Fantasy Phenoms - Your all access pass to information, strategies and techniques http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/ Copyright Fantasy Phenoms 2008 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:01:00 +0000 en-us Here are the top 5 players at each position separated by League according to the MoneyStats Player Rater. We use an exclusive formula to rate each player according to their MoneyStats Value.   To view our complete Player Rating System including exclusive Splits for Starting Pitchers, please join us at www.moneystats.net.  American League Catchers Matt Wieters Baltimore Orioles Joe Mauer Minnesota Twins A.J. Pierzynski .... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2299 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2299 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:01:00 +0000 Here are the top 5 players at each position separated by League according to the MoneyStats Player Rater. We use an exclusive formula to rate each player according to their MoneyStats Value.   To view our complete Player Rating System including exclusive Splits for Starting Pitchers, please join us at www.moneystats.net.  American League Catchers Matt Wieters Baltimore Orioles Joe Mauer Minnesota Twins A.J. Pierzynski .... This has been without a doubt the worse year on record for major league closers. The amount of closers lost to injury times the number of closer with terrible starts, divided by the number of closers who have just lost the job is a formula even a Sabermetrics wannabe with a degree from MIT couldn't compute.  Since spring training has wrapped up, at least 17 closer jobs have changed hands due to any of a number of reasons, even vertigo. Besides the fact that closers tend not to get much time to throw in spring training, I think another reason for the terrible start is a different approach by hitters in the ninth inning.  I've noticed many hitters being far more patient with pitches they see i the ninth, rather than looking to tee-off for a game tying home run.  In fact, there has been 56 blown saves by pitchers with two or more saves.  56 and it's only May!  Four of those are proudly owned by Heath Bell, considered one of the best in the game.   Now, this trend will change.  Closers will change their approach to the ninth inning and adjust accordingly to what the hitters are doing, and that will create a decline in blown saves and some stability in the ninth inning. The only problem is, who will be standing to pitch in the ninth inning when that time comes? Lets check out the latest report on the Carousel grapevine. Oakland Athletics The A's are at it again. Grant Balfour has finally been disposed as the closer for the A's and has been replaced by stand-in faux closer Brain Fuentes.  If anyone knows Fuentes' history, then they must know it won't last long.  Grab Ryan Cook and get ready for a carousel trip Billy Beane style. Los Angeles Dodgers Last Monday, Manager Don Mattingly finally.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2298 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2298 Sun, 13 May 2012 09:36:00 +0000 This has been without a doubt the worse year on record for major league closers. The amount of closers lost to injury times the number of closer with terrible starts, divided by the number of closers who have just lost the job is a formula even a Sabermetrics wannabe with a degree from MIT couldn't compute.  Since spring training has wrapped up, at least 17 closer jobs have changed hands due to any of a number of reasons, even vertigo. Besides the fact that closers tend not to get much time to throw in spring training, I think another reason for the terrible start is a different approach by hitters in the ninth inning.  I've noticed many hitters being far more patient with pitches they see i the ninth, rather than looking to tee-off for a game tying home run.  In fact, there has been 56 blown saves by pitchers with two or more saves.  56 and it's only May!  Four of those are proudly owned by Heath Bell, considered one of the best in the game.   Now, this trend will change.  Closers will change their approach to the ninth inning and adjust accordingly to what the hitters are doing, and that will create a decline in blown saves and some stability in the ninth inning. The only problem is, who will be standing to pitch in the ninth inning when that time comes? Lets check out the latest report on the Carousel grapevine. Oakland Athletics The A's are at it again. Grant Balfour has finally been disposed as the closer for the A's and has been replaced by stand-in faux closer Brain Fuentes.  If anyone knows Fuentes' history, then they must know it won't last long.  Grab Ryan Cook and get ready for a carousel trip Billy Beane style. Los Angeles Dodgers Last Monday, Manager Don Mattingly finally.... Pirates SP - James McDonald Once a highly touted prospect in the Dodgers farm system, McDonald has shown glimpses of brilliance over the past few seasons.  This year, he's sporting a 2.41 ERA and a 1.02 WHIP to go along with 39 strikeouts in 44 innings.  On pace for 233 IP and 203 K's, McDonald should be owned in all formats.  A 3.10 DIPS and 2.12 ERC prove that he'd the real deal.   The following pitchers have been unlucky so far this year and should see an improvement in their ERA andWHIP in the near future: Buy: 1. Tim Lincecum 2. AJ Burnett 3. Josh Tomlin 4. Jeanmar Gomez 5. Adam Wainwright The following pitchers have been lucky so far this year and should see a regression in ERA and WHIP in the near future: Sell: 1. Derek Lowe 2. Kyle Drabek 3. Hiroki Kuroda 4. Mark Buehrle 5. Joe Saunders Believe it or not, they're actually pitching well; Hold onto them! However, none of these vets have a high K/9 ratio and the wheels could fall off at any time. 1. Jake Westbrook 2. Bronson Arroyo 3. Carlos Zambrano 4. Chris Capuano 5. Kyle Lohse The James McDonald "potential breakout" class also includes the following pitchers who should be owned in all formats in case their success holds true all year long: 1. Drew Smyly 2. Jeff Samardzja 3. Jason Hammel 4. Lance Lynn 5. Anthony Bass The last category is written in pink because, while these five pitchers are pitching well, their K/9 ratios are too low to warrant the high-end success of the five pitchers listed in the "James McDonald Potential Breakout" category. This is the "I'm pitching well but I shouldn't be started weekly" category.  It can also be called the "Sell high to someone who thinks they are better than they are" category. It can be called the "skeptical" category as well. 1. Ross Detwiler 2. Jerome Williams 3. Wei-Yin Chen 4. Wade Miley 5. Jarrod Parker.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2297 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2297 Fri, 11 May 2012 23:03:00 +0000 Pirates SP - James McDonald Once a highly touted prospect in the Dodgers farm system, McDonald has shown glimpses of brilliance over the past few seasons.  This year, he's sporting a 2.41 ERA and a 1.02 WHIP to go along with 39 strikeouts in 44 innings.  On pace for 233 IP and 203 K's, McDonald should be owned in all formats.  A 3.10 DIPS and 2.12 ERC prove that he'd the real deal.   The following pitchers have been unlucky so far this year and should see an improvement in their ERA andWHIP in the near future: Buy: 1. Tim Lincecum 2. AJ Burnett 3. Josh Tomlin 4. Jeanmar Gomez 5. Adam Wainwright The following pitchers have been lucky so far this year and should see a regression in ERA and WHIP in the near future: Sell: 1. Derek Lowe 2. Kyle Drabek 3. Hiroki Kuroda 4. Mark Buehrle 5. Joe Saunders Believe it or not, they're actually pitching well; Hold onto them! However, none of these vets have a high K/9 ratio and the wheels could fall off at any time. 1. Jake Westbrook 2. Bronson Arroyo 3. Carlos Zambrano 4. Chris Capuano 5. Kyle Lohse The James McDonald "potential breakout" class also includes the following pitchers who should be owned in all formats in case their success holds true all year long: 1. Drew Smyly 2. Jeff Samardzja 3. Jason Hammel 4. Lance Lynn 5. Anthony Bass The last category is written in pink because, while these five pitchers are pitching well, their K/9 ratios are too low to warrant the high-end success of the five pitchers listed in the "James McDonald Potential Breakout" category. This is the "I'm pitching well but I shouldn't be started weekly" category.  