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Arizona Diamondbacks Brandon Webb (Projected Value: $7) Because of shoulder problems, Webb pitched only four innings in ’09 after winning 22 games in ’08 and 18 in ’07. Rank the the 30-year-old starter as a big-time injury-risk sleeper on Draft Day. He still possesses a potential top five arm if you want to take a risk on him. Ian Kennedy (Projected Value: $4) Kennedy (25) missed much of last season in the competitive Yankee organization after having surgery to repair an aneurysm under his right armpit. He did pitch well at Triple-A and might have late-season value at his new digs in Arizona if the DBacks give him a rotation spot. Aaron Heilman (Projected Value: $0) Heilman (31) will be stopping at Arizona in 2010. He had established a career as a solid setup man a few seasons ago with the Mets. Since then, his ERA and WHIP stats have risen with the Mets and then with the Cubs. Arizona might have bartered for him to see what he can do in the rotation. Stay tuned. Chad Qualls (Projected Value: $0) Qualls (31) ended the 2009 season with a 3.63 ERA and 24 saves in 29 chances. His season came to an early end in late August because of a kneecap injury that required surgery. The DBacks expect him to be fully healthy for Spring Training and to stay on as the stopper. Dontrelle Willis (Projected Value: $0) Willis pitched only 33 innings of MLB ball last year and had two stints on the DL because of anxiety issues. He had three rehab outings down the stretch for Triple-A Toledo with mediocre results. Are his issues related to his performance on the mound? Can they go away (for his sake)? For your own sake, let Willis stay undrafted until he proves that he can pitch consecutive quality outings. Edwin Jackson (Projected Value: $0) Jackson (26) finished 2009 with a 13-9 record, a 3.62 ERA, and 161 strikeouts over a career-high 214 innings. If he did not tire in the second half, he might have received some Cy Young votes. Now that he will be pitching for the DBacks in the less threatening National League, expect the man with the electric arm to improve upon last year’s stats. Juan Gutierrez (Projected Value: $0) Gutierrez grabbed eight saves in as many chances when the DBacks’ closer Chad Qualls went on the DL last year with a dislocated left kneecap. Expect Qualls to get the closer’s job out of the gate in 2010, but Gutierrez holds value as closer-in-waiting. Joe Saunders (Projected Value: $0) Saunders won 16 games in ’09 after having won 17 in ’08. In ’08, he gave up fewer hits and walks over more innings, and his ’09 stats showed the difference: an un-ace-like 4.60 ERA and 1.43 WHIP. This contact pitcher will have Fantasy appeal while he pitches for the Angels, but consider him more of a back-end option than a stopper. Atlanta Braves Tim Hudson (Projected Value: $26) Hudson, a former 20-game winner in Oakland, had Tommy John surgery in '08 and missed a year of pitching. He returned at the end of '09 to go 2-1 with a 3.61 ERA in seven starts, showing the Braves that his right elbow can be at full strength in 2010. Consider him a candidate for a 15-win comeback season. Billy Wagner (Projected Value: $19) Wagner (38) missed most of last season following elbow ligament replacement surgery at the end of 2008. When he returned to the Mets in August, he reached 96 mph in his first appearance, then got traded to the Red Sox. He went 1-1 with a 1.98 ERA and 22 strikeouts in 13 2/3 innings for Boston, then signed with Atlanta to become the team’s closer. Despite his age and injury risk, Wagner enters the 2010 Draft as a potential top 10 Fantasy closer. Tommy Hanson (Projected Value: $7) In his rookie year with the Braves, Hanson (23) won 11 games while striking out almost a batter per inning. He has outstanding mound presence, and a fastball that runs up to 94 MPH. His potential has no known limits - he has the chance to be an ace, THE Ace. Peter Moylan (Projected Value: $2) Moylan has value as a middle reliever who can eat up innings. The Braves will use him as one of the team's primary setup men next season. Derek Lowe (Projected Value: $0) Lowe garnered 15 wins in his first year with the Braves, and posted a less-than-stellar 4.67 ERA along the way. He will attempt to correct mechanical flaws during the Off Season. You can view the aging hurler (36) as a No. 4 Fantasy SP on Draft Day. Jair Jurrjens (Projected Value: $0) Jurrjens increased his wins total by one victory in 2009. He also lowered his ERA over a whole point to 2.60 in 2009, but his BB/9 IP and K/9 IP ratios remained virtually the same. You can expect him to win 13-15 games again in 2010, but also expect his ERA to climb closer to 3.50. Takashi Saito (Projected Value: $0) Saito (40) has 83 saves in four major-league seasons after a long Japanese career. He had 39 saves for the Dodgers in 2007, and 18 in 2008. He went 3-3 with two saves and a 2.43 ERA in a setup role for the Red Sox in 2009. Saito will take up that role with his new team, the Braves, backing up the recently signed 38-year-old Billy Wagner. Kenshin Kawakami (Projected Value: $0) Kenshin Kawakami picked up seven wins and posted a solid 3.86 ERA while pitching in relief and at the back end of the Braves’ rotation in 2009. At age 34, he probably will not change much, but you can slide him into your rotation as a low-cost number 5 starter. Baltimore Orioles Jason Berken (Projected Value: $5) Berken (26) went 6-12 with a 6.54 ERA over 24 starts for Baltimore in 2009. With so much competition for a rotation spot there, he might stay on the roster as a spot starter or middle man. Jeremy Guthrie (Projected Value: $1) After two sub-4.00 ERA seasons, Guthrie posted his worst season to date with a 10-17 record, 5.04 ERA, and 1.42 WHIP. The velocity of his fastball and his strikeout rate declined; more flyballs flew off the opponents' bats. Consider him a risky pickup. Kevin Millwood (Projected Value: $0) Millwood (35) went 13-10 this past season with a 3.67 ERA and a 1.34 WHIP over 31 starts for the Rangers in 2009. To have that good a record with your home field at Hitter-Haven Arlington means that the durable Millwood can still pitch. Those numbers might get better at his new home in Baltimore. David Hernandez (Projected Value: $0) Hernandez (24) went 4-10 with a 4.52 ERA over 20 games (19 starts) in his rookie season in Baltimore. He will likely play a prominent role with the Orioles in 2010. Mike Gonzalez (Projected Value: $0) Gonzalez went 5-4 with a 2.42 ERA and converted 10 of his 17 save chances in Atlanta. He signed with Baltimore during the Off Season and becomes the odds-on favorite to close there - at least initially. James Johnson (Projected Value: $0) Johnson (26) finished last season as the Baltimore closer, though he struggled in that role. He will probably pitch in middle relief this season - now that that the Orioles signed Mike Gonzalez. Kam Mickolio (Projected Value: $0) Mickolio (25) turned in a 2.63 ERA and held opposing hitters to a .220 batting average (13 IP) in 2009 for the Orioles. With a strong spring, he might get a prominent setup role in the O's bullpen next season, and who knows what that can turn into. Chris Tillman (Projected Value: $0) Tillman (21) ended his 2009 season going 2-5 with a not-surprising 5.40 ERA at the major league level; he had an 8-6 record with a 2.70 ERA in 18 starts for Triple-A Norfolk. He might need more training at Norfolk. Jake Arrieta (Projected Value: $0) Arrieta has three solid pitches, including a mid-90s fastball, and he changes speeds effectively on his pitches. The Orioles might give him an early call this year. Brian Matusz (Projected Value: $0) Matusz (23) went 5-2 with a 4.63 ERA overall in his first eight big league starts, likely enough to secure a rotation spot next spring. You might take a flier on him in mixed league play. Brad Bergesen (Projected Value: $0) Bergesen (24) won seven games and held a 3.43 ERA in his rookie year for the Orioles in ’09 before a season-ending leg injury in July. If he can increase his K-rate, he will have a solid MLB career. Boston Red Sox Jon Lester (Projected Value: $25) Lester (26) faltered early in '09, but he recovered quickly to have another solid year in Boston. Combine his 10.0 K/9 IP ability with Boston’s focus on defense this year, and you have a Cy Young Award candidate. Lester has 20-win capability. Clay Buchholz (Projected Value: $20) Buchholz (25) had a late-season stretch for Boston when he he went 6-0 with a 1.05 ERA over eight starts. He also pitched well in Game 3 of the ALDS. He has a 2.42 career ERA in the minors as well as the No-hitter experience that he threw against the Orioles in 2007. He has the tools to become fantasy stud. Jonathan Papelbon (Projected Value: $15) Papelbon (29) had a great ‘09, holding opposing hitters to a .213 batting average against and blowing only three saves. His breakdown in Game 3 of the ALDS against the Angels tarnished some of the sheen, and he did have control problems early in the season - which he rectified later. You should expect him to re-establish his status as one of the elite firemen on the field. Daniel Bard (Projected Value: $10) Bard (24) bears watching. He has a fastball that routinely reaches 100 MPH and a striekout-to-walk ratio of 3:1. The Red Sox apparently look at him as their closer of the future. They have Jonathan Papelbon, one of the game’s elite closers now, but if he were to have health issues or were to go elsewhere in the near future, Bard might step into the closer's role. Daisuke Matsuzaka (Projected Value: $4) Dice-K had a bad ’09. He had an ERA of 8.23 over his first eight starts, and then went on the DL. He returned to action and went 3-1 with a 2.22 ERA and 20/12 K/BB ratio over four starts. Consider him a high risk, high reward pitcher who should rebound with productive stats in 2010. John Lackey (Projected Value: $3) Lackey (31) has had injuries that hampered the start to the past two years and his strikeout rate has dropped, but you don’t want to bet against him. He has the tenacity of a bulldog. He should earn double-digit victories and have a respectable ERA. Consider him a notch below the top tier starters – until he proves that he can go a full season without a trip to the DL. Josh Beckett (Projected Value: $0) Beckett (29) dominated for most of 2009. He displayed exceptional durability, setting career highs with four complete games and two shutouts. Expect the Red Sox ace to have 15-Plus wins, a solid ERA and WHIP, and 200-Plus strikeouts in 2010. Tim Wakefield (Projected Value: $0) Wakefield (43) picked up 11 wins in the first half in 