 The Braves rotation has a nice mix this year. The young stud, the crafty veteran, the aging ace, and the potential star.
Tommy Hanson, in his second season with the Braves proved his stuff last year, but only managed to win ten games. To Hanson’s credit, eight of his eleven losses came when his offense failed to score more than three runs. In 2010, he posted a 3.33 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, and struck out 173 in 202.2 innings.
Hanson will likely fall in the mid-twenties of starting pitchers for 2011. I also think he’ll see more wins than previous seasons, especially with Dan Uggla’s arrival and Jason Heyward in beast mode. After the All-Star break, Hanson recorded 69 strikeouts in 100 innings (down from 104 strikeouts in 100 innings before the break), so his punch-outs might drop a bit next season. His pitching approach may have changed in the second half too. From the first half of the year to the second half, Hanson’s batting average against hitters dropped .066 and he lowered his WHIP by 0.39. I wouldn’t draft Hanson as your top starter, but he can definitely be a solid number two guy.
Now let’s look at a guy a little more than a decade older than Hanson, Derek Lowe. I’d say Lowe is more of an NL-only play. He has a 4.00+ ERA in his two seasons with Atlanta and a down strikeout total from previous years. If your league uses WHIP, it hurts Lowe’s value a bit (2009 WHIP 1.52 and 2010 WHIP 1.37). Lowe also led the majors in “cheap wins” with eight. Meaning half of his 16 wins came when he failed to reach the sixth inning or allow more than three earned runs. He should be going around the low-forties range for NL-only league pitchers.
Tim Hudson, coming off Tommy John surgery, pitched his way to fantasy stardom last year. With 17 wins and a 2.83 ERA, Hudson has elevated himself to a top 30 fantasy starting pitcher entering the year. He will be a nice second or third starter for your team in 2011, but proceed with caution. It’s unlikely Hudson will win as many games as he did last season, and a sub-3.00 ERA is certainly not given. However, Hudson appeared to recover tremendously from missing most of 2009, and will look to continue his success once again for the Braves.
Atlanta’s fourth starter, Jair Jurrjens, was struck with the injury plague last season. He missed almost all of May and June, and even struggled pitching for the rest of his healthy starts. The good news, though, is Jurrjens looks like he will be able to go full speed ahead come spring training. The bad news, going full speed ahead might mean handing out up home runs to the hitters and carrying around an abysmal ERA. In 2010, Jurrjens HR/9 rate was just about one dinger for every nine innings. In 2009 his HR/9 was 0.6, and in 2005 it was 0.5 HR/9. I don’t know about you, but that sure is a bad sign for him. Depending on the size of your league and roster, I would have no problem seeing Jurrjens in the free agency. If you’re in a larger league (12+ teams) with several pitcher spots, then I could argue for Jurrjens as a fourth or fifth starter.
Brave Beliefs (CBS Sports Overall Starting Pitcher Rankings): Tommy Hanson (24), Tim Hudson (28), Jair Jurrjens (66), Derek Lowe (82)Written by Tyler Becker exclusively for www.thefantasyfix.com. Look for Tyler’s weekly insight into MLB, NFL, & NHL. You can follow Tyler on Twitter @FantasyProdigyWhere do these four fall in your 2011 fantasy baseball overall pitcher rankings?Leave a comment and let us know, or reply to us on twitter @TheFantasyFixTags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, Pitching Previews, Rotation, Atlanta Braves Rotation, National League East, Fantasy Sports Blog, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, Tommy Hanson, Derek Lowe, Tim Hudson, Jair Jurrjens, Fantasy Baseball Draft, Tyler Becker
In preparation of the 2011 MLB Fantasy Baseball season, The Fantasy Fix team will preview a team's pitching rotation each day. Tyler starts the series with the National League East's Philadelphia Phillies.
 Cliff Lee The Fantastic Four have come together to defeat the evil competition in the NL East.