It can also be called the "Sell high to someone who thinks they are better than they are" category. It can be called the "skeptical" category as well. 1. Ross Detwiler 2. Jerome Williams 3. Wei-Yin Chen 4. Wade Miley 5. Jarrod Parker.... Every two weeks throughout the baseball season, The Closer Report will provide the Closer Report Power Rankings. These power rankings are not based on a closer's legacy, name, or team. It's based on a formula that considers the pitchers historical stats, current stats, reliability, injury, and more importantly what the closer is doing recently. Brought to you by www.thecloserreport.com Last Updated 5/06/2012 Rank Closer Details         1 Jonathan Papelbon, Philadelphia Phillies Prev. Rank: 3  Sv W ERA WHIP SO 2012 Statistics 9/9 .... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2296 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2296 Mon, 07 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000 Every two weeks throughout the baseball season, The Closer Report will provide the Closer Report Power Rankings. These power rankings are not based on a closer's legacy, name, or team. It's based on a formula that considers the pitchers historical stats, current stats, reliability, injury, and more importantly what the closer is doing recently. Brought to you by www.thecloserreport.com Last Updated 5/06/2012 Rank Closer Details         1 Jonathan Papelbon, Philadelphia Phillies Prev. Rank: 3  Sv W ERA WHIP SO 2012 Statistics 9/9 .... Closers on The RISE   Santiago Casilla, SF - After getting pulled in the ninth and losing a save chance, Casilla has bounced back.  He saved three games last week and has his season ERA down to 1.04 and a WHIP of 0.92.   Chris Perez, CLE - You have to give it to Chris Perez.  As bad as he has been in some appearances this season and with the fact he was injured in spring training, Perez's stock is on the rise.  Perez is 7/8 on the season and has a streak of seven consecutive saves.  He ERA is also down to 4.00.   Alfredo Aceves, BOS - After a horrendous start and rumors of Kevin Gregg coming to Boston or Daniel Bard getting moved to the bullpen, Aceves has made a comeback.  He recorded three straight saves over the last week and has managed to lowered his sky-high ERA from 18.00 to 12.00 in that time.  He has seemed to settle down in the role.  At least for now.   John Axford, MIL - After a dismal start that saw is ERA floating above 7.00 April 20, Axford has calmed down and notched three quiet saves and with that struck out five batters.   Jonathan Broxton, KAN - We didn't get to see much of Broxton while the Royals lost 12 straight.  Since then, Broxton has saved two straight games and is 3/4 on the season.  In his last five innings of work, Broxton has given up one run on four hits and three strikeouts.   Brandon League, SEA - League blew his first save of the season April 19th.  He is 7/8 on the season in saves and is boasting a 1.54 ERA.  He has only given up runs in one of his 12 appearances and since that blown save he has notched two more saves and has pitched.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2295 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2295 Sun, 29 Apr 2012 20:52:00 +0000 Closers on The RISE   Santiago Casilla, SF - After getting pulled in the ninth and losing a save chance, Casilla has bounced back.  He saved three games last week and has his season ERA down to 1.04 and a WHIP of 0.92.   Chris Perez, CLE - You have to give it to Chris Perez.  As bad as he has been in some appearances this season and with the fact he was injured in spring training, Perez's stock is on the rise.  Perez is 7/8 on the season and has a streak of seven consecutive saves.  He ERA is also down to 4.00.   Alfredo Aceves, BOS - After a horrendous start and rumors of Kevin Gregg coming to Boston or Daniel Bard getting moved to the bullpen, Aceves has made a comeback.  He recorded three straight saves over the last week and has managed to lowered his sky-high ERA from 18.00 to 12.00 in that time.  He has seemed to settle down in the role.  At least for now.   John Axford, MIL - After a dismal start that saw is ERA floating above 7.00 April 20, Axford has calmed down and notched three quiet saves and with that struck out five batters.   Jonathan Broxton, KAN - We didn't get to see much of Broxton while the Royals lost 12 straight.  Since then, Broxton has saved two straight games and is 3/4 on the season.  In his last five innings of work, Broxton has given up one run on four hits and three strikeouts.   Brandon League, SEA - League blew his first save of the season April 19th.  He is 7/8 on the season in saves and is boasting a 1.54 ERA.  He has only given up runs in one of his 12 appearances and since that blown save he has notched two more saves and has pitched.... So far in 2012 it has not been the best year for closers.  Several great closers got knocked out early with injuries and many of the fill-in closers are doing very.  There are a lot of new faces amongst the closer ranks who are outperforming the stud closers.  Lets take a look at some of the closers that are in danger of losing their jobs:   DANGER ZONE   Brad Lidge, WAS - Is Brad Lidge ever not in the Danger Zone? Last Saturday, Lidge blew his second save in four chances.  While he was out with a case of vertigo, 25-year old Henry Rodriguez filled in and was a perfect 4/4 and has yet to give up an earned run in 8.1 innings of work.  He notched his fifth save of the season last Tuesday and we can now say that both Lidge and Rodriguez are a closer-by-committee.   Santiago Casilla, SF - After getting pulled against the Mets after a lead-off single, Casilla has been reinstated as the closer for the Giants.  He is 2/2 on the season, but clearly has a short leash and will share the closer role with Sergio Romo.  Javier Lopez and Jeremy Affeldt could get in the mix.  The 31-year old veteran had 12 career saves entering the season and could get bumped from the closer role if he fails at any point.   Alfredo Aceves, BOS - There are rumblings in Boston that Daniel Bard should and will be the closer for the Red Sox.  Why he wasn't from the beginning I do not know.  Aceves performed very well last season and in spring training to earn a spot in the starting rotation.  Aceves is 4/6 on the season with a horrendous 14.40 ERA.  Batters are hitting him at a .348 clip and he has given up hits or runs.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2294 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2294 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:51:00 +0000 So far in 2012 it has not been the best year for closers.  Several great closers got knocked out early with injuries and many of the fill-in closers are doing very.  There are a lot of new faces amongst the closer ranks who are outperforming the stud closers.  Lets take a look at some of the closers that are in danger of losing their jobs:   DANGER ZONE   Brad Lidge, WAS - Is Brad Lidge ever not in the Danger Zone? Last Saturday, Lidge blew his second save in four chances.  While he was out with a case of vertigo, 25-year old Henry Rodriguez filled in and was a perfect 4/4 and has yet to give up an earned run in 8.1 innings of work.  He notched his fifth save of the season last Tuesday and we can now say that both Lidge and Rodriguez are a closer-by-committee.   Santiago Casilla, SF - After getting pulled against the Mets after a lead-off single, Casilla has been reinstated as the closer for the Giants.  He is 2/2 on the season, but clearly has a short leash and will share the closer role with Sergio Romo.  Javier Lopez and Jeremy Affeldt could get in the mix.  The 31-year old veteran had 12 career saves entering the season and could get bumped from the closer role if he fails at any point.   