2009 to make the American League All-Star team for the first time in his career. Then the perennial back injuries waylaid him to four starts after the break. He had surgery and expects to be at full strength for the start of Spring Training. You have to consider his high ERA (4.33 career), and his back and age as the CON and his ability to get 10+ wins as the PRO. Junichi Tazawa (Projected Value: $0) Tazawa picked up 9 wins and posted a 2.55 ERA at Triple-A in his first American professional baseball season. The Red Sox called him up, and he found out that, unlike Minor League batters, Major League batters don’t chase balls out of the strike zone. He will probably open the season in Triple-A, learn how to spot his pitches better, and get another chance to prove himself in Boston. Michael Bowden (Projected Value: $0) Bowden (23) can pitch for a major league team now, but since the Red Sox have an abundance of starters, he will probably return to Triple-A until absolutely needed. He posted a 3.13 ERA, .228 AVG against, 88 Ks and 47 BBs in 126 1/3 innings in Triple-A last year. (He had a 9.56 ERA in limited action with Boston.) Consider him a sleeper in any format if he gets a chance to earn a rotation spot. Chicago Cubs Carlos Marmol (Projected Value: $15) Marmol went 2-4 with 15 saves and a 3.41 ERA over 74 innings for the Cubs in 2009. He possesses great strikeout ability: 11.31 K/9, and opponents hit just .170 vs. him. However, before he becomes an elite closer, he must harness his control (7.9/9 IP). Ryan Dempster (Projected Value: $11) Dempster (32) went 11-9 with a 3.65 ERA for the Cubs last year. He also posted the lowest walk rate of his 12-year career. Since returning to a starting role in 2008, he has pitched consistently well. He even posted a 3.15 ERA after last year’s ASG. You might be getting a sleeper if he draft him late. Carlos Silva (Projected Value: $8) Silva last pitched well for the Twins in 2007 when he won 13 games and posted a 4.19 ERA. He has not posted an ERA under 6.40 since then and if draft him, you are doing so as a charitable work of mercy. Tom Gorzelanny (Projected Value: $8) Gorzelanny came to the Cubs from the Pirates at the July Trade Deadline. In 13 appearances (seven starts) for the Cubs, he went 4-2 with a 5.63 ERA. For the year, he went 7-3 with a 5.55 ERA over 47 innings. Cubs’ Manager Lou Piniella expects the 27-year-old southpaw to be in the 2010 rotation. Draft at your own whim or risk. Ted Lilly (Projected Value: $6) Lilly went 12-9 with a 3.10 ERA despite a four-week stint on the DL with inflammation in his left shoulder last year. Over 27 starts, he established a career-best 3.10 ERA while ranking fifth in the Majors with a 1.06 WHIP. You have no reason not to expect double-digit wins and solid peripheral stats from him again. Watch his recovery from Off Season shoulder surgery. Randy Wells (Projected Value: $2) Though he entered 2009 with only 5 1/3 innings MLB pitching experience, Wells (27) solidified the Cubs’ rotation. He went 12-10 with a 3.05 ERA and 104/46 K/BB ratio over 165 1/3 innings. He does not have great strikeout value – yet - and he might endure a sophomore slump – but - you could do worse. Jeff Samardzija (Projected Value: $0) For the first time since he committed 100 percent to baseball, Jeff Samardzija rarely put the ball down this offseason. He's hoping that dedication pays off with a spot in the Cubs' rotation. The right-hander had three stints with the big league team, April 23-May 6, June 30-Aug. 13 and Sept. 8 through the end of the season. There is an opening in the Cubs rotation. Samardzija, Gorzelanny and Sean Marshall are all competing for the same thing. Carlos Zambrano (Projected Value: $0) Zambrano (28) went 9-7 with a 3.77 ERA over 169 1/3 innings for the Cubs during a year when he made two trips to the DL. He should have won 13 or 14 games – as he did in 2008 - but the Cubbies did not pack much of a wallop while he was pitching last year. Since he posts a solid ERA, you can draft him as a Number 2 or Number 3 starter for your team. John Grabow (Projected Value: $0) Grabow (31) registered a 3.36 ERA with 23 holds and a 57/40 K/BB ratio over 72 1/3 innings out of the Cubs’ bullpen last year. Expect the middle reliever to be used in late innings once again this year. Do not expect many save opportunities. Chicago White Sox John Danks (Projected Value: $19) Danks (24) had a breakthrough year in 2008, and pitched almost as well in 2009: he has posted a sub-4.00 ERA and double-digit wins two years in a row. As he has yet to enter his prime performing pitching years, you have to expect that he will improve - even though he pitches in a hitter’s park at Cellular. J.J. Putz (Projected Value: $11) Putz returns to the American League on a team, the White Sox, who rewards their high achievers. Putz has achieved in the past, but with injuries (elbow) and a high WHIP stat, you might look elsewhere for a setup man or potential closer before considering him. Gavin Floyd (Projected Value: $10) Floyd (27) did not get as many wins in ‘09 as he had in ‘08. Otherwise he pitched well and posted a decent ERA. He compiled a 3.12 ERA from early June through the rest of the year. You can consider him among the AL's top second-tier starters, one who can have an ERA under 4.00 to go along with double-digit wins. Matt Thornton (Projected Value: $8) Thornton (33) might have the closer’s job for the White Sox this year. Current closer Bobby Jenks is giving up far too many runs. Thornton has closer stuff and closer splits: 86/19 K/BB ratio in 71 1/3 IP. Check to see if he is still on your board late on Draft Day. Bobby Jenks (Projected Value: $5) Jenks (29) has averaged 35 saves in his four years as the White Sox closer. He returned to being a strikeout pitcher last year, but he gave up a career-high nine home runs. A closer cannot have an ERA close to 4.00 and keep his job for long. The White Sox move quickly, and he might be pitching on another team later this year. Mark Buehrle (Projected Value: $4) Buehrle (31) had a memorable 2009, highlighted by his perfect game in July. He won his dozen-plus games, as was expected. He did, however, end the season poorly and finished with his second-lowest strikeout total since 2000. You might chalk some of that up to not being able to "come down" after the no-hitter, and he did post a sub-4.00 ERA for the seventh time in nine years. All-in-all, he does many things well and he pitches like a workhorse. He might not win 20 games, but you should consider him a strong No. 2 starter. Jake Peavy (Projected Value: $1) Expect a rested and recovered (ankle) Peavy (28) to regain his power and control for a playoff-hungry ChiSox squad in '09. He should win 15 plus games and have an ERA closer to 3.00 than to 4.00. He can regain his status as a top-five starter, even in hitter-friendly Cellular. Daniel Hudson (Projected Value: $0) Hudson made 26 MiLB starts at different levels in '09, and posted a 2.32 ERA, 166 Ks, 34 BBs, and a .200 BAA. The ChiSox called him up in September and he had mixed results. In 18.2 IP, Hudson had a 3.38 ERA and .252 BAA. His K/9 rate dipped to 6.75 (from 9.00 at Triple-A), and he had some control issues (4.34 BB/9). Over longer periods of time at every MiLB level, he has demonstrated swing-and-miss ability and outstanding control. To top it off, he does that while not giving up many gopher balls. Freddy Garcia (Projected Value: $0) Garcia (33) returned to the White Sox after being released by the Mets in April, and then he worked his way through the minors as he rehabbed from shoulder surgery. He made nine starts and went 3-4 with a 4.34 ERA in nine starts for the White Sox. He fits into the back-end of the 2010 White Sox rotation from where he might post double-digit wins. Cincinnati Reds Johnny Cueto (Projected Value: $15) Young ace Johnny Cueto (24) has to pace himself. For the second straight year, his great first half of pitching (3.62 ERA) was followed by poor summer performances exacerbated by shoulder inflammation. During July, he had an ERA of 8.16 and in August, it rose to 8.22. He stopped the skids with an ERA of 3.42 in September when he had a lessened workload. He can take the next step to success this year if he paces himself. Francisco Cordero (Projected Value: $11) Cordero ended the year by capturing 39 saves in 43 opportunities, and he boasted a 2.16 ERA. A model of consistency, he has collected 30-plus saves in five of the last six seasons. On the warning side, he struck out 20 fewer batters last year, though his ERA did drop more than one run per nine innings pitched. Bronson Arroyo (Projected Value: $5) Arroyo (33) established himself as a post-ASG pitcher in 2009 as he struggled up to the All-Star break before going 6-5 with a 2.24 ERA afterwards. He finished the season going 15-13, with a 3.84 ERA and 127 strikeouts over 220 1/3 innings. You can draft him as an innings-eater with wins potential. Edinson Volquez (Projected Value: $0) Volquez had Tommy John surgery in August after having gone 4-2 with a 4.35 ERA for the Reds last year. The Reds hope to have him on the mound sometime this summer. You can spend a late-round pick on him. Edinson Volquez (Projected Value: $0) The rehabilitation of Reds pitcher Edinson Volquez from major elbow surgery is moving at a snail's pace, but at least it's moving forward. Volquez's latest progress came this week when he began throwing off of the mound. He made 25 pitches on Thursday and 30 pitches on Sunday, both sessions at 50 percent intensity. Pitching coach Bryan Price was watching when Volquez threw. Volquez, 26, had Tommy John surgery on Aug. 3 and was limited to only nine starts last season, going 4-2 with a 4.35 ERA. He was a 17-game winner and All-Star in 2008. There are no plans in place to get Volquez into a game anytime soon. What he can count on is the monotony of incremental throwing. His next bullpen session is scheduled for Thursday, when he will throw 45 pitches Homer Bailey (Projected Value: $0) Bailey (23) went 8-5 with a 4.53 ERA and 86 strikeouts over 113 1/3 innings for the Reds this past season. He posted a respectable strikeout-to-walk ratio of 70/37 after the ASG. Bailey further ended the season impressively, allowing three or fewer earned runs in each of his final nine starts. The lad is maturing. Matt Maloney (Projected Value: $0) Maloney (26) posted an outstanding 1.8 BB per 9 IP when he got to the Reds last year. If he can keep home runs from leaving the park, he can claim the fifth spot in the Reds’ rotation out of Spring Training. Nick Masset (Projected Value: $0) The Reds have put Masset