In 2009, we saw the first glimpse of Cliff “Mr. Fantastic” Lee. He made 12 starts going 7-4 with 79.2 IP, a 3.39 ERA, and struck out 74 during his successful stretch with the Phillies. Lee was this off-season’s most coveted free agent, and stunned the baseball universe with his decision. However, getting a taste of World Series savor with the Texas Rangers, Lee now joins the rest of his super hero friends in the City of Brotherly Love to try yet again to win it all. Last year, Mr. Lee won 12 games in 28 starts while posting a 3.19 ERA, striking out 185, and walking only 18 batters in 212 innings.
In 2011, Lee should see an increase in wins with all the same stuff: many strikeouts, few walks, and a solid ERA in the low to mid three’s. Starting from opening day, Cliff will find himself in the midst of a friendly competition with super hero friend Roy “The Thing” Halladay as they dual it out for the title of ace of the rotation.
 Roy Halladay In his first year in Philly, Roy “The Thing” Halladay used his super-human arm and strength to take down any hitter in his sight.
Five complete game shutouts, one perfect game, a no hitter in his first post-season start, and a Cy Young to cap it off, Halladay was easily baseball’s top pitcher in 2010. As 2011 approaches, there is no reason for him to lose his title as the games best arm. His health is no longer a concern as he is about to enter his sixth straight season of 30+ starts.
Despite allowing 24 home runs last year, we can say the hitters’ advantage of Citizens Bank Park is not a major liability. Halladay posted a stellar 2.44 ERA and 1.04 WHIP.
 Cole Hamels Last season, Cole “The Human Torch” Hamels had a personal best in strike outs (211) and ERA (3.06). Managing to rebound terrifically from his 2009 disappointment (10-11, 4.32 ERA), Hamels’ post All-Star break numbers were heroic (15 GS, 96.2 IP, 5-4, 2.23 ERA, 104 K, 22 BB, 1.00 WHIP).
2011 should be another career year for Hamels. He has transformed into a reliable, middle-of-the-rotation type pitcher, and no longer has the weight solely on his shoulders.
He’s like the Dwayne Wade of the Phillies. He knows the team, knows the city, and this is the year he and his fantastic friends have all come together at once.
 Roy Oswalt Roy “Invisible Man” Oswalt. Why is he the invisible one you ask? Well, for 2009 and the beginning of 2010, it looked like Oswalt would become invisible in the fantasy world. He really struggled in Houston and appeared to be a pitching pariah of fantasy teams across the nation. But then, on July 30th, Invisible-Oswalt overcame his curse, and embarked on his triumphant return. After being traded to the Phillies, Oswalt went 7-1 in 83 innings with 73 strikeouts and a 1.74 ERA. By the way, this guy loves pitching in Philly. He’s 9-0 in ten starts in Citizens Bank Park. Whether it’s throwing against the Phills or throwing for them, Oswalt just seems to like the smell of cheesesteaks and the sound of cursing Philly fans. 2011 looks promising for Oswalt and his super-friends. One thing to note though, Oswalt does not fair too well when facing the Braves. I’m not saying bench him against Atlanta, but keep it in mind if it does occur more than once.
Philly Phorecast (CBS Sports Overall Starting Pitcher Rankings):
Roy Halladay (1), Cliff Lee (5), Cole Hamels (13), Roy Oswalt (15).Written by Tyler Becker exclusively for www.thefantasyfix.com. Look for Tyler’s
weekly insight into MLB, NFL, & NHL. You can follow Tyler on Twitter @FantasyProdigy
Where do these four fall in your 2011 fantasy baseball overall pitcher rankings?