Alfredo Aceves, BOS - There are rumblings in Boston that Daniel Bard should and will be the closer for the Red Sox.  Why he wasn't from the beginning I do not know.  Aceves performed very well last season and in spring training to earn a spot in the starting rotation.  Aceves is 4/6 on the season with a horrendous 14.40 ERA.  Batters are hitting him at a .348 clip and he has given up hits or runs.... Craig Kimbrel splashed onto the scene in 2011 and simply dominated.  Granted he had some bad outings and battled inconsistency throughout the season that led to 8 blown saves. Still, the raining rookie of the year notched a record 46 saves for the Braves, was an All-Star, and managed 127 strikeouts.  His ERA was only 2.10 throughout all that and his WHIP was even more impressive at 1.04.  Kimbrel is an outstanding closer with the potential to be a HOF closer.  Last year I described him as a right-handed version of Billy Wagner and I will stick to that.  Kimbrel has a lights out 97+ MPH fastball and a slider that buckles even the best hitters.   Kimbrel is backed up by an average pitching staff, and improving offense.  He also has a secret weapon, Johnny Venters in the setup role.  While I expect Kimbrel to regress some it's not because I think he will be terrible.  His rookie campaign was just that good. The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 43 Sv - 5 Wins - 2.45 ERA - 1.11 WHIP - 114 Ks 2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: Kimbrel is without a doubt a 4th or 5th round draft pick in 2012.  Now, I have stated that I wouldn't take a closer before the 6th round because of the value later in the draft, but if you want a filthy closer that will setup your bullpen for the entire season, go with Kimbrel.  He's young, healthy, and should only improve mentally as a closer in 2012. Todd Farino is a contibutor to Fantasy Phenoms and provides various articles as part of his Closer Report.  Check out Todd's work at www.thecloserreport.com    .... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2291 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2291 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:12:00 +0000 Craig Kimbrel splashed onto the scene in 2011 and simply dominated.  Granted he had some bad outings and battled inconsistency throughout the season that led to 8 blown saves. Still, the raining rookie of the year notched a record 46 saves for the Braves, was an All-Star, and managed 127 strikeouts.  His ERA was only 2.10 throughout all that and his WHIP was even more impressive at 1.04.  Kimbrel is an outstanding closer with the potential to be a HOF closer.  Last year I described him as a right-handed version of Billy Wagner and I will stick to that.  Kimbrel has a lights out 97+ MPH fastball and a slider that buckles even the best hitters.   Kimbrel is backed up by an average pitching staff, and improving offense.  He also has a secret weapon, Johnny Venters in the setup role.  While I expect Kimbrel to regress some it's not because I think he will be terrible.  His rookie campaign was just that good. The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 43 Sv - 5 Wins - 2.45 ERA - 1.11 WHIP - 114 Ks 2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: Kimbrel is without a doubt a 4th or 5th round draft pick in 2012.  Now, I have stated that I wouldn't take a closer before the 6th round because of the value later in the draft, but if you want a filthy closer that will setup your bullpen for the entire season, go with Kimbrel.  He's young, healthy, and should only improve mentally as a closer in 2012. Todd Farino is a contibutor to Fantasy Phenoms and provides various articles as part of his Closer Report.  Check out Todd's work at www.thecloserreport.com    .... Jonathan Papelbon has spent the last six years doing one thing and doing it well.  Closing games.  For the Red Sox, Papelbon saved 219 games in 247 chances.  Consider it even more remarkable that he did it in the American League East (44 saves against Yankees and Rays).  However, I and many others feel that the closer needed a change of scenery and in 2012 he will open the season closing for the Philadelphia Phillies.    The Phillies present a great opportunity for Papelbon at the age of 31.  First, he's still with an organization dedicated to winning.  Even better, it's the NL East.  Now, I'm not saying the NL East is a push over.  The Braves and Marlins will be a challenge for any pitcher. Still, it's just not the AL East.  Along with facing new National League teams, Papelbon also avoids the dreaded DH.  That means, he will see more cold bats off the bench and that is definitely an advantage for the hard throwing right hander. Now there are some concerns with Papelbon.  First, his tired arm issue that forced the Red Sox to keep him at an innings limit of 70.  Will the Phillies do the same?  I assume so.  Therefore, there will be rules on how the Phillies will use him and you should handcuff Papelbon with Antonio Bastardo to sneak some saves that Papelbon wouldn't otherwise get.  While Papelbon has had some injury issues, he is a reliable healthy pitcher for the 2012 campaign. Papelbon is classified as a flame thrower.  While he has lost some zip on his fastball over the years, it still rings in at 96 MPH.  He also mixes in his great splitter and average slider.  What Papelbon is all about and what will serve him well in the National League is location.  He is great.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2288 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2288 Sun, 01 Apr 2012 20:42:00 +0000 Jonathan Papelbon has spent the last six years doing one thing and doing it well.  Closing games.  For the Red Sox, Papelbon saved 219 games in 247 chances.  Consider it even more remarkable that he did it in the American League East (44 saves against Yankees and Rays).  However, I and many others feel that the closer needed a change of scenery and in 2012 he will open the season closing for the Philadelphia Phillies.    The Phillies present a great opportunity for Papelbon at the age of 31.  First, he's still with an organization dedicated to winning.  Even better, it's the NL East.  Now, I'm not saying the NL East is a push over.  The Braves and Marlins will be a challenge for any pitcher. Still, it's just not the AL East.  Along with facing new National League teams, Papelbon also avoids the dreaded DH.  That means, he will see more cold bats off the bench and that is definitely an advantage for the hard throwing right hander. Now there are some concerns with Papelbon.  First, his tired arm issue that forced the Red Sox to keep him at an innings limit of 70.  Will the Phillies do the same?  I assume so.  Therefore, there will be rules on how the Phillies will use him and you should handcuff Papelbon with Antonio Bastardo to sneak some saves that Papelbon wouldn't otherwise get.  While Papelbon has had some injury issues, he is a reliable healthy pitcher for the 2012 campaign. Papelbon is classified as a flame thrower.  While he has lost some zip on his fastball over the years, it still rings in at 96 MPH.  He also mixes in his great splitter and average slider.  What Papelbon is all about and what will serve him well in the National League is location.  He is great.... The Chicago Cubs are under new management and have a new coach.  That means that all Cub fans can believe in their beloved Cubs, at least until June. Hopefully this change will make the Cubs closer Carlos Marmol a pitcher more consistent pitcher.  Marmol has all the tools great closer needs, except one.  Control.  Last year Marmol's BB/9 was a whopping 5.84.  That is excessive for a closer, but the real impact isn't just a Sabermetric calculation.  The real impact is confidence.  Once he starts walking players, Marmol tries to aim, target, and bulls eye the strike zone.  That hardly works.  The good news is, Marmol has improved his BB/9 in each of the past three seasons and this year he will be the veteran barrier of 500 innings.  At 29, Marmol will hit his stride and have a breakout season with a revamped Chicago Cub team.    