David Price has still not pitched in 2008 – so much for holding onto that waiver priority eh?
But all is not lost folks – after all – one man doth not make up a fantasy TEAM!
So, let’s take a quick glance at a few arms that have been called up recently for a September cup of coffee – and who could provide some fantasy relevance as early as 2009.
Indeed -while many managers in the fantasy baseball world are still grasping tightly to a dying hope to catch a glimpse of the Tampa Bay Rays future star these other pitchers have already been called to the show.
ALL could be had for a deep sleeper discount come draft day – and will ALL come at a much smaller price than David Price.
Wade Leblanc – San Diego Padres
A crowd favorite while pitching this year for the Portland Beavers, Leblanc had an auspicious debut against the Los Angeles Dodgers – but than proved he may be a fast learner by turning in a quality start against the “men in blue” in his follow up start.
It’s impossible to predict what Leblanc will do the rest of the way in 2008 – but he’ll bring his nasty change up and a little experience to spring training next year – and should have a leg up on many young Padres guns for a spot in San Diego’s rotation.
Michael Bowden – Boston Red Sox
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Bowden is still a bit of a long shot to crack the Red Sox coveted fearless five going into 2009 – but he didn’t hurt his case with his Major League debut – and if he continues to show, as Terry Francona put it – “poise on the mound” – he could have a very bright future ahead of him.
James McDonald – Los Angeles Dodgers
If the Red Sox Michael Bowden is considered a deep sleeper, than James McDonald might be thought of as our “Bottom of the Sea Sleeper” – yep, that’s pretty deep!
At 6’5’ he carries the tools to become an imposing right hander - capable of hitting the mid-nineties with his fastball.
James put together an impressive year in the minors this year going 7-4 with an era of 3.26 – but will most likely just see some mop up duty as a long reliever in 2008.
The Dodgers will certainly take a good look at him next spring – but Clayton Kershaw and Co. may beat him to the bigs – meaning that a portion of 2009 could be spent in Las Vegas next year. But, keeper leaguers take note, this guy has some real upside!
Coming Soon…
More deep sleeper pitchers and -
Our prediction who could be
the next Edinson Volquez!
