Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
So you're offense is loaded, but you once again elected to scrap pitching? Well, it happens more than you think in fantasy baseball. Everyone falls in love with the home runs and RBIs -- even stolen bases, for that matter -- but pitching is usually an afterthought, especially closers. But in order to win a title, you've got to have a balanced team, that means offense and PITCHING.
While it's always nice to draft an ace to anchor your staff, many don't want to pay the steep price to land a Santana or Lincecum. But remember, there are arms out there that have been outstanding thus far, and many of which have become major surprises.
So here's a breakdown of the surprises so far, and I'll even sprinkle in sell-fast candidates.
NICE FREE AGENT PICKUP
Wandy Rodriguez (HOU) -- Wandy has four wins and a great 1.90 ERA. And he's still only owned in 81 percent of Yahoo! leagues.
Edwin Jackson (DET) -- Jackson (58 percent owned), a former Ray, has always had a plus-fastball, but he now seems to have put it all together on the hill. Don't be fooled, however, he's not going to keep this up all season (3 wins, 2.42 ERA, 1.04 WHIP).
Matt Palmer (LAA) -- Who is this guy? He doesn't overpower anyone, but he's been solid so far for the Angels. As soon as there's more film on this guy, I'm going to bet hitters will have a better idea on how to attack him. But right now, only owned in 18 percent of leagues, Palmer is as good as anyone, well maybe not Greinke, but 4 wins and 0.98 WHIP scream "Pick me up immediately."
Brian Bannister (KC) -- Bannister has no doubt solidified his spot in Kansas City's rotation. He's not a household name, but people should start catching on that he's been a decent source of wins (3), ERA (1.80) and WHIP (1.17). Bet he's available in your league (available in 64 percent of leagues).
SELL, SELL, SELL
Randy Johnson (SF) -- The Big Unit has been a Big Bust so far. A 6.86 ERA, 1.55 WHIP. Perhaps retirement is on Randy's mind? Just saying!
Jamie Moyer (PHI) -- Another over-the-hill member, Moyer's changeup is being confused with his fastball and that's never a good sign. Hitters must love teeing off on Moyer this year (8.15 ERA, 1.84 WHIP).
Armando Galarraga (DET) -- When things were going good, I said don't trade him unless you're getting a top-25 player, so I'm hoping owners in your league were in love with him and decided to give you a B.J. Upton-type of player. He lasted only two-thirds on an inning in his Sunday start, and he's given up at least 5 earned runs in his last three starts before yesterday. Can you say ice cold?
YOU'RE BETTER THAN THAT
Tim Lincecum (SF) -- Come on now, Timmy Boy. As my No. 1-ranked starting pitching to begin the season, Timmy isn't making me look that good. Granted, he hasn't been bad, but I'm expecting more than a 3.75 ERA and 1.31 WHIP.
Jon Lester (BOS) -- Yes, I'm also calling out southpaw, Lester. There is now way he should have a 6.51 ERA and give up two HRs to Ichiro in his last start. He's also got a 1.62 WHIP. The numbers say he's going to turn it around, however. In 47 innings pitches, he's got 54 Ks, so his stuff is great, he's just not making good pitches with runners on and batters are making him pay. If you can get him now, do it, he'll turn it around soon.
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