The only concern I see with Marmol this year is how many Ks will he get? In 2010 he had 138, but that sank to 99 in 2011.  Again, it comes down to confidence and when you throw a wicked slider like Marmol does, confidence is everything.  If he controls that pitch, expect 100+ strikeouts and his BB/9 to continue to improve.  Despite his 10 blown saves in 2011 and his career conversion rate of 81%, Marmol is an elite closer and should be treated as such by fantasy managers.   The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 40 Sv – 3 Wins - 2.96 ERA – 1.17 WHIP – 120 Ks  2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: Marmol is a closer that you can get much later in the draft compared to where I have him ranked.  His ADP will fluctuate draft to draft, but expect to find Marmol popping up in the 13th or 14th round.  Get him there. Todd Farino is a contibutor to Fantasy Phenoms and provides various articles as part of his Closer Report.  Check.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2287 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2287 Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:46:00 +0000 The Chicago Cubs are under new management and have a new coach.  That means that all Cub fans can believe in their beloved Cubs, at least until June. Hopefully this change will make the Cubs closer Carlos Marmol a pitcher more consistent pitcher.  Marmol has all the tools great closer needs, except one.  Control.  Last year Marmol's BB/9 was a whopping 5.84.  That is excessive for a closer, but the real impact isn't just a Sabermetric calculation.  The real impact is confidence.  Once he starts walking players, Marmol tries to aim, target, and bulls eye the strike zone.  That hardly works.  The good news is, Marmol has improved his BB/9 in each of the past three seasons and this year he will be the veteran barrier of 500 innings.  At 29, Marmol will hit his stride and have a breakout season with a revamped Chicago Cub team.    The only concern I see with Marmol this year is how many Ks will he get? In 2010 he had 138, but that sank to 99 in 2011.  Again, it comes down to confidence and when you throw a wicked slider like Marmol does, confidence is everything.  If he controls that pitch, expect 100+ strikeouts and his BB/9 to continue to improve.  Despite his 10 blown saves in 2011 and his career conversion rate of 81%, Marmol is an elite closer and should be treated as such by fantasy managers.   The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 40 Sv – 3 Wins - 2.96 ERA – 1.17 WHIP – 120 Ks  2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: Marmol is a closer that you can get much later in the draft compared to where I have him ranked.  His ADP will fluctuate draft to draft, but expect to find Marmol popping up in the 13th or 14th round.  Get him there. Todd Farino is a contibutor to Fantasy Phenoms and provides various articles as part of his Closer Report.  Check.... The Milwaukee Brewers are a team in disarray.  Their MVP Ryan Braun is dealing with his issues and the other half of their offense left to Detroit.  Even Casey McGehee was traded making room for newly signed Aramis Ramirez. Now, with all that going on, the Brewers are still a team to be reckoned with.  They still mount a potent offense and a pitching staff that can easily give them 6 quality inning on most days.  They are supported by one of the top 2012 bullpens in the National League.  It includes setup man Francisco Rodriguez, Jose Veras, and Kameron Loe.  They all lead to the closer, John Axford.   Axford came onto the scene in 2010 for Milwaukee and has never looked back.  He  did had a brutal start to the 2011 season and left doubt in the minds of some as to being a long-term closer.  After blowing his first save opportunity of 2011 and two of his first five chances, Axford went on to convert his next 43 opportunities.  He finished 46/48 on the season and that ain't bad.  Add that to his career numbers of 71/76, even better.  John Axford does one thing and one thing well, he gets the hardest three outs in baseball on a consistent basis.  To pile on that, he posted a 1.95 ERA and a10.51 K/9 in his sophomore season as closer.      With two strong years under his belt, Axford is still a risk with increasing potential.  2012 will be trying year for Axford and his fantasy owners.  True closers get the job done year after year and three years of straight consistent closing is a major stepping stone.  I don't see any reason why John Axford will not continue his success as the Brewers closer this season.  He has everything a closer needs in order to be successful.  Axford is mentally built for the job.  Not only does he.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2285 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2285 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:30:00 +0000 The Milwaukee Brewers are a team in disarray.  Their MVP Ryan Braun is dealing with his issues and the other half of their offense left to Detroit.  Even Casey McGehee was traded making room for newly signed Aramis Ramirez. Now, with all that going on, the Brewers are still a team to be reckoned with.  They still mount a potent offense and a pitching staff that can easily give them 6 quality inning on most days.  They are supported by one of the top 2012 bullpens in the National League.  It includes setup man Francisco Rodriguez, Jose Veras, and Kameron Loe.  They all lead to the closer, John Axford.   Axford came onto the scene in 2010 for Milwaukee and has never looked back.  He  did had a brutal start to the 2011 season and left doubt in the minds of some as to being a long-term closer.  After blowing his first save opportunity of 2011 and two of his first five chances, Axford went on to convert his next 43 opportunities.  He finished 46/48 on the season and that ain't bad.  Add that to his career numbers of 71/76, even better.  John Axford does one thing and one thing well, he gets the hardest three outs in baseball on a consistent basis.  To pile on that, he posted a 1.95 ERA and a10.51 K/9 in his sophomore season as closer.      With two strong years under his belt, Axford is still a risk with increasing potential.  2012 will be trying year for Axford and his fantasy owners.  True closers get the job done year after year and three years of straight consistent closing is a major stepping stone.  I don't see any reason why John Axford will not continue his success as the Brewers closer this season.  He has everything a closer needs in order to be successful.  Axford is mentally built for the job.  Not only does he.... If Jose Altuve wasn't on the Houston Astros, this 2B would be going much earlier in 2012 drafts.  Altuve is only 21 and should bat towards the top of the Astros lineup.  Sure, their lineup i't flashy, but they will still score runs.  Altuve's contact rate shows that he should be able to maintain a respectable average close to .285.  He stole 7 bags last year in limited time and could push the 25-30 range this year in a full season.  Making him your MI in a mixed league is a smart idea. Here are a few other players we love for this upcoming season: C – Yadier Molina, Matt Wieters 1B – Eric Hosmer, Paul Goldschmidt, Kendrys Morales 2B – Jose Altuve SS – Dee Gordon, Emilio Bonifacio, Erik Aybar, Zack Cozart 3B – Brett Lawrie, Pablo Sandoval OF – Delmon Young, Andre Ethier, Brennan Boesch, Jason Heyward, Lucas Duda P – Mat Latos, Henderson Alvarez, Brad Peacock, Nate Eovaldi, Luke Hochevar, Danny Duffy, Chris Sale, Brandon Beachy, Vance Worley, Juan Nicasio, Anibal Sanchez, Cory Luebke, Brandon McCarthy, Madison Bumgarner .... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2283 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2283 Wed, 28 Mar 2012 19:08:00 +0000 If Jose Altuve wasn't on the Houston Astros, this 2B would be going much earlier in 2012 drafts.  Altuve is only 21 and should bat towards the top of the Astros lineup.  Sure, their lineup i't flashy, but they will still score runs.  Altuve's contact rate shows that he should be able to maintain a respectable average close to .285.  