in the role of primary setup man. He posted a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 3/1 last year, and will get the first call to close if fireman Francisco Cordero falters. Aroldis Chapman (Projected Value: $0) Chapman (22) started and relieved with Cuba's national team and reportedly pitches with a fastball that can reach 102 m.p.h. Where he begins the season – in the high minor leagues or in the Reds’ rotation – will depend on how he pitches in spring training. Scouts who saw him at a December 15 workout said that Chapman has the potential to be a No. 1 starter. Aaron Harang (Projected Value: $0) Harang compiled a 6-14 record with a 4.21 ERA and 142 strikeouts over 162 1/3 innings for the Reds last year. The 31-year-old starter had an emergency appendectomy which ended his 2009 campaign early, but he expects to be ready for Spring Training. Despite his past two losing seasons, Harang does have a history of winning games (16 wins in both 2006 and 2007). You can target him as late round fantasy starter at your draft. Cleveland Indians Fausto Carmona (Projected Value: $8) Carmona had such a breakout year - in 2007 - how could he have done so well then and underachieved so egregiously since? New Indians' manager Manny Acta believes that Carmona (only 26) can pitch to the high level that he established almost three years ago. You have got to believe - he did give up only three runs in his last 13 IP pitched last year - so some hope is justified. Chris Perez (Projected Value: $8) Perez appears to be the leading candidate to close for the Indians if/when they trade Kerry Wood. Perez went 1-1 with a 4.18 ERA in 29 appearances out of the Tribe's bullpen in ’09. He had surgery in October to remove an extra bone in the back of his left ankle. Aaron Laffey (Projected Value: $0) Laffey (24) keeps trying to break into the Indians’ rotation. You have to give him that. He gives the batters a lot to hit – he does not have a strong K rate and he walks too many batters. He will not become a dominator at this stage. You can pick him up at the end of the draft. Kerry Wood (Projected Value: $0) Wood struggled as the Tribe closer last year. He posted his highest ERA and WHIP since his rookie year. Expect him to start the season as the Indians' closer, but also expect CLE to trade him no later than the All-Star Game. David Huff (Projected Value: $0) Huff (25) won 11 games with a 5.61 ERA for the Indians last year and he will compete for a rotation spot with the Tribe again this year. If he does not land one, he'll begin the year in the Triple-A Columbus rotation. Joe Smith (Projected Value: $0) Smith spent much of last year on the DL and ended up having arthroscopic surgery on his knee by season’s end. He expects to be back at full health this year, and the Indians want to see a more sustained version of the success that he displayed in '09. Rafael Perez (Projected Value: $0) In 54 appearances for the Tribe last year, Perez had 7.31 ERA. Opponents hit .335 against him and he yielded almost five walks per nine innings. In his first six appearances in the Dominican Winter Ball, he went 3-0 with a 0.33 ERA. You could take a flier on him. Jake Westbrook (Projected Value: $0) Westbrook (Tommy John elbow surgery in June 2008) had several setbacks and did not pitch last year. He completed his four-start stint in the Puerto Rican Winter League, and came home pain free. In those four starts, he posted four no-decisions with a 3.65 ERA. He will continue an offseason rehab and hopes to be ready to go by the start of spring training. Carlos Carrasco (Projected Value: $0) Carrasco (23) struggled when the Tribe called him up to start in September. He has power stuff and a does not get rattled on the mound, which will help him when the bases get loaded. He will be starting the season at Triple-A where he should be practicing how to trust his fastball. Tony Sipp (Projected Value: $0) Keep an eye on Sipp. As a rookie reliever in 2009, he pitched consistently well out of the bullpen. In 46 appearances, he went 2-0 with a team-leading 2.92 ERA. Jeremy Sowers (Projected Value: $0) Sowers (26) walks too many batters - his walks exceed his strikeouts. Known to be a crafty pitcher, he has yet to show that he can outwit many batters. Justin Masterson (Projected Value: $0) Masterson joined the Tribe at the Trade Deadline and pitched in 11 games (10 starts) down the stretch with mixed results. He made four quality starts and he maintained a strong strikeout rate, but he walked too many batters. Expect him to improve his control as he gets into a regular routine in the Indians’ rotation. He has a lot of upside and the Tribe will give him the opportunity to reach it. Colorado Rockies Ubaldo Jimenez (Projected Value: $27) Jimenez (26) emerged as Colorado’s ace with a 15-12 record in 2009. He had a 3.47 ERA with 198 strikeouts in 218 innings. His command improved as the season progressed. He should continue to establish himself as one of fantasy's best starters despite pitching home games in hitter-friendly Coors Field. Jason Hammel (Projected Value: $2) Hammel went 10-8 with a 1.39 WHIP and 4.33 ERA during his first year for the Rockies in ‘09. He does not surrender many home runs (17 in 33 appearances [17 starts]), and gets the ball over the plate. Take him as your fifth starter, and expect him to make some improvements. Jhoulys Chacin (Projected Value: $2) Chacin (22) had a solid 2009 season between Double-A and Triple-A. He pitched 117 2/3 innings and went (9-8)-3.21-.226 with 97 strikeouts and 48 walks. He had trouble with his control when the Rockies called him up during the year, nevertheless he has such great stuff that he might get another call from Colorado this mid-season. Manuel Corpas (Projected Value: $2) Corpas got a chance to close last year, but Huston Street replaced him, and then Corpas had surgery to remove bone chips from his elbow. He enters the season having marginal value as a setup man. Aaron Cook (Projected Value: $0) Cook (31) went 11-6 with a 4.16 ERA over 158 innings for the Rockies last year. Injuries hampered his second half performance, but expect him to be fully healthy by Spring Training. Jorge De La Rosa (Projected Value: $0) In a breakthrough year, Jorge De La Rosa (28) went 16-9 with a 4.38 ERA and 193 strikeouts over 185 innings. He had an extraordinary second half, going 10-2 with a 3.46 ERA. He strikes out more than a batter each inning, but has a poor 5.21 ERA at his home field’s pitcher’s mound. Huston Street (Projected Value: $0) Street (26) garnered 35 saves in 37 chances last year for the Rockies, and held a 3.06 ERA with 70 strikeouts over 61 innings. He rediscovered the command that had made him an elite closer with the Athletics. Expect him to join the class of elite closers again. Franklin Morales (Projected Value: $0) Morales (24) took on the closer’s role in Colorado on a temporary basis last year. He also has experience as a starter, and stretched out his arm this past winter in Venezuela. If the Rockies have rotation problems early in the season, Morales might move there. He has potential. Jeff Francis (Projected Value: $0) Francis (29) missed 2009 because of shoulder surgery. Even though he had a standout season in 2007, Francis has to do well in spring training before you even think about drafting him. Detroit Tigers Jose Valverde (Projected Value: $17) Valverde (32) saved 25 games in 29 opportunities and posted a 2.33 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP for Houston last year. He remains a high-end Fantasy closer for 2010. Justin Verlander (Projected Value: $15) Verlander (27) bounced back from his worst season in 2008 to become a Cy Young contender in 2009. He tied for the Major League lead in wins and led the Major League in strikeouts and IP. He is pitching at the peak ages of a pitcher's career. You have to consider him a Top 5 fantasy starter. Can you imagine how good he’d be if he started to induce ground ball outs again? Joel Zumaya (Projected Value: $4) Zumaya (25) endured another shoulder injury last year. When he recovers, no doubt his fastball will still reach 99 MPH, but his control has not improved and the injuries do not go away. Draft him for a potential healthy season, if you can buy low. Max Scherzer (Projected Value: $2) Scherzer (25) demonstrated some of his projected greatness during his first full season with a good record and a 174/63 K/BB ratio over 170 1/3 IP. He also pitched better in the second half of the season. After his trade from AZ, he should have a solid ERA/WHIP at pitcher-friendly Comerica Park in Detroit. Rick Porcello (Projected Value: $0) Porcello (21) became the first Major League pitcher since Dwight Gooden to earn 14 wins at age 20 (or younger). He posted a great 2.23 ground ball/fly ball ratio (2nd in the AL). He has good velocity on his fastball, so the strikeouts will come as he learns his craft. Get him if you can. Jeremy Bonderman (Projected Value: $0) Bonderman (27) might get a slot in the Detroit rotation in 2010 after lingering right shoulder soreness derailed his 2009 season. You will taking a large risk if you draft him, but he still has youth on his side. Armando Galarraga (Projected Value: $0) The Tigers need Galarraga to recapture the form that made him Detroit's best starter in 2008 (How likely is that?). Depending on his performance this spring, he either fits into the 5th spot in the rotation or becomes a long relief guy. Ryan Perry (Projected Value: $0) Perry (23) has closer stuff. He needs to keep improving his walk rate, which he is doing, to get a closer's job. If you play in a keeper league, you can draft him and then stash him away. Florida Marlins Josh Johnson (Projected Value: $38) Johnson (26) enjoyed his best season in 2009, compiling a 15-5 record, a 3.23 ERA, and 191 strikeouts over 209 IP. He established himself as the Marlins' ace and a top-flight fantasy starter. All indications point toward continued dominance – and his great success took place one year after returning from Tommy John elbow surgery. Leo Nunez (Projected Value: $15) Nunez ended last season as Florida's closer, notching 26 saves in 33 chances and a 4.06 ERA over 68 2/3 innings. He will enter the upcoming season as the team’s incumbent closer, with competition coming from Dan Meyer and Brian Sanches. Anibal Sanchez (Projected Value: $7) Sanchez went on the DL twice last year with shoulder issues. In his 86 IP of work, he pitched reasonably well, if inconsistently, with an ERA of 3.87. His control was wanting, as he had a WHIP of 1.51. If you bid for him, do so cautiously. Ricky Nolasco (Projected Value: $6) Nolasco went 13-9 with a 5.06 ERA in 2009, but averaged more than a strikeout per inning last year. The 27-year-old hurler did dominate during the second half, and ended the season with a franchise-record 16 strikeouts in his last start. Consider taking him as your team’s fourth or fifth starter. Chris Volstad (Projected Value: $0) Volstad did get 9 wins for the Marlins last year, but he had a concerning second half indicated by his 6.78 ERA after the ASG. Because he is only 23-years old, you do not have to dismiss him just yet. Most pitchers go through a sophomore slump of sorts. Dan Meyer (Projected Value: $0) Meyer started to use his slider more in '09 and became an effective reliever for the Marlins. He might get an opportunity to pick up some saves if Leo Nunez falters in the closer's role. Andrew Miller (Projected Value: $0) The 24-year-old Miller has yet to learn how to control his array of pitches. He posted a 3-5 record with an unspectacular 4.84 ERA and a 1.60 WHIP with 59 punchouts in 80 IP for the Marlins last year. Fantasy owners will have to wait a little longer. Rick VandenHurk (Projected Value: $0) VandenHurk (24) has strikeout potential, can control a 90-94 mph fastball, and pitches in a pitcher's park. He has a good shot a winning a rotation for the Marlins this year, which makes him a worthy Fantasy option in NL-only leagues. Sean West (Projected Value: $0) The 23-year-old West intimidates batters with his 6-8 frame peering at home plate. He struck out 70 batters over 103.1 IP for the Marlins, and if he can improve his control, you should give him a look come Draft Day. He did have a 41/16 K/BB ratio after the ASG. Houston Astros Brett Myers (Projected Value: $18) Myers (29) went 4-3 with a 4.84 ERA and 1.37 WHIP over 18 appearances (10 starts) for the Phillies in 2009. He missed three months of the season after right hip surgery to repair a torn labrum. He has a 4.40 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, and 7.5 K/9 IP ratio over an eight-year career. He joins the Astros' rotation for 2010; you can consider him an injury-risk No. 4 starter. Matt Lindstrom (Projected Value: $11) Lindstrom (29) had converted 13 of 15 save opportunities for the Marlins with an ERA of 5.89 last year. He will now will close for the Astros. He had opened 2009 as the Marlins’ closer but battled elbow soreness and lost his job to Leo Nunez. Lindstrom’s fastball sits in the mid-90s and he has hit 102 MPH. He has to prove healthy and improve his control to become the closer in Houston. Brandon Lyon (Projected Value: $1) Lyon went 6-5 with three saves in 65 games last season for Detroit; he posted a 1.56 ERA after June in the role of setup man for closer Fernando Rodney. As an experienced closer for Arizona, Lyon will likely battle the recently acquired and unproven Matt Lindstrom for save opportunities in Houston. Felipe Paulino (Projected Value: $0) Paulino did not show much with a 3-11 record and 6.27 ERA last year for the Astros. He did strike out 93 batters in 97 2/3 IP, so he has upside. You have to decide how much. Wandy Rodriguez (Projected Value: $0) Rodriguez went 14-12 this past season with a 3.02 ERA and 193 strikeouts in 205 2/3 IP. You have to consider him as one of the NL’s 10 best starters, though you should also take into account that 2009 was his first 200-inning campaign. Brian Moehler (Projected Value: $0) Moehler (37) posted an 8-12 record and a 5.47 ERA in 29 outings for the Astros in 2009. He went 1-7 with a 6.03 ERA over his final 13 starts. Consider him a spot starter. He will be coming off knee surgery this spring. Bud Norris (Projected Value: $0) Norris (25) put together a solid rookie campaign in 2009, winning six games with an ERA of 4.53, and allowing two or fewer earned runs in six of his 10 starts. He will get lots of chances to keep a rotation spot with the Astros this year. Kansas City Royals Joakim Soria (Projected Value: $16) Soria had a shoulder injury that sidelined him for most of May. It affected the number of saves that he got, but he otherwise maintained the traits of an elite closer with an K/9 rate of 11.72. Consider him a top-5 closer who might yet get better. Zack Greinke (Projected Value: $8) Greinke (26) won the AL 2009 Cy Young award because he pitched better than anyone else in the league from April going forward. He won his first six starts and never looked back. He has a great K/BB ratio that got better as the year progressed, so he might even repeat his 2009 performance in 2010. Kyle Farnsworth (Projected Value: $5) Farnsworth (33) can throw strikes as hard as anyone, but batters put the bat on his fastball too often. Can you imagine the value that he would have if he mixed a changeup in with his heater? He can get you strikeouts – if you need them. Robinson Tejeda (Projected Value: $2) Tejeda (28) excited fantasy owners by posting great numbers at the end of 2009. He throws hard, yet often cannot find the strike zone. He probably also cannot duplicate last season's stats over the course of a full year. Luke Hochevar (Projected Value: $0) Hochevar (26) can throw strikes, and posted a good 80/26 K/BB ratio after the All-Star break. You can consider him a sleeper, but let him rest until the end of the draft. Gil Meche (Projected Value: $0) Meche started only 23 games last year because of back and shoulder injuries. His ERA spiked more than an run - likely because of the injuries. Meche might return to the form that got him good WHIP and ERA stats, but not much else. Pitchers in KC typically do not get much run support, so you can expect only so much from them. Kyle Davies (Projected Value: $0) Davies has good stuff, but he does not demonstrate it consistently on the mound. Look at his ERA and then decide how much of a risk you want to take with him. He might not get a rotation spot anyway - Robinson Tejeda is looking to get settled in there. Brian Bannister (Projected Value: $0) Bannister had two great months of pitching for KC early in 2009, and then the crafty pitcher stopped being so crafty. Shoulder fatigue shut him down for September. Not only that, but he might not have a rotation spot coming out of Spring Training. Don’t you hate when that happens? Los Angeles Angels Jered Weaver (Projected Value: $22) Weaver picked up 16 wins last year, though he went 6-5 with a 4.47 ERA after the ASG. The 27-year-old hurler has upside on a team that will get him wins, plus he has strikeout potential, but he did have a mediocre finish last year. Ervin Santana (Projected Value: $14) Santana pitches like an ace on the alternate "even" years. He won 16 games in 2006 and 2008, but had an ERA over 5.00 in 2007 and 2009. He also had arm issues early in '09 – and he did pitch with an ERA under 4.00 after the ASG. Since 2010 is an even year, you can draft him with confidence. Brian Fuentes (Projected Value: $8) Fuentes led the Major Leagues in saves with 48 last year, though he did have some rocky moments. Always good for an angina attack, he had 7 blown saves and 3.93 ERA. He does not have the blazing heat of the stereotypical closer, but he gets results. He also had a better success rate in saves than his predecessor Francisco Rodriguez had in his debut season with the Mets. In a nutshell, Fuentes has the Angels’ closer’s job to lose. Joel Pineiro (Projected Value: $6) The 31-year-old Pineiro went 15-12 with a 3.49 ERA and 1.14 WHIP in 32 starts last year. His 60.2% groundball rate led the NL. Consider him a durable Number 2 starter for your fantasy rotation. Dan Haren (Projected Value: $2) Haren (29) delivered another season of solid stats, sporting 14 wins, a 3.14 ERA, and 223 strikeouts over 229 1/3 innings. He has increased his strikeout rate every year since his 2003 debut. If you draft him, consider trading him at the ASG as he typically morphs into a mediocre pitcher in the second half of the season. Scott Kazmir (Projected Value: $0) The 26-year-old Kazmir posted a 1.73 ERA in six starts for the Angels after coming over from the Rays in August. Injuries prevent him from becoming an innings eater, but he has plenty of wins and strikeout potential. Consider him no less than a No. 3 Fantasy SP entering 2010. Kevin Jepsen (Projected Value: $0) Jepsen went 6-4 with a 4.94 ERA in 54 appearances for the Angels last year. However during his first 11 2/3 IP, he gave up 16 earned runs. If you disregard those numbers, he looks like a different pitcher. At age 25, Jepsen showed that he has the stuff and makeup of a future closer with his 95-97-mph heater complemented by a 90-91-mph slider that freezes hitters. Matt Palmer (Projected Value: $0) If the season started today, Palmer gets the nod as the fifth starter in Angels' rotation. The 30-year-old pitcher went 11-2 in his first full Major League campaign with a 3.93 ERA. He pitched especially well against right-handed hitters, who batted only .197 against him. He does not have overpowering stuff, but he gets hitters out. Fernando Rodney (Projected Value: $0) Rodney (32) converted 37 of 38 save opportunities last season for the Tigers, pitching a career-best 75 2/3 innings. Now that he has signed with the Angels, he becomes Brian Fuentes' setup man (initially) and he also will have Kevin Jepsen to fight for vulture saves. Los Angeles Dodgers Clayton Kershaw (Projected Value: $20) Kershaw went only 8-8 for the Dodgers last year, but he posted a 2.79 ERA, and a 1.23 WHIP while striking out 185 batters in just 171 innings. Those numbers belong to a dominating pitcher. He should get better run support this year, so you can expect solid numbers in wins, ERA, WHIP, and strikeouts. Jonathan Broxton (Projected Value: $12) Broxton (25) put up an outstanding 13.5 K/9 IP ratio and batters hit only .165 against him. He became one of the elite closers in baseball last year, and he might get better. The only begging question: Can he do it again? Hiroki Kuroda (Projected Value: $10) Kuroda (35) finished 2009 with 8 wins and a 3.76 ERA in 21 starts, missing roughly one-third of the season because of an oblique strain and then three weeks more after he got hit on the head by a line drive. He has superb control and posted an ERA under 3.00 in August and September. Consider him a solid mixed-league starter – if he stays healthy. Chad Billingsley (Projected Value: $6) Billingsley (25) pitched well before the ASG, but had a meltdown afterwards with a 5.20 ERA. He did get 12 wins overall and sported an ERA of 4.03 for the season. Expect him to learn from his young ways and post double-digit wins along with an ERA under 4.00 this year. Vicente Padilla (Projected Value: $5) Padilla (32) won 12 games for the