Sleepers: Chicago Cubs
The Shallow
Jeff Samardzija – Relief Pitcher
Is he going to be a middle relief guy? A set-up man? Does he have the stuff to give a run at the closers role? Or perhaps he’s more suited as a starting pitcher. Fantasy managers are chomping at the bit to see what role Lou Piniella has in store for the multi-talented right-hander. Many have him penciled in as middle relief, as the back-end of the ‘pen seems to be shored up with Carlos Marmol and Kevin Gregg, in competition for the right to close out games for the Cubbies.
With a starting rotation that doesn’t necessarily have the depth that they have had in years past, should injuries persist, or if early season struggles occur, many see Samardzija as a dependable option. No matter where he goes, WaiverSharks.com is confident that he will have success along the way.
In his brief stint in the North Side of Chicago, “Shark” (as referred to by his teammates at Notre Dame) had great looking numbers, on the surface. However, in limited exposure (27.2 innings) held only a 1.67K/BB ratio, and a bit of a high WHIP at 1.41. On the flip side, he has yet to give up a major league home run, and held opposition to a .226 average.
Good things will come from this kid, and if not, he can always fall back on his football career, or perhaps even venture one in basketball.
The Deep
Josh Vitters – Third Base
At only 19-years of age, the Cubs 3rd overall pick from 2007, Vitters still has some seasoning to do. The young batsman is still probably a year or two of development away from making a true impact with the major league team. Ranked as the Cubbies number one prospect right now, Baseball America also ranks Vitters as both the best hitter for average and for power within their minor league system.
Fresh out of high-school and joining the minor pro ranks, Vitters transition has been decent, showing extra base power, but not by route of the long ball. He pounded out 35 extra-base hits (28 of them being doubles) through the two partial seasons since his draft and only 79 games. Hitting for a respectable .290 average, Vitters has shown that he is susceptible to slumps and streaks, which may be an indication of his young age.
Give this kid time. With Aramis Ramirez under contract through 2011 (plus a mutual option for 2012), he will be able to contribute if handled properly. Perhaps a shift to a less familiar position that doesn’t have so much money dedicated to it (perhaps challenging Theriot at SS, or Fontenot and Miles at 2B) is a possibility down the road.