He stole 7 bags last year in limited time and could push the 25-30 range this year in a full season.  Making him your MI in a mixed league is a smart idea. Here are a few other players we love for this upcoming season: C – Yadier Molina, Matt Wieters 1B – Eric Hosmer, Paul Goldschmidt, Kendrys Morales 2B – Jose Altuve SS – Dee Gordon, Emilio Bonifacio, Erik Aybar, Zack Cozart 3B – Brett Lawrie, Pablo Sandoval OF – Delmon Young, Andre Ethier, Brennan Boesch, Jason Heyward, Lucas Duda P – Mat Latos, Henderson Alvarez, Brad Peacock, Nate Eovaldi, Luke Hochevar, Danny Duffy, Chris Sale, Brandon Beachy, Vance Worley, Juan Nicasio, Anibal Sanchez, Cory Luebke, Brandon McCarthy, Madison Bumgarner .... The National League has the charismatic Brian Wilson.  The American League has Brandon League, a fired up, hard throwing tattooed closer for the Seattle Mariners.  League enters his second full season as the Mariners closer and showed us last year that he can handle the job.  League ended last season with 37 saves on a team with only 67 wins.  He also finished with an ERA below 3.00 and a WHIP below 1.10.  However, that is not what got my attention on  Brandon League.  His stellar slider is both his rise and fall.  He has one of the most electric sliders in baseball, but it can hurt him more than help him.  What also impressed me about League was his ability to bounce back from disaster.     Last season, League had a stretch of games where he blew three consecutive saves and over four straight games gave up 10 runs.  It looked as though he was done, but he wasn't.  He went on to save 28/30 games and confirmed his status as a closer. Brandon League comes at hitters with three great pitches.  Like all closers, he throws his 97-98 MPH fastball early and often.  What compliments that fastball and keeps the hitters honest is a great split finger fastball and his slider.  The only way that League runs into problems is when he can't throw his slider for a strike and hitters walk.  Least year he reduced his BB/9 to a career low of 1.47. If League was on a better team, he'd be a rare candidate for 50+ saves.  I expect a big season from League with a team that is on the rise in the Seattle Mariners. The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 43 Sv – 4 Wins - 2.42 ERA – 1.11 WHIP – 62 Ks 2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: League is an intriguing draft pick.  He pitches for.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2284 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2284 Wed, 28 Mar 2012 13:26:00 +0000 The National League has the charismatic Brian Wilson.  The American League has Brandon League, a fired up, hard throwing tattooed closer for the Seattle Mariners.  League enters his second full season as the Mariners closer and showed us last year that he can handle the job.  League ended last season with 37 saves on a team with only 67 wins.  He also finished with an ERA below 3.00 and a WHIP below 1.10.  However, that is not what got my attention on  Brandon League.  His stellar slider is both his rise and fall.  He has one of the most electric sliders in baseball, but it can hurt him more than help him.  What also impressed me about League was his ability to bounce back from disaster.     Last season, League had a stretch of games where he blew three consecutive saves and over four straight games gave up 10 runs.  It looked as though he was done, but he wasn't.  He went on to save 28/30 games and confirmed his status as a closer. Brandon League comes at hitters with three great pitches.  Like all closers, he throws his 97-98 MPH fastball early and often.  What compliments that fastball and keeps the hitters honest is a great split finger fastball and his slider.  The only way that League runs into problems is when he can't throw his slider for a strike and hitters walk.  Least year he reduced his BB/9 to a career low of 1.47. If League was on a better team, he'd be a rare candidate for 50+ saves.  I expect a big season from League with a team that is on the rise in the Seattle Mariners. The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 43 Sv – 4 Wins - 2.42 ERA – 1.11 WHIP – 62 Ks 2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: League is an intriguing draft pick.  He pitches for.... If you have been a reader of mine over the past couple of years, then you know how much I like Jason Motte.  I expected him to have this job in 2010, but LaRussa felt we should all wait another year.  Last September Motte took over as the closer for the Cardinals and never looked back.  He saved eight games in nine opportunities and then continued his streak into the playoffs, saving five of the Cardinals nine playoff wins.  Not only has Motte been tested as a closer, but he has shown that no situation is too hot. He was a closer in waiting for two years and is more than ready for the job full-time.  While Motte will deal with bouts of inconsistency upsetting his fantasy owners, they will be pleased with his final season numbers come October.  I am projecting Motte as a 40+ save closer and here is why.  First off, he pitches for a great team that will be in almost every game come the ninth inning.  While the Cardinals have lost bats, they still have great pitching and youth and will contend.     Motte commands his 97 MPH fastball that seems even faster to hitters after 3 hours of baseball.  He balances that fastball with a much improved cutter and on occasion will show his curveball to mess with hitters.  His out pitch is no doubt the cutter and a closer with a good cutter can be devastating (Look up Mariano Rivera). The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 41 Sv – 3 Wins - 1.88 ERA – 0.92 WHIP – 71 Ks 2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: Motte is a risk, let's make that clear.  He is starting his first full season as the closer and has a history on inconsistency.  However, Motte matured a great deal in 2011 and showed us that he can handle the job.  I.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2282 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2282 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:25:00 +0000 If you have been a reader of mine over the past couple of years, then you know how much I like Jason Motte.  I expected him to have this job in 2010, but LaRussa felt we should all wait another year.  Last September Motte took over as the closer for the Cardinals and never looked back.  He saved eight games in nine opportunities and then continued his streak into the playoffs, saving five of the Cardinals nine playoff wins.  Not only has Motte been tested as a closer, but he has shown that no situation is too hot. He was a closer in waiting for two years and is more than ready for the job full-time.  While Motte will deal with bouts of inconsistency upsetting his fantasy owners, they will be pleased with his final season numbers come October.  I am projecting Motte as a 40+ save closer and here is why.  First off, he pitches for a great team that will be in almost every game come the ninth inning.  While the Cardinals have lost bats, they still have great pitching and youth and will contend.     Motte commands his 97 MPH fastball that seems even faster to hitters after 3 hours of baseball.  He balances that fastball with a much improved cutter and on occasion will show his curveball to mess with hitters.  His out pitch is no doubt the cutter and a closer with a good cutter can be devastating (Look up Mariano Rivera). The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 41 Sv – 3 Wins - 1.88 ERA – 0.92 WHIP – 71 Ks 2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: Motte is a risk, let's make that clear.  He is starting his first full season as the closer and has a history on inconsistency.  However, Motte matured a great deal in 2011 and showed us that he can handle the job.  I.... Huston Street has a new scene and it's lovely San Diego.  The veteran closer moves from the cold and home run filled Coors Field to the comfortable stretches of Petco Park, where hitters go to die and pitchers love to thrive.  This is a huge flip for Street.  