health at this stage of his career is a big “if.”
45. ANDY PETTITTE
New York Yankees
2007 Stats:15-9, 215.1 IP, 4.05 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 141 SO
Comment: Pettitte will be counted on to anchor the Yankees young pitching staff in 2008 while also trying to lead them to the post-season. His value to the Yankees is incredible, but to fantasy owners, Pettitte is less important. He’s a nice source of wins, but his ERA and WHIP are going to be modest at best. Just keep these things in mind when drafting your fantasy starting pitching staff.
2007 Stats:15-9, 215.1 IP, 4.05 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 141 SO
Comment: Pettitte will be counted on to anchor the Yankees young pitching staff in 2008 while also trying to lead them to the post-season. His value to the Yankees is incredible, but to fantasy owners, Pettitte is less important. He’s a nice source of wins, but his ERA and WHIP are going to be modest at best. Just keep these things in mind when drafting your fantasy starting pitching staff.
46. GIL MECHE
Kansas City Royals
2007 Stats: 9-13, 216 IP, 3.67 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 156 SO
Comment: This 29-year old enjoyed the best season of his career in 2007. He had 23 quality starts (out of 34) last year. Meche closed out Sept. especially well with a 2.67 ERA. He will be counted on to be the Royals ace again in 2008 and there’s no reason to think Meche can’t turn in another quality season.
2007 Stats: 9-13, 216 IP, 3.67 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 156 SO
Comment: This 29-year old enjoyed the best season of his career in 2007. He had 23 quality starts (out of 34) last year. Meche closed out Sept. especially well with a 2.67 ERA. He will be counted on to be the Royals ace again in 2008 and there’s no reason to think Meche can’t turn in another quality season.
47. JEFF FRANCIS
Colorado Rockies
2007 Stats: 17-9, 215.1 IP, 4.22 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 165 SO
Comment: Lot’s of folks are wooed by Jeff Francis and the way he led the Rockies pitching staff late in the regular season and through the playoffs, but don’t expect magic numbers from Colorado’s ace. While the 165 strikeouts in 2007 marked a career-high, he has a 1.43 WHIP in four years of big league service. He’d make an alright No. 4 or No. 5 fantasy pitcher due to the wins potential, but don’t reach any higher than that with Francis.
2007 Stats: 17-9, 215.1 IP, 4.22 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 165 SO
Comment: Lot’s of folks are wooed by Jeff Francis and the way he led the Rockies pitching staff late in the regular season and through the playoffs, but don’t expect magic numbers from Colorado’s ace. While the 165 strikeouts in 2007 marked a career-high, he has a 1.43 WHIP in four years of big league service. He’d make an alright No. 4 or No. 5 fantasy pitcher due to the wins potential, but don’t reach any higher than that with Francis.
48. JEREMY BONDERMAN
Detroit Tigers
2007 Stats: 11-9, 174.1 IP, 5.01 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 145 SO
Comment: The Tigers offense is loaded for 2008, and Bonderman should be the beneficiary of many wins this season. Lot of people seem disappointed that he has never had a really great fantasy season. Bonderman has never even put up a season ERA lower than 4.00 or a WHIP lower than 1.30. People need to keep in mind that he’s only 25 and has been undergoing a conditioning program to strengthen his right elbow. He usually falls apart at some point in the year, wearing down noticeably. But if Bonderman can put those troubles behind him and play consistent baseball all season, he could take off.
2007 Stats: 11-9, 174.1 IP, 5.01 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 145 SO
Comment: The Tigers offense is loaded for 2008, and Bonderman should be the beneficiary of many wins this season. Lot of people seem disappointed that he has never had a really great fantasy season. Bonderman has never even put up a season ERA lower than 4.00 or a WHIP lower than 1.30. People need to keep in mind that he’s only 25 and has been undergoing a conditioning program to strengthen his right elbow. He usually falls apart at some point in the year, wearing down noticeably. But if Bonderman can put those troubles behind him and play consistent baseball all season, he could take off.
49. JOE BLANTON
Oakland Athletics
2007 Stats: 14-10, 230 IP, 3.95 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 140 SO
Comment: Blanton’s overall 2007 season is good enough to be drafted in all fantasy formats, but his first-half totals last year (8-5, 3.28 ERA, 1.09 ERA, 85 SO) make Blanton an interesting option. At 27-years old, a breakout is possible. He might get dealt by the A’s as GM Billy Beane seems intent on re-building, if he gets moved to a National League team, it could really give his numbers a boost.
2007 Stats: 14-10, 230 IP, 3.95 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 140 SO
Comment: Blanton’s overall 2007 season is good enough to be drafted in all fantasy formats, but his first-half totals last year (8-5, 3.28 ERA, 1.09 ERA, 85 SO) make Blanton an interesting option. At 27-years old, a breakout is possible. He might get dealt by the A’s as GM Billy Beane seems intent on re-building, if he gets moved to a National League team, it could really give his numbers a boost.
50. DONTRELLE WILLIS
Detroit Tigers
2007 Stats: 10-15, 205.1 IP, 5.17 ERA, 1.60 WHIP, 146 SO
Comment: Detroit is committed to Willis, but while the lure of pitching for a team with a loaded offense is tempting to fantasy owners, the D-Train has a lot of things going against him. Outside of his spectacular 2005, Willis has never had a great season. In four of his five years of big-league experience, he has owned a WHIP no lower than 1.28. He’ll no longer have the luxury of facing pitchers now that he’s in the American League, so expect a high ERA and plenty of hiccups for Willis.