Leave a comment and let us know, or reply to us on twitter @TheFantasyFix
Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, Pitching Previews, Rotation, Philadelphia Phillies Rotation, National League East, Fantasy Sports Blog, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, Cole Hamels, Roy Oswalt, Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Fantasy Baseball Draft, Tyler Becker
 SLUGGERSCoco Crisp, OAK, 52 percent owned8 R / 1 HR / 4 RBI / 5 SB / .323 AVGThe Fantasy Gods commend any courageous Coco Crisp owner. His speed paid off witheight runs and five stolen bases last week, possibly single-handedly winning you stolenbases. It would be hard to keep this pace up, but looks nice as of now.Lyle Overbay, TOR, 27 percent owned7 R / 3 HR / 11 RBI / .273 AVGStreaky hitter who had no more than 1 hit in 17 straight games, but blasted three homeruns in two games this past week. His power is recharged and could help out the next fewweeks. Bats in the middle of a potent Toronto offense too.Yuniesky Betancourt, KC, 32 percent owned3 R / 3 HR / 10 RBI / .296 AVGGearing for one of his best seasons yet, this guy is hitting .358 in August with six homeruns and 15 runs batted in. Among the top five home run hitting short stops, ownershippercentage should rise by next week.Don Kelly, DET, 0 percent owned4 R / 2 HR / 6 RBI / .381 AVGSeems to have taken over as the main utility man in Detroit. As manager Jim Leylandmix-and-matches his starting roster, Kelly has found time to play almost every game atdifferent positions. He’s a versatile utility man who has sprung to life and emerged as ahitting threat to opposing pitchers.HURLERS
Homer Bailey, CIN, 34 percent owned13 IP, 2 W, 10 K, 0.69 ERA, 0.69 WHIPWhat a return for Bailey. Allowing one run in 13 innings helped his team win two games.He missed most of the season but is back and already making an impact on the Reds. Heis one of Cincinnati’s top starting pitchers and deserves to have the ball each week.Jonathon Niese, NYM, 68 percent owned12 IP, 1 W, 10 K, 1.50 ERA, 1.08 WHIPNiese got the win in a rain-shortened match against Pittsburgh last week. Besides hisgood fortune from Mother Nature, his last four starts before this one were all one-earnedrun/seven innings pitched gems.Alex Sanabia, FLA, 2 percent owned7.2 IP, 1 W, 5 K, 1.17 ERA, 0.52 WHIPThis Triple-A stud was recalled again from the Marlins, and continued to dominate. Infour of his five Marlins starts, he has allowed one or no runs. Last week he got to theeighth inning allowing one run, striking out five, and walking no one.Armando Galarraga, DET, 13 percent owned12 IP, 1 W, 13 K, 2.25 ERA, 1.00 WHIPIn round two of Galarraga vs. Cleveland, the Detroit pitcher took a perfect game into the5th, and ended the day scoreless through seven innings of three hit ball. In his first startlast week, Galarraga had five strikeouts in five innings, and ended the week with a 9.75K/9 ratio.Written by Tyler Becker exclusively for www.thefantasyfix.com. Look for Tyler’sweekly insight into MLB, NFL, & NHL. You can follow Tyler on Twitter @FantasyProdigyWho do you think is a Must from this list?
Leave a comment and let us know, or reply to us on twitter @TheFantasyFixTags: The Fantasy Fix, Fantasy Sports Blog, Fantasy Baseball, MLB, Coco Crisp, Lyle Overbay, Yuniesky Betancourt, Don Kelly, Homer Bailey, Jonathon Niese, Alex Sanabia, Armando Galarraga, Oakland Athletics, Toronto Blue Jays, Kansas City, Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds, New York Mets, Florida Marlins
Whether you are fighting to make the playoffs or sitting atop the standings, it is always good to know a few quiet players making a little noise this year. These guys will help your team down the road and get you that extra stat here and there to bolster your starting lineup come playoff time. After each name is the player’s team, position, and percent owned in CBS Fantasy Baseball leagues to help you go right to the waiver wire and snatch these diamonds in the rough.  Jon Jay STL, OF, 33% owned
JJ The Jet Plane took over outfield duty after Ryan Ludwick was shipped to San Diego. He’s a high average, run scorer with a great batter’s eye. Doesn’t hurt that he’s hitting 2nd in front of Albert Pujols too. In July, Jay raised his batting average from .318 to .383, and in August he is hitting .317 with ten R and 4 XBH in 11 games. He’s a safe, reliable outfielder that can help in all leagues.