Not only will he find huge success in San Diego, but balls that would float out of Coors field will be tracked down in the deep bales of PETCO Park. Huston Street is not the favorite of most fantasy owners.  He is often injured and has some consistency issues later in the season.  With that said, he is one of the more stable tier 2 closers and by going to the Padres I expect similar results that Heath Bell found in San Diego.     Street has a history of injury, particularly with his elbow.  Last season, Street was on the DL only once from August 9-26.  It isn't uncommon to see pitchers hit the DL later in the season from overuse.  At 29 years old, Street's age is not a factor.  What is a concern is limiting his appearances to keep him healthy the entire season similar to the way the Red Sox handled Jonathan Papelbon.  We will see how San Diego uses Street and hopefully avoids a trip to the DL. As a fantasy closer, Street is capable of putting up good strikeout numbers and plenty of saves.  He's to the best closer for ERA and WHIP, but that could change with being in San Diego.  Right now, I'm not projecting a drop in ERA, but it is possible. Street uses a Fastball, Slider, Change-up mix and that is devastating to hitters.  His fastball is his most effective pitch because his change-up keeps hitters honest.  The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 42.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2281 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2281 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:16:00 +0000 Huston Street has a new scene and it's lovely San Diego.  The veteran closer moves from the cold and home run filled Coors Field to the comfortable stretches of Petco Park, where hitters go to die and pitchers love to thrive.  This is a huge flip for Street.  Not only will he find huge success in San Diego, but balls that would float out of Coors field will be tracked down in the deep bales of PETCO Park. Huston Street is not the favorite of most fantasy owners.  He is often injured and has some consistency issues later in the season.  With that said, he is one of the more stable tier 2 closers and by going to the Padres I expect similar results that Heath Bell found in San Diego.     Street has a history of injury, particularly with his elbow.  Last season, Street was on the DL only once from August 9-26.  It isn't uncommon to see pitchers hit the DL later in the season from overuse.  At 29 years old, Street's age is not a factor.  What is a concern is limiting his appearances to keep him healthy the entire season similar to the way the Red Sox handled Jonathan Papelbon.  We will see how San Diego uses Street and hopefully avoids a trip to the DL. As a fantasy closer, Street is capable of putting up good strikeout numbers and plenty of saves.  He's to the best closer for ERA and WHIP, but that could change with being in San Diego.  Right now, I'm not projecting a drop in ERA, but it is possible. Street uses a Fastball, Slider, Change-up mix and that is devastating to hitters.  His fastball is his most effective pitch because his change-up keeps hitters honest.  The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 42.... If Drew Storen was on a better team, he'd get 50 saves. Ok, maybe. FIrst off, all those years of saying that the Nationals suck are over.  The 2012 Washington Nationals are poised for a playoff berth in a season that might have 10 teams make the playoffs. Storen have a fantastic sophomore season where he finished with 43 saves, 74 Ks, and a 2.75 ERA. He was 17/18 since August in saves and finished incredibly strong.   In 2012, the National have a strong rotation going into the season.  With Stephen Strasburg, Jordan Zimmermann, Gio Gonzalez, and Edwin Jackson.  Storen will have ample opportunity to close out wins for those four pitchers.  Not only is the pitching staff stronger, but the Nats offense is a real threat in 2012.  It includes Morse, Werth, Zimmerman, and ROY candidate Bryce Harper.  The only problem the Nationals will have winning is remaining consistent and holding leads to even get to Drew Storen.  The bullpen leading to Storen has allot talent, but again consistently is an issue.  Tyler Clippard is a closer in waiting, but lefty Sean Burnett and Brad Lidge are guys to worry about remaining consistent. One of the secrets to Storen's success in 2011 was getting rid of his curveball, which worked well in college, but when closing in MLB curves don't cut it.  Two years ago I commented on his curveball being his out pitch and that it's a terrible pitch for a closer.  Here's why.  Hitters are swinging aggressively in the 9th inning.  It's their last chance and their mindset is go big or go home.  Throwing a curveball is dangerous.  First, they hang all the time and second they can still be hit even if it doesn't hang.  He instead threw his slider and 96 MPH fastball much more and the.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2280 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2280 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:11:00 +0000 If Drew Storen was on a better team, he'd get 50 saves. Ok, maybe. FIrst off, all those years of saying that the Nationals suck are over.  The 2012 Washington Nationals are poised for a playoff berth in a season that might have 10 teams make the playoffs. Storen have a fantastic sophomore season where he finished with 43 saves, 74 Ks, and a 2.75 ERA. He was 17/18 since August in saves and finished incredibly strong.   In 2012, the National have a strong rotation going into the season.  With Stephen Strasburg, Jordan Zimmermann, Gio Gonzalez, and Edwin Jackson.  Storen will have ample opportunity to close out wins for those four pitchers.  Not only is the pitching staff stronger, but the Nats offense is a real threat in 2012.  It includes Morse, Werth, Zimmerman, and ROY candidate Bryce Harper.  The only problem the Nationals will have winning is remaining consistent and holding leads to even get to Drew Storen.  The bullpen leading to Storen has allot talent, but again consistently is an issue.  Tyler Clippard is a closer in waiting, but lefty Sean Burnett and Brad Lidge are guys to worry about remaining consistent. One of the secrets to Storen's success in 2011 was getting rid of his curveball, which worked well in college, but when closing in MLB curves don't cut it.  Two years ago I commented on his curveball being his out pitch and that it's a terrible pitch for a closer.  Here's why.  Hitters are swinging aggressively in the 9th inning.  It's their last chance and their mindset is go big or go home.  Throwing a curveball is dangerous.  First, they hang all the time and second they can still be hit even if it doesn't hang.  He instead threw his slider and 96 MPH fastball much more and the.... Sergio Santos is a Blue Jay, the question is does that bode well for him or not? It likely will and that is the best I can say.  The Blue Jays are always broken up into two squads, The Good Blue Jays and The Bad Blue Jays.  When they are good, Santos will see plenty of saves,and when they are bad, he will go through long droughts.  Look at Frank Francisco last season closing for the Blue Jays. Between June 30 through August 31 Frank Francisco had 3 save opportunities. That's right, 3. That is exactly why it's hard to be a great fantasy closer when you are the closer for the Toronto Blue Jays. In 2011 Santos broke onto the closer for the White Sox.  He had a great first season going 30/36 in saves, posting a 3.55 ERA and 92 Ks.  Allot of the damage to his ERA was done in September, which he likely suffered from tired arm.  Before September his ERA was 2.63.   Santos commands three great pitches and makes him a strikeout closer.  He throws a 95-97 MPH fastball and keeps hitters honest with a slider and change-up.  The change-up is the nasty pitch. When he has hitters looking fastball, but thinking slider and then he let's go a change-up, it's all over. Santos is a curious pick for fantasy owners.  