2007 Stats: 10-15, 205.1 IP, 5.17 ERA, 1.60 WHIP, 146 SO
Comment: Detroit is committed to Willis, but while the lure of pitching for a team with a loaded offense is tempting to fantasy owners, the D-Train has a lot of things going against him. Outside of his spectacular 2005, Willis has never had a great season. In four of his five years of big-league experience, he has owned a WHIP no lower than 1.28. He’ll no longer have the luxury of facing pitchers now that he’s in the American League, so expect a high ERA and plenty of hiccups for Willis.
51. TED LILLY
Chicago Cubs
2007 Stats: 15-8, 207 IP, 3.83 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 174 SO
Comment: Who knew how great a signing Ted Lilly would turn out to be for Chicago? He was a reliable option last season and the left-hander could total an additional win or two in 2008. The Cubs are looking good heading into this season and Lilly could turn in another solid effort.
2007 Stats: 15-8, 207 IP, 3.83 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 174 SO
Comment: Who knew how great a signing Ted Lilly would turn out to be for Chicago? He was a reliable option last season and the left-hander could total an additional win or two in 2008. The Cubs are looking good heading into this season and Lilly could turn in another solid effort.
52. BARRY ZITO
San Francisco Giants
2007 Stats: 11-13, 196.2 IP, 4.53 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 131 SO
Comment: Zito seemed like a big waste of money in the first season of a $126 million contract with the Giants. Don’t give up on him just yet, however. He still has a devastating curve-ball and pitched with a 3.33 ERA in the final two months of the season. Considering how late you can nab him, Zito could be an excellent value pick.
2007 Stats: 11-13, 196.2 IP, 4.53 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 131 SO
Comment: Zito seemed like a big waste of money in the first season of a $126 million contract with the Giants. Don’t give up on him just yet, however. He still has a devastating curve-ball and pitched with a 3.33 ERA in the final two months of the season. Considering how late you can nab him, Zito could be an excellent value pick.
53. BRETT MYERS
Philadelphia Phillies
2007 Stats: 5-7, 68.7 IP, 4.33 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 83 SO
Comment: Myers had 21 saves last season after being converted from starter to reliever in 2007. He moved back to the rotation the moment the Phillies acquired Brad Lidge to be their closer. Myers was admittedly upset about being moved back to the rotation, saying he felt he had finally found himself as a pitcher. While he would be more valuable to fantasy owners as a closer, Myers should not be ignored as a starter. He’s only had one good season in his career as a starting pitcher, but he’s got the talent to do it again.
2007 Stats: 5-7, 68.7 IP, 4.33 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 83 SO
Comment: Myers had 21 saves last season after being converted from starter to reliever in 2007. He moved back to the rotation the moment the Phillies acquired Brad Lidge to be their closer. Myers was admittedly upset about being moved back to the rotation, saying he felt he had finally found himself as a pitcher. While he would be more valuable to fantasy owners as a closer, Myers should not be ignored as a starter. He’s only had one good season in his career as a starting pitcher, but he’s got the talent to do it again.
54. UBALDO JIMENEZ
Colorado Rockies
2007 Stats: 4-4, 82 IP, 4.28 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 68 SO
Comment: He ended up with bland overall season numbers. But Jimenez displayed some incredible stuff towards the end of last season and in the postseason. The Rockies are looking like a legitimate contending team, so Jimenez could catch fire in 2008.
2007 Stats: 4-4, 82 IP, 4.28 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 68 SO
Comment: He ended up with bland overall season numbers. But Jimenez displayed some incredible stuff towards the end of last season and in the postseason. The Rockies are looking like a legitimate contending team, so Jimenez could catch fire in 2008.
55. MICAH OWINGS
Arizona Diamondbacks
2007 Season: 8-8, 152.2 IP, 4.30 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 106 SO
Comment: D-backs manager Bob Melvin stated in early December that Owings could see time at first base in 2008. The impressive athlete can certainly hit (.333 AVG in 2007) and his bat may have actually showed up his arm in his rookie season. Owings’ 3.72 ERA and 1.06 WHIP during the second-half of last year show that he can pitch and with the competitive Arizona Diamondbacks, he could breakout.
2007 Season: 8-8, 152.2 IP, 4.30 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 106 SO
Comment: D-backs manager Bob Melvin stated in early December that Owings could see time at first base in 2008. The impressive athlete can certainly hit (.333 AVG in 2007) and his bat may have actually showed up his arm in his rookie season. Owings’ 3.72 ERA and 1.06 WHIP during the second-half of last year show that he can pitch and with the competitive Arizona Diamondbacks, he could breakout.
56. BEN SHEETS
Milwaukee Brewers
2007 Stats: 12-5, 141.1 IP, 3.82 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 106 SO
Comment: Has put up a respectable ERA the past two seasons, but Sheets injury-woes are just too much to deal with. He hasn’t pitched 200 innings since 2003 and his strikeouts-per-inning fell dramatically in 2007. Simply put, you can’t really count on Sheets to be healthy for more than 150 innings and his stats the last couple of years don’t justify wasting a roster spot on him if he gets hurt.
2007 Stats: 12-5, 141.1 IP, 3.82 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 106 SO
Comment: Has put up a respectable ERA the past two seasons, but Sheets injury-woes are just too much to deal with. He hasn’t pitched 200 innings since 2003 and his strikeouts-per-inning fell dramatically in 2007. Simply put, you can’t really count on Sheets to be healthy for more than 150 innings and his stats the last couple of years don’t justify wasting a roster spot on him if he gets hurt.
