Andy Oliver: Although the Orioles got to him in his 3rd start, 5 ER in just 1.2 innings, Oliver’s skills have been good, 7.2 K/9, 2.6 BB/9, and a 42% GB% in 13.2 innings. The dominance is just a continuation of what he was doing in Triple-A, 8.2 K/9 in 77.1 innings. His Triple-A control, 2.9 BB/9, is on the borderline of acceptability and there is always the risk that it could get worse against more discerning major league hitters. The K’s make him a worthy gamble in AL-only leagues, but the control limits him to only that format.
Clayton Mortenson: Mortenson looked good in his first major league start, 3 ER, 7 K’s, and 2 BB’s in 6 innings, although keep in mind it was against the Indians. His dominance in Triple-A was good, 7.1 K/9. However, although it has showed improvement, he has struggled with his control in the minor leagues, 2008/2009/2010 Triple-A BB/9’s 4.7/3.2/2.9. It is risky to think that the trend will continue right away in the major leagues. Expect some bumps on the road in the early going for Mortensen.
Mark Buehrle: Buerhrle is usually a reliable fantasy starter but his declining skills, 5.8/4.4/4.3, BB/9’s 2.1/1.9/2.3, and GB%’s 50%/45%/46%, is leading to a 4.53 ERA in 17 starts, even with a slightly depressed .274 BHIP% and a 7% HR/FB%. Buehrle’s soft skill set is the kind that requires a bunch of things going his way for success. You can do better than him in mixed leagues.
David DeJesus: A good approach at the plate, 9% BB% and an 87% Ct%, is helping Dejesus put up good numbers for the Royals this year, 5/35/.331 with 22 doubles in 317 AB. However with slightly below league average power and an inflated .305 BHIP%, expect some BA downside from Dejesus in the near future. These are the skills of a .300 hitter, not a .330 hitter.
Fred Lewis: Lewis went deep last night against Twins. He is showing a nice power/speed package, 5 HR, 22 doubles, and 8 steals in 268 AB. His power has been good enough that even with a 74% Ct% and a .263 BHIP%, he is still hitting .280, so there is not as much BA risk as one would think.
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