If I could get him in my bullpen I'd feel very secure. Regardless of his years in service as a closer, Sergio Santos has the mentality and attitude  that a great closer requires. The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 38 Sv – 2 Wins - 3.00 ERA – 1.10 WHIP – 85 Ks 2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: Santos is a good value at his current ADP of 170. I'd start considering him in round 13, but it would depend who else was.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2279 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2279 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:05:00 +0000 Sergio Santos is a Blue Jay, the question is does that bode well for him or not? It likely will and that is the best I can say.  The Blue Jays are always broken up into two squads, The Good Blue Jays and The Bad Blue Jays.  When they are good, Santos will see plenty of saves,and when they are bad, he will go through long droughts.  Look at Frank Francisco last season closing for the Blue Jays. Between June 30 through August 31 Frank Francisco had 3 save opportunities. That's right, 3. That is exactly why it's hard to be a great fantasy closer when you are the closer for the Toronto Blue Jays. In 2011 Santos broke onto the closer for the White Sox.  He had a great first season going 30/36 in saves, posting a 3.55 ERA and 92 Ks.  Allot of the damage to his ERA was done in September, which he likely suffered from tired arm.  Before September his ERA was 2.63.   Santos commands three great pitches and makes him a strikeout closer.  He throws a 95-97 MPH fastball and keeps hitters honest with a slider and change-up.  The change-up is the nasty pitch. When he has hitters looking fastball, but thinking slider and then he let's go a change-up, it's all over. Santos is a curious pick for fantasy owners.  If I could get him in my bullpen I'd feel very secure. Regardless of his years in service as a closer, Sergio Santos has the mentality and attitude  that a great closer requires. The Closer Report 2012 Projections: 38 Sv – 2 Wins - 3.00 ERA – 1.10 WHIP – 85 Ks 2012 Fantasy Draft Analysis: Santos is a good value at his current ADP of 170. I'd start considering him in round 13, but it would depend who else was.... There is a new Francisco in town for the NY Mets. Out was the troubled Francisco Rodriguez, in is the often inconsistent, but effective Frank Francisco. After the Mets traded KROD last season to the Brewers, fill in closers Manny Acosta, Bobby Parnell, Jon Rauch, and others got the job done. In 2012, that job falls to Frank Francisco. Many of you know him from his days with the Rangers, where he saved 25 games in 2009 and managed to throw a chair at a fan. In Frank Francisco's career there isn't allot that says he will be a dominating closer. However, Francisco has closed for two teams with tough divisions and while he has bouts of inconsistency, he gets the job done. Francisco maintains a strong 9+ K/9 rate and he also allows himself to balloon his ERA above 3.50 because there are days where he mentally cannot control the inning. This is why Texas and Toronto have given up on him, but the Mets see a good value and will give him the chance. I agree with them.   Francisco can close with the best of them and moving to the NL is exactly what the doctor ordered. He will also be in a less stressful environment with the Mets in a somewhat rebuilding mode.  I feel that he will have a revitalized season with the New York Mets as their closer, assuming he wins the job.  I fully expect him too. In fact, I think he can be so good in 2012 that his ERA will dip below 2.97.  This is all under the assumption that Francisco can stay healthy, which is asking allot and is what makes him such a fantasy risk. The hard throwing right-hander delivers three pitches, fastball, curveball, splitter.  While I don't like the curveball, it isn't a bad one.  He can throw.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2278 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2278 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 20:59:00 +0000 There is a new Francisco in town for the NY Mets. Out was the troubled Francisco Rodriguez, in is the often inconsistent, but effective Frank Francisco. After the Mets traded KROD last season to the Brewers, fill in closers Manny Acosta, Bobby Parnell, Jon Rauch, and others got the job done. In 2012, that job falls to Frank Francisco. Many of you know him from his days with the Rangers, where he saved 25 games in 2009 and managed to throw a chair at a fan. In Frank Francisco's career there isn't allot that says he will be a dominating closer. However, Francisco has closed for two teams with tough divisions and while he has bouts of inconsistency, he gets the job done. Francisco maintains a strong 9+ K/9 rate and he also allows himself to balloon his ERA above 3.50 because there are days where he mentally cannot control the inning. This is why Texas and Toronto have given up on him, but the Mets see a good value and will give him the chance. I agree with them.   Francisco can close with the best of them and moving to the NL is exactly what the doctor ordered. He will also be in a less stressful environment with the Mets in a somewhat rebuilding mode.  I feel that he will have a revitalized season with the New York Mets as their closer, assuming he wins the job.  I fully expect him too. In fact, I think he can be so good in 2012 that his ERA will dip below 2.97.  This is all under the assumption that Francisco can stay healthy, which is asking allot and is what makes him such a fantasy risk. The hard throwing right-hander delivers three pitches, fastball, curveball, splitter.  While I don't like the curveball, it isn't a bad one.  He can throw.... Matt Thronton is a dicey closer right now.  Currently he is the White Sox closer, but it is not a lock.  Thornton entered the 2011 season as the White Sox closer and simply imploded.  Not only did Thornton implode, but so did the rest of the White Sox bullpen until Sergio Santos arrived and calmed everything down. Now it looks as though he will get a second chance under new manager Robin Ventura.  While Thornton had a terrible start last season, he settled in nicely finishing with a 2.91 ERA and maintaining a strong K/9 of 9.50, but that was well below the numbers he put up in the previous years.   What Thornton failed to do last year as closer and the hope is he will fix is getting out of the ninth inning with stranded runners on base.  His LOB% dropped dramatically last year to 61%.  Now to be fair, I remember that the White Sox defense did him no favors and actually blew a few saves for Thornton like a dropped fly ball. If you just look at the numbers than you will consider that maybe Thornton won't be the closer, but then again who are we kidding? The only other options for Ventura are Will Ohman and Jesse Crain, neither of which are better than Thornton.  In fact, Crain makes a great setup man and shores up that bullpen nicely.  So, assuming nothing goes wrong in spring training, expect Thornton to be the closer opening day. Going beyond that I expect Matt Thornton to have a great season and solidify his role as a closer.   Granted, I'm not the biggest fan of Lefty closers, Thornton is excluded.  He delivers a 96-98 MPH fastball, a nice slider, and last year he brought in a cutter.  If that cutter looks good in 2012,.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2277 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2277 Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:53:00 +0000 Matt Thronton is a dicey closer right now.  Currently he is the White Sox closer, but it is not a lock.  Thornton entered the 2011 season as the White Sox closer and simply imploded.  Not only did Thornton implode, but so did the rest of the White Sox bullpen until Sergio Santos arrived and calmed everything down. Now it looks as though he will get a second chance under new manager Robin Ventura.  While Thornton had a terrible start last season, he settled in nicely finishing with a 2.91 ERA and maintaining a strong K/9 of 9.50, but that was well below the numbers he put up in the previous years.   