Cody Allen (RP-CLE): Allen saved his 5th game of the season by tossing a scoreless 9th, securing the win for Kluber as the beleaguered closer continues to search for his 2014 form. While he has been unfortunate with a 8.25 ERA/4.52 xFIP and a .455 BABIP, Allen must improve upon the 14% BB-rate. As a result of his wildness, hitters aren't chasing (26% mark) and when they swing, they aren't missing as frequently (3% lower swinging strike mark when compared to 2014). While I'm not giving up on Allen, his mechanics looked out of sync even during last night's successful outing. If you're an owner, I'd hold, as he has considerable leash, but I don't see him as a buy-low guy.
Brad Boxberger (RP-TB): Boxberger picked up his 10th save with a perfect 9th against the Yankees. Despite the imminent return of Jake McGee, as long as BB continues to dominate, a change at closer is difficult to envision. Boxberger is now 10-for-10 in save opportunities with a 20:6 K:BB ratio in 14 innings. His chase rate is even higher than last year at 38%, and as he mixes in the curveball to keep hitters guessing for the fastball and the change, look for him to elevate his numbers across the board. If a Boxberger owner is worried about a McGee coup, then pounce.
Jimmy Paredes (DH-BAL): The Jimmy Paredes craze continued on Wednesday, as the Orioles' slugger collected 2 more hits and drove in another run in fueling a win over the Jays. He now sports a .364/.391/.659 line with 5 homers, 18 RBI, and 16 runs in 21 games and looks unstoppable hitting near the top of a potent O's lineup. However, I see a selling opportunity. Paredes plate discipline leaves something to be desired, as he carries a 48% chase rate, 17% swinging strike rate, and a .18 EYE, all marks consistent with his body of work in the minors. His .295 ISO is 121 points higher than any mark posted in his professional career, and while his 24% LD rate is impressive, it isn't enough to sustain anything close to a .422 BABIP. Add in the league average speed off bat mark that won't sustain his 25% HR/FB rate, and you have a prime sell-high candidate in re-draft formats.
Yordano Ventura (SP-KC): The temperamental one struggled yet again, allowing 5 earned runs on 10 hits in 7 innings against the Rangers. While Ventura is due for positive regression, there are several warning signs to suggest he isn't quite ready to elevate his game to the levels many fantasy owners envisioned in the spring. His 30:15 K:BB rate is alarming, and is backed up by a league average swinging strike rate and a below league average chase rate. All of this appears to stem from his low first pitch strike percentage of 54%, which is down 7% from 2014. I'm still bullish on Ventura, and like him more for this season and down the road than Taijuan Walker. However, I'd bench him until he shows more consistent poise and control. If a buying opportunity exists in your league, go get him.
Mitch Moreland (1B/OF-TEX): Whenever I see Jeremy Guthrie on the hill my attention turns to value lefties in the opposing lineup. If you're looking to save some dollars with your 3rd OF slot, Mitch Moreland is your guy. The Rangers activated Moreland (elbow) in time for last night's game, one in which he collected 2 hits. Guthrie has allowed a .380 wOBA to lefties the past two seasons, while Moreland has posted a wOBA over 100 points higher against righties than same-siders. Keep an eye on the weather, as showers are expected.
FanDuel Price: $2200
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