Rangers and Dodgers last year. He excelled down the stretch for the Dodgers, going 4-0 with a 3.20 ERA in seven starts and eight outings. Draft him for wins, because he is an innings-eater, but he does not typically put up great ERA/WHIP stats. George Sherrill (Projected Value: $0) Sherrill posted a 0.65 ERA in 30 appearances for the Dodgers after closing games for the Orioles earlier last year. While Jonathan Broxton remains the major force in the Dodger bullpen, Sherrill will have to settle for being a great setup man – which he is. Milwaukee Brewers Yovani Gallardo (Projected Value: $19) Gallardo (24) had a breakout 13-12 season with a 3.73 ERA and 204 strikeouts over 185 2/3 innings. He set the Brewers' record for strikeouts and established himself as one of the NL's most promising young starters. He has Cy Young potential. Randy Wolf (Projected Value: $0) Wolf (33) compiled an 11-7 record with a 3.23 ERA in a career-high 34 starts for the Dodgers in 2009, and then he signed a three-year deal with the Brewers. He made a career-high 24 quality starts last year and will join Yovani Gallardo at the top of Milwaukee's rotation. Temper your expectations by noting that Wolf does have a history of giving up the long ball. Todd Coffey (Projected Value: $0) With Trevor Hoffman established as the Brewers’ closer, Coffey will return as his primary setup man. He can post a solid ERA as a middle reliever. Watch for overuse. Doug Davis (Projected Value: $0) Davis (34) went 9-14 with a 4.12 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP over an NL-leading 34 starts in 2009. He pitches lots of innings, and your team can probably use him as a fourth or fifth starter. Trevor Hoffman (Projected Value: $0) Hoffman (42) saved 37 games out of 41 save opportunities and posted a 1.83 ERA over 54 innings for the Brewers last year. He pitched 18 scoreless innings before finally surrendering his first earned run on June 14. Overall, he put up his best stats since 1998, when he finished second in the NL Cy Young Award voting. He has rejoined the ranks of the elite closers. David Bush (Projected Value: $0) Bush faltered in the Brewers' rotation last year. He posted an ERA of 6.38 and the speed of his pitches decreased. To compound matters, he suffered from arm fatigue - so you have to have doubts about taking him on Draft Day. Manny Parra (Projected Value: $0) Parra (27) put up disappointing numbers last year for the Brewers. Yes, he did get 11 wins, one more than he got in 2008, but he ERA jumped to 6.36, and even a trip to the Minor Leagues did not help him find the strike zone. You can take a flier on him, and hope for the best. Minnesota Twins Carl Pavano (Projected Value: $22) Pavano rejuvenated his career in 2009, rebounding from four injury-plagued seasons with the Yankees. He displayed excellent control by issuing just 39 walks over 199 1/3 innings. He also stayed healthy enough to make a career-high 33 starts, but can you count on that going forward? You can consider taking him during the middle rounds of your draft. Francisco Liriano (Projected Value: $17) Liriano is coming off a disappointing 2009 when he went 5-13 with a 5.80 ERA in 29 games (24 starts). If he can return to the form that he displayed in 2006, he will qualify as an ace. He still has great stuff, as shown by his control stats during his home starts. Reports say that he is throwing 94 MPH with a nasty slider in Dominican Winter ball. If he is available late in the draft, take a chance on him. Brian Duensing (Projected Value: $10) Duensing (27) somehow got it done for the Twins last year. When they needed a starter, he took the ball and delivered. He does not seem to possess the kind of skill set that indicates a continuation of past successes - but you never know. Matt Guerrier (Projected Value: $2) Guerrier offers value as a setup man who can put the ball over the plate and into play. He has good command and uses it when setting up for one of the premier closers in baseball, Joe Nathan. Nick Blackburn (Projected Value: $0) Blackburn (28) almost duplicated his 2008 stats with his numbers from 2009. He needed fourth consecutive quality starts at the end of the year to do it. He walks extremely few batters - the other ones always put the ball in play. He won't become a strikeout pitcher now. Kevin Slowey (Projected Value: $0) Slowey will report early to Spring Training to make sure that he can pitch in the rotation when the season begins. He pitched well last year under poor conditions - he had a damaged wrist, and needed surgery. You have to consider him an injury risk, despite the talent that he showed before surgery. Scott Baker (Projected Value: $0) Baker pitched a career-high 200 innings in 2009. He ended the season by going 8-2 down the stretch. He has great command, but gives up too many flyballs, which translate into home runs (28). He still has time to enter the top tier of starters. Consider drafting him immediatley after all the No. 1 guys are gone. Joe Nathan (Projected Value: $0) Nathan set a career high with 47 saves last year and continues to average well over a strikeout per IP. Even though he is 35-years-old, expect him to be the top closer on most fantasy draft boards. New York Mets Johan Santana (Projected Value: $17) Santana went 13-10 with a 3.13 ERA and a 146/46 K/BB ratio over 166-2/3 innings in '09 before having season-ending elbow surgery in September. The 31-year-old starter expects to be completely healthy for the beginning of the 2010 season, and anticipates being able to reclaim his place among the game's best starters. Francisco Rodriguez (Projected Value: $9) K-Rod saved 35 games with a 3.71 ERA in his first year with the Mets – after having saved 62 with a 2.25 ERA for the Angels in 2008. Despite the disappointment - he did have back issues during the year - you still must consider him to be one of the best closers in baseball. Jon Niese (Projected Value: $8) Niese (23) went 1-1 with a 4.21 ERA before suffering a season-ending torn right hamstring in August. He had posted a 3.82 ERA and an 82/26 K/BB ratio in 94 1/3 Triple-A innings in '09, so if he proves healthy by Spring Training, the Mets will likely give him a chance to win a rotation spot. Mike Pelfrey (Projected Value: $4) Pelfrey went 10-12 with a 5.03 ERA and a 107/66 K/BB ratio over 184-1/3 innings last season – a regression from his 13 wins and 3.72 ERA from the prior year. Because his walk and strikeout rates did not regress, expect a comeback of sorts from the 25-year old starter. Bobby Parnell (Projected Value: $0) Parnell has a fastball that occasionally tops 100 mph, and he has showed flashes of brilliance - both as a starter and reliever. That being said, the 25-year-old pitcher ended up with an ERA of 5.30 for the season. His 2010 spring training reports bear monitoring. Jenrry Mejia (Projected Value: $0) Menjia (20) has great stuff, but needs more time to develop his command. He can pitch in the mid-90s with great movement, including a sink. He projects to be a No. 3 starter at the MLB level. Oliver Perez (Projected Value: $0) Perez (28) went 3-4 with a 6.82 ERA and a 62/58 K/BB ratio over 66 IP last year before undergoing season-ending surgery on his knee in September. His walk ratio does not look appealing - never did - so you might want to let someone else draft him this spring. Fernando Nieve (Projected Value: $0) Nieve went 3-3 with a 2.95 ERA – displaying that he was an effective starter for a month and a half before a right quadriceps tear ended his season in mid-July. The Mets will give him a chance to win a rotation spot if he can stay healthy in Spring Training. John Maine (Projected Value: $0) Maine went 7-6 with a 4.43 ERA and a 55/38 K/BB ratio over 15 starts during a season interrupted with DL-time last year. He suffered a pinched nerve in his shoulder for more than three months. An Off Season of rest might make the 28-year-old starter a sleeper pick heading into '10. Brian Bruney (Projected Value: $0) Bruney opened 2009 as one of Mariano Rivera's setup men, but went on the DL twice with elbow issues. He went 5-0 with a 3.92 ERA in 39 IP, limiting opponents to a .243 batting average. He enters the Nationals’ bullpen as a dark-horse candidate for saves. New York Yankees C.C. Sabathia (Projected Value: $23) Sabathia (29) performed up to expectations in his first season for the Yankees. He won a league-leading 19 games and posted a 3.37 ERA – and he pitched well in the playoffs. He might reach 20 wins in his second season. Andy Pettitte (Projected Value: $19) Pettitte won 14 games – again - for the Yankees and posted a decent 4.16 ERA in 2009. Even at age 37, you can expect him to get his share of double-digit wins and deliver another 180-plus innings of solid pitching in 2010. Mariano Rivera (Projected Value: $19) Rivera (40) had one of his best seasons, saving 44 games in 46 chances. Opposing batters hit just .197 off him, but he has held batters to .200 or under five times in his career. Do you see him slowing down? Phil Hughes (Projected Value: $10) Hughes filled multiple roles last year. He clearly excelled at setting up for Mariano Rivera. He dominated in his 44 games out of the bullpen, posting a 1.40 ERA and a 65/13 K/BB ratio over 51 1/3 innings. He can also start! Javier Vazquez (Projected Value: $3) Vazquez is coming off of a career year as he won 15 games and had an ERA of 2.87 for the Braves last year. Now he is pitching for the Yankees - again. He didn’t quite cut it as the Bombers’ Ace in 2004, but the team doesn’t expect him to be the ace in 2009. He can dominate. He gets the Ks - and he gives up the gopher ball. Expect double-digit wins, a good WHIP, and a tentatively marginal ERA. A.J. Burnett (Projected Value: $1) Burnett (33) won 13 games and sported a 4.04 ERA in his first contract year with the Yankees. The inconsistent dominant ace has stayed healthy for two years in a row. Can he make it three? Joba Chamberlain (Projected Value: $0) The Yankees used Chamberlain as both starter and reliever last year. When he started, he pitched more than five innings in only 18 of his 31 starts. If the Yankees let him pitch long enough to get more decisions, expect him to win about 10-plus games. Alfredo Aceves (Projected Value: $0) Aceves gives the Yankees a nice problem. Do they put him into the rotation, making him a fantasy sleeper, or do they keep him in the bullpen where he can continue to post an excellent WHIP (1.01 in '09). He also struck out 7.4 batters per 9 IP last year. If he pitches for the Yankees, he has a chance to pick up some wins, like he did in '09 (10). None Braden Looper (Projected