57. KENNY ROGERS
Detroit Tigers
2007 Stats: 3-4, 63 IP, 4.43 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 36 SO
Comment: With Detroit, Rogers could definitely win 20 games if he’s healthy for a full year. Prior to the 2007 season, Rogers had back-to-back years of a sub-4.00 ERA and if he can put together a season like that again, the 43-year old veteran should enjoy a fine 2008.
2007 Stats: 3-4, 63 IP, 4.43 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 36 SO
Comment: With Detroit, Rogers could definitely win 20 games if he’s healthy for a full year. Prior to the 2007 season, Rogers had back-to-back years of a sub-4.00 ERA and if he can put together a season like that again, the 43-year old veteran should enjoy a fine 2008.
58. JOBA CHAMBERLAIN
New York Yankees
2007 Stats: : 2-0, 24 IP, 0.38 ERA, 0.75 WHIP, 34 SO
Comment: Whether Chamberlain pitches in the rotation or bullpen in 2008 is still up for debate. There have been several reports about where the Yankees will put Joba this season, making it tough for fantasy owners to decide on when to draft him. He has more value as a starter, but could provide better stats in the bullpen. Whatever role he plays, he’s certainly worth taking a chance on, but he would obviously be a tantalizing option as a starting pitcher.
2007 Stats: : 2-0, 24 IP, 0.38 ERA, 0.75 WHIP, 34 SO
Comment: Whether Chamberlain pitches in the rotation or bullpen in 2008 is still up for debate. There have been several reports about where the Yankees will put Joba this season, making it tough for fantasy owners to decide on when to draft him. He has more value as a starter, but could provide better stats in the bullpen. Whatever role he plays, he’s certainly worth taking a chance on, but he would obviously be a tantalizing option as a starting pitcher.
59. TOM GORZELANNY
Pittsburgh Pirates
2007 Stats: 14-10, 201.2 IP, 3.88 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, 135 SO
Comment: Suffered through a rough second-half with a 5.01 ERA and just 5 wins after sporting a 3.10 ERA with 10 wins before the All-Star break. For anyone to notch 14 wins with the lowly Pirates is impressive enough, that mark will be hard to repeat in 2008, but Gorzelanny could be a very competent pitcher this season.
2007 Stats: 14-10, 201.2 IP, 3.88 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, 135 SO
Comment: Suffered through a rough second-half with a 5.01 ERA and just 5 wins after sporting a 3.10 ERA with 10 wins before the All-Star break. For anyone to notch 14 wins with the lowly Pirates is impressive enough, that mark will be hard to repeat in 2008, but Gorzelanny could be a very competent pitcher this season.
60. ORLANDO HERNANDEZ
New York Mets
2007 Stats: 9-5, 147.2 IP, 3.72 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 128 SO
Comment: When El Duque was healthy last year, he was effective for the Mets and fantasy owners alike. While we really have no idea what his real age is, it’s plain to see that Hernandez’s body is fragile. He’ll probably be useful for fantasy owners when healthy enough to play, but be aware of the frustration involved.
2007 Stats: 9-5, 147.2 IP, 3.72 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 128 SO
Comment: When El Duque was healthy last year, he was effective for the Mets and fantasy owners alike. While we really have no idea what his real age is, it’s plain to see that Hernandez’s body is fragile. He’ll probably be useful for fantasy owners when healthy enough to play, but be aware of the frustration involved.
61. ZACH GREINKE
Kansas City Royals
2007 Stats: 7-7, 122 IP, 3.69 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 106 SO
Comment: Greinke was being shuffled in and out of the starting rotation last season and finished with a modest overall season line. But when he was put back in the starter’s role in August, he enjoyed a sub-3.00 ERA for the rest of the season. If the Royals keep him on the starter’s staff next season, Greinke could be a useful fantasy option.
2007 Stats: 7-7, 122 IP, 3.69 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 106 SO
Comment: Greinke was being shuffled in and out of the starting rotation last season and finished with a modest overall season line. But when he was put back in the starter’s role in August, he enjoyed a sub-3.00 ERA for the rest of the season. If the Royals keep him on the starter’s staff next season, Greinke could be a useful fantasy option.
62. JEREMY GUTHRIE
Baltimore Orioles
2007 Stats: 7-5, 175.1 IP, 3.70 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 123 SO
Comment: Guthrie enjoyed some success in the first full-season of his professional major-league career. The Orioles fired pitching coach Leo Mazzone following the 2007 season so his numbers may suffer. Guthrie, who’ll be 29 in April, is also going to have a worse offense providing run support so he has an uphill battle heading into 2008.
2007 Stats: 7-5, 175.1 IP, 3.70 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 123 SO
Comment: Guthrie enjoyed some success in the first full-season of his professional major-league career. The Orioles fired pitching coach Leo Mazzone following the 2007 season so his numbers may suffer. Guthrie, who’ll be 29 in April, is also going to have a worse offense providing run support so he has an uphill battle heading into 2008.
63. BRIAN BANNISTER
Kansas City Royals
2007 Stats: 12-9, 165 IP, 3.87 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 77 SO
Comment: Stumbled in September last year with a 7.30 ERA, but he still finished with a strong rookie season. If Bannister can build on his impressive 2007, he could be a nice player. He barely strikes anyone out though and wins will be hard to come by with the Royals, so keep your expectations in check.
2007 Stats: 12-9, 165 IP, 3.87 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 77 SO
Comment: Stumbled in September last year with a 7.30 ERA, but he still finished with a strong rookie season. If Bannister can build on his impressive 2007, he could be a nice player. He barely strikes anyone out though and wins will be hard to come by with the Royals, so keep your expectations in check.
