Cliff Lee, Philadelphia Phillies
June 24, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cliff Lee (33) throws during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
The Phillies have been a “meh” team this year, showing flashes of life and flashes of 2012. Their bullpen has scuffled, and their offense has caused Charlie Manuel to burst. But Cliff Lee has been quite the opposite of “meh,” however. And he’s surely not causing his manager to burst.
At 34 years old, Lee is amid one his better seasons as a pro. ERA-wise, his 2.51 ERA isn’t a career-best mark, but his 2.52 FIP is a career-best. His ERA ranks ninth in the NL, his FIP ranks third and his WAR (3.4) also ranks third.
With the numbers above, you’d assume Lee would be ranked higher, right?
It’s close. I’ll admit that. However, Lee’s strikeout numbers (7.99 K/9) put him a small step below tier one. It’s nitpicking, yes, but there really isn’t an alternative.