Value: $0) Looper (35) went 14-7 with a 5.22 ERA (career-worst); he struck out a mere 100 batters in 194 2/3 innings over 34 starts in 2009. He also led the Major Leagues in home runs allowed. He underwent knee surgery at the end of the year - does that explain last year's "performance?" Eddie Guardado (Projected Value: $0) Guardado has 187 career saves, including an AL-leading 45 in 2002. What have you done for me lately, Eddie? He went 1-2 with a 4.46 ERA in 48 relief appearances last season with the Rangers. He will probably serve as a middle reliever for the Nats. John Smoltz (Projected Value: $0) Smoltz (42) did not pitch well for the Red Sox last year – he could not get lefties out – but he posted a 4.26 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, and 40/9 K/BB ratio after he switched back to the National League. If he pitches in 2010, he could have value in mixed leagues. Mike Hampton (Projected Value: $0) Hampton (37) had season-ending surgeries on his knees and shoulder at the end of last year. He went 7-10 with a 5.30 ERA in 21 starts with the Astros in 2009. He probably will not pitch in 2010. Billy Buckner (Projected Value: $0) Buckner (26) did not pitch well at home, in hitter-friendly Chase Field. He posted a 9.53 ERA in Arizona, and a 3.11 ERA on the road. Nevertheless, he still has potential as the fifth starter in the DBack rotation. Jarrod Washburn (Projected Value: $0) Washburn (35) went 9-9 with a 3.78 ERA in 28 starts last season. He pitched superbly over the first half for the Mariners, but struggled down the stretch, delivering a 7.33 ERA in eight starts after going to the Tigers in July. He has a 4.10 career ERA in 12 career seasons, and can fit into your rotation as a Number 4 or 5 starter. Oakland Athletics Trevor Cahill (Projected Value: $19) Cahill (22) persisted with his OJT last year and learned to keep the ball down in the strike zone. He has a great sinker and projects to be a future front-line starter. He needs to have a dramatically better K-rate to become an elite pitcher. He has one outstanding asset: youth. Andrew Bailey (Projected Value: $15) AL Rookie of the Year Bailey came from the shadows of obscurity to the bright lights of the Major Leagues as he pitched like one of the baseball’s top relievers in 2009. You would think that he has the closer job in Oakland to lose in 2010, but he, and you, should take nothing for granted in Oakland. What he has going in his favor: elite control and a great K/BB ratio. Gio Gonzalez (Projected Value: $11) Gonzalez (24) pitched almost 100 innings last year – so you have a sample size. He needs better command. That walk rate must come down. On the other hand, he can definitely strike batters out. He will get a spot in the Oakland rotation, probably at the beginning of the year, but he has a lot of competition. He has the talent to eventually become a strong fantasy pitcher. Dallas Braden (Projected Value: $6) Braden (26) pitched effectively in '09, keeping his ERA under 4.00. Not many fly ball pitchers can do that consistently (i.e., don’t expect lightning to strike twice with the same guy). He missed the last two months of 2009 with a foot injury from which he expects to be recovered by Spring Training. Vin Mazzaro (Projected Value: $5) Mazzaro (23) had his season cut short with a shoulder injury in August. The timing worked out fine – he had started to falter (grow weary) on the mound anyway. Even though he has the makeup of a No. 3 starter, he must reduce his walks-to-strikeouts ratio for the A’s to rely on him. Brett Anderson (Projected Value: $2) Anderson (22) did not start his rookie year strongly, but kept his ERA well under 4.00 after the ASG, and averaged nearly a strikeout per IP. Consider him a sleeper candidate to put at the top of your list. Brad Ziegler (Projected Value: $0) Ziegler attained a level of success in 2008 that was reduced in 2009 when batters hit almost .300 against him. He has a particularly difficult time versus lefties. He might pick up a handful of saves when Andrew Bailey needs the occasional day off. Josh Outman (Projected Value: $0) Outman (25) appeared to be on his way to a breakout year, but he needed Tommy John surgery in June. He throws hard and has excellent command. Remember him if you need a waiver wire pickup during the season when he expects to re-join the Oakland rotation. Ben Sheets (Projected Value: $0) Sheets did not recover from elbow issues in time to join a contending team’s rotation last year. Although he is slated to head the Athletics' rotation this year, health reports leading up to draft day will determine his fantasy value. Justin Duchscherer (Projected Value: $0) Duchscherer (32) missed the entire 2009 season after elbow surgery and treatment for mental health issues. He did go 10-8 with a 2.54 ERA and 1.00 WHIP in his first season as a starter for the Athletics in 2008. He has talent, and he clearly presents a Wait-and-See case before you draft him this spring. Michael Wuertz (Projected Value: $0) Wuertz will not close many games unless Andrew Bailey gets injured or otherwise becomes ineffective. Consider Wuertz a setup man who can accumulate holds. Philadelphia Phillies Roy Halladay (Projected Value: $39) Halladay’s impressive statistics will get a boost with his switch from the heavy-hitting American League East to the National League. The 32-year-old top-tier Cy Young winner went 17-10 with a 2.79 ERA and 208/35 K/BB ratio over 239 innings last season for the Jays. With any luck at all, he should improve on those stats in the lighter-hitting National League. Roy Oswalt (Projected Value: $13) Oswalt (32) posted an ERA over 4.00 (4.12) for the first time and fewer than 10 victories for the first time in his nine-year career in 2009. He went 8-6 with 138 strikeouts over 181 1/3 innings. A back injury cost him the final few weeks of the season, so you probably should consider him a Buy Low candidate at this year's draft. Cole Hamels (Projected Value: $12) Hamels finished the 2009 season with 10 wins, a 4.32 ERA, and a 168/43 K/BB ratio over 193 2/3 innings. The 25-year-old southpaw tallied a slightly better walk rate than he did in 2008, and will attempt to reclaim his standing among the game's best starting pitchers in 2010. Ryan Madson (Projected Value: $0) Madson went 5-5 with a 3.26 ERA, and had 10 saves in 16 chances last year. He got the save opportunities because of closer Brad Lidge's uncharacteristic struggles in the late innings. Given that Lidge might not regain his dominant form of '08, look to Madson to get many, if not all, of the Phillies’ save opportunities this year. J.A. Happ (Projected Value: $0) Happ went 12-4 with a 2.93 ERA and a 119/56 K/BB ratio over 35 games, including 23 starts, in 2009. He joined the Phillies’ rotation en route to wins in his first seven decisions. Consider him a middle-to-late-round pick as a middle-of-the-rotation starter. Danys Baez (Projected Value: $0) Baez missed all of 2008 following Tommy John surgery, then tallied a 4.02 ERA and 1.13 WHIP in 71 2/3 innings with the Orioles last season. His strikeout rate keeps falling, but he had a career-high 60.9% groundball rate. He won’t get many, if any, saves, but he can help hold up the fort. Joe Blanton (Projected Value: $0) The 28-year-old Blanton won 12 games and posted an ERA of 4.05 at hitter-friendly Citizens Bank Park in 2009. Entering the prime of his career, and pitching for a club that provides plenty of offensive and defensive support, Blanton becomes a viable mixed league option on Draft Day. Kyle Kendrick (Projected Value: $0) Kendrick started two games for the Phillies last year, and if all else fails, the team might use him as a starter again in 2010. He started 30 games in 2008 and got 11 wins, but he also posted a 5.51 ERA. Kendrick would have to do something striking for the Phils to think about taking a serious look at him for a spot in the rotation again. Jamie Moyer (Projected Value: $0) Moyer's numbers fell in 2009. He went 12-10 with a 4.94 ERA and ended up in the Phillies’ bullpen by September. The Phillies still owe the 47-year-old southpaw one more year's salary. Pedro Martinez (Projected Value: $0) After sitting out 75% of the 2009 regular season, Martinez joined the Phillies and went 5-1 with a 3.63 ERA over 44 2/3 innings (nine starts). No longer the Ace of the ages, he nevertheless has more quality innings left in his arm to qualify as a No. 3 starter somewhere in 2010. Brad Lidge (Projected Value: $0) Lidge had a near-flawless season in 2008, but he blew a MLB-high 11 saves and held a 7.21 ERA in 2009. A bad right knee and a balky right elbow that required surgery in November explains some, if not all, of the problems. You have to expect that he will have a comeback season. Pittsburgh Pirates Joel Hanrahan (Projected Value: $2) Hanrahan pitched poorly last year as the Nationals’ closer, lost his job, and went to the Pirates. He posted a 1.72 ERA in 33 games for Pittsburgh. He strikes out more than a batter per inning. If he can harness his walk rate, he will have fantasy value. Zach Duke (Projected Value: $0) The 26-year-old Duke produced his best MLB season with 11 victories and a 4.06 ERA over 213 innings. He started the season strong, but after the ASG, he went 3-8 with a 5.17 ERA. Was it because he tired or because he became hittable, like before 2009? Watch his reports from Spring Training. Paul Maholm (Projected Value: $0) Maholm ended 2009 with an 8-9 record, a 4.44 ERA and 119 strikeouts over 194-2/3 IP. He did not pitch as consistently as he did the year before, but you can draft him as a spot-starter. Ross Ohlendorf (Projected Value: $0) Ohlendorf picked up 11 wins and posted a solid a 3.92 ERA as a Bucs’ starter in 2009. He had an ERA of 2.83 over 11 starts after the ASG. He certainly gets a rotation spot with the Pirates, but you can wait before you draft him. Charlie Morton (Projected Value: $0) Morton (26) pitched well in his first year (97 IP) with Pittsburgh, picking up five wins and sporting a 4.55 ERA. He can keep the ball in the park, and would do well to reduce his walk rate. Kevin Hart (Projected Value: $0) Hart will get a spot in the Pirates' rotation after bouncing between the rotation and the bullpen with the Cubs. The 27-year-old pitcher has potential as a starter, but consider him a low-end NL-only option. Jeffrey Karstens (Projected Value: $0) Karstens (27) has shown flashes of promise but the Pirates do not know whether to put him into the bullpen or insert him into the rotation. He will have to reduce his 2009 5.42 ERA to get a spot in either place. San Diego Padres Mat Latos (Projected