64. CURT SCHILLING
Boston Red Sox
2007 Stats: 9-8, 151 IP, 3.87 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 101 SO
Comment: Three times in the last five years Curt Schilling has failed to reach double-digit wins. He was injury-prone those seasons and that risk is obviously there in 2008 at age 41. With major shoulder problems being reported and Clay Buchholz waiting in the wings, the Red Sox have options when it comes to starting pitching. If Schilling is nursing an injury or two, Boston can afford to give him the time off to heal up. 200 innings would be a treat, but it’s probably not going to happen.
2007 Stats: 9-8, 151 IP, 3.87 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 101 SO
Comment: Three times in the last five years Curt Schilling has failed to reach double-digit wins. He was injury-prone those seasons and that risk is obviously there in 2008 at age 41. With major shoulder problems being reported and Clay Buchholz waiting in the wings, the Red Sox have options when it comes to starting pitching. If Schilling is nursing an injury or two, Boston can afford to give him the time off to heal up. 200 innings would be a treat, but it’s probably not going to happen.
65. RICH HARDEN
Oakland Athletics
2007 Stats: 1-2, 25.2 IP, 2.45 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 27 SO
Comment: Over the past two seasons Harden has only managed to throw for 72.1 innings. It makes sense for the Athletics to use him out of the bullpen as he has managed to pitch over 130 innings once in his five-year career. But considering that the A’s are short on starting pitchers that does not seem likely. Harden has ace ability, but he is a huge injury risk.
2007 Stats: 1-2, 25.2 IP, 2.45 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 27 SO
Comment: Over the past two seasons Harden has only managed to throw for 72.1 innings. It makes sense for the Athletics to use him out of the bullpen as he has managed to pitch over 130 innings once in his five-year career. But considering that the A’s are short on starting pitchers that does not seem likely. Harden has ace ability, but he is a huge injury risk.
66. ANDREW MILLER
Florida Marlins
2007 Stats: : 5-5, 64 IP, 5.63 ERA, 1.76 WHIP, 56 SO
Comment: Andrew Miller was had in the Miguel Cabrera trade and he’ll be plugged right into the starting rotation for Florida in 2008. Miller has nice strikeout potential and while he’s likely to go through some growing pains, he could turn in a great first season (think Josh Johnson or Anibal Sanchez in 2006).
2007 Stats: : 5-5, 64 IP, 5.63 ERA, 1.76 WHIP, 56 SO
Comment: Andrew Miller was had in the Miguel Cabrera trade and he’ll be plugged right into the starting rotation for Florida in 2008. Miller has nice strikeout potential and while he’s likely to go through some growing pains, he could turn in a great first season (think Josh Johnson or Anibal Sanchez in 2006).
67. JON GARLAND
Los Angeles Angels
2007 Stats: 10-13, 208.1 IP, 4.23 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 98 SO
Comment: Outside of his 2005 breakout season, Garland has never really enjoyed a full year of success in the majors. While he should certainly improve on his 10 wins from 2007, fantasy owners should not expect him to all of a sudden become a great pitcher again just because he’s on a better team.
2007 Stats: 10-13, 208.1 IP, 4.23 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 98 SO
Comment: Outside of his 2005 breakout season, Garland has never really enjoyed a full year of success in the majors. While he should certainly improve on his 10 wins from 2007, fantasy owners should not expect him to all of a sudden become a great pitcher again just because he’s on a better team.
68. JON LESTER
Boston Red Sox
2007 Stats: 4-0, 63 IP, 4.57 ERA, 1.46 WHIP, 50 SO
Comment: Posted a tidy 1.93 ERA during the 2007 post-season en route to a World Series championship. He should put up respectable numbers and good win totals with the Red Sox. But don’t get too swayed by his playoff performance, he’s not as talented as a lot of young pitchers out there and doesn’t figure to turn in a big-time season in 2008.
2007 Stats: 4-0, 63 IP, 4.57 ERA, 1.46 WHIP, 50 SO
Comment: Posted a tidy 1.93 ERA during the 2007 post-season en route to a World Series championship. He should put up respectable numbers and good win totals with the Red Sox. But don’t get too swayed by his playoff performance, he’s not as talented as a lot of young pitchers out there and doesn’t figure to turn in a big-time season in 2008.
69. DOUG DAVIS
Arizona Diamondbacks
2007 Stats: 13-12, 192.2 IP, 4.25 ERA, 1.59 WHIP, 144 SO
Comment: Davis earned double-digit wins for the fourth straight season in 2007, but fell just under eight innings short of reaching 200 innings for the first time since 2004. The 32-year old is not going to have a monster season or anything, but with a strong Diamondbacks squad, he should be good enough to round out a starting rotation.
2007 Stats: 13-12, 192.2 IP, 4.25 ERA, 1.59 WHIP, 144 SO
Comment: Davis earned double-digit wins for the fourth straight season in 2007, but fell just under eight innings short of reaching 200 innings for the first time since 2004. The 32-year old is not going to have a monster season or anything, but with a strong Diamondbacks squad, he should be good enough to round out a starting rotation.
70. GREG MADDUX
San Diego Padres
2007 Stats: 14-11, 198 IP, 4.14 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 104 SO
Comment: Maddux notched at least 13 wins for the twentieth straight year, illustrating how remarkably reliable he has been in his brilliant career. He led all of baseball in walks per nine innings (1.14) while earning his 17th Gold Glove. Maddux turns 42 in April, but he is still capable of putting up useful stats.
