Carlos Carrasco (SP-CLE): Despite taking the loss Carlos Carrasco continued to dominate the opposition, as he struck out 10 Rays and allowed only 1 earned run on 4 hits and 3 walks across 7 and 2/3 innings. Carrasco now has a 140:29 K:BB ratio in 134 innings as he is finally putting things together. The 52% GB and 5% BB-rate add to the beautiful picture and give me great confidence in CC moving forward. He worked intensely with the Indians staff on his mechanics, which has led to better control and command, increase velocity, and better bite on his pitches.
Wil Myers (OF-TB): The oft-injured Wil Myers went 2 for 4 with 1 RBI and 1 SB. It's difficult to read too much into his surface numbers this season, as Myers battled a nasty wrist injury that likely sapped most of his power. His peripherals give me reason to believe he'll be a bargain in 2015, as he has actually improved his swinging strike, chase and contact rates. With an offseason to heal and more experience under his belt, 2015 could be the year he delivers on his promise.
Brian Dozier (2B-MIN): Brian Dozier continued to fill up the stat sheet last night, going 2 for 6 with 2 runs and 2 RBI and hitting his 23rd homer in the process. He also has 21 steals to go with 112 runs and 71 RBI, making him one of the best fantasy options around. Can he repeat in 2015? Absolutely. He has elevated his game at the dish, improving his BB-rate by 4% while lowering his swinging strike rate. His BABIP may stay on the low side due to his high FB rate, but .240 AVG looks to be his floor.
Mookie Betts (2B/OF-BOS)Mookie Betts leading the way with a 1-for-4, 2-run, 1-BB night. Betts has 5 homers, 6 steals, and 34 runs scored in 51 games, and extrapolating that to a full season for 2015 is definitely an exciting possibility. While some youngsters endure sophomore slumps, I expect the opposite with Betts, no matter which uniform he dons in 2015, as his plate coverage and peripherals scream superstar in the making and a player well advanced beyond his years.
James Paxton (SP-SEA): James Paxton took a no-decision after allowing 1 earned run on 4 hits and 3 walks in 5 and 2/3, striking out 4, although the Mariners battled back to win in extra innings to stay alive in the wildcard race. Paxton has shown flashes of his enormous potential, but there is some significant work to be done. His chase and swinging strike rates are below average, and his walk rate will need to come down. Keep an eye on him, but I sense he may be drafted too early in 2015.
Thanks to our readers and subscribers for a great 2014. 2015 promises to be even better! Please stay in touch via Twitter (@walterkuberski & fantistics) during the offseason.