Value: $24) Latos (22) delivered a 4-5 record with a 4.62 ERA over 10 starts for the Padres in his rookie year. He should improve his control rate (4.09 BB/9 rate), but expect to see him in the San Diego rotation next year. He can dominate and does have ace potential. Heath Bell (Projected Value: $20) In his first year as the Padres' closer, Bell ended 2009 with 42 saves in 48 tries. He posted a 2.71 ERA with 79 Ks in 69 2/3 IP. Expect him to be drafted among the top 10 closers this year. Clayton Richard (Projected Value: $11) Richard (26) went 9-5 with a 4.41 ERA while splitting time on the mound between Chicago and San Diego. He ended the season well with a 3.12 ERA in September. Expect improvement; he can turn into either a No. 3 or 4 starter. Jon Garland (Projected Value: $10) Garland (30) went 11-13 with a 4.01 ERA over 33 starts this past season; he delivered a 2.72 ERA in six starts with the Dodgers down the stretch. He can eat a lot of innings and win a lot of games on a contending team. Luke Gregerson (Projected Value: $8) Gregerson (25) finished 2009 with a 3.24 ERA and 93 strikeouts over 75 IP. His strikeout rate got better as the season progressed, which established him as one of the NL's top setup men in his rookie year. He might get chances in 2010 to pick up saves. Tim Stauffer (Projected Value: $7) Stauffer (27) posted a 4-7 record and an 3.58 ERA last year for the Padres. Depending on his Spring Training outings, he will probably stay in San Diego, but who knows if it's in the bullpen or in the rotation. He has Number 3 starter abilities. Wade LeBlanc (Projected Value: $6) LeBlanc went 3-1 with a 3.69 ERA for the Padres last year. He does not have a rotation spot locked down and will have to contend with three or four other guys (Tim Stauffer, Kevin Correia, Aaron Poreda and Sean Gallagher) for a rotation spot at PETCO. Kevin Correia (Projected Value: $0) Correia (29) did a good job from the mound going 12-11 with a 3.91 ERA over 198 innings for the Pads in '09. Spacious PETCO Park will help to keep his ERA at an enviable level, but you should not expect more wins in 2010. Aaron Poreda (Projected Value: $0) Poreda (23) delivered good stats at the White Sox Double-A level: 2.38 ERA and .206 batting-average against in 11 starts. However, after he got traded to the Padres, he posted a 7.16 ERA at their Triple-A level. Nevertheless, he will get a chance to earn a rotation spot for San Diego out of spring training. Consider him a late-round sleeper in deeper leagues. Chris Young (Projected Value: $0) Young (30) did not pitch after the ASG, but does not need rotator cuff work - maybe that makes him a candidate to rebound in 2010. If he regains his arm strength, he can give you ten wins and an ERA under 4.00. San Francisco Giants Tim Lincecum (Projected Value: $19) Lincecum (25) went 15-7 with a 2.48 ERA and 261 strikeouts over 225 IP in 2009 and became the eighth pitcher in MLB history to win Cy Young Awards in back-to-back years. He even got better in 2009 with a lowered ERA, walk rate, and WHIP. He does not give you much to dislike. Brian Wilson (Projected Value: $19) Wilson (28) saved 38 games out of 45 chances with a 2.74 ERA and 83 strikeouts over 72 1/3 innings for the Giants last year, solidifying himself among the top 15 closers in baseball. He also lowered his ERA by almost two runs from 2008. Expect more of the same in 2010. Matt Cain (Projected Value: $18) All-Star Matt Cain (25) compiled a 14-8 record, a 2.89 ERA, and had 171 strikeouts over 217- 2/3 innings for the Giants in 2009. His control improved, but his K-Rate fell. He should improve upon most of his stats as he enters his peak athletic years. Barry Zito (Projected Value: $12) Zito posted a 10-13 record with a 4.03 ERA and 154 strikeouts over 192 innings for the Giants last year. He enjoyed a strong second half, compiling a 2.83 ERA with a 2/1 K/BB ratio over that period. Consider him an effective, not superlative, starter for your fantasy team. Jonathan Sanchez (Projected Value: $11) Sanchez (27) sported a 8-12 record, a 4.24 ERA, and 177 strikeouts over 163 1/3 IP for the Giants in 2009. He pitched a no-hitter on July 10th. He has great strikeout ability, and if he can manage his walk rate, he will have great fantasy value. He did dominate over the second half of the past season. Madison Bumgarner (Projected Value: $4) Bumgarner (20) made his MLB debut for the Giants last year and showed that he has the right stuff. However, you should target him only if you are in a keeper league. Dan Runzler (Projected Value: $0) Maybe Dan Runzler should change his name to No-Runzler. If Runzler can duplicate the way he threw Thursday in batting practice, the rookie left-hander will bolster the Giants' bullpen significantly. "He was filthy," manager Bruce Bochy said admiringly. "That was a complete overmatch at this stage of Spring Training -- throwing 95 [mph] with a slider like that." After soaring through every Minor League level from low Class A through Triple-A last year, Runzler posted a 1.04 ERA in 11 outings with the Giants as a September callup. This fueled Bochy's confidence in Runzler's fitness to join the setup crew. Jeremy Affeldt (Projected Value: $0) Affeldt (30) led the Major Leagues in holds and double plays induced (among relief pitchers) in 2009. You hope that he can reduce his walk rate, but he offers solid ERA and WHIP stats. Seattle Mariners Felix Hernandez (Projected Value: $25) Hernandez (23) had a terrific year in 2009. He managed to win 19 games despite pitching for one of the least offensive offenses in MLB. He clearly established himself as a Top 5 starter. He still has his best years ahead of him. Jason Vargas (Projected Value: $14) A soft-tossing southpaw, Vargas will get the occasional spot start and might fit into the Mariners' rotation - at the back end. Erik Bedard (Projected Value: $8) Bedard (30) has struggled with injuries since leaving Baltimore in 2007. He started only 15 games for Seattle last year, going 5-3 with a 2.82 ERA. Great when healthy, but can he stay healthy? Brandon League (Projected Value: $7) League (26) came to the Mariners from Toronto and will serve as a setup man for M's closer David Aardsma. Doug Fister (Projected Value: $5) Fister had a respectable rookie campaign, in part because he displayed good control. He does not have great strikeout potential, yet he might fit into one of the middle spots of the Seattle rotation, for which you can expect to see a lot of competition. David Aardsma (Projected Value: $4) Aardsma (28) got the Mariners’ closer job in mid-May and ran with it. He doesn’t give up too many hits. He shouldn’t give up as many walks as he does. If he can control his walk rate, he will enter the top tier status of closers. Garrett Olson (Projected Value: $0) Olson might make the Seattle roster, and get the occasional spot start. He would be overachieving if he got more than that. Ryan Rowland-Smith (Projected Value: $0) Rowland-Smith (27) suffered an arm injury at the beginning of last year that sidelined him until July. He pitched much better than expected when he returned to action, and had a strong string of starts down the stretch. Because he does not strike out many batters, draft him when you are filling out the back end of your rotation. Ian Snell (Projected Value: $0) Snell (28) joined the Mariners in midseason and went 5-2 with a 4.20 ERA. He displayed potential when he pitched for the Pirates a couple years ago, so he has value – watch the command peripherals. The walk rate must come down. St. Louis Cardinals Adam Wainwright (Projected Value: $36) Wainwright (28) enjoyed a breakout year in 2009 with 19 wins, a sub-3.00 ERA, and 200-plus strikeouts. If he can stay healthy, he should maintain his status as an elite fantasy starter. He might even get better. Jaime Garcia (Projected Value: $21) Garcia (23) returned from Tommy John surgery last year and pitched well: he got two wins with a 2.87 ERA over 37 2/3 innings (eight starts) between Class A and Triple-A. He deserves consideration for a rotation spot with the Cardinals this year. Chris Carpenter (Projected Value: $21) Carpenter (34) turned in a great comeback year in 2009, going 17-4 with a 2.24 ERA and 144 strikeouts over 192 2/3 innings. After missing more than two years, and even missing five weeks with a rib cage issue last year, he still posted a league-leading ERA. He can pitch like an elite fantasy star, but draft him at your own risk. Ryan Franklin (Projected Value: $11) Franklin saved 38 of 43 his save opportunities with a 1.92 ERA over 61 innings for the Cardinals last year. He does not have a high strikeout rate, and batters seemed to figure him out by September, judging from his 7.56 ERA during that month. Expect him to keep the closer's job this year, but don’t make him your first choice. Jason Motte (Projected Value: $5) Motte entered last season as the Cardinals’ closer but lost the job to Ryan Franklin. The 27-year-old Motte throws hard, but does have a tendency to give up the gopher ball. He still might get another shot at the Cardinals’ closer job. Brad Penny (Projected Value: $2) With the Red Sox and Giants last year, Penny went a combined 11-9 with a 4.88 ERA over 173 1/3 IP. He went 7-8 with a 5.61 ERA for the Sox, before going 4-1 with a 2.59 ERA for the Giants. He should fit in with the Cardinals as a solid mid-rotation arm. Kyle Lohse (Projected Value: $0) Lohse (31) got 15 wins in 2008, and started 2009 with a great April, but he ended up going 6-10 with a 4.74 ERA. He battled injuries for most of the year and gave up too many home runs when he did pitch. Consider him a buy-low candidate. Jeff Suppan (Projected Value: $0) After suffering from an oblique injury, Suppan finished the season with 7 wins, a 5.29 ERA, and a 1.70 WHIP. He had only 80 strikeouts in 161 2/3 IP. All of those numbers point to a trending decline for the 35-year-old starter. Mitchell Boggs (Projected Value: $0) Boggs (26) won two games over 58 innings, recording a 4.19 ERA with 46 Ks and 33 walks last year for the Cardinals. He will probably pitch in long relief and get the occasional spot start in 2010. Tampa Bay Rays David Price (Projected Value: $24) Price (24) did not show much consistency on the mound until the second half of 2009. He pitched well down the stretch and showed improved command. He won his last three decisions and posted a 3.45 ERA over 31 1/3 innings in his final five starts. He still has great upside. Jeff Niemann (Projected Value: $19) Niemann (27) had an impressive rookie season. After enduring a rough start, he regrouped and established himself as a cog in the