 Neil Walker, PIT, 2B/3B, 54% owned
Jose Tabata, PIT, LF, 41% owned
Pedro Alvarez, PIT, 3B, 62% owned
Yo Ho, Ho, Ho, a Pirate’s life for me! These three buccaneers have been crushing the ball lately. Although they might already be owned in deeper leagues, Walker, Tabata, and Alvarez are killing the ball and hugely contributing to the blossoming Pittsburgh offense.
Neil Walker - 11 R, 2 HR, 19 RBI, 0 SB, .336 AVG
Jose Tabata - 23 R, 1 HR, 8 RBI, 4 SB, .327 AVG
Pedro Alvarez - 14 R, 7 HR, 23 RBI, 0 SB, .274 AVG
The lines above show their stats for the past 30 days. My advice is, if you need runs, speed, and average, go for Tabata. For power and the most well rounded player, Alvarez is the go to guy. If your team needs hits and a consistent infield bat, add Walker.
 Chris Denorfia, SD, CF, 6% owned
One of my favorite sleepers for the rest of 2010. Denorfia, in 31 games through July and August, has 22 R, eight HR, 21 RBI, four SB, .307 AVG. Even with San Diego’s crowded outfield, Denorfia seems to play everyday at all outfield positions. He shows no signs of stopping, and finds ways to continually be an offensive threat even in Petco Park. With San Diego in the heat of a playoff race, it only helps this Padres player the rest of the year.
 Felix Pie, BAL, LF, 20% owned
It’s been a rough year for Baltimore. But, Lord and Savior Buck Showalter seems to have turned not only the club around, but outfielder Pie as well. Felix has shown great signs of power, speed, and average since the Showalter Revolution. Whether it’s a coincidence or not, it’s hard to ignore Pie’s recent numbers, hitting .328 in August with two HR, ten RBI, and 3 SB. Buyer beware though, Pie hits .177 lifetime against lefties. Depending on your league, Pie is a great pick up, but may be an even better spot starter when facing RHP.
To the skeptics out there who believe it’s a fluke, Pie is a career .288 hitter in August and September combined.
 Omar Infante, ATL, 2B/3B/SS/OF, 47% owned
If you need a versatile bat in your lineup who can hit for average and swipe some bags, go get Infante while he’s still available. No matter what, the Braves always seem to find a place for him on the field each night. Infante hit .429 in July and is hitting .348 in August. Don’t expect power or RBI numbers though. Even with Martin Prado’s return from the DL and Atlanta’s Derrek Lee addition, Infante should continue to see playing time in a productive Braves lineup.
 * Ryan Raburn, DET, 2B/OF, 16% ownedBefore reading, notice the asterisk. Sure, Raburn is a sleeper, but I happen to think it’s somewhat fluky. If you have the room and the need for power, I say go ahead and grab him. Four HR in a five game span seems shaky though. Like I said, be careful, ride the streak and soak up Raburn’s surge, but the first sign of a power outage should send him to your bench or even back to free agency. Treat him as a Stash-and-Trash, or heck, trade him and sell high while he still has value.Just snoozing:Angel Sanchez, HOU, SS, 2% ownedDanny Valencia, MIN, 3B, 10% ownedBrooks Conrad, ATL, 2B/3B, 3% ownedChris Snyder, PIT, C, 24% ownedYou can follow Tyler Becker on Twitter at @fantasyprodigy for fantasy questions, advice, or just to say hello! He attends New York University for Sports Management… it’s the closest major they had to fantasy sports.Who are you picking up off the wire for your run to the playoffs?
Leave a comment and let us know, or reply to us on twitter @TheFantasyFixTags: The Fantasy Fix, Fantasy Sports Blog, Minor League Baseball, Double-A, AA, Fantasy Baseball, Jon Jay, Ryan Ludwick, Albert Pujols, Neil Walker, Jose Tabata, Pedro Alvarez, Chris Denorfia, Felix Pie, Buck Showalter, Omar Infante, Derrek Lee, Marin Prado, Ryan Raburn, Angel Sanchez, Danny Valencia, Brooks Conrad, Chris Snyder, Pittsburgh Pirates, Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Houston Astros, Detroit Tigers, Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres, St. Louis Cardinals
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