What Thornton failed to do last year as closer and the hope is he will fix is getting out of the ninth inning with stranded runners on base.  His LOB% dropped dramatically last year to 61%.  Now to be fair, I remember that the White Sox defense did him no favors and actually blew a few saves for Thornton like a dropped fly ball. If you just look at the numbers than you will consider that maybe Thornton won't be the closer, but then again who are we kidding? The only other options for Ventura are Will Ohman and Jesse Crain, neither of which are better than Thornton.  In fact, Crain makes a great setup man and shores up that bullpen nicely.  So, assuming nothing goes wrong in spring training, expect Thornton to be the closer opening day. Going beyond that I expect Matt Thornton to have a great season and solidify his role as a closer.   Granted, I'm not the biggest fan of Lefty closers, Thornton is excluded.  He delivers a 96-98 MPH fastball, a nice slider, and last year he brought in a cutter.  If that cutter looks good in 2012,.... Chris Perez had a break out 2011.  After three season (two and half technically), Perez has established himself as the closer of the Cleveland Indians. Last season, Perez was 36/40 in save opportunities with a 3.32 ERA.  While on the surface, 2011 looks like a tremendously perfect year for Chris Perez, it was anything but that.  First, his ERA and WHIP jumped from his previous years success. What was also strange was Perez's inability to record strikeouts.  After posting 61 Ks in 2010, he recorded only 39 in 2011.  The good news, we didn't expect 61.  In fact, 2011 was more to the norm for Chris Perez and if you overlook his great numbers in 2010, you'll notice that he actually had a great season. At 26, Chris Perez is one of the younger closers with great years ahead of him.  He has a natural maturity for the game and playing for Dave Duncan back in St. Louis will serve him well throughout his pitching career.  Going into 2012, Perez is playing on a one-year contract and hoping to sizzle in 2012 and get the big deal he wants and feels he deserves. While the Indians are a rebuilding team, they are also a young team with plenty of great players.  Even with all the problems they had last season, the Indians still managed 80 wins.  I believe with a healthy squad, the Indians can win between 82-85 games in 2012. The question on the minds of many are who is the real Chris Perez?  Has he peaked or can he achieve 40-45 saves?  As a straight fastball (94-95MPH) and slider pitcher, he doesn't throw anything fancy and depends on hitting his spots and pitches to contact.  Contact closers aren't my favorite because it only takes one hit in a lot of cases to blow a save and the.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2275 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2275 Thu, 22 Mar 2012 23:59:00 +0000 Chris Perez had a break out 2011.  After three season (two and half technically), Perez has established himself as the closer of the Cleveland Indians. Last season, Perez was 36/40 in save opportunities with a 3.32 ERA.  While on the surface, 2011 looks like a tremendously perfect year for Chris Perez, it was anything but that.  First, his ERA and WHIP jumped from his previous years success. What was also strange was Perez's inability to record strikeouts.  After posting 61 Ks in 2010, he recorded only 39 in 2011.  The good news, we didn't expect 61.  In fact, 2011 was more to the norm for Chris Perez and if you overlook his great numbers in 2010, you'll notice that he actually had a great season. At 26, Chris Perez is one of the younger closers with great years ahead of him.  He has a natural maturity for the game and playing for Dave Duncan back in St. Louis will serve him well throughout his pitching career.  Going into 2012, Perez is playing on a one-year contract and hoping to sizzle in 2012 and get the big deal he wants and feels he deserves. While the Indians are a rebuilding team, they are also a young team with plenty of great players.  Even with all the problems they had last season, the Indians still managed 80 wins.  I believe with a healthy squad, the Indians can win between 82-85 games in 2012. The question on the minds of many are who is the real Chris Perez?  Has he peaked or can he achieve 40-45 saves?  As a straight fastball (94-95MPH) and slider pitcher, he doesn't throw anything fancy and depends on hitting his spots and pitches to contact.  Contact closers aren't my favorite because it only takes one hit in a lot of cases to blow a save and the.... Jose Valverde had an amazing 2011 season.  Not only did he record 49 saves, but he didn't blow a save all season.  That is the first time I've ever seen a perfect record with that many opportunities.  So while I can't overlook it, I also can't expect it again.  Jose Valverde is a bit of an unpredictable pitcher.  Only once in his nine years of MLB service has he ever put tow consecutive good seasons together.  That was back in 2007-2008.  It's also worth noting that Jose Valverde will be 34 once the 2012 season starts and that is right around the age where pitchers, particularly relief pitchers can begin to regress. Let's also note that the Detroit Tigers had an amazing 95 win season in a division that offered no reasonable challenge for the division, the closet being the Cleveland Indians with 80 wins.  That will change this year and with that, the Tigers will not win more than 93 games and that is if everything goes perfect.   Jose Valverde is one of the most emotional closers in baseball.  Every one has seen his celebrations when he closes out a game and the goofy way in which he does it.  However, we've also seen that same powerful emotion hurt Valverde in his career.  The secret to his success is his splitter.  He has an average 94 MPH fastball, which lost velocity last year, that compliments his splitter.  He trew his splitter 1/5 pitches, more than most splitter closers throw it.  If Valverde wants to continue his big numbers from 2011, he will need to maintain what velocity he has left and continue to hit his spots and not miss with his splitter.  The Detroit TIgers are geared up for a World Series run.  By adding Prince Fielder, that have one of the best, if not the best 1-2 punch in.... http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2276 http://www.fantasyphenoms.com/article.php?id=2276 Thu, 22 Mar 2012 23:59:00 +0000 Jose Valverde had an amazing 2011 season.  Not only did he record 49 saves, but he didn't blow a save all season.  That is the first time I've ever seen a perfect record with that many opportunities.  So while I can't overlook it, I also can't expect it again.  Jose Valverde is a bit of an unpredictable pitcher.  Only once in his nine years of MLB service has he ever put tow consecutive good seasons together.  That was back in 2007-2008.  It's also worth noting that Jose Valverde will be 34 once the 2012 season starts and that is right around the age where pitchers, particularly relief pitchers can begin to regress. Let's also note that the Detroit Tigers had an amazing 95 win season in a division that offered no reasonable challenge for the division, the closet being the Cleveland Indians with 80 wins.  That will change this year and with that, the Tigers will not win more than 93 games and that is if everything goes perfect.   Jose Valverde is one of the most emotional closers in baseball.  Every one has seen his celebrations when he closes out a game and the goofy way in which he does it.  However, we've also seen that same powerful emotion hurt Valverde in his career.  The secret to his success is his splitter.  He has an average 94 MPH fastball, which lost velocity last year, that compliments his splitter.  He trew his splitter 1/5 pitches, more than most splitter closers throw it.  If Valverde wants to continue his big numbers from 2011, he will need to maintain what velocity he has left and continue to hit his spots and not miss with his splitter.  The Detroit TIgers are geared up for a World Series run.  By adding Prince Fielder, that have one of the best, if not the best 1-2 punch in....