2007 Stats: 14-11, 198 IP, 4.14 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 104 SO
Comment: Maddux notched at least 13 wins for the twentieth straight year, illustrating how remarkably reliable he has been in his brilliant career. He led all of baseball in walks per nine innings (1.14) while earning his 17th Gold Glove. Maddux turns 42 in April, but he is still capable of putting up useful stats.
71. MATT GARZA
Tampa Bay Rays
2007 Stats: 5-7, 83 IP, 3.69 ERA, 1.54 WHIP, 67 SO
Comment: Garza flashed his top-prospect potential in 2007 with a pretty strong campaign. Although the 1.54 WHIP is way higher than one would like, he definitely showed something last year. Now with Tampa Bay, Garza will be thrust into the starting rotation right from the get-go and while he is still very young and thus capable of turning in a poor 2008, he’s got the stuff to succeed in his first full-season.
2007 Stats: 5-7, 83 IP, 3.69 ERA, 1.54 WHIP, 67 SO
Comment: Garza flashed his top-prospect potential in 2007 with a pretty strong campaign. Although the 1.54 WHIP is way higher than one would like, he definitely showed something last year. Now with Tampa Bay, Garza will be thrust into the starting rotation right from the get-go and while he is still very young and thus capable of turning in a poor 2008, he’s got the stuff to succeed in his first full-season.
72. KYLE KENDRICK
Philadelphia Phillies
2007 Stats: 10-4, 121 IP, 3.87 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 49 SO
Comment: Kendrick was a nice surprise for the Phillies last season. A June call-up, he helped stabilize a Philadelphia rotation ran-sacked by injuries. An encouraging stat for Kendrick is that he was actually better at home in tiny Citizens’ Bank Park (3.76). He’s entrenched in the Phillies rotation now and could build on a strong rookie season.
2007 Stats: 10-4, 121 IP, 3.87 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 49 SO
Comment: Kendrick was a nice surprise for the Phillies last season. A June call-up, he helped stabilize a Philadelphia rotation ran-sacked by injuries. An encouraging stat for Kendrick is that he was actually better at home in tiny Citizens’ Bank Park (3.76). He’s entrenched in the Phillies rotation now and could build on a strong rookie season.
73. CHRIS CAPUANO
Milwaukee Brewers
2007 Stats: 5-12, 150 IP, 5.10 ERA, 1.49 WHIP, 132 SO
Comment: Pretty-good bounce back candidate for 2008 after a rough 2007. The funny thing about last season is that he looked terrific at the start of the year. In his first seven games, Capuano put together a 5-0 record with a 2.31 ERA. Obviously things went way far south from then on, but fantasy owners willing to take a chance on Capuano in 2008 may be rewarded handsomely.
2007 Stats: 5-12, 150 IP, 5.10 ERA, 1.49 WHIP, 132 SO
Comment: Pretty-good bounce back candidate for 2008 after a rough 2007. The funny thing about last season is that he looked terrific at the start of the year. In his first seven games, Capuano put together a 5-0 record with a 2.31 ERA. Obviously things went way far south from then on, but fantasy owners willing to take a chance on Capuano in 2008 may be rewarded handsomely.
74. SCOTT OLSEN
Florida Marlins
2007 Stats: 10-15, 176.2 IP, 5.81 ERA, 1.76 WHIP, 133 SO
Comment: Olsen’s hot-head antics continued in 2007 and it took a toll on his game last season. Olsen has the ability to put up nice numbers and is reportedly thrilled about being the de-facto ace now that Dontrelle Willis is out of Florida. He’s a bit of a head case, but Olsen has plus-stuff. Let’s call him a sanity-risk.
2007 Stats: 10-15, 176.2 IP, 5.81 ERA, 1.76 WHIP, 133 SO
Comment: Olsen’s hot-head antics continued in 2007 and it took a toll on his game last season. Olsen has the ability to put up nice numbers and is reportedly thrilled about being the de-facto ace now that Dontrelle Willis is out of Florida. He’s a bit of a head case, but Olsen has plus-stuff. Let’s call him a sanity-risk.
75. HOMER BAILEY
Cincinnati Reds
2007 Season: 4-2, 45.1 IP, 5.76 ERA, 1.57 WHIP, 28 SO
Comment: Struggled in 2007 as he got his first taste of major-league play. Bailey displayed that at his age (22 in May) he may not be ready to be a fantasy force this season. He’ll be given every opportunity to make the starting rotation out of Spring Training so he warrants at least a late-round pick based on talent alone. Fantasy owners could be in for a rough ride in 2008, however, as Bailey is bound to take some lumps in the home-run launch pad of the Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati.
2007 Season: 4-2, 45.1 IP, 5.76 ERA, 1.57 WHIP, 28 SO
Comment: Struggled in 2007 as he got his first taste of major-league play. Bailey displayed that at his age (22 in May) he may not be ready to be a fantasy force this season. He’ll be given every opportunity to make the starting rotation out of Spring Training so he warrants at least a late-round pick based on talent alone. Fantasy owners could be in for a rough ride in 2008, however, as Bailey is bound to take some lumps in the home-run launch pad of the Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati.
76. CLAY BUCHHOLZ
Boston Red Sox
2007 Stats: 3-1, 22.2 IP, 1.59 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 22 SO
Comment: With Curt Schilling’s health a giant question mark, Buchholz could get the call to step into the rotation in 2008. He twirled a no-hitter in September and looked good in his short time in the majors in 2007. If he gets his shot and dominates, the Red Sox will be hard-pressed to move him out of the rotation.