Rays’ rotation. Expect him to build on his strong second half, when he displayed improved command. Rafael Soriano (Projected Value: $19) Soriano (30) has always had great potential to close, and will take over the job to close in Tampa Bay. The question of the day: can he handle the job full-time or part-time? Consider him a talented DL-risk. J.P. Howell (Projected Value: $14) Howell handled the Tampa Bay closer job more than – and better than - anyone else, though his ERA imploded down the stretch. He enters the season as the setup man for Rafael Soriano, who gets injured a lot – sounds like Tampa Bay fans can expect another closer-by-committee this summer. Matt Garza (Projected Value: $10) Garza (26) became an innings-eater in 2009 who had a great strikeout rate: 8.4 per 9 IP. Look for him to make an effort to lower his walk rate. Consider him a workhorse who might turn into an ace for the Rays. Wade Davis (Projected Value: $2) Davis (24) had two quality starts in his final four outings in his first year for the Rays. He has solid stuff and showed that he can strike out batters. You would like a bigger sample size before making a projection, but you can target him as a sleeper at next year’s draft. James Shields (Projected Value: $1) Shields (28) pitched well last year – better than his record indicates. His pitch command remains intact. Do not let him slide too far into the draft. As he enters his prime years as an athlete, expect him to provide solid stats. Randy Choate (Projected Value: $0) Choate will pitch in a setup role for Tampa and has the chance to pick up the occasional save. Andrew Sonnanstine (Projected Value: $0) Sonnanstine’s poor ERA forced the Rays’ hand. They sent him to the bullpen from where he might make spot starts until he can rectify his problems. He pitched successfully in 2008 – he still has time to re-establish himself. Texas Rangers Cliff Lee (Projected Value: $30) Lee (31) joins King Felix Hernandez to form a great 1-2 punch is Seattle. Lee has pitched well at Safeco, going 5-1 record with a 3.49 ERA and a 1.12 WHIP over 49 career innings. Consider him a top 15 pitcher who will NOT wilt under pressure should Seattle make a legitimate run this year. C.J. Wilson (Projected Value: $18) Wilson currently backs up Frank Francisco in the Texas closer’s role. Wilson posted his best strikeout rate last year, and has improved his WHIP – so if Frank gets injured again (read "when"), the Rangers have someone in the wings. Neftali Feliz (Projected Value: $14) Feliz (21) has a fastball that has been clocked at between 98 and 100 MPH. He totally dominated in his debut as a reliever last year. The Rangers will probably groom him as a starter after he manages his control issues. Heck! If he does well in Spring Training, he might pitch out of the rotation in April. Tommy Hunter (Projected Value: $12) Hunter pitched a fine rookie year for himself. He walks few (good), does not strike out many (not so good), so he relies on being crafty. Consider him a decent AL-only option for 2010. Frank Francisco (Projected Value: $4) Francisco pitched like an elite closer before the ASG (2.28 ERA in the first half of the year). After the ASG, he did not pitch nearly as well - he endured a bout of pneumonia. Take a look at him after the top tier of closers has gone off the board. Mark Lowe (Projected Value: $0) Lowe offers value as a setup man who has a growing command of the strike zone. He currently backs up David Aardsma who has the closer’s job in Seattle. Matt Harrison (Projected Value: $0) Harrison (24) spent a lot of time on the DL last year. When he pitches, he can throw strikes. He has a limited upside. Consider him a flier. Brandon McCarthy (Projected Value: $0) Brandon! Where's the luck of the Irish? You're always injured! Who knows how good you can pitch? McCarthy had only 17 starts last year because of shoulder woes, but he pitched well with a 4.05 ERA and a 1.20 WHIP over his final six starts. With any good luck at all ... Scott Feldman (Projected Value: $0) After changing his release point, Feldman had a surprising breakout year in just his second season as a Texas starter. He tired at season’s end, but still posted an ERA just over 4.00. You could do worse than to draft the No. pitcher in Texas. Rich Harden (Projected Value: $0) Harden (28) pitched more than 140 innings for the second year in a row. He led the NL with a 10.91 K/9 IP ratio, and opponents hit a lowly .234 off him. In Texas that average will go up, but by how much – and what if he can pitch 185 innings? Consider him a most capable health risk. Derek Holland (Projected Value: $0) Holland (23) displayed glimpses of promise in his rookie year but he clearly struggled. That ERA/WHIP and high hit rate must come down if he wants to stay in the Texas rotation. Toronto Blue Jays Ricky Romero (Projected Value: $14) Romero (25) surprised a lot of people, including scouts, when he made the Blue Jays’ roster and then pitched like the Rookie of the Year favorite up until the ASG. He did tire down the stretch, but he still has plenty of upside. Expect him to have more stamina this year. Shaun Marcum (Projected Value: $14) Marcum spent last season in recovery after his TJ surgery. On the plus side, he did pitch well in his minor league rehab starts. Watch for his progress reports during Spring Training. Kevin Gregg (Projected Value: $9) Gregg went 5-6 with a 4.72 ERA in 72 games for the Cubs in 2009. He picked up 23 saves in 30 appearances, during which time he gave up a career-high 11 HR. He lost his closer's role to Carlos Marmol. He needs a comeback opportunity. Brett Cecil (Projected Value: $8) Cecil (23) has a good sinker, but he had surprising trouble keeping the ball in the stadium last year. Mark it down as a sign of youth - he does have ace potential. Expect him to have a strong spring training on which he can build an entry into the Blue Jays’ rotation. Scott Downs (Projected Value: $6) Downs (34) got the Toronto closer’s job when the Blue Jays released B.J. Ryan, but he ended up sharing the job with Jason Frasor because of foot injuries. Toronto might use a two-closer committee heading into 2010. Brandon Morrow (Projected Value: $1) Morrow had some success as a starter and more as the Seattle closer, but he pitched inconsistently. The Mariners did not know where to leave him – in the rotation or in the pen. He will start for the Blue Jays and will have a difficult time pitching with much success in the AL East. You want him to demonstrate better command before you take him at any point early in the draft. Jason Frasor (Projected Value: $0) Frasor served as Scott Downs’s setup man in Toronto and got a chance to save more than a handful of games when Downs got injured. He might split time with Downs again as the Blue Jays’ closer. Marc Rzepczynski (Projected Value: $0) Rzepczynski (24) strikes out a lot of batters without much velocity. He will be contending for a rotation spot with a large bunch of similarly young pitchers in Toronto. He has potential mixed-league value. Scott Richmond (Projected Value: $0) Richmond had a great first half of the 2009 season, evidenced by his 3.69 ERA into July. In the second half, health woes and inconsistency hurt his chances so much that he does not know if he has a rotation spot in Toronto. Washington Nationals Matt Capps (Projected Value: $15) After spending five years (67 saves) with the Pirates, Capps (27) joins the Nats’ bullpen for 2010. He did convert 27 of 32 save opportunities last year - and had an ERA of 5.80 ERA. Nevertheless, he still leads the array of candidates to close in Washington. Stephen Strasburg (Projected Value: $10) Strasburg has a fastball that reaches triple-digits and excellent secondary pitches in his arsenal. The 21-year-old phenom remains a must-have in long-term keeper leagues. If he wins a rotation spot this spring, he has the potential to make an immediate impact in Fantasy. Some sites project him to win 10 games. Drew Storen (Projected Value: $0) Storen (22) posted a 1.95 ERA and 11 saves in 37 IP from low Class A to Double-A. He struck out 49 and walked eight, allowing a.162 batting-average against. He might make the Nationals' bullpen out of spring training. He has the ability to dominate. Expect him to be closing in Washington presently. J.D. Martin (Projected Value: $0) Martin finished the season with a 5-4 record and 4.44 ERA. A string of impressive starts down the stretch gives Martin (27) a decent chance of securing a rotation spot in Spring Training. Ross Detwiler (Projected Value: $0) Detwiler (24) finished 2009 well, going 1-0 over his last two starts (his only victory with six losses). Overall, he did have trouble throwing strikes in his rookie season - not surprising - but you must consider him a talented long-term project pitching for the Nationals. Craig Stammen (Projected Value: $0) Stammen will compete for one of the spots in the Nats’ rotation next year, but the team has not ruled out putting him in the bullpen. Stammen made 19 starts last year, going 4-7 with a 5.11 ERA before elbow surgery put him on the shelf. He does have a decent WHIP (1.29) that you can use at the back end of your rotation. Scott Olsen (Projected Value: $0) Olsen missed most of 2009 with a small tear in his left labrum, and went 2-4 with a 6.03 ERA in 11 games. He had gone 8-11 with a 4.20 ERA for the Marlins in 2008. He said that his left shoulder is 100 percent but you have to watch his Spring Training performance before taking a chance on him. Jason Marquis (Projected Value: $0) Marquis (31) went 15-13 with a 4.04 ERA with the Rockies last year and will anchor the Nationals’ rotation this year. He relies heavily on a sinker that will induce groundballs and not home runs. Draft him if you want a durable starter who will get your team double-digit wins. Do not expect extraordinary ERA and WHIP stats – although he might surprise outside of Coors Field. John Lannan (Projected Value: $0) Lannan went 9-13 with a 3.88 ERA last year, almost duplicating his 2008 record. He does not overpower batters, but has them drive the ball on the ground, so that he can keep his ERA under 4.00. Now, if he can improve upon the 3.9 K/ 9 IP ratio ... Chien-Ming Wang (Projected Value: $0) Wang (29) battled ineffectiveness and injury in '09 when he went 1-6 with a 9.64 ERA. Following shoulder surgery, he hopes to return to the mound this May. Draft at your own risk. Garrett Mock (Projected Value: $0) Mock went 3-10 in 2009 splitting time between the Nationals’ rotation and the bullpen, and he came away with an uninspiring 5.62 ERA. Check to see if he makes the roster. |