2. Zack Wheeler, Philadelphia Phillies
Zack Wheeler had a career year in 2021. The righty made 32 starts and pitched 213.1 innings while allowing just 169 hits, 66 earned runs, 46 walks, and striking out 247 batters. His ERA was 2.78, his FIP was 2.59, his WHIP was 1.01, and his ERA+ was 150. He led the league in complete games (3), shutouts (2), and innings pitched.
Wheeler’s Savant page is redder than his Phillies jersey. He finished in the 91st percentile or better in seven categories (99th in average exit velocity, 97th in hard hit rate, 94th in fastball velocity, xERA, and xwOBA, 92nd in barrel percentage, and 91st in xSLG). He had the type of year that Mets fans like me feared he would when the Wilpons let Wheeler walk. If only Steve Cohen bought the team two years earlier.
1. Corbin Burnes, Milwaukee Brewers
The reigning NL Cy Young award winner is the most desirable starting pitcher in fantasy baseball for 2021. He made 28 starts and pitched 167 innings. He allowed 123 hits, 45 earned runs, 34 walks, and struck out 234 batters. His ERA was 2.43, his FIP was 1.63, his WHIP was 0.94, and his ERA+ was 176. He was 76% better than the average pitcher, yet based on his FIP, he should have had an even better season. His K/BB led the league at just shy of 7-1, and he also led the league in ERA, FIP, HR/9 (0.4), and K/9 (12.6).
Burnes had the most insane Baseball Savant page in baseball in 2021. His lowest percentile ranking was 81st in fastball velocity. Everything else was 92nd percentile or higher! Burnes was simply untouchable in 2021, and I expect him to get a little more leash going forward, so there’s plenty more in store for him in 2022 and beyond.
How would you rank your top 10 fantasy baseball starting pitchers? Let us know in the comments section below.