2007 Stats: 3-1, 22.2 IP, 1.59 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 22 SO
Comment: With Curt Schilling’s health a giant question mark, Buchholz could get the call to step into the rotation in 2008. He twirled a no-hitter in September and looked good in his short time in the majors in 2007. If he gets his shot and dominates, the Red Sox will be hard-pressed to move him out of the rotation.
77. SHAUN MARCUM
Toronto Blue Jays
2007 Stats: 12-6, 159 IP, 4.13 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 122 SO
Comment: The 26-year old Marcum stepped up with a solid 2007 season and is an interesting player to watch in 2008. Marcum pitched very well in the first-half of last year (3.62 ERA) before struggling after the All-Star break. If he can maintain his arm strength all season and improve his numbers at home (5.66 ERA at Toronto Sky Dome in ‘07), he could become a nice fantasy option.
2007 Stats: 12-6, 159 IP, 4.13 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 122 SO
Comment: The 26-year old Marcum stepped up with a solid 2007 season and is an interesting player to watch in 2008. Marcum pitched very well in the first-half of last year (3.62 ERA) before struggling after the All-Star break. If he can maintain his arm strength all season and improve his numbers at home (5.66 ERA at Toronto Sky Dome in ‘07), he could become a nice fantasy option.
78. TOM GLAVINE
Atlanta Braves
2007 Stats: 13-8, 200.1 IP, 4.45 ERA, 1.41 WHIP, 89 SO
Comment: He was sickening in the home stretch of the 2007 season (6.10 ERA in September) and Tom Glavine is going to be 42 in March. While Glavine will probably be more comfortable pitching for Atlanta once again rather than the Mets, no one should be resting their hopes on him returning to the player of yester-year.
2007 Stats: 13-8, 200.1 IP, 4.45 ERA, 1.41 WHIP, 89 SO
Comment: He was sickening in the home stretch of the 2007 season (6.10 ERA in September) and Tom Glavine is going to be 42 in March. While Glavine will probably be more comfortable pitching for Atlanta once again rather than the Mets, no one should be resting their hopes on him returning to the player of yester-year.
79. SHAWN HILL
Washington Nationals
2007 Stats: 4-5, 97.1 IP, 3.42 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 65 SO
Comment: Hill underwent surgery on his non-throwing shoulder in Oct. and will be ready to play come spring training. He showed that he can compete at the major-league level last season but Hill remains an injury-risk. If he somehow stayed healthy all season, he could be a hot fantasy commodity. Playing for the Nats means the wins won’t come easy, but Hill has the goods to help fantasy teams.
2007 Stats: 4-5, 97.1 IP, 3.42 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 65 SO
Comment: Hill underwent surgery on his non-throwing shoulder in Oct. and will be ready to play come spring training. He showed that he can compete at the major-league level last season but Hill remains an injury-risk. If he somehow stayed healthy all season, he could be a hot fantasy commodity. Playing for the Nats means the wins won’t come easy, but Hill has the goods to help fantasy teams.
80. MARK PRIOR
San Diego Padres
2007 Stats: Out All Injury
Comment: Prior signed a one-year, $1 million contract with San Diego this season and he’ll be trying to showcase that he can still be an effective pitcher in the big-leagues in 2008. He can make $4.5 million in incentives if he remains healthy and in Petco Park, Prior could put up great numbers if he stays on the field.
2007 Stats: Out All Injury
Comment: Prior signed a one-year, $1 million contract with San Diego this season and he’ll be trying to showcase that he can still be an effective pitcher in the big-leagues in 2008. He can make $4.5 million in incentives if he remains healthy and in Petco Park, Prior could put up great numbers if he stays on the field.
81. CHUCK JAMES
Atlanta Braves
2007 Stats: 11-10, 161.1 IP, 4.24 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 116 SO
Comment: James served up a whopping 32 HR last season during a disappointing year. He was dealing with shoulder issues, however, so James is not someone to discard so quickly from your memory bank. The 26-year-old should still own a rotation spot come Spring and based on his talent, he makes an enticing starting pitching option.
2007 Stats: 11-10, 161.1 IP, 4.24 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 116 SO
Comment: James served up a whopping 32 HR last season during a disappointing year. He was dealing with shoulder issues, however, so James is not someone to discard so quickly from your memory bank. The 26-year-old should still own a rotation spot come Spring and based on his talent, he makes an enticing starting pitching option.
82. JOHN DANKS
Chicago White Sox
2007 Stats: 6-13, 139 IP, 5.50 ERA, 1.54 WHIP, 109 SO
Comment: You may look at his 2007 ERA and scoff “Danks, but no Danks,” but the soon to be 23-year old should definitely improve on last season. The White Sox offense is going to be better this year so if Danks is healthy, double-digit wins should be a breeze. The talented left-hander is an intriguing player heading into 2008.
2007 Stats: 6-13, 139 IP, 5.50 ERA, 1.54 WHIP, 109 SO
Comment: You may look at his 2007 ERA and scoff “Danks, but no Danks,” but the soon to be 23-year old should definitely improve on last season. The White Sox offense is going to be better this year so if Danks is healthy, double-digit wins should be a breeze. The talented left-hander is an intriguing player heading into 2008.
