Jon Lester: Chicago Cubs
Starting Pitcher.
2018 stats:
Win/loss: 13-8
ERA: 4.33
WHIP: 1.32
SO: 180
BB: 60
Innings Pitched: 180.2
Jon Lester is one that benefited from a potent Cubbies lineup last season. Don’t expect the same sort of luck in 2018, with a .500 record a higher ceiling this coming slate.
His ERA and WHIP alone will hurt you in two main categories, and he nearly gave up 30 home runs in 2017. With the Milwaukee Brewers and St. Louis Cardinals projected for substantial offensive campaigns, and the Reds always dangerous at the plate, Lester’s ERA will inflate drastically.
Aroldis Chapman
Relief Pitcher: New York Yankees
Win/loss: 4-3
ERA: 3.22
WHIP: 1.13
SO: 69
BB: 20
Saves: 22
Ever since Joe Maddon pulled a Dusty Baker and turned Chapman’s arm into rubber, he hasn’t quite been the same. Looking at his stats, you might not get the full picture. Chapman’s ERA used to be microscopic, and he was nearly unhittable.
His amount of strikeouts in the past allowed us to overlook his (at times) wildness, but he no longer K’s as many hitters. Expect him to be a seventh or eighth inning guy, at best, this season. He may log a few holds, but not every leg counts that as a Fantasy Baseball category.
Next: Fantasy Pitchers to target late
Make sure to stay away from these Fantasy Baseball duds in your draft. If you’ve already completed yours, then trade these players ASAP.
Did you miss our sleepers for 2018? Make sure you view those before your draft, as well.
AL Fantasy Baseball youngsters to stash for 2018
NL Fantasy Baseball young guns for 2018
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