83. NOAH LOWRY
San Francisco Giants
2007 Stats: 14-8, 156 IP, 3.92 ERA, 1.55 WHIP, 87 SO
Comment: Lowry may not be at 100% by the time Spring Training gets underway, but he was making strides before elbow woes put his 2007 season on the shelf. His WHIP is too high for comfort right now while his strikeout totals are too low, but Lowry could be a decent gamble for fantasy owners in 2008.
2007 Stats: 14-8, 156 IP, 3.92 ERA, 1.55 WHIP, 87 SO
Comment: Lowry may not be at 100% by the time Spring Training gets underway, but he was making strides before elbow woes put his 2007 season on the shelf. His WHIP is too high for comfort right now while his strikeout totals are too low, but Lowry could be a decent gamble for fantasy owners in 2008.
84. BRANDON MCCARTHY
Texas Rangers
2007 Stats: 5-10, 101.2 IP, 4.87 ERA, 1.56 WHIP, 59 SO
Comment: McCarthy was a popular sleeper pick heading into 2007 but injuries, poor run support and inconsistent play hampered his talents last year. He’s going to be 25 in July and is still capable of breaking out, it’s just going to be difficult to do so unless the Rangers offense helps get him some wins.
2007 Stats: 5-10, 101.2 IP, 4.87 ERA, 1.56 WHIP, 59 SO
Comment: McCarthy was a popular sleeper pick heading into 2007 but injuries, poor run support and inconsistent play hampered his talents last year. He’s going to be 25 in July and is still capable of breaking out, it’s just going to be difficult to do so unless the Rangers offense helps get him some wins.
85. AARON COOK
Colorado Rockies
2007 Stats: 8-7, 166 IP, 4.12 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, 61 SO
Comment: The Rockies love Aaron Cook so much, they decided to give him an extension before the season began. The sinker-ball pitcher is fragile, but if he could just stay healthy, he could become a reliable fantasy option with the NL Champion Rockies. Being a ground-ball pitcher in Coors Field is nice and Cook should win dougle-digit games with little difficulty in 2008.
2007 Stats: 8-7, 166 IP, 4.12 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, 61 SO
Comment: The Rockies love Aaron Cook so much, they decided to give him an extension before the season began. The sinker-ball pitcher is fragile, but if he could just stay healthy, he could become a reliable fantasy option with the NL Champion Rockies. Being a ground-ball pitcher in Coors Field is nice and Cook should win dougle-digit games with little difficulty in 2008.
86. PAUL BYRD
Cleveland Indians
2007 Stats: 15-8, 192.1 IP, 4.59 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 88 SO
Comment: Outside of July, opposing hitters batted at least .290 against Byrd in every month of the 2007 regular season. Despite that damning stat, he still manages to string together a couple of hot runs that help tilt the stats more in his favor. It’ll be too much to ask him to bring his ERA under 4.00, but with the potent Indians, Byrd should be worth owning, at least when he’s on one of his streaks.
2007 Stats: 15-8, 192.1 IP, 4.59 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 88 SO
Comment: Outside of July, opposing hitters batted at least .290 against Byrd in every month of the 2007 regular season. Despite that damning stat, he still manages to string together a couple of hot runs that help tilt the stats more in his favor. It’ll be too much to ask him to bring his ERA under 4.00, but with the potent Indians, Byrd should be worth owning, at least when he’s on one of his streaks.
87. JAIR JURRJENS
Atlanta Braves
2007 Stats: 3-1, 30.2 IP, 4.70 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 13 SO
Comment: Very raw talent has a decent shot at cracking the starting rotation. With John Smoltz, Tim Hudson and Tom Glavine, the Braves have three of their starters lined up. Chuck James figures to pitch fourth in the rotation but if Mike Hampton is not healthy enough to pitch (he hasn’t thrown in a major-league game since 2005), the last spot is up for grabs. Jurrjens is just 22 but while he’s bound to have some bumps in the road, he could breakout in 2008.
2007 Stats: 3-1, 30.2 IP, 4.70 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 13 SO
Comment: Very raw talent has a decent shot at cracking the starting rotation. With John Smoltz, Tim Hudson and Tom Glavine, the Braves have three of their starters lined up. Chuck James figures to pitch fourth in the rotation but if Mike Hampton is not healthy enough to pitch (he hasn’t thrown in a major-league game since 2005), the last spot is up for grabs. Jurrjens is just 22 but while he’s bound to have some bumps in the road, he could breakout in 2008.
88. ERVIN SANTANA
Los Angeles Angels
2007 Stats: 7-14, 150 IP, 5.76 ERA, 1.55 WHIP, 126 SO
Comment: The Ervin Santana bandwagon has had a decent following the past couple of years heading into fantasy drafts, but the guy had one lousy win and 8.38 ERA on the road in 2007. Do not reach high at all for Santana, in fact, you should just wait until the later rounds before thinking about snagging him. It’s hard to imagine him being so bad on the road but yet so great at home for the rest of his career, if the Angels can get him to move past that hump, he could be a valuable player.
2007 Stats: 7-14, 150 IP, 5.76 ERA, 1.55 WHIP, 126 SO
Comment: The Ervin Santana bandwagon has had a decent following the past couple of years heading into fantasy drafts, but the guy had one lousy win and 8.38 ERA on the road in 2007. Do not reach high at all for Santana, in fact, you should just wait until the later rounds before thinking about snagging him. It’s hard to imagine him being so bad on the road but yet so great at home for the rest of his career, if the Angels can get him to move past that hump, he could be a valuable player.
89. ADAM LOEWEN
Baltimore Orioles
2007 Stats: 2-0, 30.3 IP, 3.56 ERA, 1.75 WHIP, 22 SO
Comment: Still not quite sure how Loewen managed to have a good ERA with such an atrocious WHIP. Perhaps if he played a couple more games, the ERA would have creeped north, but elbow issues put Loewen’s 2007 season to bed early. Leo Mazzone is gone from Baltimore, but Loewen still has the tools to be a great pitcher. He could far exceed his draft-day value in 2008.
2007 Stats: 2-0, 30.3 IP, 3.56 ERA, 1.75 WHIP, 22 SO
Comment: Still not quite sure how Loewen managed to have a good ERA with such an atrocious WHIP. Perhaps if he played a couple more games, the ERA would have creeped north, but elbow issues put Loewen’s 2007 season to bed early. Leo Mazzone is gone from Baltimore, but Loewen still has the tools to be a great pitcher. He could far exceed his draft-day value in 2008.
90. JASON BERGMANN
Washington Nationals
2007 Stats: 6-6, 115.1 IP, 4.45 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 86 SO
Comment: Despite a 1-5 record, Bergmann looked terrific in the first-half of the season, sporting a 3.45 ERA and 1.11 WHIP. His second-half wasn’t great as he was coming back from the DL, but the 26-year-old should still have a rotation spot in 2008. If he can stay healthy all season, Bergmann could be a solid fantasy pitcher.
2007 Stats: 6-6, 115.1 IP, 4.45 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 86 SO
Comment: Despite a 1-5 record, Bergmann looked terrific in the first-half of the season, sporting a 3.45 ERA and 1.11 WHIP. His second-half wasn’t great as he was coming back from the DL, but the 26-year-old should still have a rotation spot in 2008. If he can stay healthy all season, Bergmann could be a solid fantasy pitcher.
91. TIM WAKEFIELD
Boston Red Sox
2007 Stats: 17-12, 189 IP, 4.76 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 110 SO
Comment: Tim Wakefield is turning 42 in August, but it’s not like he needs to worry about losing any zip on a knuckle-ball. All indications are Wakefield is no longer being bothered by the shoulder problems that prevented him from playing in the World Series or ALDS. He still has some injury-risk assigned to him because of his age, but with the Red Sox offense supporting him, Wakefield should put up reasonable numbers again in 2008.
2007 Stats: 17-12, 189 IP, 4.76 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 110 SO
Comment: Tim Wakefield is turning 42 in August, but it’s not like he needs to worry about losing any zip on a knuckle-ball. All indications are Wakefield is no longer being bothered by the shoulder problems that prevented him from playing in the World Series or ALDS. He still has some injury-risk assigned to him because of his age, but with the Red Sox offense supporting him, Wakefield should put up reasonable numbers again in 2008.
92. BARTOLO COLON
Free Agent
2007 Stats: 6-8, 99.1 IP, 6.34 ERA, 1.62 WHIP, 76 SO
Comment: Colon’s Cy Young days are behind him, but don’t avoid him completely. The rotund pitcher has made just 28 starts in the last two years combined, but while he may be turning 35 in May, Colon might still have some gas left in his tank. Arm troubles have wreaked havoc on his last couple of seasons, which explains why teams haven’t exactly been leaping out of their chairs for him. But if he lands in a favorable situation this year, he could have a mini-renassaince (that’s probably the first time the words “mini” and “Bartolo Colon” have had anything to do with another).
2007 Stats: 6-8, 99.1 IP, 6.34 ERA, 1.62 WHIP, 76 SO
Comment: Colon’s Cy Young days are behind him, but don’t avoid him completely. The rotund pitcher has made just 28 starts in the last two years combined, but while he may be turning 35 in May, Colon might still have some gas left in his tank. Arm troubles have wreaked havoc on his last couple of seasons, which explains why teams haven’t exactly been leaping out of their chairs for him. But if he lands in a favorable situation this year, he could have a mini-renassaince (that’s probably the first time the words “mini” and “Bartolo Colon” have had anything to do with another).
93. ANTHONY REYES
St. Louis Cardinals
2007 Stats: 2-14, 107.1 IP, 6.04 ERA, 1.41 WHIP, 74 SO
Comment: The 26-year old Reyes was bombed last season, looking like a pitcher lost on the mound in 2007. Things turned really ugly in September, when Reyes registered a grotesque 12.15 ERA. Yet even though he had an atrocious campaign in ‘07, he’s still a pitcher to consider. There were rumors that he was going to be shipped out of St. Louis due to his &mdash how do we put this &mdash difference of opinions with management. A trade to another team could be a boon to his fantasy value.
2007 Stats: 2-14, 107.1 IP, 6.04 ERA, 1.41 WHIP, 74 SO
Comment: The 26-year old Reyes was bombed last season, looking like a pitcher lost on the mound in 2007. Things turned really ugly in September, when Reyes registered a grotesque 12.15 ERA. Yet even though he had an atrocious campaign in ‘07, he’s still a pitcher to consider. There were rumors that he was going to be shipped out of St. Louis due to his &mdash how do we put this &mdash difference of opinions with management. A trade to another team could be a boon to his fantasy value.
94. EDINSON VOLQUEZ
Cincinnati Reds
2007 Stats: 2-1, 34 IP, 4.50 ERA, 1.44 WHIP, 29 SO
Comment: He showed flashes of greatness last season and since Volquez is turning 25 in July, a breakout campaign is n
2007 Stats: 2-1, 34 IP, 4.50 ERA, 1.44 WHIP, 29 SO
Comment: He showed flashes of greatness last season and since Volquez is turning 25 in July, a breakout campaign is n
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